Shein Plus Size Haul

                                                         Shein Plus Size Haul

I had alot of fun trying on these great Fashion pieces. I am a U.S. 24/26 and the Shein sizes I purchased were 4x and 5xl. I found the clothing to be of very good quality. Down below are the pieces I shared with you on my video posted above. I hope all enjoyed.

Shein Solid Cord Overall $12.00  (this ran 2/3 sizes small) No Stretch

https://us.shein.com/Plus-Solid-Cord-Overall-Dress-p-1645662-cat-1889.html

Shein Asymmetrical Neck Drop Off Shoulder Blouse $16.00

https://us.shein.com/Plus-Asymmetrical-Neck-Drop-Shoulder-Tee-p-1693607-cat-1890.html

Shein Plus Self Belted Asymmetrical Hem Waterfall Vest w/ Belt $11.00

https://us.shein.com/Plus-Self-Belted-Asymmetrical-Hem-Waterfall-Vest-Coat-p-1440934-cat-1940.html

Shein Disty Floral Surplice Front Shirred Dress $19.00

https://us.shein.com/Plus-Ditsy-Floral-Surplice-Front-Shirred-Dress-p-1681484-cat-1889.html

Shein Faux Leather Pink Belted Coat $30.00

https://us.shein.com/Plus-PU-Leather-Lapel-Neck-Belted-Coat-p-1597395-cat-1940.html

Shein Leopard Print Raglan Sleeve Top (Navy) $14.00

https://us.shein.com/Plus-Leopard-Print-Raglan-Sleeve-Tee-p-1532553-cat-1890.html

Is Hand Sewing A Lost Art?

                                           Lets Talk Sewing

The U.K. British Hearts Foundation Big Stitch Campaign shared stats indicating 60% of people have not learned to sew or even know what it is.  This was a common skill passed on to children that no longer is happening. 

Being resourceful was key when times where leans. Did you know buttons, zippers, collars, lace, ribbon, and other decorative notions would be taken off old clothes before using them for other clothing or projects. They would be used for a updated ladies dress, children's clothing, curtains, home, and more. Once fabrics became thread bare they would become rags.

Below are some basic hand sewing video's you may enjoy from Youtube. There are many out there to study and help develop this skill.

You can see an example of a well loved and used sewing kit. Sewing kits often contain scissors, needles, thimble, thread, notions, buttons, zippers, patches and more. These items often were curated from clothing with thread bare fabric or stained beyond repair clothing.

This sewing kit to the left has clues of it user. I see call fat quarter fabric squares.

I also spy a roller cutter tucked into a pocket. This tells me the user enjoys making quilts. These quilts could be large blankets or smaller pieces for a baby or child's bed. Some pieces are so intricate taking days to weeks to create. Those may be used or display for its unique hand craftmanship.

This sewing kit to the right is what a typical or common kit may look like. It has scissors, pins, needles, thread, measuring tape, threader, and other notions. This would be a fantastic kit for any home. Harvesting buttons, lace, trims, zippers from throw away/rag pile clothing. These added to your kit for future use.

The question remains when was the last time you had a opportunity to sew. Either by mending, updating or creating something new. When was the last time you shared your skill of hand sewing? Feel free to share down below. I'd love to see your feedback.

CDC's List Covid and Possible Symptoms

https://www.cdc.gov/coronavirus/2019-ncov/symptoms-testing/symptoms.html

 

COVID-19 affects different people in different ways. Infected people have had a wide range of symptoms reported – from mild symptoms to severe illness.

---

Symptoms may appear 2-14 days after exposure to the virus. People with these symptoms may have COVID-19:

Fever or chills

Cough

Shortness of breath or difficulty breathing

Fatigue

Muscle or body aches

Headache

New loss of taste or smell

Sore throat

Congestion or runny nose

Nausea or vomiting

Diarrhea

Look for emergency warning signs for COVID-19. If someone is showing any of these signs, seek emergency medical care immediately:

Trouble breathing

Persistent pain or pressure in the chest

New confusion

Inability to wake or stay awake

Bluish lips or face

Call your medical provider for any other symptoms that are severe or concerning to you.

Winterize Your Medicine Cabinet

 

This is the time to get your medicine cabinet ready for the winter weather and flu season. If you look at your supplies you can make a list of much needed items that are missing. This will vary according to every families needs.

I remember bundling up sick children having high fevers and diarrhea at 1 or 2 am looking for a 24 hour Pharmacy. Throw in a winter storm or other weather event and its a nightmare. You can prevent these kinds of scenarios. By simply planning ahead so you wont have to leave your home when you or someone in your house hold becomes sick. 

Throw in the strains of of job loss, inability to pay bills, inability to get food, or simply trying to keep a roof over your head. All these will take an effect on your health as well. Lowering your immune system. Stay ahead of the game.

Get fresh air, take long/short walks locally, sit in the sun for 15-20 minutes daily (wear sunscreen). Take your medicines and vitamins, exercise (according to your ability), and drink water. 

Here is a list of common items you may need:

Toilet Paper

Pain Relievers: (Adult/Children's) Pills, liquid, and body patches (for targeted areas).

Thermometer: takes temperature 

Face Masks: store bought or homemade

Tissue

Alcohol: Spray masks after use and let dry between washing (washables only)

Vitamins: Adults and Children

(Multi-Vitamin, C, D)

D is a common vitamin people are low on during the winter months. Due to lack of sun exposure.

Cold/Flu Medicine: Adult and Children (Your choice), Throat Lozenges, Throat Sprays, Vicks Vapo Rub, Humidifier

Stomach Issue': Adult and Children 

(Pepto Bismal etc)

Gatorade for rehydration

anti-diarrhea pills/liquid

Hemorrhoid treatments

wipes

First aid kit

Eye Care: your specific needs

Allergy Medicines Adult and Children's:

Benadryl, Allergy (Daily your choice), creams, 

Calamine lotion

Dizziness: Dramamine etc

Women's: cranberry pills, yeast infection treatments, UTI treatments, pads/tampons/cup, AZO

Oral Hygiene: 

Tooth Brushes, Tooth Paste, Mouth Wash, Floss, Oral Pain reliever (cankers sores etc..). mouth guard's. Peroxide for mouth and toothbrush cleaning

Foot Care: Powders, Cracked Heal treatment, Foot Fungi's sprays, epson salt.

Hand Wash/Soap/Anti-bacterial Gel/Liquid

Other: Ankle Sprain supports, knee leg, arm, hand etc.. Everyone 

Here is the Truth Food Bank Lines Miles Long

People standing in mile long lines to get food from Food Banks. Cars as far as the eye can see. They are packed with families in lines that go for miles. Waiting for their turn to get much needed food for their homes. Many are ashamed and unwilling to go to these places. Some unable to even leave their home from a disability. 

Our government cannot relate to the struggles of the average American. Many Americans refuse to acknowledge the problem themselves.... those that are lucky enough to still have a jobs. States are stacking food to the roofs of warehouses waiting for the impending rush when no food will be found in the stores. If there is no problem... why are States filling up warehouses of food. Competing with other states for the same products. The Department of Agriculture knows so does our President, Senate, and Congress. The untouchables. They would not go hungry while their constituents suffer. 

We need to prepare our homes to the best of our ability. Get a little here and there to build up food reserves and buy seeds. Buy the seeds for foods that your family would enjoy eating. Study the growing times in your state/area. There are lists available by states of the best plants to grow and when. Do a simple online search for your state. Lastly, become pro-active it won't happen magically over night. Everything takes time from food growing along with pantry prepping. If your working towards it your ahead of the pack. The average American family only has 1-3 days of food in their home.

Senior Officials Sound Alarm over Food Insecurity, Warning of Potentially ‘Biblical’ Famine, in Briefings to Security Council

https://www.un.org/press/en/2020/sc14164.doc.htm   April 21, 2020

Wisconsin Food Bank Warns: "We're Not Going Back To Normal Anytime Soon

https://www.zerohedge.com/personal-finance/wisconsin-food-bank-expects-spike-hungry-people-recovery-falters

‘Instead of Coronavirus, the Hunger Will Kill Us.’ A Global Food Crisis Looms.

https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/22/world/africa/coronavirus-hunger-crisis.html  April 22, 2020

Deadly wildfires rage in California, Oregon and Washington

https://www.cnn.com/us/live-news/west-coast-wildfires-09-10-2020/index.html September 10, 2020

US West Coast wildfires: Nearly 100 fires run rampant

https://www.bbc.com/news/world-us-canada-54097598 September 10, 2020

Monday's derecho damaged 10M acres of crops in Iowa; 600K still without power in Midwest

https://www.usatoday.com/story/news/nation/2020/08/12/derecho-storm-damages-crops-corn-iowa-thousands-power-outages-midwest/3354939001/    August 12, 2020

Dry Soup Mixes Staples for your Pantry

These are some options for those that have a tight space in their pantries. Dry Soup mixes are a great way to go. If you make them and store them in glass jars they can last up to 1 year. The dry soup mixes with fats do not last as long. If you place your mixes in glass jars and remove the oxygen. It can last much longer. You can change the flavors by adding your favorite herbs. 

Cream of Soup Recipe

2    Cups of Nonfat Dry Milk

3/4 Cup Starch

1/4  Cup reduced sodium chicken bouillon

1    teaspoon onion powder

1/2 teaspoon dried thyme

1/2 teaspoon dried basil

1/4 teaspoon dried pepper

In a large bowl, combine all ingredients. Store in an airtight container.

For 1-1/2 cups soup:  Whisk 1/3 cup mix and 1-1/2 cups water in a small saucepan until smooth. Bring to a boil over medium heat. Cook and stir for 2 minutes or until thickened.

Potato Soup Dry Mix

1 3/4 Cup Instant Mashed Potatoes    1 1/2 Cup Dry Milk Powder               

2 Tablespoons Chicken Granules/Bullion    2 Teaspoons Minced Onion 

1 Teaspoon Dried Parsley

1/4 Teaspoon White or Black Pepper

1/4 Teaspoon Dried Thyme

1/8 Teaspoon Ground Turmeric

1 2/2 Teaspoon Seasoning Salt

                         

Directions

Instructions Checklist

• Combine potato flakes, dry milk, bouillon granules, onion, parsley, pepper, thyme, turmeric and seasoning salt in a bowl and stir to mix. Pour into a 1 quart jar.
• Place 1/2 cup of soup mix into pot. Then 1 cup of boiling water and stir until smooth.
• 
  

Tariff Wars Are Affecting What You Can Get! Canned Food Shortage!!!!!

 

Food shortages

No ones ever thinks of Aluminum/Tin and its daily use in our lives. The lack of it can effect the ability for our families to eat, function, or get around. Although, I have spoken of this on my youtube channel. I'm bringing it up again because the seriousness of the issue.

The Tin/Aluminum Shortage is acknowledged by the White House document listed below August 8, 2020 https://www.whitehouse.gov/presidential-actions/proclamation-adjusting-imports-aluminum-united-states-080620/ After, omitting Tariff to Canada for said product for 1 year. The White House decided to re-instate the tariff on Canada our largest Aluminum provider. This makes no sense at a time when we need it most to get goods to the people. Canada now in return has placed 2.7 billion on USA goods via tariffs https://www.cnbc.com/2020/08/07/canada-to-impose-tariffs-on-2point7-billion-in-us-goods-after-trump-reignites-trade-feud.html

All this is happening at the worse of times for our country and people. Knowing this I urge you to Prep and buy extra canned goods your family. A couple of cans here and there add up quickly. Please fortify your homes. Below you will see a small example of uses for aluminum and information on it.

 Aluminium is used in a huge variety of products including cans (food, drinks), foils, kitchen utensils, window frames, pots and pans, beer kegs cars, car parts, and air plane parts. CDs refrigerators, kitchenware, electric power lines, packaging for food and medicine, computers, furniture,  bike frames, ladders, mail boxes, staples, nails, computer parts, golf clubs, sinks, faucets, screen door and window frames, patio furniture, pots, pans, gates, fencing, and car rims and so much more!

Advantages of Aluminium

• Aluminium is an extremely versatile metal with a number of advantages, it is recognized for being both lightweight and flexible. ...
• Light Weight. ...
• Corrosion Resistance. ...
• Electrical and Thermal Conductivity. ...
• Reflectivity and Ductility. ...
• Odorless and Impermeable. ...
• Recycle-ability. ...

Real Facts Dry Foods vs Canned Our New Norm

Hello Friends,

It's been a while. There has been so much happening within the past few months. Never in my wildest imagination did I expect to see America in state it's in. Covid-19 has swooped down and taken many lives. It shut down our country with stay in shelter orders. Food and product limitations. Face mask requirements for any daily outing. Home schooling. Loss of jobs and business's. It has many homeless or struggling. Those touched by Covid-19 may struggle with new health conditions. 

The world around us suffers from the same. Many countries have experienced catastrophic weather events that has decimated crops. Countries are trying to outbid one another for what crops are available. Our economy is in a downward spiral. We have a tin shortage (canned food). We have a food shortage that most Americans want to continue to deny. We have a medicine shortage because China is a main supplier. The USA is dependent on so many other countries for goods/foods/equipment/machinery/services. 

What can we do? PREPARE Here is an article I felt needed to be repeated that I wrote on last year:

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.

Growing Food What Worked And What Didn't

I have never had a green thumb. This is all new to me. I'm not sure what kept me from trying before...maybe failure. But how can I experience failure without trying first. So, I stepped up and planted some seeds.

Who knew that Squirrels dig and eat seeds. I didn't but I learned quickly when none of my seeds grew.  One morning looking out my window with a daunted look on my face. What am I doing wrong? 

I watched a fuzzy grey squirrel dig through the soil and eat the remaining seeds he hadn't found. I was dumb founded how could this be dont they eat nuts or something,lol. 

Now, I have answers. I am not a failure but a victim of a cute furry squirrel eating his morning meal. I had to think of a new strategy. After speaking with my husband we decided to get a few plants that just started to grow in starter pots from the stores. This little furry squirrel wasn't going to beat me. My husband chose a few and came home to see if they would survive our new house guest.

Some of them didn't make it with the high heat and but a few did! 

Although, the pictures below are not from my garden if you want to call it that. It's a bit to hot outside for me this morning and dealing with my Hot Flash's they don't go hand in hand (Big Smiles). I promise to share real time pictures soon.

Rosemary: its so fragrant we are using to cook with its wonderful. The plant is doing well. The rosemary tasted so much better than the kind from the store. Fresh picked is amazing! 

Cucumbers: they are just starting to come around. I am happy to see the progress. I will share better pictures later. When I water them by hand their furry prickly skin is uncomfortable when grazed. I try to get to the roots and move the yellow flowered long green leaves that lay sprawling and low to the ground. Although, a short uncomfortable visit for watering they will pay off at our dinner table.

Lastly, our tomatoes they are just coming in and need to moved to a better location. A project for the hubby this weekend (wink wink). Ours are still green but they are a joy to see!

I did print out the schedule for my area for planting times and types that grow the best. I need to make a binder and place it inside for future reference. I hope you all enjoyed your short visit to my new adventures. I'm am far from being a farmer. But I tell ya it feels good!