Texas Sisters

Resources

2012-01-29T07:55:00.000-08:00

Please don't forget all of the WONDERFUL and amazing helps found on the church website. There are inspirational talks, counsel from our prophets and apostles, budgeting guides, even videos that can be used in family home evenings. So many guides to help us in our quest to practice provident living.

Don't forget the stake Relief Society activity coming up the last Saturday in February.

Emergency Preparedness

2012-01-18T15:12:00.000-08:00

Sometimes it helps to see what another person has done. On the following blog a sister shares some good ideas about emergency preparedness. The link is here.

Bread Making Class

2011-10-09T13:59:00.000-07:00

There is a bread making class at the stake center in the kitchen on Sat. Oct. 15 from 9-10 a.m. We will be learning how to use wheat from your food storage to make bread. Hope you can join us!

Women's General Conference

2011-09-20T07:25:00.000-07:00

Join us for a wonderful and uplifting experience at the stake center on Sept. 24 at 5:30. Dinner will be served before the broadcast. Please bring two cans of food to donate to a worthy cause. See you there!

The Prudent Homemaker

2011-08-17T05:50:00.000-07:00

I glimpsed through a blog about a sister that feeds her family of eight for less than five dollars a day (her blog was recently featured in the BYU alumni magazine). She highly recommends food storage and shows you how to use it effectively. I'm looking forward to learning more about what she has to share. The blog is here: The prudent homemaker.

President Benson taught the basics of food storage

2011-08-17T02:31:00.000-07:00

"From the standpoint of food production, storage, handling, and the Lord’s counsel, wheat should have high priority. Water, of course, is essential. Other basics could include honey or sugar, legumes, milk products or substitutes, and salt or its equivalent." – President Ezra Taft Benson

Canning Chicken

2011-08-06T16:52:00.000-07:00

Midland 2nd ward recently held a meat canning class. Good idea! If you'd like to learn about canning chicken you might like to check out an online tutorial posted on the hugs and giggles blog and her chicken canning post found here. Canned chicken can be used in any recipe that calls for cooked chicken.

More Information on Long Term Food Storage

2011-07-30T13:38:00.000-07:00

I found another website that offers some great information on long term food storage. Utah State University offers an extension service that includes great info on storing food. The website is here.

Storing Water

2011-07-17T03:18:00.000-07:00

The U.S. Department of Homeland Security has a web page with information on how to correctly store water. For more information click here

The following information (found at the website named above) may be helpful for those storing water in pop bottles:

If storing water in plastic soda bottles, follow these steps

Thoroughly clean the bottles with dishwashing soap and water, and rinse completely so there is no residual soap.Sanitize the bottles by adding a solution of 1 teaspoon of non-scented liquid household chlorine bleach to a quart of water. Swish the sanitizing solution in the bottle so that it touches all surfaces. After sanitizing the bottle, thoroughly rinse out the sanitizing solution with clean water.

Filling Water Containers

Fill the bottle to the top with regular tap water. If the tap water has been commercially treated from a water utility with chlorine, you do not need to add anything else to the water to keep it clean. If the water you are using comes from a well or water source that is not treated with chlorine, add two drops of non-scented liquid household chlorine bleach to the water.Tightly close the container using the original cap. Be careful not to contaminate the cap by touching the inside of it with your finger. Place a date on the outside of the container so that you know when you filled it. Store in a cool, dark place.Replace the water every six months if not using commercially bottled water.

Relief Society & their history of storing wheat

2011-07-08T06:13:00.000-07:00

For a very interesting short story about how Brigham Young put the Relief Society in charge of storing wheat (and why there are stalks of wheat on the RS seal) click here.

Food Storage Starter Kit & Water Purification Bottle

2011-07-02T05:09:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in purchasing a food storage starter kit ($31 includes shipping ) click here.

If you are interested in purchasing a water purification bottle that will clean 100 gallons of water- removing 99.99 % of all pollutants and contaminates ($22 includes shipping) click here.

Long term food storage by the month

2011-06-19T17:56:00.000-07:00

Sister Penny Brown, from Midland 2nd ward, has come up with a way to get her long term food storage organized. She has broken down her year supply into the amounts she will need for one month.

She found some boxes that will hold her long term storage (she kept her oils and vitamins out where she can rotate them more frequently). Then she put what she needs for one month into each box.

I tried to copy and paste Penny's list of products here- but I wasn't able to get that to work. Penny has graciously included the products she stored, the amount she stored for the month and the cost of the product- thanks Penny!

Oops- having trouble linking to her list- I'll try to get that up tomorrow- :0)

6/25/2011 I'm still having trouble getting a working link- so, I'll type out the highlights for you. Penny suggests that you will need:

5 lbs. pinto beans grocery store $3.25

Bishop's storehouse $4.25

5 lbs. of honey grocery store $ 16.00

or sugar grocery store $2.50

1/2 lb. salt grocery store $ .50

25 lbs. of white wheat Emergency Essentials $20.00

8 lbs. or nonfat powdered milk

Items to store separately- need regular rotation to prevent spoiling:

2 lbs. Oil or Crisco grocery store $2.50

Multivitamin 30 count grocery store $8.50

Yeast, 6 (3 pack) grocery store $7.20

If you'd like to purchase boxes to store each months worth of supplies:

10 boxes costs about $14.00

The Importance of Getting Out of Debt

2011-06-12T07:00:00.000-07:00

The Church News recently published an article on the importance of getting out of debt (and staying out). The link is here. There are many inspiring quotes. One from President Monson states:

"Perhaps no counsel has been repeated more often than how to manage wisely our income. Consumer debt in some nations of the world is at staggering levels. Too many in the Church have failed to avoid unnecessary debt. They have little, if any, financial reserve. The solution is to budget, to live within our means, and to save some for the future" ("Guiding Principles of Personal and Family Welfare," September 1986).

75 Years of Self Reliance and Service

2011-05-29T05:55:00.000-07:00

This month the Ensign has a section celebrating 75 years of self reliance and service. There is a link here if you'd like to view it online.

Ideas for your 72 hour kit

2011-05-22T08:22:00.000-07:00

Having a 72 hour kit packed and ready to use is a great idea! Suggestions for what to put in your 72 hour kit can be found here Another list is here Try not to get discouraged at the length of the list- pull together what you already have and make a plan to add to your kit as you can. There is no need to wait until you can afford the perfect backpack or fancy foods- just start with what you have on hand and build your kit from there!

Tip: One blog I read said that the pop top cans they had stored in their 72 hour kit popped open unexpectedly and they opened their backpacks to a sticky mess. You may want to store traditionally sealed cans and a can opener in your kit instead....

Make a Small Emergency/ First Aid Kit

2011-05-15T08:38:00.000-07:00

In the provident living section of lds.org, under emergency preparedness it is recommended that you gather together and store some medical supplies- as well as any needed medications.

Here is a cute project for those of you who like to make things:

It is a homemade emergency kit made out of a potholder and ziplock bags. Very cute!The directions are here. Honestly, though, I'd never actually get it made. My first aid kit is more like a gallon sized zip lock bag, with stuff tossed in (don't knock it- it's quick and easy!).

If you'd like to do something a bit more permanent just buy a shoe box sized storage container with a snap on lid. If this is to be kept in your car you may want to place a few items (like ointments) that can melt- into individual ziplock bags to keep them from melting onto everything else.... shouldn't be a problem- but just in case....

Don't worry about making it fancy!! Just gather together some first aid items- make a few kits and store them in your home, car and 72 hour kits.

Need a few ideas of what to put into your kit?

The Red Cross has a list here
Another list is available at kaboose- scroll down a bit

Don't freak out if you don't have or can't afford everything on the list- just put together what you can- and add to it as you get the chance.

How Does Your Garden Grow?

2011-04-05T08:09:00.001-07:00

Need some tips for planting a successful garden in Texas? The Midland Master Gardeners are offering some classes and free workshops. Here is a summary of what is available:

Located at the Midland County library
March 21- mid April- get a free tomato plant if you check out a book on gardening April 12- Home Vegetable Gardening Workshop 6-7:30 p.m. Discussing soil prep, planting, fertilization and care

For information about free Master Gardener Classes Call 498-4071
Beginning April 9 from 9 am to 1 pm on the second Saturday of each month there will be an information table at the Midland Downtown Farmer's Market. Gardeners will be available to answer question and provide information.

Emergency Preparedness

2011-03-20T14:53:00.000-07:00

The great tragedy in Japan has given us each extra incentive to take a personal & famiy inventory. How is your family doing with emergency preparation?

At lds.org it states:

Family Emergency Planning

Church members are encouraged to prepare a simple emergency plan. Items to consider may include:

Three-month supply of food that is part of your normal daily diet.
Drinking water.
Financial reserves.
Longer-term supply of basic food items.
Medication and first aid supplies.
Clothing and bedding.
Important documents.
Ways to communicate with family following a disaster.

Lds.org

2011-03-18T19:42:00.000-07:00

You may want to check out the product recommendations on the new lds.org website. The link is here. You may notice that the first two long term storage items that they list are grains and legumes. Those are followed by this quote:

You may also want to add other items to your longer-term storage such as sugar, nonfat dry milk, salt, baking soda, and cooking oil. To meet nutritional needs, also store foods containing Vitamin C and other essential nutrients.

There are many websites and philosophies of "experts" giving you a large list of items that "you should store" --- but I feel that there is safety in following the modern day prophets and what they recommend. Prayerfully consider the many quotes found on lds.org about why the prophets recommend wheat and the importance of purchasing basics first- then when you have those basics feel free to add other items to your long term storage.

Wonderful Water Filter Bottles

2011-03-13T19:38:00.000-07:00

After our stake women's conference many of you were interested in the water bottle that filters out impurities. You can find it here. Remember to store water with your water bottles so that you will have something to filter :0)

Some of you are STILL waiting for me to email out the handout- sorry I've been so slow- after spring break I hope to be able to catch up on a few things. Thanks for your patience!

Why Store Grains and Legumes?

2011-03-04T06:57:00.001-08:00

Mormon Times has an article today about four reasons for storing grains and legumes in our long term food storage- she missed the main reason though- the main reason we should store grains (especially wheat) and legumes is because that is what our modern day prophets have asked us to do :0)

Stake Women's Conference

2011-02-21T17:36:00.000-08:00

This Saturday is our stake women's conference- the theme is "It's About Time". It is from 10-1 at the stake center- and a delicious lunch will be served. I hope you can all come! The class I'm teaching involves white chocolate and macadamia nuts- and that's all I'm saying-

I'm looking forward to it!

Food Storage orders

2011-01-24T12:29:00.000-08:00

Sister Norma Wren has graciously planned another trip to El Paso to pick up orders from the bishop's storehouse. If you'd like to place an order please contact her asap-

Creative Provident Living Gift Ideas

2010-12-07T04:51:00.000-08:00

If you are looking for creative ways to encourage provident living with your friends and family you might want to check out this list of ideas.... just click here at Patty's Pantry.

Ward Preparedness Dinner

2010-11-28T10:32:00.000-08:00

Odessa 1st ward held their ward preparedness dinner earlier this month. There were talks on food storage and 72 hour kits. It was a fun evening! If you are looking for a book on the subject Sis. Howell recommended the book Not Your Mother's Food Storage.

Article on Mormon Times

2010-10-20T09:04:00.001-07:00

There is an article food storage on Mormon Times that you might want to read- I just scanned over it. The link is here.

Blood Drive Tomorrow

2010-10-13T07:09:00.000-07:00

Sis. Hudnall is organizing a blood drive at the Tarelton Building. She says: As a last plea for help I am emailing everyone again to ask for your help with signups for the blood drive. We only have 6 people signed up to donate so far. Please help to fill the spots and make a good showing for this drive. Thursday October 14 4-9pm.

Job Fair In Carrollton, TX

2010-10-07T16:06:00.001-07:00

If you are looking for employment check this out: Every Thursday night from 7-9 p.m. Brother Glenn is available to help you with any employment needs. He will be in the primary room of the gateway building. He can help you with resumes, interview skills, etc. Just drop by.

Also: Brother Keate sent out the following email to stake members:

If you are actively seeking a job and have the ability to travel to Dallas there is a Career Fair, see information below. This is a wonderful opportunity and very beneficial to all those that attend.

*
6th Annual Career Fair
* 19 Oct '10
* 06:30 PM - 09:00 PM
* Carrollton Stake Center
* 4000 Nazarene
Carrollton, TX 75010
UNITED STATES
*

Career Fair for professionals. From recent college graduates to senior management, you are invited to network with others in your industry or profession, to explore recent employment trends in our area, to learn about skills for upgrading your career, to participate in a LinkedIn demonstrations, learn how to find and review thousands of jobs using the new LDSjobs.org website, or simply to have your resume reviewed by an expert. This is a no charge event. Some employers will be present. Keynote address will begin at 6:30 pm Career Group Sessions will begin at 7:00 pm Small group networking sessions based on industry or profession Led by experienced executives and professionals Hear the latest trends in our area Select two from more than a dozen sessions Professional attire expected Bring business cards and resumes

Interesting blog

2010-09-14T19:16:00.001-07:00

I came across this blog today and thought some of you might enjoy it. It's called iprepared This is not an official church website just some ideas from a sister that is working on provident living. She has developed a free worksheet to help people determine what they might need for their 3 month supply. Enjoy!

Some Tips for Storing Powdered Milk

2010-09-04T07:22:00.000-07:00

Mormon Times ran an article with some helpful tips for storing powdered milk- check it out here- remember that new studies have shown that powdered milk can be stored for up to 20 years and it is one of the basics that the our church leaders suggest that we have.

Order Food Storage Items from Bishop's storehouse

2010-08-22T10:39:00.001-07:00

Sis. Wren is helping to put together order for the Bishop's storehouse in El Paso. If you would like to order something her number can be found on the Midland 3rd ward roster. Go to lds.org and look under home and family, provident living,in the right hand column their is a link for home storage form download- click and that and you can print your own order form.

Emergency Essential Order

2010-08-16T18:20:00.000-07:00

Sister Norma Wren is putting together an emergency essential order- if you'd like something please let her know soon- here are some of the specials.

We have MRE Dessert Combo (15) bars of 3 different flavors. Apple cinnamon, Chocolate banana and Peanut butter. Five of each flavor for only 12.oo. We only have to buy 6 of those.

F-D Cheddar Cheese Shredded #10 can only 30.oo each and we only have to get 6 of those all together.

F-D Banana slices #10 can only 14.00 with a minimum of 6 cans @ 14.00

Toilet seat lid works with most any 5 or 6 gal bucket. 6.00 each with a purchase of 12.

Please let me know what you'd like to purchase.

Fret Not

2010-08-15T14:18:00.000-07:00

In today's world there are many that are worried about the future. I love this article from Elder Wirthlin that is taken from a BYU devotional in 2003 and published in the Ensign. I especially loved this quote:

Patterns of Prayer: “Fret not” is the first step (see Ps. 37:1). To fret means to worry or to brood about something. The first thing we must do is stop worrying. When we worry about the future, we create unhappiness in the present. Righteous concern may lead us to take appropriate action, but worrying about things we cannot control can paralyze and demoralize us.

Instead of worrying, focus on doing all that you can, and then leave the worrying to your Heavenly Father. If your heart is right with Him, He will take care of the worry and the fear. We must learn to “fret not.”

On praying with faith: With faith, our prayers connect with the powers of heaven and can bring upon us increased understanding, hope, and power. If by faith the worlds were created, then by faith we can create and receive the righteous desires of our heart.

Don't Forget to Store Water

2010-07-25T15:58:00.000-07:00

At lds.org, provident living, we are instructed to:

Store drinking water for circumstances in which the water supply may be polluted or disrupted.

If water comes directly from a good, pretreated source, then no additional purification is needed; otherwise, pretreat water before use. Store water in sturdy, leak-proof, breakage-resistant containers. Consider using plastic bottles commonly used for juices and soft drinks.

Keep water containers away from heat sources and direct sunlight.

Midland Blood Drive

2010-06-06T04:02:00.000-07:00

Sister Audra Hudnall is organizing a blood drive here are her directions:

The 3rd Ward Relief Society is once again sponsoring a blood drive for June 17 from 4-9pm. As you have probably noticed there are bood drive signup sheets on some of the bulletin boards in the gateway building. Please use these to signup if necessary, I will gather them all up the Sunday before the drive. We are being asked to have as many people as possible signup on the UBS website that you will also find on the signup sheets. We have a few signed up so far but we need several more to make this drive a success. If you have any questions feel free to email me.

Healthy Diet?

2010-05-16T17:35:00.000-07:00

Sis. Penny Brown shared the following link with me. You can use this free website to develop a balanced menu or to check how healthy your diet is. Click here.

At My House

2010-05-02T10:32:00.000-07:00

If you would like to use a canner (for fruits, jams and jellies) or a pressure cooker to bottle (tomatoes, stew, meats, etc.) or a dehydrator (for fruit leather, dried fruit, or jerky) please give me a call and I'll arrange for you to use mine-
thanks!- Sis. Noall

New Location for the Midland Canner & Sealer

2010-04-18T14:34:00.000-07:00

I'd like to thank Sis. Cathy Nelson for 11 years of serving as the keeper of the canner and sealer. She has taught so many of us how to store our food-she's been great!!!

Now that she is having a much deserved rest the canner will be at my house for awhile- Sis. Noall 686-0012. If you need to use either machine please call and schedule a time.

New Church Web Site

2010-04-09T11:02:00.000-07:00

The church has a new web site to help anyone dealing with an addiction to pornography. The website also offers help and support for spouses and others affected by the addiction. The web site is here.

Chewy Brownie Cookies

2010-04-06T22:55:00.000-07:00

Sister Penny Brown generously shared the recipe for these super yummy cookies- Thanks Penny!

Chewy Brownie Cookies

2/3 cup Crisco shortening
1 1/2 cups firmly packed light brown sugar
1 Tbsp. water
1 tsp. vanilla
2 eggs
1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour
1/3 cup unsweetened baking cocoa
1/4 tsp. baking soda
1/2 tsp. salt
2 cups semi-sweet chocolate chips (12 oz.)

Heat oven to 375 degrees. Place sheets of wax paper on counter top for cooling cookies. Combine Crisco, brown sugar, water and vanilla in large bowl. Beat at medium speed of electric mixer until well blended. Beat eggs into creamed mixture. Combine flour, cocoa, baking soda and salt. Mix into creamed mixture at low speed just until blended. Stir in chocolate chips. Drop by rounded measuring tablespoonfuls 2 inches apart onto ungreased baking sheet. Bake one baking sheet at a time at 375 degrees for 7 to 9 minutes, or until cookies are set. DO NOT OVER BAKE. Cookies will appear soft and moist. Cool 2 minutes on baking sheet. Remove cookies to wax paper to cool completely. Yield: about 3 dozen.

Time to Start Your Garden

2010-03-28T15:18:00.000-07:00

Now is a great time to be preparing your garden! The weather is nice and it feels good to be outside. If planting a full size garden is overwhelming try container gardening- this is a great way to grow food and it virtually eliminates the need to weed! How cool is that?!

The LDS owned Benson Institute has prepared a 21 page booklet telling exactly how to be a successful container gardener. Check it out here.

Becoming Provident Providers

2010-03-21T15:45:00.000-07:00

Here is a sweet video reminding us about the importance of Becoming Provident Providers (click on the red to see the video).

Pres. Kimball Teaches About Provident Living

2010-03-16T07:45:00.000-07:00

Pres. Kimball said: "Let us as individuals, as families, and as wards and stakes learn to live within our means. There is strength and salvation in this principle. Someone has said that we are rich in proportion to that with which we can do without"

More of his teachings can be found here.

Save Money on Furniture

2010-03-14T07:19:00.000-07:00

Most furniture is a want and not a need. But if you are ready to budget for furniture you might want to visit this website that gives you free plans to make your own- and it is really, really cool furniture. Ana focuses on teaching women how to do wookworking and it is amazing to see what has been created from her plans! The website is knock off wood. You could use her plans to make shelves for your food storage!!

Also, have you noticed that there is now a monthly article in the Ensign on Provident Living? There are -and they are helpful.

Recipes From the Web

2010-03-04T14:01:00.000-08:00

You can find GREAT recipes on the web. Here is a link to wonderful recipes from Utah "chefs".

This picture is from one of the websites they recommend called the Changeable Table.

Helping Others

2010-02-22T04:21:00.000-08:00

The Church has a new Charities website- click on the previous word "charities" to see the amazing things that our church is doing for people in Haiti! To see what they are doing to help people around the world visit LDS Philanthropies- and while you are there make a donation.

In my opinion, one of the best ways to receive financial blessings is to help those less fortunate than yourself- visit LDS.org and type in "blessings of paying fast offerings" to learn more about the blessings that await you.

Provident Living Family Home Evening

2010-02-01T06:47:00.000-08:00

Sister Shauna Gibby prepared the following FHE lesson on provident living. Click here for her lesson.

Using Whole Wheat Flour

2010-01-24T07:57:00.000-08:00

Here is a delicious recipe from my mom that uses some whole wheat flour and no one will ever notice.

Soft Gingersnaps

3/4 c. margarine
1 c. brown sugar, firmly packed
1 egg
1/4 c. black strap molasses
1 1/4 c. white flour
1 c. whole wheat flour
2 t. baking soda
1/4 t. salt
1/2 t. ground cloves
1 t. cinnamon
1 t. ground ginger

Cream margarine and sugar. Add egg and molasses and mix well. mix in dry ingredients. Cover dough and chill for one hour. Roll dough into 1 inch balls and roll in granulated sugar. Bake between 350-375 for 8-10 minutes. Don't over bake. These should be soft, chewy and very yummy!

New Prices for Bishop's Storehouse

2010-01-19T15:38:00.000-08:00

When ordering from the bishop's storehouse make sure you use their new (as of Jan. 16) order form. The prices have increased- but are still a great deal!

Cans/ Pouches Needed per Order

2010-01-14T06:42:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Sis. Wren for figuring this out! Sorry it is a bit sloppy. I can't figure out how to change formats between documents and blogs-

How many cans or pouches you will need for each product:

Item                    Cans      Pouches
Beans, Black           5.5--------3.7
Beans, Pinto            5.2 -------4.1
Beans, White          5.3------- 3.8
Milk, Nonfat Dry       6 ---------5
Rice, White              4.3------- 3.6
Sugar, Granulated   4.---------3.52
Wheat, Hard Red      5.8------- 3.57
Wheat, Hard White   5.8------- 3.57

Apple Slices              11.5------ 9.3
Carrots                     8.9------- 6.9
Macaroni                   5.8------- 5.
Oats, Quick               9.6------- 8.1
Oats, Regular            9.25----- 7.5
Onions, Dry              12.5------10.2
Potato Flakes            13.8------10.8
Spaghetti best in P    5.8------- 5.

Beans, Refried          10.4------ 8.9
Cocoa mix, Hot         4.3------- 3.5
Flour, White             5.2-------- 4.5
Fruit Drink mix         4.1-------- 3.5

Do You Need Something From the Cannery?

2010-01-14T06:39:00.000-08:00

Sister Wren is making a trip to the Cannery and she has generously offered to pick up your order for you! Here is how she would like you to do it:

You can get a current price list at wwwprovidentliving.org. or I will have a
few copies printed up to hand out. I will not be passing a list as I used to do. Your order should be only in the column to the far right side of the order form or from the already packaged items at the lower left side of the page and also Potato Pearls and Pancake mix as they are already packaged.

You must purchase an entire bag or box of an item (you can find someone to share it with if you'd like to do that on your own).

Your order needs to have the number of cans, lids, plastic lids and oxygen
absorbers along with enough boxes to take care of your cans. The boxes hold
six ( 6 ) cans. If you are doing pouches order the number of pouches you want
and how many oxygen absorbers you need. Everthing gets an absorber except
sugar.

The labels are free, but you must ask for them You may have one for each can
or pouch. You will need to write what you want on the bottom of your order form.

When your order is completed, please add 10% to help with gas since we will have to pull a trailer to transport the food.

When you go to providentliving.org you can fill out your order and it will total it for you. You can also email it to me as well as print out a copy for yourself. There is no place to do labels, so you can email your list to me

I will need all orders turned in by 21 February 2009 and we will pick it up after the second Tuesday of April. I will let you know the exact date later.

I have made a chart that shows how many cans and pouches are in each product. I will have them with me Sunday.

Checks need to be made out to Mdland 3rd Ward and then our Ward Clerk will make out one check to me taking the 10% out for Norma Wren's expenses.

If you have any questions, my phone #432-458-3321.

Sincerely,
Norma Wren

Break in Blog Posts

2009-12-20T05:06:00.000-08:00

I'm taking a little blogging break- if you are still interested in reading about food storage etc. there are some great quotes and ideas in the archives and at lds.org - be back after a while!

Penny's 100% whole wheat bread

2009-11-15T05:07:00.000-08:00

Penny Brown has discovered and tried out the following 100% Whole Wheat bread recipe. She says it is delicious. She especially likes that it is so versatile- click here to get the recipe.

My paste button won't work- that's why there is the extra step of downloading the file- SORRY. This would be a great recipe to keep and use with your food storage.

Save Money on Christmas Gifts

2009-11-12T05:29:00.000-08:00

Wow- have you checked out all of the amazing Christmas gift ideas on the web. There are free patterns and tutorials everywhere on how to make beautiful creative gifts. This might be a way for you to stretch your Christmas money and then use what is saved for some food storage :0)

Here are a few places to start looking for ideas- there will be many more as we get closer to the holiday!

Living Grace made the cute dish mat pictured above. She offers twelve tutorials of some very nice looking gifts here

Sew, Mama, Sew has a list of ideas for every day of the month- so, click on each day to see bunches of ideas! You can also check out her 2007 and 2008 lists as well.

Freda's Hive started a list of craft ideas for Christmas last January! See her list here.

The major magazines have craft projects galore. Here are a few Martha Stewart, Better Homes and Gardens, and Country Living.

Hopefully you can find a project among the list- if not just type in your request on your search space at the top of your screen- for example type in "free pattern for crochet snowflake"- you'll have tons of free patterns pop up- enjoy!

Year Supply One Month at a Time

2009-11-08T05:07:00.001-08:00

Sister Penny Brown in Midland 2nd ward has come up with a way to gather her long term food storage one month at a time. She found a wonderful bread recipe that will be shared shortly.

I searched the web to come up with some of the numbers and found a consensus on amounts among a few- so, here is the info:

These quantities are for a one month supply of food per person (over age 7).

25 lbs. of wheat, white rice or other grains (remember Pres. Benson said that wheat was the most important of these options)

5 lbs. of dry beans and/or other legumes

5 lbs. of sugar or honey

5 lbs. powdered milk

1 can evaporated milk

2 pounds of shortening, oil or other fat

1/2 pound of salt

And a source of vitamin C

Thanks Penny for your great idea- hope this helps someone get started!

Hot Cereal for Breakfast

2009-11-04T07:34:00.000-08:00

If you are a fan of oatmeal or cream of wheat you might want to try Honeyville's 6 grain and/or nine grain cereals. They don't store as well as plain wheat and oats- so, I'd say store those things first. As a healthy addition to your basic storage and if you enjoy a warm healthy breakfast you might want to add some of this to your storage and start eating it now. My husband and I like it- the kids- not so much :o)

Inspirational Quote

2009-11-02T06:25:00.000-08:00

President Ezra Taft Benson gave some excellent instructions about home storage:

“For the righteous the gospel provides a warning before a calamity, a program for the crises, a refuge for each disaster. …

“The Lord has warned us of famines, but the righteous will have listened to prophets and stored at least a year’s supply of survival food. …

“Brethren and sisters, I know that this welfare program is inspired of God. I have witnessed with my own eyes the ravages of hunger and destitution as, under the direction of the president of the Church, I spent a year in war-torn Europe at the close of World War II, without my family, distributing food, clothing, and bedding to our needy members.

I have looked into the sunken eyes of Saints, in almost the last stages of starvation. I have seen faithful mothers carrying their children, three and four years of age, who were unable to walk because of malnutrition. I have seen a hungry woman turn down food for a spool of thread. I have seen grown men weep as they ran their hands through the wheat and beans sent to them from Zion—America.

“Thanks be to God for a prophet, for this inspired program, and for Saints who so managed their stewardship that they could provide for their own and still share with others.” (October 1973 General Conference, “Prepare Ye,” Ensign, Jan. 1974, pp. 69, 81–82.)

Use Powdered Milk to make a Wendy's Frosty (copy)

2009-10-29T06:33:00.000-07:00

At the Mormon Mommy they have posted a recipe for a chocolate milkshake that they say tastes just like a Wendy' frosty. I haven't tried it yet- but several people commented that it really did meet and pass their family taste test- here is what she said:

If you follow these directions, I kid you not, you will end up with a chocolate milkshake so much like a Wendy’s frosty you will be amazed. I beleive the original credit for the recipe goes to the Prairie Homemaker website, but I’m not 100% on that one.

1 1/2 - 2 cups ICE water- really, really cold.
1 1/2 cups non-fat dry milk powder
2/3 cup sugar
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa
2-3 cups ice cubes
2 Tbsp vegetable oil (yes, really- it’s an emulsifier)

Place ALL the ingredients in the blender, including the oil. Use less water for a thicker milkshake or more for a shake that’s easier on your blender motor. With lid on, process for two minutes. Makes about 4 shakes.

Inspirational Quote

2009-10-27T06:18:00.000-07:00

Elder Vaughn J. Featherstone offered some ways to find money to purchase your food storage with:

1. Decide as a family this year that 25 or 50 percent of your Christmas [budget] will be spent on a year’s supply. Many families in the Church spend considerable sums of money for Christmas. Half or part of these Christmas monies will go a long way toward purchasing the basics. I recall the Scotsman who went to the doctor and had an X-ray taken of his chest. Then he had the X-ray gift-wrapped and gave it to his wife for their anniversary. He couldn’t afford a gift, but he wanted her to know his heart was in the right place. Brethren, give your wife a year’s supply of wheat for Christmas, and she’ll know your heart is in the right place.

2. When you desire new clothes, don’t buy them. Repair and mend and make your present wardrobe last a few months longer. Use that money for the food basics....

3. Cut the amount of money you spend on recreation by 50 percent. Do fun things that do not require money outlay but make more lasting impressions on your children.

4. Decide as a family that there will be no vacation or holiday next year unless you have your year’s supply. Many Church members could buy a full year’s supply of the basics from what they would save by not taking a vacation...

5. If you haven’t a year’s supply yet and you do have boats, snowmobiles, campers, or other luxury possessions, sell or trade one or two or more of them and get your year’s supply.

6. Watch advertised specials in the grocery stores and pick up extra supplies of those items that are of exceptional value.

7. Change the mix in your family’s diet. Get your protein from sources less expensive than meat. The grocery bill is one bill that can be cut. Every time you enter the store and feel tempted by effective and honest merchandising to buy cookies, candy, ice cream, non-food items, or magazines—don’t! Think carefully; buy only the essentials. Then figure what you have saved and spend it on powdered milk, sugar, honey, salt, or grain.

Not Food Storage- but a Great Quote

2009-10-25T06:01:00.000-07:00

Elder David Bednar shared the following information at a BYU-I Education Week Devotional Speech, June 2002-

Elder George Q. Cannon taught:

“God has reserved spirits for this dispensation who have the courage and determination to face the world and all the powers of the evil one, visible and invisible, to proclaim the Gospel and maintain the truth and establish and build up the Zion of our God fearless of all consequences. He has sent these spirits in this generation to lay the foundation of Zion never more to be overthrown and to raise up a seed that will be righteous and that will honor God and honor Him supremely and be obedient to Him under all circumstances (Journal of Discourses, 11:230 [May 6, 1866], emphasis added”).

Elder Bednar added: Thus, obedience is the principal weapon upon which [these] young warriors must rely in the latter-day battle between good and evil.

Time to Plant Fruit Trees

2009-10-20T05:44:00.000-07:00

It is getting close to the time to plant fruit trees in West Texas. Texas A&M has tons of information on what kinds of trees do well in our area. Here is an article about different types of fruits to grow here and what types of soil conditions to work towards.

If you are thinking about ordering your fruit trees online now is the time to do it. They often sell out in October. Two sources I have found, but have not yet tried, are Willis Orchards and Fast Growing Trees Nursery. Let me know if you try these companies and what you think of your new fruit trees.

Emergency Essentials

2009-10-17T05:04:00.000-07:00

If you are interested in ordering from Emergency Essentials they are having a sale on their freeze dried food. You can save 25% on all of their #10 cans. The link is here. I would highly recommend that you have your three month supply of foods that you enjoy eating and your year supply of basics before adding these items.

A basic year supply (wheat, oil, honey, etc.) is much cheaper to purchase and will keep you and your family alive in an emergency. From what I have learned so far, these freeze dried items would be considered "luxury" and would add a nice variety- but get your basics first.

Amazing, Informative Food Storage Article

2009-10-11T07:07:00.000-07:00

I posted this last February but is is such a great article I thought I'd share it again.

Did you know that during World War II children raised worms to feed their chickens to help provide food for their families?

A fascinating article of how people survived during and after World War II was shared with me by my RS President Alexa Davis. It is an article by Elder Busche called "How Beautiful to Live in These Times and Be Prepared" Ensign June 1982. He lived in Germany during World War II. Take a few moments and read the article (just click on the red title above)!!

Elder Busche was asked, " What were the most valuable items in the days of starvation in Germany?" He answers and explains why- but they were:

1. (Sadly, this was number one)- Tobacco and alcohol, people would give anything for these items

2. Vegetable oil

3. Grains, especially wheat and rye

4. Honey, of course they ate it and he said his family could trade honey and get three times the value of regular sugar

5. Powdered Milk, (BYU Alumni Magazine recently published an article saying that powdered milk, stored properly, maintains its nutrients much longer than previously thought).

The article is really positive. Elder Busche said that the good people banded together. They bartered and shared to help each other. He said nearly everyone raised rabbits to eat, lots raised chickens. His family had a German breed of sheep that gave milk and they used the wool in their bartering. It is a very interesting article. I highly recommend it!

Picture from aspenlundfarm.com

Homemade Cleaner

2009-10-07T01:32:00.000-07:00

An LDS mom shares her recipes for cleaning products here.

Apple Butter Recipe

2009-10-03T00:55:00.000-07:00

I found this yummy looking recipe on the DomesticCents blog (unrelated, but she also has directions for making cinnamon scented pinecones).

Crock Pot Apple Butter
adapted from All Recipes

5-1/2 pounds apples – peeled, cored and chopped/shredded
4 cups white sugar (use less sugar if you are using a sweet apple)
1 tablespoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon cloves
1 teaspoon nutmeg
pinch of salt
Directions – Here’s the thing. I didn’t exactly follow the recipe. I used more than 5 pounds of apples but I’m not sure how many. I just filled my crock pot (it reduces by almost half). I also played with the spices a little to make it how I wanted.

1.Put the apples in your crock pot. Mix all the other ingredients in a bowl them dump them in with the apples and mix it all up. You can add more sugar or spices part way through if you need to. I like mine extra spicy but if you don’t then you might want to lessen the spices.
2.Set it on High for 1 hour then reduce it down to Low for 12+ hours (overnight). You are trying to get it to cook down past the point of applesauce. I read somewhere a great tip on how to tell when it’s done. Scoop out a teaspoonful of it and set it on the counter. If in 5 minutes it hasn’t leaked a ring of water then it’s done. Mine took a VERY long time to get to that point but I’m glad I waited for it. Cook the last two hours with the lid off of the crock pot.
3.When it got to the end I used my hand mixer right in the crock pot to make it even smoother. My mom put hers in the blender which yielded and even smoother butter. It just depends on what you like

Inspirational Quote

2009-10-01T00:40:00.000-07:00

In Elder Eyring’s devotional talk at BYU Idaho (September 2001) he mentioned being frugal. I know he was referring to BYU-Idaho operating on a tight budget but he seemed to want us to apply it in our daily lives as well.

He said, “You want to have a beautiful place that you live in someday in your family. You want to have things as nice as you can have them. But I'll tell you something. One of the things that you do is to always look at every nice thing you have as God's and treat it very, very carefully…

In addition, you will not ever, ever ask for more than you need…. Now I testify to you that that blessing is both a practical one and a spiritual one. It's practical because then the Lord will provide when we do need something, and He'll provide generously because He trusts us. But it has another benefit as well. I testify to you that that spirit of sacrifice, that spirit of trying to give just a little bit more and ask a little less brings down the powers of heaven.

How Did Your Tomato Garden Grow?

2009-09-17T16:34:00.000-07:00

If your tomatoes didn't do as well as you would have liked you might want to check out these six easy steps to a GREAT tomato garden.

Feeling Overwhelmed?

2009-09-07T06:04:00.000-07:00

If you are feeling overwhelmed with the thought of food storage and provident living there is a great article in September's Ensign. The title says it is for newlyweds- but it really is for anyone just starting out and wondering where to begin- they share a story about a couple that started out just buying two extra items each time they went to the grocery store- and how that paid off- click here to read the article.

Canning Beef Stew and Chili

2009-08-24T05:54:00.000-07:00

You Can Can has posted two new yummy recipes for canning in your pressure cooker. You just bottle these and you'll have a delicious dinner that you can pull off of the pantry shelf! Their chili and beef stew recipes look especially good.

Now Is the Time for FALL Gardening

2009-08-19T05:53:00.000-07:00

Planting a garden, even a small one, allows for a greater degree of self-reliance.- lds.org, provident living, gardening

It's time to get your Fall garden ready. For more information on West Texas Fall Gardening contact Debbie Frost, county extension agent, 432-498-4071 She is really helpful.

Dry Pack Cans in Midland

2009-08-17T05:45:00.000-07:00

My husband and I have half a pallet of #10 cans available to anyone who would like to use them. We have lids and oxygen packets as well. So, if you have something to can give us a call. We will sell them to you for the same price as the LDS cannery (and save you a trip to El Paso). Then take everything over to Sister Cathy Nelson's home and get things canned on the working canner!

Our phone: Bro. and Sis. Noall 432-686-0012

Water Barrel Sale

2009-07-10T06:43:00.000-07:00

The Emergency Essentials store has their water barrels on sale. Check it out here.

Food Storage Items at Costco

2009-07-09T10:08:00.000-07:00

If you happen to know someone with a Costco Card you could have them pick up some food storage items for you. The Costco in Mesa AZ is carrying the following items, they come in white five gallon storage buckets:

Lehi Roller Mills hard white wheat 45 lbs. in a 5 gallon white bucket for $18.99

Morning Moos dry milk substitute makes 52 gallons in 5 gallon bucket for $57.99

Food for Health International Emergency Food Supply
200 adult size servings, varieties of foods,
freeze dried in five gallon bucket, 20 year shelf life for $69.99

Finding Extra Storage Space

2009-07-07T06:33:00.000-07:00

Sometimes finding a place to store your food storage can be a challenge. One place you might want to check is under your bed. You can use bed lifters or cinderblocks work pretty well, too. You only have to stub your toe once to remember they are there! A long bed skirt will hide everything. It's amazing how much you can stash in that space!!

Directions for Using the Canner

2009-07-02T06:50:00.000-07:00

Cathy Nelson put this information together for her ward- it's great info for anyone wanting to use the canner. The canner should be ready to go by mid July:

Canning Information

Please call me for an appointment at 638-2779. I will give you directions to my house at that time.

Please, park out front and go to the left (East) side of the house and walk around to the back. There is no gate. If you have a lot to unload/load, you may drive around to the garage, but will then need to park in the front. Please, do not park in the alley. If you are the only one working, you are welcome to park in the driveway.

You may NOT bring children under the age of 14, and then ONLY if they are helping you. These machines are very dangerous and I do not want your children to be injured. If you bring children, I will ask you to leave.

 Items to bring with you: scissors, box knife, cloths to wipe tops of cans or pouches.
 Sealing your year’s supply is not an exact science, so there is usually a bit left over, I encourage you to bring zipper-top bags to take it home.
 Since this is an outdoor activity, you will need to bring drinking water, or you are welcome to use the hose in the backyard.
 It is also nice to bring a washcloth or something to wipe your forehead and neck (it’s really hot).

If you are putting your food into cans, it will take you about 1 minute per can. Pouching takes a little less time. So you can plan on about 45-60 minutes to put up 40 – 60 pounds of food.

I will spend time training you how to use the machines. It is your responsibility to do the actual work. Fortunately, it’s easy, so I’m positive you can do it. If you don’t think that you can do it all alone, bring a friend to help you.

Checklist:

 Food items to be stored.
 Cans and lids, or pouches.
 Zipper-top bags.
 Water.
 Arrangements made for childcare.
 Directions.

Cathy Nelson
638-2779

Saving Pennies Adds Up

2009-06-30T03:03:00.000-07:00

Former General Relief Society President Barbara B. Smith stated:

Life is made up of small daily acts. Savings in food budgets come by pennies, not only by dollars. Clothing budgets are cut by mending—stitch by stitch, seam by seam. Houses are kept in good repair nail by nail. Provident homes come …by steady, small steps.

Pay Off Your Mortgage

2009-06-25T09:04:00.000-07:00

In the book, Standing for Something, pg. 87 President Hinckley shared the following example:

One man told me about a mortgage on his home that was drawing four percent interest. Financial consultants told him it was foolish to pay off that mortgage when it carried so low a rate of interest. But the first opportunity he had to acquire some means, he and his wife determined they would pay off the mortgage. He has been free of debt since that day- which I believe has contributed, over time, to his subsequent financial comfort and, more importantly, to a a sense of great personal freedom and peace of mind.

Refurbished Canner

2009-06-23T07:09:00.000-07:00

Our stake canner is being refurbished so now is a great time to organize a trip to the Bishop's Storehouse with your ward. The canner should be ready to go in August! Plan your trip and bring home your food items, oxygen packets and cans with lids. Then you'll be ready to go with a canner that is operating just like new!

To watch a video to learn how to correctly and easily use our canner click here. Scroll down on the page to the video screen and click on the arrow.

Did you know that you can reuse the cans? Yes! Once you have opened them and removed the product just clean them and run them through the cutting portion of our canner. This removes the old used rim and creates a new one. Now you are ready to fill up the can and seal it again!

LDS Radio

2009-06-18T05:36:00.000-07:00

Many years ago there was a church radio station you could listen to if you purchased a special radio. I have fond memories of my mom listening to various conference talks, beautiful music, etc. as she worked in the kitchen. Now everyone can listen to the church's official radio station. Just click here.
Then click on the yellow box in the right hand corner that says, "listen now".

Milk for the cupboard

2009-06-16T05:18:00.000-07:00

Sister Penny Brown from Midland 2nd Ward found milk in a box in the baking isle at HEB near the canned milk. I don't have the exact product name- sorry. She said that she couldn't tell any difference from fresh milk when conducting her own mini taste test. Her family said they could detect a slight difference but they liked it far better than powdered milk!

Sister Brown mentioned that it only has a shelf life of about six months. So, you'd have to be dilligent about rotating this. Because of the short shelf life I wouldn't store it instead of powdered milk but it might be nice to have it as an extra in your three month food supply.

Penny said, "[This milk] would really be perfect for cooking if not for drinking. Requires no refrigeration until opened; but does have to be refrigerated after opening. It comes in whole milk and 2%."

Thanks for sharing Penny!

Frugal Blogs

2009-06-11T08:43:00.000-07:00

Here is a link to a site called Frugal Dad. He links to his 50 favorite frugal blogs. These are blogs that encourage living within in a budget, being happy with what you have and stretching a dollar.

I don't have time to read everything there is out there about living frugally. So, if you come across something objectionable or contrary to gospel teachings please let me know! But from the sites I have visited there is a huge community of people that have realized the wonderful peace and joy that comes from well managed finances. The ideas and positive experiences that these people share are motivating!

Inspirational Talk

2009-06-09T10:34:00.000-07:00

The May 2009 Conference issue has so many talks that can be applied to provident living. One of my favorites is from Elder Hales. It is entitled "Becoming Provident Providers Temporally and Spiritually".

Wow, so much good stuff. He stated:

All of us are responsible to provide for ourselves and our families in both temporal and spiritual ways. To provide providently, we must practice the principles of provident living: joyfully living within our means, being content with what we have, avoiding excessive debt, and diligently saving and preparing for rainy-day emergencies. When we live providently, we can provide for ourselves and our families and also follow the Savior’s example to serve and bless others.

Then he teaches us how to follow this counsel. I hope you'll be inspired by his timely counsel. I was :o)

Discount at Honeyville Grain

2009-06-04T19:35:00.000-07:00

I received an email from Honeyville Grain with the following information:

10% OFF YOUR ENTIRE ORDER* from Thursday, June 4, 2009 thru Tuesday, June 9, 2009 at 6:00PM PST. Simply enter the coupon code PREPARE09 during checkout. Act now! Take a look at the WHAT'S NEW category for all of the great new items that we're rolling out including Freeze Dried Blackberries, Hard Red and White Wheat in the can, and our new line of Puddings.

Shipping is only $4.99 no matter how much you order.

How to make a portable toilet

2009-06-02T04:58:00.000-07:00

I found a new website that mentions several, not-often-thought-of items that we need in order to be prepared in an emergency.

I decided to share the link because they mention several items that would be good to have on hand and a variety of places to shop for them. The link is to We Shall not Fear

And yes, they have everything from water purifiers to information on how to make a portable toilet.

Food Storage Shelf Life

2009-05-22T12:40:00.000-07:00

Sister Norma Wren shared the following article from Emergency Essentials with us:

The question is regularly asked, “What is the shelf life of my food storage?”

First, it is important to first identify what is meant by “food storage” and “shelf life.” “Food storage” that is intended to be held long-term is generally considered to be low moisture food packed in either #10 cans or in metalized bags placed within large buckets.

“Shelf life” can be defined in the following two ways:
“Best if used by” shelf life - Length of time food retains most of its original taste and nutrition.
“Life sustaining” shelf life - Length of time food preserves life, without becoming inedible.

There can be a wide time gap between these two definitions. For example, most foods available in the grocery store that are dated have a “Best if used by” date that ranges from a few weeks to a few years. On the other hand, scientific studies have determined that when properly stored, powdered milk has a “Life sustaining” shelf life of 20 years. That is, the stored powdered milk may not taste as good as fresh powdered milk, but it is still edible.

Second, understand food constituents. Food is composed of the following:

Calories: A unit of measurement of energy derived from fats, carbohydrates and protein.
Fats: A wide group of compounds that are generally soluble in organic solvents and largely insoluble in water.
Carbohydrates: Simple sugars as well as larger molecules including starch and dietary fiber.
Proteins: Large organic compounds that are essential to living organisms.
Vitamins: A nutrient required for essential metabolic reactions in a living organism.
Minerals: The chemical elements required by living organisms, other than carbon, hydrogen, nitrogen, and oxygen.

Minerals and carbohydrates do not change much during storage. But proteins can denature and deteriorate in quality. Fats can acquire off odors and off flavors known as rancidity. Vitamins are susceptible to destruction by heat, light, and oxidation. Importantly, even if some components deteriorate, the fat, carbohydrates and proteins still contribute calories. To prevent starvation, the most important component is calories.

Third, recognize that the shelf life is extremely dependent on the following storage conditions:

Temperature: Excessive temperature is damaging to food storage. With increased temperature, proteins breakdown and some vitamins will be destroyed. The color, flavor and odor of some products may also be affected. To enhance shelf life, store food at room temperature or below; never store food in an attic or garage.

Moisture: Excessive moisture can result in product deterioration and spoilage by creating an environment in which microorganisms may grow and chemical reactions can take place.

Oxygen: The oxygen in air can have deteriorative effects on fats, food colors, vitamins, flavors, and other food constituents. It can cause conditions that will enhance the growth of microorganisms.

Light: The exposure of foods to light can result in the deterioration of specific food constituents, such as fats, proteins, and vitamins, resulting in discoloration, off-flavors, and vitamin loss.

EXAMPLES OF SHELF LIFE
Recent scientific studies on dehydrated food have shown that food stored properly can last for a much longer period of time than previously thought. This research determined the “life sustaining” shelf life to be the following:

Wheat, White Rice, and Corn 30 years or more
Pinto Beans, Apple Slices, Macaroni 30 years
Rolled Oats, and Potato Flakes 30 years
Powdered Milk 20 years

Freeze-dried food is also excellent for long-term food storage. Mountain House® has tested some of their freeze-dried foods and the results were excellent! Because of this research, they have a “best if used by” shelf life of 25 years. As an added benefit, freeze-drying fruits, vegetables and meats help maintain the foods original shape, color and taste.

CONCLUSION
Emergency Essentials has taken every effort to pack quality dehydrated and freeze-dried foods in #10 cans and Super-pail buckets, all with most of the oxygen removed. It is important for you to keep food stored at as cool and steady a temperature as possible (below 75 degrees but not freezing). This is the best and most important thing individuals can do to keep their long term food viable. If done, your storage could last 20-30+ years, depending on the product, storage conditions, and definition of “shelf life.”

70% Off on Clarks Shoes

2009-05-22T10:10:00.000-07:00

Pinching Your Pennies just sent me the info that Clarks shoes are on sale at 6pm.com They are 70% off with $7 shipping. They had lots of sizes and a large selection when I looked. Good luck.

Posting Break

2009-05-13T14:02:00.001-07:00

Hi, I'll be leaving for my son-in-law's University of AZ graduation. So, no posts for a week or two... be back in a while.

Easy Gardening

2009-05-12T06:05:00.000-07:00

If you are short on space or prefer not to spend your time weeding you might want to try square foot gardening. To learn how to do it click here.

The soil mix Mr. Bartholomew recommends is 1/3 compost, 1/3 peat moss and 1/3 course vermiculite.

Another well known gardening tip is to plant scented marigolds all through your garden as they are known to repel insects. Happy planting!

Sugar

2009-05-09T06:13:00.000-07:00

The Albertson's in Midland has sugar for 99 cents a bag this week. Now would be a great time to pick up a few extra bags for your food storage!

Sugar is easy to store. You don't need an oxygen packet and most pests will not eat sugar. You can keep it in the bags the sugar comes in for your three month supply. Just make sure it is stored inside in a dry place.

Inspirational Quote

2009-05-07T07:05:00.000-07:00

President Monson said:

Many more people could ride out the storm-tossed waves in their economic lives if they had their year's supply of food.... and were debt-free. Today we find that many have followed this counsel in reverse: they have at least a year's supply of debt and are food-free.'

Inspirational Quote

2009-05-05T06:57:00.000-07:00

President Hinckley stated:

We can begin ever so modestly. We can begin with a one week's food supply and gradually build it to a month, and then to three months. I am speaking now of food to cover basic needs. As all of you recognize, this counsel not new. But I fear that so many feel that a long-term food supply is so far beyond their reach that they make no effort at all.

Begin in a small way... and gradually build toward a reasonable objective.

Plant a Row for the Hungry

2009-04-30T06:46:00.000-07:00

The Garden Writers Association of America started a campaign called, "Plant a Row for the Hungry". For more information click here The idea is for each gardener to plant an extra row of vegetables and then to donate that to a soup kitchen or community feed the poor resource. I was not able to find a specific drop off point for this program in our area, but it's a great idea! I would imagine that just about any organization of this type would welcome fresh vegetables.

Why not grow an extra row of food and find someone to share it with?

Using Your Food Storage Recipes

2009-04-28T05:10:00.000-07:00

Sister Brooke Snow from Midland 2nd ward shared the following recipes. They look wonderful!

SPLIT PEA SOUP

1 pound (2 1/4 cups) dried split peas
2 quarts boiling water
2 tsp. garlic salt
2 chicken bouillon cubes (optional, I don't often use this)
2 carrots, sliced
2 stalks celery, sliced
1 ham hock or 1/2 - 1 cup cooked, sliced ham (optional, but I use this every time)

Mix all ingredients in large pot, bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until peas are tender.

LENTIL SOUP

1 pound (2 1/4 cups) dried lentils
2 quarts water
1/4 cup dried onion
1 tbsp. garlic salt
2 smoked sausages, sliced

Mix all ingredients in large pot, bring to boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour or until peas are tender.

PUMPKIN CHOCOLATE CHIP COOKIES
1 yellow cake mix
1 spice cake mix
1 (29 oz.) can pumpkin
1 (12 oz.) package chocolate chips

Mix together all ingredients, bake in 350° preheated oven for 8 - 10 minutes.

BLACK BEANS AND RICE

2 (15 oz) cans black beans (or use the equivalent of already prepared dried black beans, I make my own beans and then freeze them in baggies)
3 smoked sausages, sliced (or you can use crumbled sausage of your favorite flavor)
garlic powder and onion salt to taste

Serve over steamed white rice. (This is a traditional Brazilian dish from my Mom's mission)

WHOLE WHEAT BATTER BREAD (I've never made this, but it sounds easy and good)

1/2 cup brown sugar
2 tbsp. yeast
1/2 cup warm water
5 1/2 cups hot water
1/2 cup oil
1/2 cup sugar
2 tbsp. salt
12 or more cups whole wheat flour

Mix brown sugar, yeast, and warm water in a small bowl. Set aside. Put hot water, oil, sugar, salt, and 7 cups of flour in a large mixing bowl. Mix on medium speed. Add the yeast mixture and blend. increase speed and add 5 or more cups of flour gradually until batter begins to pull away from the sides of the bowl. Pour into four greased 9 x 5-inch bread pans. Let rise one hour or until doubled in volume. Bake at 350° for 30-35 minutes. Remove from pans and allow to cool before slicing.

Green Thumb

2009-04-23T05:35:00.000-07:00

What color is your thumb? Not green. Mine isn't either. But you can get some great gardening tips here at lds.org.

Chance to Win a Wheat Grinder

2009-04-21T05:05:00.000-07:00

If you would like a chance to win a Wondermill wheat grinder (I love mine). Click here and follow the instructions. Good Luck!

Taco Meat With Wheat

2009-04-21T05:02:00.000-07:00

Vera Howell graciously shared this YUMMY recipe. Using wheat makes the dish healthier and you save money on meat so it's budget friendly too.

Taco Meat With Wheat
Bring to a boil 1 cup of wheat in 3 cups water, then simmer for approximately 40 min.- until wheat is tender and the water has been absorbed.

Brown 1 1/2 lbs. of hamburger
with chopped onion,
chopped bell pepper,
and 1 diced potato (optional).

Drain fat and add 1 cup of the cooked wheat and 1 pkg. taco seasoning mix with about 1 cup of water. Stir until mixed well and water is absorbed.

Serve as taco filling. Top with lettuce, tomatoes, and cheese.
Or serve as a "Nacho grande"- put meat filling on top of tortilla chips and top with meat filling,refried beans, lettuce, tomatoes, cheese, avocados, (what ever your favorite topping is), etc.

Raised Bed Gardening

2009-04-16T13:20:00.000-07:00

A great way to save money on food is to grow your own. It tastes better too. I prefer a raised bed garden because I think that they are easier to weed. My favorite is one made with four railroad ties placed in a square and filled with good quality soil. However, if you prefer here is the information on how to build your own.

Make Your Own Soap

2009-04-14T13:20:00.000-07:00

Have you ever thought of making your own soap? There are several websites that will show you how. Do be very careful if you choose to use a recipe with Lye. It can be dangerous. Look out beautiful these soaps turned out! Wouldn't they make nice gifts? This is a fun site with lots of frugal ideas including how to make your own cleaners- even laundry detergent. Click here.

Please don't forget to mark you calendar for the blood drive at the Tarleton Building in Midland on April 16. Call Audra, 661-7797, to schedule a time.

Easy Menu Planning

2009-04-09T05:01:00.000-07:00

Tired of trying to decide what to make for dinner? I found a site that will plan a menu for you. It includes all of the recipes and a shopping list to take to the store with you. It's all for free!

Visit Simply Suppers and see if their menu could save you some time.

Please Be Careful

2009-04-06T04:54:00.000-07:00

Did you know that some things are not safe to store in the 10# cans and mylar bags?

At lds.org, provident living it states:

The pouches (and cans) can be used to store foods that are dry (about 10% moisture or less), shelf-stable, and low in oil content. Botulism poisoning may result if moist products are stored in oxygen reduced packaging. Visit
providentliving.org for specific product recommendations.

The site also states that storing the following products may put you at risk for botulism poisoning or are products that go rancid quickly: granola, nuts, brown sugar, etc. Click here. Then click on "dry products" for their list.