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