tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-61190018413819252092024-03-13T14:17:55.570-07:00PREPARE TODAY"Home Storage Is Not An Event, It's A Process."Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.comBlogger434125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-7182414009275047382019-01-13T22:20:00.001-07:002023-10-09T08:32:56.283-07:00Five Things That Changed The Way I Do Food Storage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;">*<span style="font-size: small;">This is a repost from 2011</span> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">There are so many topics to cover when it comes to Food Storage and Emergency Preparedness. So when I attended a great class Tuesday at <a href="http://honeyvillefarms.net/">Honeyville Grain</a> called "Five Things That Will Change Your Mind About Food Storage", taught by the store manager Lisa Barker, it got me thinking about how to narrow down the list of all the topics of preparedness to just 5. Lisa's 5 things are very similar to the 5 things that changed the way I do food storage and also how it has simplified my food storage. <span style="font-size: small;">(I'll list her ideas at the end of the post)</span> My food storage journey really began on September 11, 2001. I remember the panicked feeling after watching the Twin Towers fall and then watching the other planes crashing into the Pentagon and in Pennsylvania, and thinking this is it! The world is ending! The reason I felt so panicked was I had a 6 month old, 22 month old and a 4 year old and I didn't have more than a week's worth of anything. My baby was strictly on formula and I only had the one can of formula we were using. I grabbed the kids and went to the grocery store and bought food, paper goods, formula, you name it and I probably bought it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">As time went by and life looked like it was going to continue I really felt the need to start and continue a food storage program. I started with basics and had things like flour, but I really didn't know how to store it and rotate it. I went through several ways of storing my long-term items like a Rubbermaid container, buckets etc. What I didn't realize was I needed to have a meal plan to create my 3-month supply and at that time I was still cooking whatever sounded good that day for dinner. I wasted so much food and was really frustrated. Contemplating what I should do; I know that I was inspired by the Spirit when an idea came to me one Sunday afternoon, and that was to create a menu plan with an ingredient list. I wrote down every meal that my family ate and then I made an ingredient list of all the items from those meals. That ingredient list became a built in shopping list. I could buy my ingredients when they went on sale and have a pantry full of food that I used on a daily basis. This is all kept in a binder with sheet protectors and there’s one for each meal. This plan has worked for my family for several years now. What’s great is I can tweak it as I go and add or subtract recipes when we need a change.</span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My ingredient list that goes with my dinner meal plan.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The ingredient list helps me to see exactly what I need to have in my storage room for a 3-month supply. I just multiply the item by 3 (which is more than a 3-month supply, but more is better, right?) and I purchase that quantity. The CASE LOT sales that are a PERFECT time to purchase items for your pantry!!! (Because if your food storage plan is to come to my house in an emergency you will probably be disappointed to find that I make you work for free food) hahaha :) All kidding aside you really do need a plan for your family!! </span><br />
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</span><br /><span style="font-size: large;">Here is my list of the 5 things that changed my mind about food storage:</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7rEaQUSa_54/TmvIwK472-I/AAAAAAAABjo/IWN3i8pVVHo/s1600/IMG_6911.JPG" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-7rEaQUSa_54/TmvIwK472-I/AAAAAAAABjo/IWN3i8pVVHo/s320/IMG_6911.JPG" width="320" /></a><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-el9-JtINHQY/UJrKb5A3jbI/AAAAAAAAD2Q/zHqaI3QXwso/s1600/gamma+lids.jpg" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="181" src="https://2.bp.blogspot.com/-el9-JtINHQY/UJrKb5A3jbI/AAAAAAAAD2Q/zHqaI3QXwso/s200/gamma+lids.jpg" width="200" /></a>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Making a meal plan, ingredient list and shopping for items when they are on sale!!</span></li>
<li><a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2014/07/using-foodsaver-to-seal-dry-goods.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Using the Food Saver to preserve my dehydrated food, spices, chocolate chips, candy, etc. </span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Gamma Lids!! These lids have made my life sooooo much easier! I can open a bucket of wheat just by unscrewing the</span><span style="font-size: large;"> gamma lid and the resealing it without having to pry open those lids that come with the buckets. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Canning and dehydrating my own food at home! I never knew how easy it was to can your own meat! <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2011/05/cooking-without-power-canned-meats.html">Click HERE to view a previous post on canning meat</a>. I have also learned to dehydrate almost anything I can get my hands on and then sealing the food in a mason jar with the food saver. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Wheat! I have loved learning about all the things that wheat can do! You can grind it into flour, cook it into a cereal, sprout it into a vegetable, crack it and cook it, <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2015/05/how-to-make-ice-cream-out-of-wheat.html" target="_blank">even ice cream</a>. I am continually amazed at what wheat can do! Making my own bread has been such a fun learning experiment. <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2011/04/cooking-with-your-storage.html">Click HERE to see the recipe I use. </a></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">There you have it! The five things that changed my mind about food storage. These are Lisa's 5 things:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Store what you eat...eat what you store!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Canning my own foods.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Freeze Dried Foods</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">FoodSaver, <a href="http://cheftessbakeresse.blogspot.com/search/label/52%20jar%20method">Meals in a jar</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://www.idareyoutoeatit.com/">I Dare You To Eat It</a>, and <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Its-Bag-Approach-Food-Storage/dp/1599553856/ref=sr_1_3?ie=UTF8&qid=1315687780&sr=8-3">It's In the Bag Plans </a></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;">EDUCATION IS POWER!!!!</span><span style="font-size: large;"> </span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-19586731691252751132017-10-05T11:25:00.000-07:002017-10-05T11:25:26.299-07:00Prepare Today Homemade- Pumpkin Oatmeal<span style="font-size: large;">Fall is in the air! The mornings are cooler and my children want something warm to eat for breakfast. One of my favorite blogs to get kid friendly recipes from is called <a href="http://blog.superhealthykids.com/" target="_blank">Super Healthy Kids</a> and that is where I found a few great pumpkin recipes. Nothing says fall like pumpkin, and with all the super food nutrients in pumpkin, I am always looking for new ways to use it. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I made pumpkin oatmeal today and it was delicious. I really like oatmeal but it can get monotonous eating it the same way everyday, but with oatmeal that tastes like pumpkin pie, I couldn't wait to try it!!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> This recipe couldn't be easier! Add all ingredients go into the pan, heat until thickened, and eat! I had all the ingredients on hand in my storage so I know we will be eating this for breakfast a lot this fall. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin Oatmeal <a href="http://blog.superhealthykids.com/2010/10/pumpkin-porridge/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">(from blog.superhealthykids.com)</span></a></span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 C oats (I used quick oats)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 C milk (1 C water + 3 T non-instant powdered milk)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/3 C pumpkin puree (canned or dehydrated pumpkin)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 t pumpkin pie spice</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1-2 t honey</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Add all ingredients into a saucepan. Cook over medium heat around 5 minutes or until liquid is absorbed and oatmeal is thickened. Makes about 2 servings. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Amy and Natalie, from Super Healthy Kids, have several other pumpkin recipes that are healthy and delicious.</span><br />
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<a href="http://blog.superhealthykids.com/2010/10/high-protein-pumpkin-pancakes/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">High Protein Pumpkin Pancakes </span></a><br />
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<a href="http://blog.superhealthykids.com/2010/11/pumpkin-pie-shakes/" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin Pie Shakes</span></a><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin is healthy, delicious, and not just for Thanksgiving pies. Try adding pumpkin to your breakfast and see how yummy it can be! </span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-71834774771183462662017-08-31T16:21:00.000-07:002017-08-31T16:22:04.302-07:00A Food Storage Frame of Mind<span style="font-size: large;">I have had many people tell me over the <span style="font-size: large;">last few years tha<span style="font-size: large;">t they don't have food storage b<span style="font-size: large;">ecause it is just too overwhelming to deal with. I <span style="font-size: large;">have thought a lot <span style="font-size: large;">about that <span style="font-size: large;">feeling and have wo<span style="font-size: large;">ndered wh<span style="font-size: large;">y</span> I do<span style="font-size: large;">n't feel that way<span style="font-size: large;"> about food storage.<span style="font-size: large;"> I came to the conclusion that I make food storage a w<span style="font-size: large;">ay of life and not a one time obsta<span style="font-size: large;">cle that I <span style="font-size: large;">have to overcome. <span style="font-size: large;">Just like we shouldn't diet, but mak<span style="font-size: large;">e eating healthy a way of life, <span style="font-size: large;">food s<span style="font-size: large;">torage should be a <span style="font-size: large;">lifestyle.</span></span></span> <span style="font-size: large;">I believe in having food storage for emergencies, <span style="font-size: large;">BUT I truly believe it is a principle of provident l<span style="font-size: large;">iving. "</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-family: "times new roman" , "times";"><span style="font-family: "book antiqua"; letter-spacing: -0.1pt;"><span style="font-size: medium;">
personal and family
preparedness should be a way of provident living, an orderly approach to
using the resources, gifts, and talents the Lord shares with us. So the first
step is to teach our people to be self-reliant and independent through proper
preparation for daily life." -Victor L. Brown, Ensign 1976</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">So, how do you make food storage a way of life?? There are M<span style="font-size: large;">ANY ways to store food and rotate food storage. </span>This is what I do and<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">it's w<span style="font-size: large;">hat works for my family. <span style="font-size: large;">It may not be right for your family but <span style="font-size: large;">there might be a few things you could try<span style="font-size: large;"> out. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have a meal plan that <span style="font-size: large;">includes easy <span style="font-size: large;">to prepare <span style="font-size: large;">recipes.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Know w<span style="font-size: large;">ha<span style="font-size: large;">t ingredients you use on a daily basis<span style="font-size: large;"> and keep those in stock at all times.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Watch the grocery sales and <span style="font-size: large;">kn<span style="font-size: large;">ow what "a stock up <span style="font-size: large;">pr<span style="font-size: large;">ice<span style="font-size: large;">" is <span style="font-size: large;">for</span> every item you use in your recipes. Don't stress out abou<span style="font-size: large;">t this....it took me a few months to know w<span style="font-size: large;">hat a good deal was<span style="font-size: large;">, but <span style="font-size: large;">after some practice of comparing prices I know off hand what <span style="font-size: large;">the low prices are.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have freeze-dr<span style="font-size: large;">ied or dehydrated equals to the fresh pr<span style="font-size: large;">oduce you like to eat. They come in handy a lot more then you think they will. They are worth t<span style="font-size: large;">he price and cook up almost like the fresh counterpart.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Make pantry meals that only use shelf-stable foods in your pantry<span style="font-size: large;"> 1-2 times per week.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Rotating fo<span style="font-size: large;">od <span style="font-size: large;">becom<span style="font-size: large;">es easy when you are eating what you store.</span></span></span> </span> </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Learn to bake <span style="font-size: large;">cra<span style="font-size: large;">ckers, fruit leather, snacks,<span style="font-size: large;"> </span>breads, etc. to save money and also to use <span style="font-size: large;">food storage basics.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Store long term items in a pr<span style="font-size: large;">oper bucket or mylar bag to prolong their life. Nothing is more frustrating then <span style="font-size: large;">knowing you have food, <span style="font-size: large;">opening it to use,</span></span> and find it has <span style="font-size: large;">become rancid.</span> </span> </span></span></span> </span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Be patient with yourself!! I have a system down and kn<span style="font-size: large;">ow which foods I make every week. I make granola bars, bread, and snacks on a regular basis. It become<span style="font-size: large;">s natural and stress-<span style="font-size: large;">free after a few times of <span style="font-size: large;">making a recipe. Give yourself time to learn <span style="font-size: large;">somet<span style="font-size: large;">hing new. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span>Plan and grow a garde<span style="font-size: large;">n year after year. I have only had small garde<span style="font-size: large;">ns and I really don't know what I am doing<span style="font-size: large;">, but it gives <span style="font-size: large;">my family fresh food. I feel that we spend time together as a family, and it really helps with our food budget in the summer.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">I don't have foods that will only be used in<span style="font-size: large;"> a "SHTF" <span style="font-size: large;">scenario. I use all the food in my storage all the time. Some of my dehydrated foods don't get used as often<span style="font-size: large;">, but they do get used<span style="font-size: large;">, and when I s<span style="font-size: large;">to<span style="font-size: large;">re them pro<span style="font-size: large;">perly they last a long time.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Learn to can and preserve. There are so many times I run out of chicken in the freezer and open a bottle of canned chicken to save dinner. </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T_MryWHKiYE/URb87UuYSKI/AAAAAAAAEtg/hjtfyPMfs6M/s1600/bottled+chicken+1.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-T_MryWHKiYE/URb87UuYSKI/AAAAAAAAEtg/hjtfyPMfs6M/s200/bottled+chicken+1.jpg" width="150" /></a></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Add beans, tvp, a<span style="font-size: large;">nd <span style="font-size: large;">veggies to sauces, meat dishe<span style="font-size: large;">s<span style="font-size: large;">, an<span style="font-size: large;">d casseroles. It exte<span style="font-size: large;">nds the amount of food your servi<span style="font-size: large;">ng,</span> <span style="font-size: large;">and it</span> uses your food storage. <span style="font-size: large;">T</span>here is also <span style="font-size: large;">the added <span style="font-size: large;">nutrition<span style="font-size: large;"> when you are sneaking veggies <span style="font-size: large;">into dinner</span></span>. <span style="font-size: large;">Cooked whe<span style="font-size: large;">at can be added to many meat dishes <span style="font-size: large;">and no one will know it's there.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">The<span style="font-size: large;">re are so many ways you can implement food stor<span style="font-size: large;">age into you<span style="font-size: large;">r daily life. <span style="font-size: large;">Keep<span style="font-size: large;">ing</span></span> food<span style="font-size: large;"> stor<span style="font-size: large;">age in the back of my mind all the time I see <span style="font-size: large;">things that maybe wouldn't have caught my eye otherwise. While shopping<span style="font-size: large;">, keep your <span style="font-size: large;">eyes peele<span style="font-size: large;">d for clear<span style="font-size: large;">a<span style="font-size: large;">nce and discount items that will work for your family. I <span style="font-size: large;">have come across many items t<span style="font-size: large;">hat I would have passed up if I hadn't b<span style="font-size: large;">e<span style="font-size: large;">en in a prepper frame of mind ;)</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-68715052528112108002017-01-06T16:14:00.000-07:002017-01-06T16:14:39.829-07:00Winter Weather To Do List<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: small;">This is a re-post from 2011 but the ideas are still relevant. Keep warm and safe in the cold weather. It was -22 this morning where I live. Be prepared before the storm!</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pLo9QxBge5A/Tsggq4O8mQI/AAAAAAAABw4/hpc_30-DB7s/s1600/spring+maybe+010.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-pLo9QxBge5A/Tsggq4O8mQI/AAAAAAAABw4/hpc_30-DB7s/s320/spring+maybe+010.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">I think winter may be on its way!! It snowed today and my kids thought it was really fun, but as adults we know how long winter can be. When it gets colder I always think about how we would cope if the power went out. I personally don't enjoy being cold and having no heat would sure make life uncomfortable. There are many ways of preparing for a cold weather emergency and I want to give you some ideas of what you could do before hand so you are well prepared.</span><br />
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<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Winter Preparation To Do List:</span></b></u><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Have a portable heater, such as a Mr. Buddy heater, kerosene heater and lamps with oil, or wood for a wood burning stove.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Emergency radio: crank or battery operated. Store it in a location that is easy to access and always have extra batteries.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">If possible have a generator. A 5000 watt generator will run almost any appliance. It has a 6 gallon gas tank that will run for 14 hours.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">During the winter if it is cold enough outside you can put food in coolers and leave them by your back door. Store coolers that will fit the food you typically have in your freezer and fridge.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A great way to stay warm is to pitch a tent in your living room or other room with a heat source. The kids will probably enjoy this, but it is to keep the most heat in the area you are all sleeping. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Sleeping bags and warm weather clothing. I recently stood in line for 2 hours (by choice) in a snow storm and wore long underwear to keep warm. I thought I was going to be cold but I didn't feel cold and I know it was the long underwear. Have a pair for everyone in your family. Wool socks also kept my toes from freezing! Hats, gloves, coats, scarves, socks, and warm sleeping bags are all important for every member of your family. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A To Do Box of <b>non-electric</b> games, toys, coloring books, cards, jump ropes, paper, pens, pencils, etc to keep everyone occupied during a power outage. I know that my kids nagging me with "I'm bored" would literally drive me insane if I had to hear it all day long. Keep a box ready for power outages or emergencies to save everyone from boredom.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">A great idea that I got from somewhere (I can't remember, sorry) is to have a menu written out, BEFORE the emergency, with the meals you could make if the power was out. Have at least a weeks worth ready to go. If you have a small butane stove you would probably have meals like soups, stews, or rice dishes. Or if you have a Volcano Stove you could grill, or bake a dish. Knowing what your menu will be will alleviate the stress of making food when it is cold, dark, and miserable!!</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Have a corded land line phone in your home. When the power goes out so do your cordless phones. Cell phones may or may not work in an emergency. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Snow shovels are also an item that will be gone from stores when a storm hits. Have 1 or 2 shovels ready in your garage.</span></li>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PPpct0xizDs/TsgqLhBZYbI/AAAAAAAABxQ/pMOuTUmkRqg/s1600/no+power+cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="312" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-PPpct0xizDs/TsgqLhBZYbI/AAAAAAAABxQ/pMOuTUmkRqg/s320/no+power+cartoon.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Before the Storm:</b></u></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">If you know a storm is approaching there are a few things you can do to prepare your family. I am assuming you already will have food and water.</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">Put gas in your car.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Do the laundry and dishes and put away. Folding laundry in the dark is never fun :)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Charge all phones, DS games, computers, dvd players, ipods, etc.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">If you have a wood burning stove or fireplace, have all the wood cut and placed in an area that is easy to access.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Get out all flashlights, batteries, candles, and matches so you aren't searching in the dark for light.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Bathe and shower the kids and yourself. Starting off clean will make life more pleasant for everyone. :)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Make sandwiches, gather some soup cans, or cook some food if the power is expected to go out. I would pull out some snacks and keep them out so we don't have to search in the dark for food. </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>IF</b> you aren't prepared for any emergency I would then tell you to get yourself to the store and buy food, water, flashlights, and batteries. Although so will most of the general population, so go early to get any kind of a selection.</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-paVu3uQXVgA/Tsgo-xdr7qI/AAAAAAAABxI/Xe9iUW62nHA/s1600/car+kit+cartoon.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-paVu3uQXVgA/Tsgo-xdr7qI/AAAAAAAABxI/Xe9iUW62nHA/s320/car+kit+cartoon.jpg" width="318" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If you travel frequently during the winter months it is important to have a car kit in your vehicle. Click <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2009/10/cold-weather-preparedness.html">HERE</a> to view a previous post on winter weather preparation and car kits. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Have faith, unemcomber your life, lay up in store"-Keith B. McMullen<br />
</span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-62565049230167733892016-06-08T17:40:00.000-07:002016-06-08T17:40:23.822-07:00Sun Oven Fruit Cobbler<div style="text-align: justify;">
<span style="font-size: large;">The kids are out of school and the craziness that has been my life over the last 9 months has slowed to a less-crazy life. Time is on my side for a moment and I thought I would bake a little something in my Global Sun Oven. <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2011/05/sun-oven-class.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">(click here to read more on the Global Sun Oven)</span></a> It has been over 90 degrees where I live and that always makes me want to cook with my sun oven. The sun oven doesn't need the summer heat to work, just the sun, but the heat makes me want to cook outside and not inside my house. <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2012/12/how-sun-oven-saved-christmas-dinner.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">(click here to see how the Sun Oven saved my Christmas dinner)</span></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Apple cobbler sounded like a yummy treat, but this recipe is very versatile and other fruit will work as well. Because I have to change every recipe into a food storage recipe I started off with dehydrated apples from the LDS Cannery, and boiled them in some water to speed up the rehydrating process. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I boiled 2 cups of dehydrated apples, 4 cups of water, a dash of lemon juice and 1/3 cup of sugar for about 5 minutes. It was as easy as that and after draining them I poured them into a greased dark metal pan. The dark cookware is a good option for sun oven cooking. It keeps the heat inside the food, where as shiny metal, or glass pans, will reflect the heat outside of the oven. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">To save cleaning another bowl I melted the butter in the same pan that the apples cooked in. The flour and brown sugar were added to the butter and honestly it was hard not to eat it straight from the pan!! </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Once the crumb topping was mixed well I sprinkled it over the apples and it was ready for the oven. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">The sun oven was preheated for about 20 minutes while I put the cobbler together and when I put the cobbler in, it had reached 375 degrees. Cover the dish and bake for 2 or more hours. If you aren't familiar with the sun oven you will have to make sure the oven gets turned towards the sun as the day goes on. A good way to make sure the position is correct is to check the shadows on either side of the oven. If they are even on both sides of the oven, the oven is correctly facing the sun. I actually forgot about the cobbler cooking and it was in the oven for a little over 3 hours, but what is so great about the sun oven is that most dishes won't burn. Food stays warm and ready to eat when you are ready!</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">This cobbler was delicious!! Kind of warm on a hot day, but I loved that it was made from dehydrated apples. I'm adding it to my food storage recipe binder. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Fruit Cobbler</b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2 C fresh fruit (apples and berries work best) OR</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">2 C dehydrated apples</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1/3 C sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 t lemon juice</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 C butter</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 C flour</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">1 C brown sugar</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">cinnamon</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If using dehydrated apples: place apples plus 4 cups of water in a saucepan and bring to a boil. Simmer for 5-10 minutes or until soft. Remove from heat and drain. Stir in the sugar and lemon juice. Pour into greased baking dish. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">If using fresh fruit: mix the fruit with the sugar and lemon juice and pour into greased baking dish.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">In a saucepan pan melt the butter over low heat. Remove from heat and stir in flour and brown sugar. Stir until well mixed. Sprinkle over the apples in the baking dish. Sprinkle cinnamon over the crumb topping. Cover the dish and bake in a preheated sun oven for about 2 hours. To cook in a conventional oven bake at 350 for 25-30 minutes.</span></div>
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Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-28691635088791659702016-05-18T14:57:00.001-07:002016-05-18T14:57:10.692-07:00Making Yogurt With Acidophilus Tablets<span style="font-size: large;">Making yogurt is a skill that will save you money and also allow you to make several other things, like cream cheese or sour cream, out of plain yogurt. I have been making yogurt for a few years now and I have tried many different ways and have found what works and doesn't work. I started making yogurt with regular milk from the grocery store but milk started to get expensive so I switched to using powdered milk. For a yogurt starter I have tried regular, plain yogurt, dried starters, and <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2011/11/prepare-today-homemade-homemade-yogurt.html" target="_blank">even a forever starter that gets used over and over</a>. They all worked but my goal was to be able to make yogurt without having to use a refrigerated starter. I do keep plain yogurt in 1/2 C measurements in the freezer, but that will still be a problem if there wasn't electricity. My husband has always laughed at the fact that you need yogurt to make yogurt, but I think I have found a way around needing refrigeration for a starter. One of my favorite websites is <a href="http://myfoodstoragecookbook.com/">myfoodstoragecookbook.com</a> and that is where I learned about <a href="http://myfoodstoragecookbook.com/2011/11/17/making-yogurt/" target="_blank">acidophilus three billion</a>.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Acidophilus Three Billion is a probiotic that aids in digestion, but it is also the live cultures needed to make yogurt. Instead of using plain yogurt with live cultures, use the acidophilus tablets instead. <span style="font-size: small;">(I bought mine on Amazon, but health food stores should have it too) </span>Take note that the incubation period for the yogurt will be quite a bit longer, like 18-24 hours, before it starts to firm up. Normally, with a plain yogurt starter, I would get the yogurt started in the morning and it would be setting up in the fridge by dinner time. I made yogurt with the acidophilus and started incubating at 9am and I let it sit until about 10am the next day. It wasn't bitter, like yogurt can get, it just took longer to set up. I also made the yogurt in my Saratoga Jacks Thermal Cooker and that was a great option if I didn't have electricity. I usually use my yogurt maker, and I'll have to try my next batch with my tablets to see if the yogurt comes out any differently. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is how I make yogurt. You will notice that I don't heat up my milk and then let it cool. If you are using powdered milk you can skip that step. If you use regular milk from the grocery store you will need to heat up your milk to 180 degrees and then let it cool to 100-110 degrees before adding your starter. Don't let it cool to under 100 degrees or the starter won't "start". It will stay in kind of a hibernation state.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Start by putting 3 3/4 C water and 1 C powdered milk into a blender. Blend until combined. Allow a few moments for the frothy milk to settle to the top. You can scoop it off at this point and discard. I add 1/3 C sugar and 1 T vanilla flavoring to my yogurt unless I am planning on making sour cream with it. <span style="font-size: small;">My children really like a little sweetness and flavor to their yogurt. I used to give them honey to mix in but the yogurt would get runny and they wouldn't eat it.</span> If you really don't care to use the sugar you can try a sugar substitute. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Pill Crusher that I bought on amazon.com. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Using a pill crusher, crush 3 acidophilus tablets and add to a little of the blended milk. Add it back to the blender and just stir to combine. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Pour the milk into a clean, warm quart jar. This recipe makes enough yogurt for one quart. (I fill my mason jar with hot water while I make up the yogurt.) </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">There are several ways to incubate your yogurt but I decided to try my <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2012/01/saratoga-jacks-thermal-cooker.html" target="_blank">Saratoga Jacks Thermal Cooker</a>. If you don't have one try a small cooler or wonderbox. Just make sure to have little or no air space around the jar. I filled my cooker with the hottest water I could get out of my faucet, which was around 125 degrees. Anything hotter will kill your starter. After 8 hours I did switch out my water for hot water again. The yogurt won't set up if it is too cool either. Try to keep it above 110 degrees. Don't let all of the temperature info scare you away from making yogurt. It really isn't as hard as it may seem. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Here is my yogurt after about 24 hours of incubation. It is now in the fridge cooling off. I tasted it and it was smooth, creamy, and just sweet enough.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: x-large;"><u><b>Powdered Milk Yogurt Recipe</b></u></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">3 3/4 C warm tap water</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 C non-instant powdered milk (milk from the cannery)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2-4 T plain yogurt with active cultures OR 3 Acidophilus tablets, crushed</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/3 C sugar</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 T vanilla</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Combine the water and powdered milk in a blender or use an emulsion blender. Scoop off the foam. Add the sugar and vanilla and blend. Add the starter to a little of the milk from the blender and stir to combine, then add back to blended milk. Use a spoon and stir gently to combine. Pour into a warmed quart mason jar and incubate. Wrap tightly in towels and place in a cooler or use a thermal cooker. Fill the thermal cooker with hot tap water and place mason jar inside. If using a yogurt starter your yogurt will be ready after about 8 hours. Place in fridge and allow to firm up. The thermal cooker can take up to 24 hours. I checked it about every 8 hours. </span><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">I filled my jars with warm water to heat them up. </td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Now you can have yogurt anytime, even in an emergency. The cooling of the yogurt after incubation could be done with a cooler that has been buried under ground (with the lid open at the top) or in cold storage, but that is a whole other post :)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2014/09/my-food-storge-week-in-review-yogurt.html" target="_blank">Click HERE to view another post on how I made yogurt in my yogurt maker and even how I made yogurt cream cheese :)</a><br />
</span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-76522147563409354902016-04-22T07:28:00.000-07:002016-04-22T07:28:26.673-07:00Food Storage Teacher/Mother's Day Gifts<span style="font-size: large;">One of the greatest gifts you can give anyone is the gift of preparedness! I leave no one safe from my preparedness gift giving. I give preparedness gifts to my friends, family, and also as wedding and baby shower gifts, instead of gifts that may be unused. <span style="font-size: small;">(I am not saying you aren't prepared if you get a preparedness gift from me, I just love to help everyone get prepared)</span> I have given cookbooks, wheat, #10 cans of mixes, #10 cans of dehydrated fruits and veggies, water containers, and meals in a bag (which make great shower gifts for newlyweds and new moms). Last year my children gave their teachers, secretaries, and principal buckets of wheat that they could keep in their storage or use to make blender wheat pancakes without a grinder. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> I found these great little buckets at the Honeyville Grain store in Salt Lake City and I filled them with wheat. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"> On one side of the bucket I added the saying "We hope you have a sa-wheat summer".</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">On the other side of the bucket I added a recipe for Blender Wheat Pancakes. The teachers LOVED them and thought they were quite unique. This would make a great gift for your child's teacher, or even for a birthday/Mother's Day, or a gift for family, friends, or neighbor. Maybe it will spark their interest in preparedness and get them going :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><b>Blender Wheat Pancakes</b> </span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 C milk (1 C water + 3 T non-instant powdered milk)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 C wheat kernels</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 eggs</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 t baking powder</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1/2 t salt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 T oil</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Place the milk and wheat in a blender and blend on high for 4-5 minutes or until smooth. Add eggs, oil, baking powder, and salt and blend until mixed. Don't over mix. Pour batter directly from the blender onto a hot griddle. Cook for 1-2 minutes on each side. </span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-84032500578551182572016-04-09T15:06:00.000-07:002016-04-09T15:06:16.141-07:00Storing Complete Meals<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-family: "courier new" , "courier" , monospace;">Here's a question: Do you have cans of food in your storage that you don't use? Do you have a case of pasta sauce, but no pasta to go with it? </span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">The answers to these questions will matter one day when you are hungry for a spaghetti dinner but you only have pasta sauce. If you buy a case of spaghetti sauce you will need to store pasta and maybe grated Parmesan cheese and a vegetable, or fruit, to round out the meal. Every time you purchase a food item, make sure you are storing all the other items that round out that meal. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cF6CVzrVXEk/T59DERCqSII/AAAAAAAACTg/uKjYjOwFYWE/s1600/grocery+deals.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-cF6CVzrVXEk/T59DERCqSII/AAAAAAAACTg/uKjYjOwFYWE/s1600/grocery+deals.jpg" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">I don't like to have food in my pantry that will only partly make dinner. I like to have all the ingredients on hand to make a complete meal. I have found a system that works to have complete meals in my storage. I started out by writing down all the dinners that my family enjoys, then I listed every ingredient needed to make those meals. Now I have created a shopping list, and I know exactly what to buy, and have on hand in my pantry at all times. The <u>list</u> is what works in my food storage plan....I always know what ingredients I need to have in my storage. This also works for building my 3-month supply of food. I have 5 weeks worth of dinners planned, and if I multiply each item by 3 I then have enough for 3 months worth of meals. It keeps my meal plan organized in a way that I'll have all the ingredients on hand to make many different meals, without having to go to the store for last minute items. (<a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/p/building-recipe-binder.html" target="_blank">click here to see my recipe binder</a>)</span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1ypG0Zwmng/VCeAbTZD6KI/AAAAAAAAIJ0/wOPm7IerjkY/s1600/binder%2Bingredient%2Blist.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-M1ypG0Zwmng/VCeAbTZD6KI/AAAAAAAAIJ0/wOPm7IerjkY/s1600/binder%2Bingredient%2Blist.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My ingredient list that becomes my shopping list.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Example: </span></b></span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: 130%;">I have 5 weeks worth of different dinners planned out with side dishes.</span> </li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">I wrote every ingredient on a piece of paper to make each meal, including the side dishes.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">The ingredient list now becomes my shopping list.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Multiplied by 3 (to equal 3 months worth) and I now have enough food to make a meal every night for 3 months! </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">I know how many cans of chicken broth I need to make those meals and also how many cases to buy at the case lot sales. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">COMPLETE MEALS! I am now storing all the ingredients to make complete meals. Including the side dishes, which include muffins, quick breads, veggies, and fruits. </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">It doesn't matter how many meals you have planned out. I just happened to have 5 weeks worth of recipes that we really like to eat. Start with one week's worth of meals it that is easier for you. Multiply your 7 meals by 13 to have 3 months of food storage. There are roughly 13 weeks in 3 months, so if your plan only has 7 different meals in it you'll multiply by 13. Then begin shopping for those ingredients. </span></div>
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3x_BUMqCs7I/VCdu7KL3QcI/AAAAAAAAIJY/c2JXJkMg3P0/s1600/IMG_9003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://1.bp.blogspot.com/-3x_BUMqCs7I/VCdu7KL3QcI/AAAAAAAAIJY/c2JXJkMg3P0/s1600/IMG_9003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 130%;"> <b>What If I Want To Eat Fresh Produce....</b></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">While we all love to have fresh produce as our first choice when cooking, you'll need to think of a back-up if those fresh items become unavailable. For longer-term storage of fresh produce, think of dehydrated, freeze-dried, or canned items to fill in for fresh ingredients. Give freeze-dried foods a taste. There aren't many that I wouldn't eat. Fresh dairy is also an area that we don't want to be without. Freeze-dried cheese, powdered butter, canned butter, and powdered milk are also an important item to have in your storage. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">Back to complete meals....</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">Once you have your ingredients in your storage you can make many meals with them. But even with careful planning like my example above there may be times that you''ll have to know how to cook something you would normally buy at the store.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 130%;"><b>Let's take a look at a breakfast example: </b></span></div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z7q1Lvs4JQo/VCdxYMKQUdI/AAAAAAAAIJk/13wook8PeaM/s1600/french%2Btoast.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://4.bp.blogspot.com/-z7q1Lvs4JQo/VCdxYMKQUdI/AAAAAAAAIJk/13wook8PeaM/s1600/french%2Btoast.JPG" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">If you make pancakes, french toast, or waffles, do you have the ingredients to make syrup? Or have freeze-dried or bottled fruit as a topping? Do you know how to make the bread to have the french toast? Do you have all the ingredients to make bread? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">Meals need to be broken down this way. Yes, you may have bread in the freezer as part of your 3-month storage, but if you were in a situation where the grocery store wasn't an option anymore, you'll need to know how to make bread. Think of all the items that you buy at the grocery store. Do you know how to make a homemade version of them? Go through your menu plan and see if there are items that you buy that could also be made at home. Even if you plan on buying them as your 3-month supply, there may be a time when that isn't an option anymore. Here are a few of the things that I know how to make at home instead of buying at the store.</span><br />
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<li><a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/search/label/granola%20bars" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 130%;">granola bars</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2011/04/cooking-with-your-storage.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 130%;">bread</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2014/09/prepare-today-homemade-dry-ranch.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 130%;">dry ranch dressing mix</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2011/10/prepare-today-homemade-canning-maple.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 130%;">syrup</span></a></li>
<li><a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2014/06/prepare-today-homemade-chia-millet.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 130%;">granola</span></a></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 130%;"> <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2014/09/prepping-in-september-my-week-in-review.html" target="_blank">crackers</a></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 130%;"><a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2011/10/prepare-today-homemade-homemade-fruit.html" target="_blank">fruit snacks</a> </span></li>
<li><a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2014/09/my-food-storge-week-in-review-yogurt.html" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: 130%;">yogurt and cottage cheese </span></a></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-size: 130%;">Of course there are many things that you can be bottled. Grow a garden and save more money by making your own spaghetti sauce, canned fruit, applesauce, salsa, pickles, etc. Think of how self-reliant you could be! No more running to the store for something for dinner. It's my goal to be that way someday. As you're shopping, and adding to your storage, always think of what you are purchasing and how you're going to eat it. It does no good to have 50 cans of tuna, but no mayo, pickle relish, and a bread recipe with all the ingredients on hand to make it. Plain tuna from the can would get old really fast, I promise :)</span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-16986064624254276152016-02-01T16:54:00.001-07:002016-02-01T17:50:30.118-07:00When The Furnace Stops Working<span style="font-size: large;">It never fails, the snow falls, the temperature drops <span style="font-size: small;">(I'm talking like -18 in the mornings)</span>, and the furnace stops working. I kept hoping that it would magically kick back on but I had to call a repair man. Unfortunately he couldn't make it to my home for 2 days. This was a prime time to open up the Mr. Heater Buddy propane heater. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZuFnCGl3gI/Vq_tMHXv2wI/AAAAAAAAJCw/Jl1mMzB_42A/s1600/buddy%2Bheater%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="333" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-6ZuFnCGl3gI/Vq_tMHXv2wI/AAAAAAAAJCw/Jl1mMzB_42A/s400/buddy%2Bheater%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">There were several things that I learned while using this heater...</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">It works very well and we didn't need to sit too close to feel the warmth. It kept my kitchen comfortable. It sat about 6ft away from the kitchen table and we could all feel the warm air.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">I went through the small propane tanks pretty quickly. I used 3 of the canisters, with the heat setting on high, in the 2 days that we used it. I didn't have it on constantly only when we were cooking and eating meals, but in an emergency I would definitely ration the propane for essential heating only. </span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">It didn't smell and was quiet to use. I also need to store more D batteries to be able to use the fan option on the heater. That really did heat the room faster.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">The heater didn't like to light when I turned it on. I had to clean the small wick piece every time I turned it back on. </span></li>
</ol>
<span style="font-size: large;">It was nice to know that this heater worked and that it kept us warm. In a true emergency situation I would be using this heater in a smaller room (ventilated). My kitchen is very open to every other room in the main floor and the heat wouldn't be keeping us all warm. I would have to hang blankets and close off the larger areas of the house to keep the heat in one area. I would recommend this heater and I also recommend trying it out before you actually need it. Unlike my example of waiting until we were freezing to open the box :) </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Find this heater online, in big box stores, and emergency preparedness retailers. </span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-28621532650094877382015-12-01T15:41:00.000-07:002015-12-01T14:42:30.796-07:00Baking Items in Your Food Storage & Our Favorite Hot Chocolate Recipe!<br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fnN8ZchYCSo/T6DV8hZMsvI/AAAAAAAACWc/Zgs6Bdxd-qg/s1600/IMG_8905.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-fnN8ZchYCSo/T6DV8hZMsvI/AAAAAAAACWc/Zgs6Bdxd-qg/s320/IMG_8905.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: 130%;">In November I love to stock up on baking supplies because they go on sale for Thanksgiving. This will continue throughout December so watch the grocery stores for great deals on all of the baking ingredients and spices that you use. Once you have your food storage basics of wheat, water, beans and rice, there is not much you can do with those items without adding spices and leavening ingredients. Spices tend to sell for a great price point this time of year. Now is a perfect time to take stock of the spices you have in your cupboard and shop for the ones you are running low on. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;"> As you purchase your baking items you'll need to rotate them into your pantry at home. Keep a sharpie close by and when you bring your groceries in your house mark the date and place them behind the older item in your cupboard. (remember FIFO- first in first out) That way when you do need to see the expiration date, it will be easy to see and you won't have to search for the teeny, tiny date printed on the food. </span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">Another way to save money on baking supplies is to be able to tell when their life span has expired. There are several ways to test leavening agents to see if they still work.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;"><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Yeast</b>:</span> Add a spoonful in warm water along with a pinch of sugar. It should bubble in 10 minutes. Store yeast in the freezer for indefinite storage. I haven't had yeast go bad since doing this. I use instant yeast and I just add it straight from the freezer to my recipes and it works great.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Baking Powder</span>:</b> Add a pinch in warm water and stir. It should bubble immediately.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">Baking Soda</span>: </b>Add a pinch to vinegar or lemon juice and it should bubble immediately. Store baking soda for cooking as well as cleaning.</span></div>
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<b><span style="font-size: 180%;">Other items to store:</span></b></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: 130%;">Another baking item that I keep on hand is<span style="font-size: large;"> <b>Cocoa powder</b>. </span>It has an <b>indefinite shelf life!! </b></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 130%;">During the week I want you to pay attention to the <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Spices</b></span> that you use for cooking. Maybe even jot them down. Could you go a whole year without purchasing more? As bigger sales come upon us in the next couple of weeks look for the spices that you use and buy at least one extra. I know a lot of basic items seem palatable when sprinkled with the right spice.</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: 130%;">Did you know that you can substitute <span style="font-size: large;"><b>Unflavored Gelatin (Knox brand)</b></span> for eggs when you are baking? (1 oz of unflavored gelatin=12 t of gelatin=12 "eggs") To use it in baking use 1t of gelatin + 3 T cold water+2 T hot water=1 "egg". I store powdered eggs in #10 cans. I love them because they are pasteurized and you can lick the batter without risking salmonella poisoning. You just add the powder egg to your dry ingredients and then the water to your liquids. I save my real eggs for boiled and scrambled dishes. </span></li>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">Along with colder weather and the holidays, my children LOVE hot chocolate. This is our favorite hot chocolate recipe. I whip up a big batch and store it in an airtight container. The kids know how to make it by themselves and it save a lot of money on the pre-packaged hot chocolate mixes. Plus it uses all food storage pantry items.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;"><b>Hot or Cold Chocolate Mix</b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">(from Cookin' With Food Storage by Peggy Layton)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">3 1/4 C. powdered milk</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 130%;">Mix all in a big bowl and store in an airtight container. To use stir 1/2 C mix with 1 C. boiling water. Stir to dissolve and chill if you want cold milk. </span></div>
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Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-77268304607543803702015-10-09T20:30:00.000-07:002015-10-09T19:29:39.790-07:00Prepare Today Homemade- Easiest Muffins EVER!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5TOMliHfwGM/Vhh3l_iFAuI/AAAAAAAAJAo/k0-voEF6V4k/s1600/self%2Breliant%2Bsaturday%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-5TOMliHfwGM/Vhh3l_iFAuI/AAAAAAAAJAo/k0-voEF6V4k/s320/self%2Breliant%2Bsaturday%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Self-Reliant Saturday Recipe</span></b></u></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> We are a f<span style="font-size: large;">amily that loves <span style="font-size: large;">a good muffin. We eat them for dinner about 3 times per week. Muf<span style="font-size: large;">fins are pretty simple to make, but so<span style="font-size: large;">metimes getting all the ingredients out on a busy night is just too much for me. I do try to bake a double bat<span style="font-size: large;">ch to freeze but I<span style="font-size: large;"> don't always remember<span style="font-size: large;"> to do that. I think I have found my secret weapon to m<span style="font-size: large;">ake muffins quick and <span style="font-size: large;">S<span style="font-size: large;">O easy!! I thought <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2011/09/prepare-today-homemade-cake-cookies.html" target="_blank">cake mix </a><span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2011/09/prepare-today-homemade-cake-cookies.html" target="_blank">cookies were easy to make</a>, this recipe is e<span style="font-size: large;">ven easier!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">You may have heard of the 2 ingredient pumpkin cookies<span style="font-size: large;">, whic<span style="font-size: large;">h include a box of spice cake <span style="font-size: large;">mix and a small can of pumpkin<span style="font-size: large;">. You mix a<span style="font-size: large;">nd bake, so easy! Well, I thought why <span style="font-size: large;">coul<span style="font-size: large;">dn't th<span style="font-size: large;">at dough also be made into pumpkin muffins?? And g<span style="font-size: large;">uess what? It work<span style="font-size: large;">e<span style="font-size: large;">d and the whole family <span style="font-size: large;">loved them!</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Neboz1aB6g/UHwb-j3XtXI/AAAAAAAADRg/SXKLZdTG0TQ/s1600/IMG_0044.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/--Neboz1aB6g/UHwb-j3XtXI/AAAAAAAADRg/SXKLZdTG0TQ/s400/IMG_0044.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span>In the fall t<span style="font-size: large;">he grocery stores will generally hav<span style="font-size: large;">e s<span style="font-size: large;">p<span style="font-size: large;">ice cake mix for a great price. Last year I stocked up on them because we re<span style="font-size: large;">ally like pumpkin cookies made o<span style="font-size: large;">ut of it. <span style="font-size: large;">Having all the ingredien<span style="font-size: large;">ts on ha<span style="font-size: large;">nd added to the simplicity of this recipe.</span></span></span><span style="font-size: large;"> In the picture I<span style="font-size: large;"> <span style="font-size: large;">used on<span style="font-size: large;">ly half of that can of pumpkin because it is the <span style="font-size: large;">bigger can. The recipe o<span style="font-size: large;">nly calls for a 15o<span style="font-size: large;">z can of pumpkin. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VaGY7HlPMfo/UHwcAZJZB0I/AAAAAAAADRo/O_eweGTmzzY/s1600/IMG_0046.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-VaGY7HlPMfo/UHwcAZJZB0I/AAAAAAAADRo/O_eweGTmzzY/s400/IMG_0046.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span>Mix the <span style="font-size: large;">cak<span style="font-size: large;">e mix, pumpkin, and a few chocolate chips and you have muffin bat<span style="font-size: large;">ter!!! And with no oil or eggs, these muffins are a low-fat option for dinner. They do have sugar <span style="font-size: large;">from the cake mix<span style="font-size: large;">, but not nearly as much as w<span style="font-size: large;">hen I make muffins from scratch.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aV9y63JE_7Q/UHwcB0JqQfI/AAAAAAAADRw/Mm0rlbzpUjI/s1600/IMG_0047.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-aV9y63JE_7Q/UHwcB0JqQfI/AAAAAAAADRw/Mm0rlbzpUjI/s400/IMG_0047.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"></span></span></span></span><u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Pumpkin Cake Mix Muffins {or Cookies}</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 box spice cake mix</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 15oz can pumpkin</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 <span style="font-size: large;">C chocolat<span style="font-size: large;">e<span style="font-size: large;"> chip<span style="font-size: large;">s</span></span></span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;">Mix the cake mix and pumpkin together with a hand mixer, add the chocolate chips and di<span style="font-size: large;">vide into <span style="font-size: large;">12 m<span style="font-size: large;">uffin<span style="font-size: large;"> cups. <span style="font-size: large;">(I had <span style="font-size: large;">extra batter and I made about 8 <span style="font-size: large;">mini muffi<span style="font-size: large;">ns too) **Bake at 375° for 18-20 m<span style="font-size: large;">inutes. </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> <span style="font-size: large;">They <span style="font-size: large;">could also be baked in a sun oven or volcano sto<span style="font-size: large;">ve in <span style="font-size: large;">a situatio<span style="font-size: large;">n without electrici<span style="font-size: large;">ty.</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span></span> </span><br />
**I live at an altitude that I need to follow the high altitude directions and my cake mix said to bake the cake mix at 375°. If you are below 5000ft you might need to adjust the temperature to 350°.<br />
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<b>To make cookies: </b> Mix as directed above and bake at 350 for 8-10 minutes. Let cool for a few minutes on the cookie sheet, then remove to a cooling rack.<br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">And if you need a dessert idea, we made these tonight and they were so good and again....only 2 ing<span style="font-size: large;">redients!!! <a href="http://cookiesandcups.com/2-ingredient-pumpkin-brownies/" target="_blank">Click here for Pumpkin Brownie<span style="font-size: large;">s!!</span></a></span></span><a href="http://cookiesandcups.com/2-ingredient-pumpkin-brownies/" target="_blank"> </a>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-78365675542070587862015-08-29T20:05:00.000-07:002015-08-29T20:05:14.016-07:00Self-Reliant Saturday-- Rotate That Food Storage!!<span style="font-size: large;">I have been absent from the blog for a couple of weeks. My mother was in a car accident two weeks ago and suffered a head trauma and was in a coma for a week before passing away. I have been spending time with family for her funeral and then also taking the time to clean out her home. It was a shock and I am still dealing with the reality of it all, but we had such a special time together as a family. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">My mom was always the one to be obedient and this showed in how she always had her food storage. While cleaning out her kitchen we found many #10 cans of food from the LDS Cannery. In fact, those dried apples from the cannery sustained us through many hours of cleaning. But along with edible food storage that we found, there were many items that were long expired. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Today's Self-Reliant Saturday tip is to ROTATE your food storage! I am all for long-term food storage, but this is pushing it. It is 40 years old. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FqEiXSEJP2k/VeJxsPGV4zI/AAAAAAAAJAA/ULq_lF4fXmo/s1600/old%2Bfood%2Bstorage%2Bpic%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-FqEiXSEJP2k/VeJxsPGV4zI/AAAAAAAAJAA/ULq_lF4fXmo/s400/old%2Bfood%2Bstorage%2Bpic%2B1.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Anyone for some really old celery??</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G6BRlQFogSQ/VeJxoJ-UTwI/AAAAAAAAI_8/5VcmrjRJtZU/s1600/old%2Bfood%2Bstorage%2Bpic%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-G6BRlQFogSQ/VeJxoJ-UTwI/AAAAAAAAI_8/5VcmrjRJtZU/s400/old%2Bfood%2Bstorage%2Bpic%2B2.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> But I love that she wrote the date on the can because there was no other date printed on it. That is tip #2---write the date of purchase on your cans. It makes rotating much easier :)</span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-90625184727014567912015-08-15T15:13:00.001-07:002015-08-15T15:13:46.256-07:00Self-Reliant Saturday-- Living Wills & Health Directives<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ki5Wan6JWrM/Vc-2CuWb4bI/AAAAAAAAI_E/0lWvgYhEuIM/s1600/self%2Breliant%2Bsaturday%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-ki5Wan6JWrM/Vc-2CuWb4bI/AAAAAAAAI_E/0lWvgYhEuIM/s320/self%2Breliant%2Bsaturday%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Being prepared isn't something that is always for some future event. There are no guarantees that life will be smooth sailing. Trials and accidents happen to all of us. But are you prepared to deal with the trial when it happens to you?</span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-89iHM6wpAmw/Vc-2EuzkGSI/AAAAAAAAI_Q/En54oWZGCjQ/s1600/IMG_0415.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-89iHM6wpAmw/Vc-2EuzkGSI/AAAAAAAAI_Q/En54oWZGCjQ/s400/IMG_0415.JPG" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">From a tragic accident that happened this week in my family, I want everyone to know how important it is to have a Health Directive, "Living Will" Declaration filled out. None of us want to think that this will happen to us, but life changes...literally...in an instant. And there are so many decisions that need to be made beforehand. If my mom did not have a health directive filled out with her health care wishes made known, it would've made a horrific situation even more stressful. Please be prepared with your healthcare wishes known for those in your family who will be taking care of you in an emergency situation. It is stressful enough to have to deal with an accident, but to not know how to treat someone medically according to their wishes, will be too much for even the strongest of us. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Keep all vital records and paperwork together in a binder or file folder. Looking for paperwork is almost beyond mental ability when you are in shock from learning about an accident. Have all information in one location to you can access it and also be able to grab and go in an evacuation type event. <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2012/11/vital-records.html" target="_blank">Click here for a previous post on vital record storage. </a> </span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-66277422647597154692015-08-08T07:00:00.000-07:002015-08-08T07:00:01.211-07:00Self-Reliant Saturday-- Food Storage Experts<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qtp9m6mIQ90/VcV3PO1D0jI/AAAAAAAAI-E/99LEUcoYuuM/s1600/quote%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Qtp9m6mIQ90/VcV3PO1D0jI/AAAAAAAAI-E/99LEUcoYuuM/s400/quote%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Water purification, Dutch oven cooking, solar cooking, how much wheat to store, gardening, living off the grid....it can all get a little intimidating and that leads to frustration. Just keep slowly adding to your food storage and emergency preparedness. Pray to know what you need to work on for you and your family. There's no need to be stressed out over food storage :)</span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-78068333432374075032015-08-01T07:00:00.000-07:002015-08-01T07:00:00.545-07:00Self-Reliant Saturday-Healthy Meal In A Jar<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p8IuOsRZ_Z8/Vbwqif98HjI/AAAAAAAAI9U/cHzHpoOcScU/s1600/self%2Breliant%2Bsaturday%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-p8IuOsRZ_Z8/Vbwqif98HjI/AAAAAAAAI9U/cHzHpoOcScU/s320/self%2Breliant%2Bsaturday%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">Many food storage fanatics love the<a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2012/02/create-your-own-dinner-in-jar.html" target="_blank"> meals in a jar concept</a>. They are simple to make, save time and money, and are a great option for cooking without having to plan an entire meal. I came across a very healthy freeze-dried camping meal that makes a great meal-in-a-jar recipe. <a href="http://www.theyummylife.com/recipes/368" target="_blank"><span style="font-size: small;">(click here to see the original recipe) </span></a></span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2S5TxGZ4-eA/VbwuZtFQqrI/AAAAAAAAI9g/3iXBtYWxraM/s1600/meals%2Bin%2Ba%2Bjar%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-2S5TxGZ4-eA/VbwuZtFQqrI/AAAAAAAAI9g/3iXBtYWxraM/s400/meals%2Bin%2Ba%2Bjar%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><u><b>Healthy Chicken & Veggies with Couscous</b></u></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 C freeze dried chicken pieces*</span></span></span> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 C whole wheat couscous</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">3 t chia seeds</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 1/2 C freeze dried mixed vegetables</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">3 t dried onion flakes</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 T + 1 1/2 t bullion of choice (or 1 1/2t Shirley J bullion)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">3/4 t EACH dried thyme, sage, parsley </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">3/4 t garlic powder</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 t pepper</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">3/4 t salt (or less depending on your taste)</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Layer all ingredients into a quart mason jar. (wide mouth is the easiest to make jarred meals in) Shake gently to allow settling so all ingredients fit in. Place canning lid on and seal with a food saver jar attachment, or place an oxygen absorber in the jar and tighten with the canning lid and ring. Serves 4-6 people. Shelf-stable for 3-5 years.</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Reheating Instructions:</span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Make sure to label each jar with recipe name and cooking instructions. Boil 4 1/2 cups of water in a pot. Pour in jar ingredients and stir. Turn off heat and allow to sit at least 10 minutes. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">*to make vegetarian use 1 C TVP or leave out the chicken all together. </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Enjoy!! </span></span></span></div>
Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-78537190216235899342015-07-29T12:39:00.002-07:002015-07-29T12:53:10.311-07:00Chicken Update--Our Broody Hen<span style="font-size: large;">The chicken adventure has been going pretty smoothly. We even went out of town for 2 weeks and the girls seemed just fine with their babysitter. But the day after I got home, one of the hens insisted on sitting in the nesting box and hogged all the eggs in there. I looked it up online and it seems that Hawk Eye is broody. She thinks she has to incubate her, or anyone else's egg. We purchased our hens to be layers, so to have one hen that won't lay an egg because she wants to sit on them 24/7 was a problem. Back to the internet I went, and searched for a solution. The solution from several sites was to put Ms. broody Hawk Eye in chicken jail. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WvNJWsLiKDU/VbkpTelr2rI/AAAAAAAAI9A/-I3vqoRZOpk/s1600/broody%2Bchicken.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WvNJWsLiKDU/VbkpTelr2rI/AAAAAAAAI9A/-I3vqoRZOpk/s400/broody%2Bchicken.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> The goal is to keep her from sitting on comfy shavings. She spent all of day one by herself, but we let her back in the coop for sleeping. During the day we gave her some alone time in the backyard as well to encourage foraging for bugs, etc. She was really freaked out and paced back and forth along the main coop at first, but we didn't cave in to her begging, and she calmed down and acted like a non-broody hen. After her night in the coop she was again hogging the nesting box and so she is currently in jail again for today. The main problem was all of our hens like to lay in one specific box and they were picking on Hawk Eye because she wouldn't move. This also lead to less egg layers. It's a whole chicken drama! Using the chicken jail remedy, Hawk Eye should be cured in a few days, but she might not lay an egg for a week or so after. Kind of a bummer! But even though there has been drama and we are learning by trial and error, they are so fun to have and my kids really enjoy taking care of them. I am also glad that we are learning all about chickens now and not in a survival situation. </span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-75762662328922756322015-07-25T07:00:00.000-07:002015-07-25T07:00:02.929-07:00Self-Reliant Saturday-- I Can't Afford Food Storage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I_b1Kexd4Uc/VbKsJ4c535I/AAAAAAAAI8k/DQTyy2ANX3c/s1600/food%2Bstorage%2Bexcuses.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-I_b1Kexd4Uc/VbKsJ4c535I/AAAAAAAAI8k/DQTyy2ANX3c/s400/food%2Bstorage%2Bexcuses.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">It's all about PRIORITIES. As with most things in life that we can't seem to get to, or finish, it's all about how important it really is in our lives. Maybe take a minute and reprioritize the things you feel are most important in your life, and see how to fit food storage in. </span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-24678876550262982792015-07-22T07:00:00.000-07:002015-07-22T07:00:04.276-07:00Prepare Today Homemade- Chickpea Nuggets<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">This is a recipe re-post from 2011 and it is still one of my favorite ways to use Garbanzo beans!! Enjoy!</span> </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I know that title sounds a little weird, but go with me on this one! They are really good! For those that don't know I am a vegetarian and I am always looking for more ways to incorporate beans into my family's diet. This recipe made great "chicken" nuggets for my kids and a great salad topper for me. You have to try the honey mustard dipping sauce <span style="font-size: small;">(or as a salad dressing, yummmmmy!!)</span>, from a previous post <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2011/07/prepare-today-homemade.html">HERE,</a> with your nuggets! We have been dipping everything in this sauce, from these nuggets to sweet potato fries, and as a salad dressing. <span style="font-size: small;">(my next experiment is to make it with yogurt to try to cut the fat out)</span></span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vw9HXOddASA/TiOVegZ2tNI/AAAAAAAABhA/BrwuhYcx-ew/s1600/IMG_6544.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-vw9HXOddASA/TiOVegZ2tNI/AAAAAAAABhA/BrwuhYcx-ew/s320/IMG_6544.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Chickpea Nuggets</span></b></u><span style="font-size: large;"> </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">(from<a href="http://blog.superhealthykids.com/"> blog.superhealthykids.com)</a> Makes 15-18 nuggets depending on how large you make them</span></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 can chickpea (garbanzo beans) rinsed and drained</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1/2 onion</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 t parsley</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 clove garlic</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 egg</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 t cumin</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 t salt</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">dash pepper</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 t lemon juice</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 t baking powder</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 C bread crumbs</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">1 T oil</span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">To be honest I threw it all in a food processor and gave it a whirl until it was smooth. (my kids won't eat chunks of onion so it had to be pretty smooth) </span></span></span><br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">There are two ways to bake these:</span></span></span></b><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Stove top: heat a small amount of oil in a frying pan. Shape the "dough" into nuggets shapes and pan fry until golden brown on each side. We cooked them this way and loved them!</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Oven method: Bake at 375 for 15-18 minutes, turning over half way through the baking time. I would have baked them this way, but my oven isn't working right now. :)</span></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">My older kids ate them up, but my 3yo (being totally truthful here) gagged on them :D She does not like the texture of beans and so I guess this was too much for her. I whipped up a salad using greens from my garden, some craisins,strawberries, the honey mustard sauce, and the chickpea nuggets on top. My kids asked for this two nights in a row for dinner! </span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"> </span> </span></span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-79703160944496469972015-07-18T07:00:00.000-07:002015-07-18T07:00:01.641-07:00Self-Reliant Saturday--God Will Help Us If...<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8zpJzQkkx04/VZ7Dqgo7hMI/AAAAAAAAI70/njVu7D2eCdk/s1600/quote%2Bself%2Breliant%2Bsat.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-8zpJzQkkx04/VZ7Dqgo7hMI/AAAAAAAAI70/njVu7D2eCdk/s400/quote%2Bself%2Breliant%2Bsat.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-1220517503220961952015-07-14T07:00:00.000-07:002015-07-14T07:00:06.019-07:00Prepare Today Homemade- Applesauce in the Saratoga Jacks<span style="font-size: large;">This is a yummy recipe re-post from 2012....it's easy and smells sooooo good....I hope you enjoy it! </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Applesauce in the <a href="http://saratogajacks.com/" target="_blank">Saratoga Jacks Thermal Cooker</a> is simply delicious!</span> <span style="font-size: large;">I have made it several times and my kids love it! I also made it for a class I taught at Honeyville Grain and they loved it too!</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukhDZESWmwA/T_sHAUhrqyI/AAAAAAAACwA/HEo957w-SaA/s1600/saratoga+jacks+pics+001.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-ukhDZESWmwA/T_sHAUhrqyI/AAAAAAAACwA/HEo957w-SaA/s400/saratoga+jacks+pics+001.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> Cutting up the apples is the hardest part of this super easy recipe. The spices and sugar slow cook with the apples and it smells like Christmas. My kids kept thinking I was baking something for them and it was the applesauce.</span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1mkmKVzP-B0/T_sHCXFg3YI/AAAAAAAACwI/_qD_w4BUnLY/s1600/saratoga+jacks+pics+002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-1mkmKVzP-B0/T_sHCXFg3YI/AAAAAAAACwI/_qD_w4BUnLY/s400/saratoga+jacks+pics+002.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> Just like all the other Saratoga Jacks recipes I boiled the apples for 2 minutes and also had the smaller pan boiling. The apples didn't quite fill the larger pan enough, so the smaller pan used up the air space.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j8PAG802nw4/T_sHEAwEgWI/AAAAAAAACwQ/99lJZtiSU3c/s1600/saratoga+jacks+pics+003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-j8PAG802nw4/T_sHEAwEgWI/AAAAAAAACwQ/99lJZtiSU3c/s400/saratoga+jacks+pics+003.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> After slow cooking for several hours the apples were ready to be mashed. I wish you could smell this picture because it smelled just like the holidays.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1zcpLUNSEy8/T_sHFkMPotI/AAAAAAAACwY/A99YKww5TNk/s1600/saratoga+jacks+pics+004.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-1zcpLUNSEy8/T_sHFkMPotI/AAAAAAAACwY/A99YKww5TNk/s400/saratoga+jacks+pics+004.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">My daughter used a potato masher and smashed the apples into applesauce. You could also use an immersion blender.</span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WCzKt25DTS0/T_sHHRYb4HI/AAAAAAAACwg/6aeIAcGR7kM/s1600/saratoga+jacks+pics+006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-WCzKt25DTS0/T_sHHRYb4HI/AAAAAAAACwg/6aeIAcGR7kM/s400/saratoga+jacks+pics+006.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> </span><u><b><span style="font-size: large;">Applesauce</span></b></u><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">3lbs (8-9) apples, peeled, cored, and cut into 1 1/2" chunks (dehydrated or freeze dried also works!!!)</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">1 C apple juice or apple cider</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 T sugar, plus more to taste</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">pinch salt</span><br />
<span style="font-size: large;">2 (3") cinnamon sticks or 1/4 t ground cinnamon- optional but so good! (remove sticks before mashing)</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">Combine all ingredients in the larger Saratoga Jacks pan. Bring to a boil with the lid on for 2 minutes. Also fill the smaller pan with water and bring it to a boil. After 2 minutes place the pans together and put into the cooker base. Cook for 2 or more hours. When apples are soft, mash using a potato masher or immersion blender. Add more sugar or apple juice if desired. Serve warm, room temp or chilled. Store in the fridge for up to 1 week.</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">*This recipe was originally for a slow cooker and would work just as well. </span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-23119347421936819492015-07-11T07:00:00.000-07:002015-07-11T07:00:04.165-07:00Self-Reliant Saturday-- Travel Medicine Bag<span style="font-size: large;">Traveling with five children I need to be prepared with several kinds of medicine. Mostly for "what if", but I would hate to need a fever reducer in the middle of the night in a hotel. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6h0WqHNQexU/VZ6-vypt6sI/AAAAAAAAI7k/GHUhhEZPHDM/s1600/trip%2Bmedicine%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6h0WqHNQexU/VZ6-vypt6sI/AAAAAAAAI7k/GHUhhEZPHDM/s400/trip%2Bmedicine%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> My trip medicine bag is nothing fancy, but it gets the job done. I used a plastic zipper bag that a set of twin sheets came in. I added adult and children's medicine, and also basic first aid. We are renting a beach house and you never know what is supplied until we get there. So I have band-aids and neosporin just in case. Last year we needed both so hopefully now that I came prepared we won't need them :) Don't let the unexpected illness, sunburn, headache, or fever catch you off guard. Pack a medicine travel bag for your family!</span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-9312331426607706652015-07-04T14:46:00.001-07:002015-07-04T14:46:19.446-07:00Self-Reliant Saturday -- Learning From History<span style="font-size: large;">Today is July 4th, Independence Day here in America, and with this holiday comes quite a bit of history. There is a lot to learn from those whom have passed on before us and hopefully we take the time to learn these life lessons from our ancestors. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg5AkmisoAI/VZhO99GGDdI/AAAAAAAAI68/5sqSt3xlDuw/s1600/blog%2Bquote.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-Qg5AkmisoAI/VZhO99GGDdI/AAAAAAAAI68/5sqSt3xlDuw/s400/blog%2Bquote.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"> <b>"Church history teaches many lessons about personal preparedness" </b></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">"Lessons From Crossing The Plains" </span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">When we ignore preparedness counsel, we can expect unhappy consequences</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Protect against nature</span> (sun, cold, snow, wild animals, sickness)</li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">Be accident cautious <span style="font-size: small;">(falls, burns, children wandering off, carelessness, knife injuries)</span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Protect against discouragement <span style="font-size: small;">(maintain good health, don't be afraid to ask for help, make friends with like-minded people)</span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Be creative and adaptive in difficult times <span style="font-size: small;">(let the wagon bumps turn cream into butter)</span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Lessons From the Pioneer Famine of 1868"</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">In times of dire food shortages, we should be willing to share our personal food storage with others</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">During times of famine we might choose to fast more often to provide for the needy</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">When the course of our normal life is disrupted, it helps to fill free time with constructive activities </span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">"Lessons From the 1906 San Francisco Earthquake"</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">There were 120 Church members, missionaries, etc in the city at the time and they wrote about how they survived the quake.</span> </span></span></span></span></span></span></span></div>
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<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have sturdy shoes and durable clothing nearby in case of a sudden nighttime emergency</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have fire extinguishers in our homes</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have emergency water on hand in sturdy, non-glass containers</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have minimal cleaning items, such as moist towelettes, toothpaste, deodorant, face towels, and even small bags of detergent</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Have emergency food as we have been taught</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">It is important to have 2-3 meeting places where family members can find each other in case disaster strikes and family is scattered</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Be prepared to leave cherished belongings</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;">Ignore wild rumors that spread in panics and don't pass them on</span></span></span></span></span></span></span></li>
</ul>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="font-size: large;"><span style="font-size: small;">All of these ideas, and more, are from an article written by William G. Hartley in the October 2001 Ensign, "Sturdy Shoes and a Waterproof Tent". <a href="https://www.lds.org/ensign/2001/10/sturdy-shoes-and-a-waterproof-tent?lang=eng" target="_blank">Click HERE to read the entire article</a>. </span> </span> </span></span> </span></span> </span></span></div>
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Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-41215524877383718342015-06-29T07:00:00.000-07:002015-06-29T07:00:02.260-07:00Chicken Coop Remodel<span style="font-size: large;">If any of you have daughters, then you know how girls can become kind of feisty in close quarters. I have four daughters and I totally understand girls needing their space. I have learned that our chickens are the same way in their tiny coop. They were getting on each others nerves and picking on each other. These girls sure are high maintenance...haha....we've only had our hens for about two weeks and they are already getting a home remodel. We felt bad that they were all cooped up in the small area under their nesting boxes so a new wing was added to their coop. (pun intended) </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">This is the original structure. </span></div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DFP37WSruRo/VYiN54vP04I/AAAAAAAAI3E/CsRFuUZ6YNg/s1600/chickens%2B6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-DFP37WSruRo/VYiN54vP04I/AAAAAAAAI3E/CsRFuUZ6YNg/s400/chickens%2B6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">We turned it 90 degrees and added on to the back side. It will give the hens 8 more feet of play space plus a sandbox to bathe in. </span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gast0atECIU/VYscOP11nJI/AAAAAAAAI40/ioR_CffMiGU/s1600/coop%2Badd%2Bon%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gast0atECIU/VYscOP11nJI/AAAAAAAAI40/ioR_CffMiGU/s400/coop%2Badd%2Bon%2B1.jpg" width="225" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> As you can see they will have a much bigger area to roam around in. I wish we could let them out in the yard all day, but we decided that we didn't want to deal with kids stepping in chicken poop. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HCJ9EOQhZVI/VYscgLxcUtI/AAAAAAAAI48/jfwKd01Nv0Y/s1600/coop%2Badd%2Bon%2B2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-HCJ9EOQhZVI/VYscgLxcUtI/AAAAAAAAI48/jfwKd01Nv0Y/s400/coop%2Badd%2Bon%2B2.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W6Ga1BDHddk/VYscNPCRHrI/AAAAAAAAI4w/g2bn3lUSk04/s1600/coop%2Badd%2Bon%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-W6Ga1BDHddk/VYscNPCRHrI/AAAAAAAAI4w/g2bn3lUSk04/s400/coop%2Badd%2Bon%2B3.jpg" width="400" /></a></span></div>
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My husband added chicken wire to the sides and top of the new structure. And the girls were ready for their new home.</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E_UE807AVlY/VYsn4G76svI/AAAAAAAAI6M/JGkA7FzIT18/s1600/coop%2Badd%2Bon%2B11.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-E_UE807AVlY/VYsn4G76svI/AAAAAAAAI6M/JGkA7FzIT18/s400/coop%2Badd%2Bon%2B11.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Don't mind the blankets on top of the house. It was over 90 degrees today and they girls were hot. They were all back in the smaller original coop crowded together. The minute I covered the top and gave them shade they came back out. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HIfwCYoon-8/VYsnbtIeCII/AAAAAAAAI6E/UtmOIleUT9w/s1600/coop%2Bcollage%2B1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-HIfwCYoon-8/VYsnbtIeCII/AAAAAAAAI6E/UtmOIleUT9w/s400/coop%2Bcollage%2B1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">They LOVE the sandbox! The hens have been playing, bathing, and scratching in it all day. We used cleaned construction sand for their sandbox. </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">We love learning about the chickens everyday and the hens are much happier with their new space. </span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-21965418578557632632015-06-27T07:00:00.000-07:002015-06-27T07:00:04.068-07:00Self-Reliant Saturday-- Kitchen In A Box Add-Ons<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RkNaNHh8PKo/VYsjeNS3q6I/AAAAAAAAI5U/kkNPJ6uiXzo/s1600/self%2Breliant%2Bsaturday%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="147" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-RkNaNHh8PKo/VYsjeNS3q6I/AAAAAAAAI5U/kkNPJ6uiXzo/s320/self%2Breliant%2Bsaturday%2B3.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">A few weeks ago I made a kitchen in a box to keep with my 72-hour kits. <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2015/06/kitchen-in-box-emergency-essential.html" target="_blank"> Click HERE to view that post</a>. I had most of what I needed for my kitchen on the go, but I did need a few more items that I have since added to my box. Have you made a kitchen in a box for your 72-hour kits?</span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q4bmV1M_9jU/VYspmVZBYlI/AAAAAAAAI6g/cLtzNGDZLRY/s1600/kitchen%2Bin%2Ba%2Bbox%2B10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-q4bmV1M_9jU/VYspmVZBYlI/AAAAAAAAI6g/cLtzNGDZLRY/s400/kitchen%2Bin%2Ba%2Bbox%2B10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: large;">These are the items that I added to my kitchen in a box:</span><br />
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<li><span style="font-size: large;">pancake spatula</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">travel size bottle that I filled with dish soap</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">sponge</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">matches</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">spice container (it's a tackle container from the fishing section of Wal-Mart and it was on clearance for $1.96)</span></li>
<li><span style="font-size: large;">And one more stack-able container to hold the new goods </span></li>
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<br />Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6119001841381925209.post-90630647421492765932015-06-22T16:36:00.000-07:002015-06-22T16:37:13.963-07:00First Aid Inventory<span style="font-size: large;">Taking inventory of my first aid kits, yes many random kits, has been on my radar for a few months. I have quite a few smaller first aid kits and a box of random wraps and bandaids that needed to be organized and useable for the whole family. </span><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eo3MNoHqNSg/VYiT82z5bUI/AAAAAAAAI34/rkG7eK_Dyzc/s1600/first%2Baid%2B3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-Eo3MNoHqNSg/VYiT82z5bUI/AAAAAAAAI34/rkG7eK_Dyzc/s400/first%2Baid%2B3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">This is what I had accumulated over the years. It isn't pretty and I had no system of knowing what was in the bag or box. At least it's labeled first aid, right? </span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">I ran across this fishing tackle box at Wal-Mart for around $39.00 and thought it would make a perfect first aid box. What I loved about it were all the different compartments. </span><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A-zvBBdHSkg/VYiVfAT8YyI/AAAAAAAAI4I/C0dwYzGup4I/s1600/first%2Baid%2B4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-A-zvBBdHSkg/VYiVfAT8YyI/AAAAAAAAI4I/C0dwYzGup4I/s400/first%2Baid%2B4.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;"> After grouping all like items together I started organizing all my first aid items into my new box. On the right and left side of the tackle box are two white smaller boxes with compartments that fit my bandaids and antiseptic wipes perfectly. They are easy to locate and open. When you need a bandaid, you usually need one right now!</span><br />
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<span style="font-size: large;">In the top of the box I placed all the gauze pads, triangle bandages, sterile cloth bandages, eye bandages, 2" gauze pads, tape, wraps, ice packs, liquid skin, flashlights, scissors, tweezers, and our first aid books. </span><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kjhyy-CSQDk/VYiXOfPb6mI/AAAAAAAAI4Y/ccIXMVMrvUY/s1600/first%2Baid%2B6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-kjhyy-CSQDk/VYiXOfPb6mI/AAAAAAAAI4Y/ccIXMVMrvUY/s400/first%2Baid%2B6.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<span style="font-size: large;">Here she is all filled up with all my first aid goodies. I have heat packs, hydrogen peroxide, a burn kit, more wraps, vapor rub, antiseptic cleanser, <a href="http://preparetodaywardnewsletter.blogspot.com/2012/06/emergency-splints.html" target="_blank">emergency splints</a>, etc. I removed the original plastic organizers that fit into the middle section to be able to fit in all my larger items. I managed to fit all the basic necessities (I'm not doing surgery here) and I now know exactly what I have on hand. The daily cuts, scrapes, burns, and minor breaks could all be taken care of at home. I do have a tourniquet but I would only use that in an extreme emergency. I am sure there are many items that I need to add to our kits, but I feel so much better knowing I organized all of this and that the box is in an easy to find spot. Now, here's to praying I won't need to use it anytime soon :)</span>Julenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10243506437258301487noreply@blogger.com0