Thank you for recipes and prayers

Thank you all for the recipes. Yes, I do have a crock pot. I have printed off the recipes you left and Tommielynn is getting to pick out which one’s she wants for dinner, which she loves. They all sound so good. Thank you again.
Yesterday and last night were bad for Tommy. I updated Caring Bridge last night and will update it nightly now. Tommielynn finally accepted the fact that her dad is dying. She broke down last night. We have told her everything, every step of the way. Please say a prayer for her.
Thank you all for your prayers as they get us from day to day. And all your wonderful comments really touch my heart. To know some many people care and are praying for us is a wonderful feeling. Thank you all again. May God bless you all to overflowing.
Very thankful and humbled,
Becky

October 31, 2008 - Posted by Becky Prayer, Tommy, blessings, recipes, thank you blessings, Prayer, recipes, thank you 7 Comments

7 Comments »
Here are a couple easy and good recipes. I normally make the pie crust for the Chicken Pot Pie but the ones in the store freeze well and taste good. You could even use a can of chicken if you wanted to make it very easy. The Taco Skillet is easy enough for your daughter to make. My husband does not like casseroles but enjoys this one.
As I was reading your update on Tommy I thought of this U-Tube I saw this week and hoped it would encourage you.The Lord is ever-present and promises that His grace is enough. I am praying for you and your family.http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=C0r_FbARIn8&NR=1*~*~*
Chicken Pot Pie
1 can cream of potato soup1 can cream of celery soup16 oz. Veg-all2 c. cooked diced chicken1/2 c. milk1/4 tsp. thyme or less1/2 tsp. pepper (make sure it’s not the coarse pepper or use less)Put inbetween 2 crusts and cook until crust browns. Somewhere between 30-45 minutes at 375-400.*~*~*~Taco Skillet
My husband doesn’t care for many casserole dishes but really liked this one when my daughter in love made it.
1 pound ground beef1 can tomato soup (10 3/4 oz)1 cup salsa1/2 cup water8 6″ corn tortillas cut in 1″ pieces1 cup shredded cheddar cheese
Brown beef in skillet, drain grease. Add soup, salsa, water, tortillas & 1/2 of the cheese. Heat to a boil. Cover and cook on low 5 minutes. Top with remaining cheese.
Comment by Georgene October 31, 2008

Sending more hugs & prayers!
Comment by Pam's Pride October 31, 2008

Hi again,
I just ran across this video that I know will minister to you. He talks about his diagnosis of prostrate cancer and how God used the gospel to minister to His heart. Click on the link below.
http://www.godtube.com/view_video.php?viewkey=edf1eb4e6e52a37ea7bc&msg=Your%20email%20has%20been%20successfully%20sent%20to%20your%20friend.
Comment by Georgene October 31, 2008

We are lifting Tommy, you, and your family up in prayer, Becky. May God comfort you all, strengthen you, and give you peace that passes all understanding. Wish we lived close enough that I could bring supper to you. Sending you lots of love and hugs.
Stacie
Comment by arksoaper October 31, 2008

Becky, I am praying for You,Tommy and Tommielynn. I agree with Stacie, I wish we lived close enough that I could bring you supper. God has blessed you with remarkable courage and strength. He has given you the knowledge and ability to not only take care of your family but to also teach us how to take care of our families. And you are doing this while you are dealing with your husband’s illness! May God give you and your family rest and comfort.God Bless!Jackie
Comment by Jackie October 31, 2008

Oh Becky, my heart goes out to you and yours. I can’t imagine the feelings you must all have right now, but you are on my mind and in my prayers. I know there are alot of ladies in the blogging world who feel the same about you. We may not all know each other in real life ~ but your blogging sisters have your back! Lol…
Lots of prayers for you my friend.
Comment by D. November 2, 2008

Becky,Here is a link that I thought you and Tommy would find comforting…http://danledford.blogspot.com/
You remain in my prayers.
Linda J.
Comment by http://valleyvisions.blogspot November 3, 2008

Help - I need fast, easy, good meals

By dinner time, I’m worn out, and I have little strength to prepare a meal. I use to be able to pull out of my mind fast meals - but not now. Tasha (older daughter) came over last night, I asked her to bring 2 of those frozen pizzas. I have not done this in years, always made pizza from scratch. At times, I don’t feel like eating and Tommy can’t. Tommielynn really needs good meals not cereal and noodles and sandwiches. She is learning to cook, but has not yet master making a whole meal yet. She has been a wonderful help to me.
So I’m asking for fast, easy, good recipes.
Thank you,
Becky

October 30, 2008 - Posted by Becky recipes recipes 10 Comments

10 Comments »
Becky -
Do you have a crockpot? If so I can pass along a few recipes that we save for really hectic days.
Linda
Comment by Linda October 30, 2008

For non crock pot recipes…
My son has been able to cook these meals for years, they might be something that Tommielynn could handle:
Scrambled eggs with cheese added, toast with jelly, juice and milk
Spaghetti and meatballs (made with frozen meatballs and jarred sauce) with buttered bread and a side salad or veggie
Chicken taco bake…mix together…2 cans of chicken (drained), 1 cup of salsa, 1/2 cup of milk, 1/2 to 1 cup of cheddar cheese, 1 can of tomato soup, 6 flour tortillas cut up in bite sized pieces. Pour into a casserole dish and bake at 400 for 20 minutes. Top with more shredded cheddar (1/2 to 1 cup)and enjoy! This isn’t the most nutritious meal in the world, but it can all be mixed together and just thrown into a baking dish…super easy…and it has become one of my son’s favorite “throw-together” meals.
Chili-Mac.. Boxed macaroni and cheese made according to directions. Add one can of chili and heat through.
Tuna Noodle Bake…Boxed macaroni and cheese made according to directions. Add one can of tuna (drained) and 1/2 can of peas (drained). Heat through.
Do you have any canned vegetable soup that she could pair with grilled cheese or grilled ham (or turkey) and cheese sandwiches? I know you prefer to cook completely from scratch and avoid processed foods, but now may be the time to turn to processed food for a while.
Linda
Comment by Linda October 30, 2008

Thought of another possibility…baked potatoes with all kinds of toppings…chili, broccoli and cheddar cheese, bacon and cheese. Served with soup or even veggies and applesauce and it would be a pretty healthy meal!
Comment by Linda October 30, 2008

Spaghetti is one of my favorite quick meals!Hot dogs with a salad or green veggie as a sideSmoked sausage and cabbageLoaded baked potatoes (you can place potatoes in microwave!)Breakfast dinnerSoups!! and a grilled cheese or peanut butter sandwich! (Mom and Dad lived on soups when Dad was sick! There are so many flavors!)Ground beef with gravy(or open a can of cream of mushroom soup to be the gravy) over toast or mashed potatoes
My brain is coming up empty now. I will think on this some more!!
Comment by Wendy October 30, 2008

for the things you’d like your daughter to eat but she isn’t capable of making, possibly making and freezing something during a high-energy period (early mornings or 1 day a week) she could pull out and microwave when you’re feeling not up to cooking.
a big batch of burritos, breakfast burritos, casseroles frozen in serving size containers, meatloaf, meatballs. Lots of once a month cooking recipes and websites out there… these saved my life during low energy periods (late pregnancy, illness, etc.)
Comment by FW October 30, 2008

Seems like if you can prep some stuff early in the day, it isn’t so overwhelming to finish the rest at meal time.Thaw out meat in fridge the night before. Peel potatoes and leave in cold water to cover. Grab a jar of your home canned veggys. AS it gets closer to meal time - Cook your meat while you’re waiting for potatoes to cook. Skip fancy and just use the seasoning you like. Still better than cereal, noodles, sandwiches.Take the opportunity to give the friends and family the OK to bring over food and help with chores. Freeze extra if you get too much.Borrow a crock pot. Most people don’t use theirs often and won’t miss it.
Comment by Sheila October 30, 2008

Some of my quick, easy dinners:
sandwiches with lunchmeat, cheese, and/or whatever is in the fridge and sounds good. Raw vegis, pickles, fruit are all good side dishes.
Scotch BeefChopped onion (as much or little as you like. I use 1/2 a med onion)2 T Butter1 lb Ground beef2 T Flour1 t salt1 t pepper1 can Evaporated milk1 can peasToast or biscuits
Saute onion in margarine for 3 min. Add ground beef. Brown and drain extra fat. Blend in flour, salt and pepper. Stir in mil. Cook over low heat, stirring constantly until sauce thickens a boils, abt. 1 min. Stir in peas, juice and all. Serve over toast or biscuits or just eat it plain.
Any kind of pasta and spaghetti sauce or alfredo sauce. (I can make it, but when I’m in a hurry I just use the jarred kind.)
And my absolute favorite:
Popcorn (made in a pan, not microwaved) with salt and butter (I love to do this one when my husband has an evening meeting and sit down and watch a movie or show with the kids while eating our “dinner”.)
Comment by DeeAnn October 30, 2008

This one is my favorite. I like it because I can change it at any time and get a different flavor out of it. one time Mexican and another Italian.One Pot Meal1 lb hamburger, Left over taco meat or1 Med. chopped onion1 Lg can tomatoes1 can whole kernel corn, with liquid1 can sliced olives if you have them1 1/2 tsp chili power (or not)1 clove garlic or garlic salt (or not)6 oz fine uncooked noodles or rice or bothfry hamburger and add onions and saute’ until onions are clear. add the remaining ingredients and cover simmer for about 30 min can be topped with cheese.
But my favorite is to empty my fridge. I take the left over taco meat instead of the hamburger and put in what ever I have available. I have used tomato soup instead of canned tomatoes and have added other vegetables. Left over spaghetti w/sauce, use it instead of the tomatoes, onions and noodles. Just mix it up and it works. and it is fast too if you use the left overs.
add bread and butter and you have dinner.Make a great left over for heating up later.
Comment by Karen October 30, 2008

Crockpot Saucy Scalloped Potatoes
4 cups thin sliced potatoes1 can cream of mushroom soup12oz can Pet milk (evaporated milk)lg onion, sliced (I use onion powder)2 TBSP butter1/2 tsp salt1/4 tsp pepper
Spray crockpot with non-stick spray. Combine potatoes with other ingredients and mix well - pour into crockpot. For thicker sauce, sprinkle 2 TBSP flour in between potato layers. Cook on high for one hour, then reduce to low for 4 to 5 hours until potatoes are tender.
For a one dish meal, add 1 1/2 cups chopped ham to the mixture. I also top with shredded cheddar cheese a few minutes before serving.
Comment by arksoaper October 31, 2008

Slow Cooker Chicken Taco Soup (this freezes well also)
1 onion, chopped1 (16oz) can chili beans, Ranch style beans, or pinto beans1 (15oz) can black beans1 (15oz) can whole kernel corn, drained1 (8oz) can tomato sauce1 can chicken broth1 (28oz) can diced tomatoes (could use 1 or 2 cans Rotel if you wanted)1 pkg taco seasoning3 whole skinless, boneless chicken breasts
Place all ingredients in crockpot, place chicken breasts on top and press down into the mixture. Allow to cook on low for 7 hours.
Before serving, remove chicken and shred/dice, add back to the crockpot.
Serving options:riceshredded cheesesour creamcrushed tortilla chips
I like this best served over rice with cheese on top, but hubby prefers chips and cheese.
Comment by arksoaper October 31, 2008

Winter is coming fast here

It’s getting cold here fast. We were to have our first hard freeze last night. Which means I had a lot to do yesterday outside. And it only got to 50 here as a high. I’m not ready yet.
Covered the big water tank with more old blankets, then cover it with a dark colored trap.
Tommy a few years ago made a box to go over the outside water spigots. I had to remount it over the spigots, and get a new light bulb. It’s a pig tail light, that hangs down over the spigots. The light is plugged in at night. Since doing this our spigots have never froze. I’ll try and post a photo as soon as I can.
I got out all the animal water heaters out, and I’ll clean them today and put them in the waters.
I have to close in the rest of the new chicken house for this years chickens. Tommy has not felt like finishing it.
Add more hay to the chicken houses.
Get the truckers filled with antifreeze- and the gas run out of all mowers/tractors, etc. Get the generator filled with gas, and make sure it runs. Tommy usually does this, but he has not been out of the house for weeks now. And I’m having a hard time remembering every thing he does to get everything(outside) ready for winter. So if you think I have forgot something, please tell me.( you men out there, what am I forgetting?) Right now my mind is on overload.
I covered up things that will stay out in the weather all winter( I can’t move them under shelter).
I would like to cover windows with plastic, but will have to wait and see if I can get help, I don’t do heights will.
Our gas heaters are working well. I got out the 110 heater and it works.
I closed the inside vent hole (in ceiling) in the food barn. Now just have to close the outside vent hole. My son has covered all house vents already.
It seems this years winter is coming in faster than before. And I still have so much to do.
Tommy had a really hard day and night. He is still getting sick. Now it’s hard for him to even keep water down. Please keep praying for him.
I have really been studying and looking into herbs and there uses, how I can use them, which of them I can grow here, getting them ready for use and storage. A few of the herbs I already grow. I had a small boil/bite on my neck. I talked to a friend who uses herbs. She told me to make a onion and potato poultice and put it on the boil/bite. To draw out what ever was in there. It worked. Even if I smelled funny for a little bit. It still amazes me how the Lord puts things on this earth to heal us. How far I get into the use of herbs is up to the Lord. I don’t know His plans here yet, other than this is were He is leading me now.
Looking back, I never would of dreamed of doing all I’m doing now, not this city girl. Talk about a total life style change. The Lord has brought me a long way. And I’m thankful He is not done with me yet.
Well I had better get this day started. Hope you all are nice and warm. May God bless your day today.
Becky


October 29, 2008 - Posted by Becky creativity, herbs, ideas, making do, self sufficiency, winter creativity, herbs, ideas, making do, self sufficiency, winter 6 Comments

6 Comments »
Gosh! Sounds like you have things under control! I’m so sorry that Tommy is still getting sick. My Dad was diagnosed with squamous cancer a year ago….it was really rough with the operation, chemo, and radiation! He had to have a feeding tube in his stomach…that really helped him a lot. That way he could just pour Ensure down the feeding tube when he was too sick to eat. It taped to his side and with a shirt you would never know it was there. Not sure if Tommy would be interested in that, but the doctors told Dad that it would help keep his weight up and give him energy that he needed to help fight the sickness. He kept it about for about 4 months…you don’t have to use it, you can still eat when you feel like it. But, it was there for the times you didn’t feel well. I hope the sickness passes quickly! Your family is in my prayers!!
Comment by Wendy October 29, 2008

Becky,I only found your site a few days ago and I am compelled to come back here and see how your family is doing and what you are up to.You have a way with words. I think you should not only do your blog but you should be writing a book about all you have learned and what you do. I think you are wonderful. You have such strength and courage. I have great respect for you.I have you and your family in my prayers as so many others do and I am sure you will over come this trial in your lives.I told my husband Val about you and how I cannot seem to close your page. I am always looking for updates. I am just sure that if we were to meet in person we would be great friends. You are a wonderful lady.All my best,Karen
Comment by Karen October 29, 2008

Oh my goodness, you are a busy gal! I thought I was busy this week…not by a long shot, compared with your outdoor chores. I think you are just amazing, Becky. The things you can’t do aren’t worth mentioning. What a renaissance girl you are!
Joyce
Comment by Joyce October 29, 2008

Wendy,Thank you for your prayers. Tommy has signed papers saying he does not want to be hooked up to tubes or machines to keep him alive. I stand behind his decision but it still hurts.
Karen,Thank you for your prayers. I am glad you like this blog, hope you will find helpful things here. I don’t know about a book. Right now, I just want to help others make it through the hard times, and save a little money.
Joyce,How have you been? I don’t know about amazing, I just do what has to be done. I am sure all of you can/would do the same for your families. All I do is by the grace of God, I can’t do it on my own.
God Bless you all and have a great day,Becky
Comment by jordansfarm October 30, 2008

Becky,I respect Tommy’s decision. I just thought I would throw it out there. It helped my Dad a lot! No machines, just a tube and he still went to work and was active (as much as he could be), which helped him too! We were a little confused when the doctor mentioned feeding tube, I guess not understanding, but when explained it is a simple clear tube inserted in your stomach that you can put water or the vitamin drink Ensure down when you are sick and unable to eat. Dad had cancer in his throat and with radiation and the chemo focused on there and his lungs it was hard to swallow. So, he would come home and open a can of Ensure and pour down the tube and then some water and that was his lunch! But, when he did feel better he was still able to eat normally. The tube was taped to his side and he would untape and use and then tape back in position. When Dad decided to get rid of it, the doctor just pulled it out and let heal on it’s own with no stitches. It was really wild to think medicine has come that far and you can have something like that, a tube going to your stomach! Dad is now 100% cancer free and I’m looking forward to when Tommy will be too! You and Tommy are in my prayers!!!
Comment by Wendy October 30, 2008

You can plastic windows on the inside if you have too. It will leave staples on your window casings, but it works.
I’m so sorry your husband is ill. I just happened upon your site, and will definitely pray for your family. I am sorry.Saw Palmetto is regularly used in Europe for BPH. I know cancer is much worse than simple BPH, but the herb is considered a drug or choice for prostate problems in Europe, Japan, etc. for prostate issues. You might research it.Just speaking from what I have seen in my in-law’s family, the men who choose to not have chemo, radiation and other “cancer” treatments live longer and healthier lives with the disease. Prostate cancer doesn’t kill overnight. I have seen relatives live for 5-10 years with no treatment. I have also seen relatives die in two years from complications from cancer treatments. I know my hubby and I have discussed this many times. Just from the cases we have seen in his family, the ones who refused chemo did much better. And their lives were healthier longer. You might want to research more natural treatments when you make choices.
Comment by terri October 30, 2008

Homemade Ideas and Memories

Well I have been up since 3:30 am with Tommy this morning. I got him settled and back to bed, now I'm wide a wake. So here I am, I can do this quietly.

Turns out that we all really like using the flannel napkins and tissues. Because some of them are so cute even my 11 yr. old has stopped using her clothes to wipe her nose. She now is always carrying one around with her. And showing them off to all her friends.

You say you can't sew a straight line. So,who cares. I don't know of any sewing police out there. No sewing machine, hand sew. I did for 5 years before I got a machine, or borrow one. Not all my lines are straight. I am no master sewer. I do the best I can and that's it.  I know your family is not doing to say, "I'm not using this, the lines are not straight."

Yesterday, at the thrift store, I found some really cute flannel baby blankets for 10 cents each. I bought what they had, 5. I will just cut these into fourths, and only have to hem two sides. This is a time saver. I still have not finished all the others yet. But they are using them, and liking it and you can't beat the price.

I also found those  small square baby  water proof changing pads for 10 cents each.  And bought 4, this was all they had.(we have a lot of wood furniture in our home).  These I will cut some into coasters for drinks, some put under plants, and I have 2 uncut ones on my dryer under the clothes soap and vinegar. ( so as not to farther rust the top of my dryer, which we have had for 13+ years now). I have some cut to go between the homemade pads and underwear for leak protection, they are very bendable. When they are dirty, just wash and dry them. When they are cut they do not have to be hemmed, oh what a blessing. Usually one side is a solid  color and the other at times has a pattern on it.  You could always sew a piece of fabric on top to match the colors in your home.

The bigger crib/chair/bed water proof pads: can be cover with  fabric on top and used in to bathroom when getting out of the shower (shower mat). No more wet floors and its washable, without the backing wearing off. These bigger pads I have picked up used for $.50 to $1.00. The top fabric can easily be changed as needed.  These can be used too, for homemade pads, just add a soft top, but do not sew down middle, just outside edges. Do not sew in the middle, just sew the fabric to the outside edges, when making a shower mat. As sewing in the middle will cause them to leak where the needle has gone through.

Those nice quilted mattress covers, at thrift stores here sell for about a dollar. They can be used to make pot holders, and batting in quilts. I made one quilt using this, and it was so much easier. As the cover was already quilted, no more batting balling up when washed. So what if there is a few stains, wash and use, who is going to take it part to see the stains. They can be cut to go into homemade pads too as the center. Or used to make a chair cushion, or foot stool pads. Just sew layers together until you get the thickness you want. 

Earlier before I left for town Saturday morning, Tommy asked me to buy a pumpkin, for him and Tommielynn to carve. As we have never carved one. Tommielynn picked out the biggest one she could carry. When we got home she had to bring it in to show her daddy. The smiles on both their faces and the laughter in their voices was worth more than $6. Tommy can no longer run outside to watch her do something new, or play with her like he used too. Carving a pumpkin, he can do in the house sitting down, and do it with her. It's the little things in life that make the best memories. This will be one I will never forget.

With hard times hitting everyone, please take some time to make some happy memories of your own. Once today is gone, you can not get it back. The best happy memories are usually free or very cheap.

God bless you all, Becky

Technorati Tags: creativity,ideas,making do,saving money,self sufficiency,sewing

Comments:

1. Get a photo of the smiles and “Pumpkin guts” and a finished product to share with us. This is a family tradition for us. Comment by Sheila | October 26, 2008 |

2. Hi Becky! I love all the ideas, especially for the waterproof changing pads. Putting them under plants is a good idea. I’ve been rearranging things in our house just to try and make things neater and work better. The challenge of having a family in a small home! Hope you have a wonderful day! Hugs!! Comment by D. | October 27, 2008 |

3. Sheila, I will post photos as soon as they carve it. We are waiting for Tommy to feel a little better.
   D., I know all about a small house. And I also know love grows best in small places.
   Becky Comment by jordansfarm | October 28, 2008 |

4. I have put Tommy and you on my prayer list, Becky! You come to mind often and I continue to pray for the Lord’s strength to get you through each ‘minute’. I remember when I took care of my Daddy and that is all I looked for at times.. strength for the next moment. God was faithful! Comment by Georgene | October 28, 2008 |

5. Becky, Has anyone ever suggested following the Hallelujah Diet for Tommy? Check out the testimonials: http://www.hacres.com/home/home.asp  My husband’s father died of cancer last year, and we wanted him to follow this diet, but he didn’t want to. Comment by Lisa | October 30, 2008 |

 

My time here

It has been a rough few weeks here. Tommy has not been doing good. Hospice is now coming out twice a week. Please keep praying for him. And thank you for all the prayers that are going up now.

Ok, as for my time here writing post. I really enjoy all of you and writing posts. But I need to send as much time with Tommy as I can, taking care of him, etc. I will still be writing posts but I'm not sure now often. I will be checking in here as often as I can to answer your questions and writing posts. But now, it might take me a few days to do that. If you have not heard from me in a while, you can check here: Updates on Tommy’s Health. This is were I keep everyone up to date on Tommy's health. I will post there more than here. As we have family and friends all over the USA and Canada. I hope you all will understand.

Wednesday, I made two batch of homemade ice cream for Tommy. It's one of the few things he can keep down. And Tommielynn loves it too.

A friend, Beth, brought us two dinners yesterday. Oh what a great blessing. By dinner time I'm worn out. Poor Tommielynn has had cereal or bag noodles a few times these past few weeks. She was so thankful for the dinners, and Beth became her best friend when one of those dinners was chicken.

I have been (when Tommy is sleeping) redoing the sewing room. I have too rearrange it. So as to get the bunk bed set put in there. There is a twin top and a full bottom. Shawn, my son, is supports to come by soon and help me put it together. We will being having family and friends coming in, who need a place to sleep. With this set more people can stay here.

With the donations given here, we have been able to get the heater tanks refilled, and more. They have been such a wonderful blessing. Thank you again to all who gave; and those that could not give, thank you for your prayers. With out your prayers I/we would never make it through all of this. But with your prayers and by God's grace, we are making it, one day at a time.

With this blog, God has brought such wonderful people into our lives, oh what a great blessing. And here I thought I was writing to help others, when really you all were/are helping me. Thank you.

God Bless you all, Becky   Becky's Farm Life

Comments:

1. Becky -  Sending prayers and warm hugs your way… Comment by Linda | October 25, 2008 |

2. Hugs & prayers! Comment by Pam's Pride | October 25, 2008 |

3. We continue to pray, Becky. Your family needs you right now. You’ve been a huge blessing to so many, and I pray the Lord will grant you strength and peace through this time. Please know you are thought of daily. love in Christ, Stacie Comment by arksoaper | October 25, 2008 |

4. My thoughts and prayers are with you! You are doing what is right and biblical by putting your husband first. God bless you and give you His strength! Comment by Georgene | October 25, 2008 |

5. Thank you all for your prayers. Becky  Comment by jordansfarm | October 28, 2008 |

Road Ahead - Recipes from Scratch - Part 6

These are the recipes I use weekly.

Pie crust or pastry( chicken and pastry dinner)

3 cups sifted all purpose flour

1 teaspoon salt

1/2 teaspoon baking power

1 cup lard or shortening

1 eggs

1/2 teaspoon lemon juice

5 tablespoons ice water

Sift flour with salt, baking powder. Cut lard into flour mixture until crumbs form. Beat egg lightly and add to mixture. Add lemon juice, and water. Stir with a fork until blended. Roll out on a lightly floured space. makes 2 pie crust.

for pastry: roll out very thin, cut into squares or strips, drop into boiling broth and chicken. Cook about 10 more minutes. This is like a chicken and dumplings but the pastry's taste almost like a noodle. I usually have to double the recipe as they eat it up fast here.

No bake Choc. Oatmeal Cookies

1 3/4 cup sugar

1/2 cup butter

1/3 cup cocoa

1/2 cup milk

1/2 cup peanut butter

2 1/2 cups quick oats

Mix sugar, butter, cocoa, milk in a pan over med. heat, boil 1 minute.

remove from heat, stir in peanut butter, then quickly stir in oatmeal.

then drop by spoon full's on to wax paper.

Chocolate Cream Pie ( this will disappears very fast)

makes 2- 9" pies

1 1/2 cups sugar

1/2 cup cocoa

1/2 cup all purpose flour

3 eggs, beaten

12 oz. can evaporated milk

1 1/2 cup water

3 tablespoons butter

1 1/2 teaspoon vanilla extract

2 baked pie shells

Combine sugar, cocoa, flour in a heavy sauce pan, stir to remove lumps.

combine eggs, milk, water in a mixing bowl.

gradually add milk mixture to cocoa mixture, stirring until well blended.

Cook over med. heat, stirring constantly, until mixture thickens and comes to a boil. Boil 1 minute, stirring constantly.

remove from heat, add butter and vanilla, stir until butter is melted.

pour in to pie shells and chill. then top with whipped cream. ( you had better hide one)

Creamed Cheese Peas (the only way my kids will eat peas)

1/2 stick butter

2-3 tablespoons flour

6 slices of cheese ( or a jelly jar of the canned cheese sauce in the recipe tab)

1 can of peas

In a sauce pan add butter, melt butter over med. heat, stir in flour and add a pinch of salt, stir until it thickens. then add about 6 slices of cheese and stir until the cheese melts, then add a can of strained peas.

Quick Pizza Dough

2 cups flour

2 1/4 teaspoon yeast

1 teaspoon salt

3/4 cup lukewarm water

Dissolve yeast in water, mix flour and salt together then mix with yeast mixture. let sit covered for 5 minutes. grease pan and sprinkle with flour. form crust and let it rest for about 10 minutes. (to prevent sogginess, coat lightly with oil or non-stick cooking spray).

add toppings. bake at 400* for about 20 minutes.

An even faster pizza: use English muffin halves, and add topping.

Coconut Dream Bars (a heavenly treat)

Bake at 350* , 20 - 25 minutes or until golden brown, in a 13 X 9 pan

1 1/2 cups all purpose flour

2 cups brown sugar

1/2 cup butter

3 eggs

1 teaspoon baking powder

1 teaspoon vanilla

1/4 teaspoon salt

1 1/2 cups coconut

Combine flour, 1/2 cup brown sugar, butter until particles are fine, use low speed of mixer. press into the bottom of an ungreased 13 x 9 pan and bake at 350* for 15 minutes. beat 1 1/2 cups brown sugar with eggs , just until blended. mix in remaining ingredients, spread over partially baked crust. bake 20 -25 minutes or until golden brown. cool and cut.

I know this is mostly sweets. But in hard times this is what is cut first from the food bill. And having sweets around always makes hard times a little easier on old and young alike. What is your best sweets recipe? Would you share it here with us?

Have a great day, Becky

Technorati Tags: recipes,making do,saving money

Comments:

1. These sound wonderful! Just the recipes I needed! Thanks so much for sharing! I can’t wait to try them! God Bless you! Comment by Wendy October 22, 2008

2. Our family loves this! It’s easy, quick and a comfort food. It’s wonderful just plain warm or with a side of vanilla ice cream:

3. Apple Crisp

4. 5 C. pared apple slices
   1/2 C. flour
   2/3 C. sugar
   1/4 C. soft butter
   Cinnamon

   Fill lightly greased 8 in. square baking dish with apple slices. Sprinkle with the amount of cinnamon that your family likes (ours likes it almost ‘black’ with cinnamon). In mixing bowl, mix flour, sugar and butter. Mix with fork or pastry blender and cut in butter. Spread over apples. Sprinkle more cinnamon on top. Bake at 350 for 35-40 mins. depending on the type of apples. It should be bubbly.

   God has graciously given us a bumper crop of apples around here. This is one great way to enjoy his gift. Hopefully, I can post more later. It’s applesauce day here !! Whoo hooo Linda J. Comment by http://valleyvisions.blogspot.com/ October 22, 2008

5. Here is another recipe…it makes a ton, so if you don’t have time to spend in the kitchen, cut it in half. Be sure to do ‘quality control’…taste test shortly after they come out of the oven…another comfort food.

   Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

   4 C. flour
   2 C. quick oats (uncooked)
   2 tsp. baking soda
   2 tsp. cinnamon
   1 tsp. salt
   1 1/2 C. soft butter
   2 C. packed brown sugar
   1 C. white sugar
   1 egg
   1 tsp. vanilla
   1 1/2 C. canned pumpkin
   2 C. or 1 pkg. chocolate chips (can use raisins)

   Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Combine flour, oats, soda, cinnamon and salt in large mixing bowl; set aside. Cream butter; add sugars, beating until light and fluffy. Add egg and vanilla; mix well. Alternate additions of dry ingredients and pumpkin, mixing well after each addition. Stir in chocolate chips. Drop cookie dough by spoonfuls onto ungreased cookie sheet. Bake for about 15 mins.; cool on rack. Store in airtight container.

   Dough may be frozen in airtight container. Thaw in refrigerator. Bake as directed.

   Thanks for sharing all those great recipes, Becky!! I’ll be trying them. Comment by http://valleyvisions.blogspot.com/ October 22, 2008

6. Thank you for the no bake cookie recipe! They are so easy and came out perfect!
   DJ Comment by DJ October 23, 2008

7. DJ, Those cookies go very fast here. And I’m glad you like them.
   Thank you for stopping in. Hope you have a great weekend.
   Becky Comment by jordansfarm October 25, 2008

Road Ahead - Canning Meats - part 5

Ok, you find a great sale on meat but don't have room in your freezer; a friend is sharing their deer meat with you.

I have canned meat. Talk about a quick meal: open a jar of beef, potatoes, carrots, put in a pot and add some seasoning and you have beef stew. Open a jar of chicken and add noodles, a great soup.

Canning Meats

This is raw packing meat( which means you don't cook the meat first), beef, pork, chicken, deer, veal, mutton, lamb. Cut meat off the bones.(save meaty bones for canning broth below).

Cut the meat into jar length chucks or slice into 1" slices, cube it like for beef stew.

Pack into jars loosely.

if desired add 1/2 teaspoon salt to pints, and 1 teaspoon to quarts.

pour in hot broth or water over the meat: leaving 1" head space.

remove air bubbles, put lids on.

Pressure can at 10 pounds pressure:

Pints: 1 hour and 15 minutes

Quarts: 1 hour and 30 minutes

Canning Broths or Stock

Meaty beef bones or deer bones or chicken bones:

boil and simmer 2-3 hours, remove bones, skim off excess fat off the top, strain the liquid.

pour into jars, put lids on.

Pressure can at 10 pounds pressure:

pints: 20 minutes

quarts: 25 minutes

Or the broth can be frozen if you have the room.

Waste not,want not. I try to use everything. And after the meaty bones are done into a broth you can also can the meat off them, the bones go to the dogs and cats.

Happy canning,

Becky

Technorati Tags: canning,Road Ahead,saving money,self sufficiency,stocking up

Comments:

Becky, Please help me out with canning chicken. I’ve done beef before, but never chicken. You say that you pack it raw, too? Do you cut it into chunks like the beef? Canned beef is the best…and it’s easy. On short notice, I can open up a can of beef add some green peppers, onions and even some potatoes. Add some noodles or rice and its a quick, hearty meal…almost fast food. Thanks for the tips on broth, too. I appreciate all your insights!! Linda J Comment by http://valleyvisions.blogspot.com/ October 20, 2008

Linda J, chicken can be packed raw. You can cut it into chunks or slices(breast meat and thighs). Hope this helps. Becky Comment by jordansfarm October 21, 2008

Thanks so much–You are a BIG help!! Comment by http://valleyvisions.blogspot.com/ October 21, 2008

Thanks so much for the information, Becky. I have wanted to can meat for a while now, but I’m a bit afraid to. I keep hearing scary stories about getting botulism from improperly canned meat. I’m concerned that I might make my family sick… or worse. Is there some way to know if the meat is alright before you eat it? On another topic…how is Tommy doing? I continue to pray for you both. Blessings, Joyce Comment by Joyce October 21, 2008

Joyce, If you handle the meat just like you were cooking it for your family, you will have no problems. If you open a jar of canned meat that smells funny or looks bad, throw it out. In the 10+ years I have canned meat, I have never had any go bad. If you are still concerned, you can always cook it a bit before canning it.Cook it until it’s half done then can it to the times above. But it does not need to be cook first. To find out now Tommy’s doing click this link:
http://caringbridge.org/visit/tommyjordan or Under Jordan’s Family Sites click on “Updates on Tommy’s Health” this is were I keep the updates on how he is doing for family and friends. Thank you very much for your prayers. Becky Comment by jordansfarm October 22, 2008

Thank you, Becky I’m hoping I can get over my fears and give meat canning a try. I have canned meat at an LDS cannery several times, so I do have a nice supply of tinned meat, but I’ve never done canned any in my own kitchen. Thanks for the link to updates on Tommy,
Joyce Comment by Joyce October 22, 2008

Hi Becky, Thanks for keeping us posted on both you and Tommy. It is good to know how to pray. Thanks, too, for the help with canning chicken. I was able to pick some up on sale and canned some. It looks like it worked! I realize that canned meat is not what some would call ‘beautiful’. But having it adorn my canning shelves makes it a thing of beauty! Thanks for all your help and encouragement. Linda J. Comment by http://valleyvisions.blogspot.com/ October 26, 2008

Joyce, Please try canning the meat, as it is so worth it.

Linda J., Thank you for your prayers, as they get us through each day. I like canning the chicken the best. You can do so much with chicken. Drain it off, and add BBQ sauce, and you have BBQ sandwiches, or main meat for a meal.
Becky Comment by jordansfarm October 28, 2008

Becky , Love this site. My question is when you can the chicken ,do you take the skin off first & the other meats do you trim the fat off beef ,deer , pork , ect. Thank You Kris Comment by Kris December 8, 2008

Kris, Thank you very much. And thank you for stopping in here.
As far as the fat on meats: at times I leave a little fat on for flavor, then take all extra off. So really it’s up to you and your family’s taste. When taking the chicken skin off, save skin and bone: boil skin and bones to make a broth to can for later use(chicken broth). Hope this helps.
Have a wonderful day. Becky Comment by jordansfarm December 8, 2008

Becky, I know of people who can their meat but they don’t pack in water, they put in jars raw (uncooked) add 1 tsp. salt per quart jar or 1/2 tsp. per pint jar put on lid and pressure can at 10lbs. for 90 mins for quarts and I think 45 mins for pints. Have you ever heard of that? It must be obviously safe as they are older than me and are still alive. Just wondering about your input on that. Comment by plantinthings December 8, 2008

Becky, Hi again, I have another question. I was wondering if you have ever canned Home noodles & chicken. If so How did you do it. If not do you think it would work? & would I make the noodles & dry them , then add them & the cooked chicken into jars with salt? What do you think? Thanks again Kris Comment by Kris December 10, 2008

plantinthings, I have canned meat without water, and it’s turned out fine. I use this meat to make BBQ, fry with potatoes, etc. The meats with water, I use in stews and soups. So it can be done how ever you need it. Hope this helps. Have a great day.

Kris, I am not sure about this. But I would not dry noodles then can. I would try a small batch in pint jars, first. And see if you like it. When I try something new I always start with a small batch first. If we like it, I make big batches. I know it’s been done in the past, but I’ve not done it yet. If you make it please let us all know how it turns out. Have a wonderful day. Becky Comment by jordansfarm December 11, 2008

Road A head - Part 4 - Making more at home

Well I have made 2 batches of homemade ice cream. And for some reason it's so much better than store bought. I have never worked out the price to make it, as we have milk and eggs here. We save up ice to make it.

A trip to town yesterday was an eye opener. Gas here was down to $2.78 a gallon. I'm trying to restock some of the sugar I've used. (so as my stock does not get to low going into the winter). And do you know the 5 pounds bags are gone with the wind. All I could find where 4 pound bags for the same price as the 5 pound. I was not a happy camper. Some lady in the store said, "They changed to 4 pounds two months ago. Why are you so mad,now?" And as nicely as I could told her about my stocking and that I was just refilling my stock. And then I got the funny look from her, and she asked why I was stocking up? I just rolled my eyes, sorry to say, and went on. Potatoes, these are now gold in this area. Early this year, 10 lbs. $1.49, 50 lbs.$7.00, now 10 lbs are $4.99 and the 50 lbs. jump to $18.99. I bought one 10 lbs bag, why not the 50 lbs? Well we wanted some French fries(it's been a month and half since we have had any), and the frozen French fries were even higher. I have some canned potatoes and instant mashed potatoes . We use to eat potatoes about every night, now maybe 2-3 times a week. Which is killing my 11 year old daughter.

I am now only buying staples at the store. I was buying a off brand hamburger helper ( for a fast meal) but the last two boxes I bought had a flavor of nothing but salt. So no more prepackaged foods. If I can not make it from scratch, we don't eat it. I have put my foot down on cereal too( the only prepackaged food I buy as I have not learned to make it), as the price is the same but the ounces keep going down. I'll buy one box a week that is not more than $2.00. Which has my 11 yrs. old checking prices and ounces better than before. Yesterday at Save A Lot, she was almost in tears. She said, "Mom, my cereal is now $1.89 a box and two weeks ago it was $1. 69 and 2 ounces larger." She knows I will not buy it when it goes over $2.00. I think this mess is hurting the children hard. Yes, I know there are other foods for breakfast but we also use cereal as snacks( because we have so much milk).

I need to keep an eye out for milk prices as our milk cow is slowly drying up. (We are praying the bull in the pen with her, has done his job.) We are now getting about 2 gallons and a quart a day. I am still freezing and canning.

But we are using/drinking a gallon a day. So I'm not sure now long my stock will last.

Colloidal Silver Water - Natural Antibiotic

I first tried this, a few weeks ago. And I love it. I had a super bad ear infection, which meant I needed an super antibiotic( I used pill antibiotics for 20 days). I could not hear out of my ear for almost 3 weeks. A friend said to try this Colloidal silver water. And I did, with in 3 days, I could hear again. Then I goggled it and found more uses. Here is one: Usages. And another friend has the machine to make it at home and is going to make me some( thank you Angela). The last few days, I have been checking out herbs and their usages. Finding out which I can grow at home, which grow in the woods and fields around me. Please check into this.

My son got me an "Natural Remedies Encyclopedia" with 908 pages. He had gotten it earlier this year so that I could find things that might help Tommy with his cancer. I know this is an other must have book.

Here at Amazon

This book is not cheap, runs from $50.00 and up. (Maybe you can ask your son too, as we could not have bought it our selves).If you are like me and know very little about herbs, it's great. And if you already know about using herbs, it has everything in one book. This book tells you everything, from photos of the herbs to making them, and what herbs to use for what. My son blessed us in more than one way with this book. This book covers a lot of every day things too. And think of all the money you will be saving, no more waiting in the doctors office for two hours. You say your not a doctor and will not know what your treating. Well the book also list symptoms, causes, natural remedies and is written by MD's. I am not saying never go to the doctors, just not as much. With money tight you want to do all you can to save it. Some of the herbs are growing in your back yard for free. You moms with kids, I know you get tired of going in for ear infections, the Colloidal silver water works and the book will give you more herbs and ways.

There are a very few books I put on my must have list. But the ones that are on this list are the best out there. And most cover everything in a subject. I have a most have gardening book, I'll tell you about next time.

The more thing I can make/ or do at home, the less money I'll have to spend. Everything I am doing takes more time than money. Time I have, money very little of. A few years ago, I would of never dream of using herbs, as I only knew a very few people who used them, so I did not know much about them myself. I had nothing against them or using them. I guess you could say I didn't need them. Then Tommy got sick and this opened my eyes to herbs. I don't know a lot about them YET, but I'm learning daily. And I'm thankful the Lord supply's all our needs, even in the back yard.

Happy herb hunting, Becky

Technorati Tags: economic situation,food prices,great book,herbs,ideas,making do,recession,Road Ahead,saving money,self sufficiency

Comments:

Love the “Road Ahead” series you’re doing, Becky. I completely agree with you on all of it. I don’t believe it will get any better any time soon unfortunately, and I hope people will open their eyes to what is going on and prepare. Sugar has been the same here (and potatoes). Sam’s Club has had the best prices on sugar in 50# bags, but we have to drive out of town to get it. On herbs that are natural antibiotics - goldenseal and garlic are both excellent. We’ve used them for years with very good results. Praying for you and Tommy, Stacie Comment by arksoaper October 18, 2008

I know this is probably not the best post to put this comment in….but I figured you would read your most recent comments first. I was at a craft show today and saw Chocolate cake in a mug that you microwave for $5.00 and I remember you saying that you picked up cute mugs and such for really cheap. These were all wrapped up in cellophane, had a tag, and looked really nice. Here is a make it yourself from scratch recipe… http://www.record-eagle.com/food/local_story_287094629.html Here is one using regular box cake mix….
http://budget101.com/recipes/id195.htm I think these are perfect for making up to give for people who stop by or to give to a party hostess. And if you have some left after the holidays you can always eat them yourself!!;) I think this would make a perfect little inexpensive Christmas gift…especially when you like to do a lot of little gifts. Blessings! Pam Comment by Pamspride October 18, 2008

Becky - I found recipes for homemade “Hamburger Helper” type meals at Hillbilly Housewife. They are really, really good. I use ground turkey instead of ground beef. My husband, son and I each have our own favorite. I made up a dozen bags (4 of each of our favorites) and they last me quite a while (close to a year). I will never again buy a box of the prepackaged stuff. Let me know if you can’t find her recipe. I am switching more and more to homemade items. The chocolate syrup from Hillbilly Housewife is also wonderful…no more Hershey’s for us!!!

We went to Sam’s today for an every other month stock up. UGH…we spent WAY too much money as the largest portion of our purchases today were toiletries and over the counter meds. Goodness they have gone up in price! But what are you going to do…we need soap, shampoo, aspirin, toilet paper, etc. For a while I was trying to keep a running total in my head, but finally gave up. I was shocked with the total at the register. Fortunately we had the cash to pay it, but that just means I REALLY have to scrimp at Aldi this month! Next time I take a calculator!!!

I completely avoided hitting a sale this past week on boxed brownies. They were $.79 a box, a WONDERFUL price around here. But I figure homemade HAS to be cheaper and I know it doesn’t have any preservatives in it! I am trying to add one “homemade” item per week to my recipe book. I agree, the only way we are going to be able to save money is to buy basic ingredients only and make everything from scratch. Please pass on any “scratch” recipes you find that are tried and true…I need to incorporate a whole lot more! Thanks again for the motivation and support, it means more than you know. Sending prayers… Comment by Linda October 18, 2008

Linda, Hillbilly Housewife site is great. (link under great sites on right hand side here) I have used a lot of things from her site. I’ll start posting the from “scratch” recipes I use here on the farm. And if you have a great one please share. Thank you for your prayers. Becky Comment by jordansfarm October 19, 2008

I am learning so much from your blog! Thanks for sharing all your information! I have never learned to can….and now I don’t have the money to buy the proper stuff. Is it real expensive? What do I have to have? I would love to learn more! Thanks again for your blog!! Love it!! Comment by Wendy October 20, 2008

Wendy, The pressure cooker runs about $80 + dollars, and then you’ll need jars. the first year or two will be when you spend the most money. Then all you will need to buy are the lids. Hope this helps. Becky Comment by jordansfarm October 21, 2008

Road Ahead - Part 3

This economic mess is not getting better. I know gas price are down, oil prices by the barrel  are down, the stock market is on an up swing and something is just not right( some have called it a momma thing). I know it looks good and sounds even better, but it's not. It has taken us over a year and  half to get in this mess, it will not clear up in an week or two. Please don't think everything is find and dandy now. Don't let your guard down, please. I do not have a master's degree or PhD. in  our economics, I'm a simple housewife/ mother. But I do know how to handle money in a home and business and what will happen when it's not used right.  This will take years to fix, not weeks. Some of you see this as great news, and are going back to life as before. I am warning you to keep a hold of your money and keep watching your spending. This is not over, it's just starting. I don't know all the proper words for this mess, but I do know it's not as good as it looks and sounds. This money going out has to be backed by something, has to come from some where, Where? What?  The US owes more money than we can pay back in years. The News has said that the people(you and I) have over used the credit system, and are in to much debt. Well I'm sure our debt is not as large as the USA's. What happens to you and I ,when we over charge our credit cards and can't pay them back and spend out side our means?  Bankruptcy, can't pay our bills, no money for food. Now think a little bigger (times a few million+). What will happen when much more money is spent and borrowed on credit and can't be paid back on time?

The government has put a pretty flowered band- aid on this mess, while the sore below get worse. What's going to happen when the band- aid falls off?  If you don't really see the sore, it does not hurt as bad and at times you forget it's there.

I think the worse and hardest times are to come. This is now I feel and what I think. A wolf has come in, in sheep's clothing. And I know some you think I'm over reacting and that's your right. But this is me and how I think and believe. I'm trying to pull the wool back off some of your eyes. 

I'm not trying to start a panic or make things look worse than they are, just telling you all what I see. Every one wants things to go back  to the way they were, and they will in a few years, but not now. I don't want more people to be blind sided this go around. Please prepare for your family, think twice before buying something, and pray a lot.

In all my life, I never thought I'd write posts like these.  Why, now? I'm really not sure. I feel very strongly about warning people. This is not an area I know a lot about. But then when I put it in a family aspect and did some multiplying by big numbers it became a little more clearer.

I know I'm not alone in my thoughts. As a friend, Janet, came by last night and felt the same way.  She too, sees people who think it's all getting better, but it's not.

Please pull the band-aid off and take a really good look. Are we in a recession and heading for a depression?

Do you agree or disagree with this post? I would really like to know. Becky

Technorati Tags: economic situation,recession,Road Ahead

Comments:

I agree with you! I have seen so many of my friends just spend to the limit…then refinance and spend to the limit again and are just teetering on being bankrupt. Comment by Pamspride | October 15, 2008 |

I am totally, 100% in agreement with you. I think we have a very long journey ahead and there’s not anything anyone could do to make me loosen my grip on my pennies right now. This has been gearing up the last couple of years and now that it’s here, well like you said it’s not going to be going anywhere soon. On another note, I’m going to go ahead here soon and get that cheese starter kit you talked about and get going on the cheese making. I use a lot of it and it doesn’t come cheap in the stores anymore. I’m excited, I can’t wait to try my hand at this! Comment by D. | October 15, 2008 |

Becky, You are right! This is going to take years to fix. We must be wise. Tomorrow is payday and I’ll be stocking up on more staples as well as supplies for soap making (thanks!). This morning I gathered rose hips for drying to make tea this winter…full of Vitamin C. (see Carla Emery’s book) We will need to be healthy…who knows what the government will do to health care. There is much to do to prepare for winter and the rough road ahead. Blessings to you, Linda J.  Comment by http://valleyvisions.blogspot | October 15, 2008 |

I absolutely agree! I love your line about a “flowered band-aid” on the mess.  That is SO true. We are not going to shovel out of this one for quite a while. I believe that when the going gets tough, the tough get going….therefore, I’m in preparedness mode. I’m buying what we need for today and for tomorrow. I’m doing my best to get the best deals on everything and thinking ahead to what will be needed in the future.  Thank you for sharing your wisdom, Becky. It is very much appreciated.  Hugs, Joyce Comment by Joyce | October 15, 2008 |

I very much agree! Unfortunately we are in debt..way too much! Got sucked into the world’s way of thinking and now….well, our eyes have been opened, but a little late. We are pinching every penny until it screams! We are determined to pay off this debt. I am looking for an evening part time job, or something to bring in extra income (I’m a stay at home Mom). I feel an urgency down deep in my spirit to prepare! I agree with your view on this 100%! Comment by Wendy | October 15, 2008 |

Becky, I totally enjoy reading your blog! I don’t know if you are right or not, but I do think that we should be prepared for any likelihood. The information you have posted over the last few days has been fabulous. Thanks! This financial mess has taken years, even decades, to come to this point. Lots of finger pointing, but really it’s about our society and our inability to do the right, ethical thing in our jobs. Lots of people making unethical or uninformed decisions that keep snowballing. I don’t know if we will face a disaster similar to the great depression, but I keep holding out hope that we won’t. One thing I do know, is if people expect it, it’s more likely to happen. (Becomes a self-fulfilling prophesy). If we all stop spending money, then companies will go out of business and people will lose their jobs. If we all take our money out of banks, then they will run out of money and go under (unless the government steps in to guarantee things, which it has done). I’ve cut back spending as well, but I haven’t quit using the people that I know rely on my business to stay afloat. Maybe that’s naive of me, but I’m lucky enough to have a years supply of food on hand and enough cash to get us through a short rough patch. Plus both my husband and I are hard workers and have a good family and friends support network, so I think we’ll weather things better than most. Just my thoughts. Comment by DeeAnn | October 15, 2008 

Wendy - We are in the same boat. Our eyes have been opened, but WAY too late! But now we are making sincere efforts to try to pay down some of our debt! In the process though, i am stocking up on what we will need at the best price available NOW.

Becky - Once again you have “hit the nail on the head”. Unfortunately we were very stupid for a very long time and are not in a position where we will weather any economic downturn easily. I just hope we have had our eyes opened early enough to at least avoid the loss of our home if things get really really bad. I will NEVER be the person I was again!

I am in a MAJOR preparation mode. We got our new freezer today. Unfortunately it is a lot smaller than our old freezer (they don’t make them that big anymore) so i am going to have to rethink our stocking of frozen food. However as “scratch” ingredients have so much less packaging I am going to now do away with ALL prepackaged frozen food and stock ONLY meats and things purchased at our local butcher. As another poster said…I need to spend money to prepare, but I will spend it where it will benefit the people of my local community the most! The last time I checked “Banquet” and “Oncor” weren’t my neighbors! Comment by Linda | October 15, 2008 |

Becky, you are absolutely right! I have been saying for along time that this was coming and now it is here. I love your website. I have started storing extra food and I will continue to do so. I feel the Lord has laid it on my heart to prepare for what lies ahead. I want by family to be prepared. People need to wake up and see that we as a country cannot keep going the way we going. We cannot spend more than we make. I have asked the Lord to help me be content with what I have and He has done so. Keep up the posting…I love learning from you and I will be praying for you and your family.  Jackie Ringgold, VA Comment by Jackie | October 15, 2008 |

Becky, you are so right. My family members, except for a son who LIVES IN THE WORLD, and cannot be reached mentally as I write this. We are in prayer for him and his family. As to the rest of us, we are in a state of preparation. I am going to town tomorrow to order the book you wrote about yesterday for my sister, as a birthday gift. She has chickens who are laying eggs (about 14 a day;) my brother-in-law is raising four cows that will provide meat to five families this winter. We read your postings daily and appreciate so much what you are sharing. I believe, as you, the government has put a band aid on a wound that may never be repaired in our lifetimes. Thanks so much, please keep at it, as your information is very much appreciated. Comment by Kay Peebles | October 15, 2008 |

Pamspride, Thank you for the link on monogrammed handkerchiefs.

D. Please let me know how you like your kit, it really is fun. And saves you loads of money. How have you been?

Linda J. Thank you for the saying you left on part 2, it was a blessing to me, and really made my day. A friend of my is making me some Colloidal Silver Water - natural antibiotic, to keep on hand here at the house. I first tried it a few weeks ago with a very bad ear infection on my self. And it worked great. Those of you who don’t know what this is, please goggle it, and I’ll put in a up coming post.

Joyce, I’m so glad you are preparing, for today and tomorrow. And your welcome, I’ll do all I can to help others make it.

Wendy, I don’t know of anyone that is not in some kind of debt. But you keep making those penny scream. Keep me update on your job hunt.

DeeAnn, Thank you for your thoughts. I agree with buying from businesses, and buying locally, for things that are needed. But some people are buying like everything is fine and dandy. I don’t want people to pull their money out of banks, but just to spend it more wisely. Thank you for stopping in. Looking forward to hearing more from you. have a great day.

Linda, I know what you mean about not being able to buy the big freezer any more, that’s why I have to have 3. and your wise about not stocking up on prepackaged frozen food, they take up a lot of room and cost a lot. You can also can meats, which I’ll post about soon.

Jackie, Thank you for stopping in and for your prayers. The “content” in what we have is going to be really hard on some.

Kay Peebles, You will not be sorry about buying the book. And you’ll be on your sister great list.

Thank you all. In posting your comments, you give others and myself ideas. And I know what to post next. If you have something you’d like me to write a post about please let me know. No, I don’t know everything. All I want to do is help others with what I do know and have learned. God bless you all. Becky Comment by jordansfarm | October 16, 2008 |

Becky: I so much agree with you. I wonder if mothers in particular are especially feeling the need to get cracking (even though we can’t explain what happened). We are responsible for the health of our families and for preparing for times of hardship. If our family is threatened, we kick it into gear! I’m trying to turn some of our dollars into seeds, fruit trees, hand tools etc. You can’t eat a $20 bill!  Kris  Working hard at http://www.sccworlds.com  Comment by Kris | October 16, 2008 |

Road Ahead - Part 2

The Encyclopedia of Country Living , An Old Fashioned Recipe Book

By: Carla Emery

This is a great book. And a must have for everyone.  Even if you don't live on a farm, or you don't want to grow your own food, you want nothing to with animals. This book has everything in it. In hard times, this book will tell you how to do everything and in good times, it'll make your life easier. I usually do not talk highly of books. But please try and get this book, ask for it as a gift, or save your change, give it as a gift.  It will be the very best investment you can make. The book price runs $20 -$30, see if you can go in half's with a friend to start with. I know this is a lot on money right now, but I know you will not be sorry. If I could only have one book, this would be it.  The book photo shows the edition I have, but there is a newer one( I'm saving my change to get it). To get a look at the inside of the book click this link: http://www.amazon.com/gp/reader/1570615535/ref=sib_dp_pop_fc?ie=UTF8&p=S001#reader-link  To see about price and ordering here: http://www.amazon.com/Encyclopedia-Country-Living-Carla-Emery/dp/1570615535/ref=si3_rdr_bb_product 

Water Storage I know I gave you a few links but I want to do a little more as this is a very needed thing. Before we got our storage water tank, these are ways/ were I stored water. They say to store 3 -7 days water. But I took it a little farther, 1 month. You say that's a lot of water, not really if you reuse it.

Ways/were/reuse

• fill 2 liter bottles and stick in closets, under beds, in the freezer( if you lose power, they can be put in coolers to keep things cold, then as they melt you have drinking water)
• 5 gallon buckets with lids ( the old paint buckets, use this water to flush the toilets, only) some of these can be left outside to freeze as long as they are not filled to the rim. I did store some in the outside sheds and barns. When a bucket became empty, I filled it with water. If I really needed the bucket for something else, just dump out the water and dry.
• Water needs to be stored were no sun light can get to the water.  our water tank is almost clear and sits outside on it's own little deck. At the thrift store, I bought old blankets and covered the tank. And it worked great. No green water for two years now. The blankets also help to keep the water from freezing in the winter. On top of the blankets (in winter time) I place a dark colored trap, which helps to keep the water from freezing. On the neck part, where the water comes out, I wrap it in old wool sweaters. And it worked to keep it from freezing.
• Save the water you use to rinse the dishes and wash hands in, and put it in a 5 gal. bucket in the bath room, to use to flush the toilet.
• Plastic trash cans (unused, new) with lids, to store water in, if they have to be left out side, do not fill full. Used cans can be filled for flushing toilet.
• If you know ahead of time that a storm is coming: fill your washing machine , bathtub, any large pot and pans you might have, coolers,  up.  Then use this water first, before using your stored water. I have two of those 5 gallon drinking coolers on my front porch, year round, and change the water once a month. They have never froze, but we usually don't get colder than about 0. 
• For those of you who do canning, take your extra jars and can some water. I have some 1/2 gallon jars, that you are really not to can food in (nothing but apple juice), I use these to can water. This water can be used to clean wounds, to drink, etc.
• Milk jugs really are not strong enough to store water in. And they leak so easily. Reuse plastic juice bottles, 2 liter bottles, 16 oz. soda/water bottles.
• The big tub plastic tots with lids are good to store water in. Throw a sheet over them and you have a little table. 
• Use the water in your hot water heater. I'm not sure I'd drink it, but can be used for washing and toilets.
• If your stored water turns green, use it to flush the toilet.

I went one time with very little water stored, for three days. I was not a happy camper. It just takes one time for me.  You might think I store to much water, well we'll see. This is the most important thing I store, and I'll not be caught short handed again. And I really do not want any of you to come up short here. It's not a pretty sight.

With a hard winter coming it's best to store some water. Why? What if you can't pay your power bill on time and it takes you a few days to get the money up? What if a big storm comes? What if your well goes dry/pump breaks? What if the city water lines break or go down or run out of water?The what if's are endless. Please store some water. It does not cost to store water. Just look around your home for things to use. Everyone is storing food and other things getting ready for winter and the hard times ahead. How is your water storage? How many days can you go?

Until next time,  Becky

Becky's Farm Life 

All the these posts will be tagged as "Road Ahead" and other tags, but to see just these, click on the tag "Road Ahead" in the categories drop down box.  I thought about giving these posts their own tab, but I think this will work better. And make it easier for you all to get too.

Technorati Tags: great book,water storage,creativity,ideas,making do,recession,self sufficiency

Comments:

I have this very same book. In fact I bought it a few years ago with a gift card so it was FREE! Now that’s a great out of pocket price in my books.  I have to admit, I haven’t given the book much though until here recently and then today I happened upon your blog. Maybe the LORD is trying to tell me to get it back out and start digging deep into it. With the economy in the condition it is in, any extra helpful tips I can learn will only be to our family’s benefit. I know the LORD will take care of us but HE also gave me a good mind and I plan to put it to the best use I can.  ~blessings Comment by Heart 4 My Home | October 14, 2008 |

Among the other important things one would grab if the house caught fire, Carla Emery’s book is a must grab. It has a wealth of practical information. Thanks, Becky, for all the time you haven given to help so many. Linda J. Comment by http://valleyvisions.blogspot | October 14, 2008 |

Becky, When I read this, I thought of you: Some of you are called to some extraordinary duty and do not feel strong enough. Follow that call for surely the Lord is in that place. He will help you. ~ C. H. Spurgeon Comment by http://valleyvisions.blogspot | October 14, 2008 |

Becky, I came across this blog posting about a handmade Christmas gift and thought you might like it! It is handmade monogrammed handkerchiefs in a handmade tissue case.
http://grosgrainfabulous.blogspot.com/ Blessings!  Pam  Comment by Pamspride | October 14, 2008 |

Getting Ready for the Road Ahead - Part 1

Economic Situation - Recession - Life Ahead : this post was the first, and you all asked for links and more of what I was printing off.

In these posts, I will list links to things I'm printing off. ( I started out just taking notes as we did not have a printer). Now most of these sites have a lot of other great information on them and ideas, some of which I know will not work in our family or will be to costly, but might work in yours.

When I look up something, I make sure it's the cheapest and works the best. And I try and make sure it's with things I have easy access to, or have a lot of uses for.

Most of you have seen this one, but to me it's my best find so far.

I found this recipe and like it the best for a few reasons: I can get Ivory soap bars for 3 for a dollar and baking soda is cheap, both Ivory and baking soda store just about forever, not a lot of work to make, can be used to clean other things. I have bought Ivory and as have baking soda, for when it’s need. I really don't want to work with lye.

Homemade Laundry Soap Detergent Recipe this recipe is in the Home Tips tab at the top of the page here. I got this at: 10 Homemade Laundry Soap Detergent Recipes ( Recipe #8) There are other recipes here, too.

Homemade Sanitary Pads , I have made these and used them too.

End Times Reports Site Index : this is a great site. I have gotten a lot here. Stop in and see if it has something else for you. Below are posts I like: Building a solar oven , Making candles ,An inexpensive water filter , Emergency Food and Water Supplies - from FEMA , WATER TANK STERILIZATION , STORING WATER IN 2 LITER POP BOTTLES , WATER DISINFECTION , Home Remedies , Survival and Austere Medicine (long .pdf download) Very good! (it's 213 pages long, just print off what you need and save to your computer) , Powdered Milk Recipes ,Making and using a solar cooker with photos ( I like this one the best) ,Using herbs , Homemade Convenience Foods : a lot of good recipes here. Food, Food Storage and Food Tips : a lot here, you can pick and choose. Cloth Toilet Paper,towels, napkins (still sewing these)

How To's --Knitted Socks with photos , When I first started knitting, I started with this. She gives step by step with photos. Here is the pattern it's self: An very easy knitted sock pattern step by step great - started

Today, I added bleach ( 1 cup)to my water storage tank (425 gallons). Then I stirred it up and will let it sit for a day. Then I will drain it and refill with fresh water. Why do I drain it after I put the bleach in? Well it helps to keep the inside of the tank clean. And when I drain it out, there is still water (about 25 gallons) in the bottom. Adding fresh water to that little bit of water with some bleach still in it, has no different taste to it than out of the sink. But still has enough bleach to keep water good and clean all winter. The power goes out here a lot in the winter, so we have a water storage tank. Before we got the tank, I had 2 liter bottles and milk jugs filled with water in every hiding place I could find. Do you know how many milk jugs of water it takes to keep a milk cow in water? Too, too many. Do you have any water stored up? This should keep you all busy for a day or two, while I get the next post ready. Here I need your help too. So if you have found something you want to share with everyone, please put it in the comment part and I'll add it to the next post too. ( to make it easier for all to get to.)

What are you looking up and printing off?

Happy printing, Becky

Becky's Farm Life

All the these posts will be tagged as "Road Ahead" and other tags, but to see just these, click on the tag "Road Ahead" in the categories drop down box. I thought about giving these posts their own tab, but I think this will work better. And make it easier for you all to get too.

Technorati Tags: economic situation,ideas,making do,recession,Road Ahead,saving money,self sufficiency

Comments:

1. Thanks so much, Becky, for sharing with us your hard work. Carla Emery’s “Old Fashioned Recipe Book” also has great ideas on soap and washing by hand, herbs, gardening, bread baking, recipes for lots of good, healthy foods, livestock and so much more. Amazon has it (http://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_ss_gw?url=search-alias%3Dstripbooks&field-keywords=Old+Fashioned+Recipe+Book) with new and used ones beginning at $19.71. If you are looking for wringers and live near an Amish settlement, their hardware stores might carry them. In the fall and spring the Amish have benefit auctions that will, no doubt, have old wringer washers. Be sure to check out auctions of elderly folks. We found just the wringer off an old washer in a garage sale of an older gentleman. You never know when one might turn up. Thanks and blessings to all! You are so helpful!! Comment by Linda J October 12, 2008

2. I just made my first batch of homemade laundry detergent. I used recipe #8 that was just Ivory soap, water, and baking soda. It only took about 20 minutes to make 2 gallons! I just used my last two empty store bought containers. Nothing like running out of store bought to get me to finally make my own! I bought the Ivory soap and baking soda a couple of weeks ago just for this purpose. And I bought like 5 boxes of baking soda. They were like .46 each at Aldi’s…I think….for a two cup box. A wringer washer though…..Uhhh…not sure if I am up to that though!! I would love to have a HUGE water storage container like you have! With 7 of us and the power out having water to flush the toilets is a necessity!!! Comment by Pamspride October 12, 2008

3. Linda J., I have that book, it’s a must, wonderful book. And so worth it’s money. --Pam Spride, I’m glad you made your soap. And thanks for the prep time,too. Thank you both, Becky Comment by jordansfarm October 14, 2008

4. I read this post yesterday and was not able to get the mental image of you trying to keep a milk cow in water from two liters out of my head, lol. Wow, I can’t even imagine. I have the Emery’s book as well and it is *wonderful*. So full of wonderful and useful information. It’s a must have for the home library. Comment by D. October 15, 2008