tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87002066761930998882024-03-13T09:40:55.672-07:00Homestead MomaThe real life experiences on a homestead with a family of 8. A Mom of six shares her living off the land trials, triumphs and how-to's all centered around her family, knowledge and homestead skills. Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.comBlogger50125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-52410844771877868942016-11-13T13:38:00.002-08:002016-11-13T13:43:36.637-08:00SHTF or Natural - Homestead Wound Care....Part 1Well it's been really busy for us this last month. Having a farm and a business has been a blessing but also brings on lots of experiences to deal with. I haven't written much new lately and have actually been trying to get out few more videos so many of you can see how we really do things. Here is the latest real life disaster we had to deal with and how we handle wound care naturally if we cannot get to a vet. It may be of interest to those of you who are looking to treat wounds in a survival situation, naturally or on the homestead. Here's how we really roll in the country! The latest video link is here <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gb5pQ6x6fIg&t=4s">SHTF - Natural Wound Care...could save a life Part 1</a>.<br />
Hope you found these things helpful!<br />
MelisaHomestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-20725814525863869032016-10-01T14:30:00.000-07:002016-10-01T16:47:16.850-07:00Ways To Take Care Of Your Animals If SHTF We are a family living off the land and when it comes to our animals we try to do most things ourselves. If we cannot do what needs to be done, we do have a vet. However we can do most things ourselves and vets are VERY costly in the country, especially if they must drive to your home or farm. The animals best interests come first and foremost, but there are a lot of things people can do to care for their pets when/if shtf by learning from farmers or homesteaders. Here is how we care for our pets and large animals using mostly natural items. I write this as we are nursing a new stray kitty back to health. This little one was found in the tree when doing morning chores and my little girls took it in. Now it's flea free and rid of the eye infection it came with as well. The cost was little to nothing as I keep all the items on hand for just in case purposes anyway. <br />
1- First we will cover pests. The majority of pests can be dealt with by using a few simple and natural bought items. Most pests such as fleas, ticks, mites, scabies and mange can be killed easily by using Listerine or any mouth wash with the basic ingredients as Listerine which are Eucalyptol, Menthol, and Thymol. I bought some yesterday (an cheaper brand) at Save A Lot for $1.99. As long as it has the three named ingredients it will work as well as the name brand. A very cost effective remedy that works even on super lice. Many essential oils will repel bugs but <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Thyme-Essential-Oil_p_180.html">Thyme essential</a> oil is the only one to my knowledge that can kill pests that is recorded and proven. So to make the mixture, add a few drops of <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Thyme-Essential-Oil_p_180.html">Thyme essential oil</a> to the mouthwash and you have a very potent bug killer that will NOT harm your animals. It can even be used on puppies and kittens without any side effects or harm. Try not to get into the eyes. Pictures below of how we made and used this on the new kitten. These things I'm giving to you work and work well. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gAPtsdp03RI">I have a YouTube link here for more ideas as well.</a> <br />
To use this safe, natural remedy simply soak animal's fur in this mixture after a good bath and let dry without any assistance. Don't rub off with a towel or use a hair dryer. Just let it dry on naturally. *Use this same recipe to make a spray for carpet, couches, rugs, bedding, pillows and other cloth surfaces that aren't easy to wash or clean. Just put into spray bottle and go right ahead and spray. Cloth surfaces hold bugs longer than hard and they must be treated as well. <br />
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For any and all animals with external pests, pour or spray on your animals very liberally and avoid eye area. If it gets in eyes, wipe with cooking oil to remove burn from essential oil. Be sure and massage in very well. </div>
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Below, we even dip paws.</div>
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For lice or mites in chickens or dogs, the mouthwash with added Thyme is simply awesome to keep fowl healthy and pest free. Works much better than DE ever did for me. Spray directly on fowl and especially their legs. Also free ranging your birds will help to promote less pests. *Spray animals dwellings with this mixture as well. </div>
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Another amazing pest killer for animals or people is <a href="http://www.naturalginesis.com/kleen-green/">Kleen Green Naturally Enzymes. </a> Works very well on many bugs such as scabies, lice, mange on animals, bedbugs, any other mites and so forth. It is made of a natural yeast that breaks down the exoskeleton of the pests. This is a product I NEVER will be without, after a trip to the laundry mat 10yrs ago left our family with a scabies infestation. YUCK! Even the meds the doctor gave us didn't help, but this stuff did the trick in days! I covered the house with it and did the laundry with it as well. It's totally safe. I will also NEVER go to a laundry mat again after that. Learning how to do clothes by hand has also been a great blessing when the washer goes out. </div>
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2- Next is disease. The next 'must have' is a natural antibiotic known as <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/AJs-IonicColloidal-Silver-_p_183.html">Ionic Colloidal Silver</a>. This particular type is made with reverse polarity ionization by a maker we know and trust. Colloidal Silver is invaluable to animals (or people) and can help an infection clear up in days. During a shtf situation you could very well need an antibiotic for your family or pets and be unable to get one. It is ingestible and made in distilled water, so there is no taste what so ever. You can pour into animals water and they will never know they are consuming it. This very strong natural antibiotic is a must. Using on topical wounds or an infected eye (such as pink eye) can be very easy to do since it doesn't sting or burn. I sprayed this directly into the stray cat's eye with almost no resistance. Of course it could be used for people too. I am a going to show you pictures of our kittens eye only 1 day (24hrs) from the time we began spraying him. </div>
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Look below at the eye on your left, we had just wiped out the pussy junk, but it is still dull and slightly has junk in the corner. I should have left the pussy stuff, but didn't think about writing the article/post until afterward. However, you can see it is quite dull and swollen. </div>
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We sprayed it about 5 times within a 24 hr period. </div>
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Infection healed in a day. No problem. Below is eye after the 5 sprays. Both eyes are clean and clear. </div>
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3- Now let's talk about diseases. I cannot recommend <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Litsea-Cubeba-Essential-Oil-May-Chang_p_121.html">Litsea Cubeba</a> or <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Tea-Tree-Essential-Oil_p_122.html">Tea Tree</a> essential oils enough. For fungus: I have the Mississippi State Extension Agent for Union Co, MS as a customer of ours. She has show cows and swears by our <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Tea-Tree-Essential-Oil_p_122.html">Tea Tree</a> oil on her cows for fungus and ringworm issues. Knocks it out in a matter of days. Once she was under the gun before a show and needed to get rid of the ring worm quickly. She turned to the essential oil and was very surprised to see how quickly it worked. Do you have an animal with extremely itchy skin? It is probably a fungus that has taken up residence under the skin. Give Tea Tree a try and watch it fade quickly. The taste of the oil will also keep the dog/cat from licking the area and making it worse. Vinegar is another option for skin fungus. Healthy animals also need to be outside pets, not cooped up inside. God made them to need the fresh air and sunshine just like people. </div>
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For any viral issues (and most poultry illneses are viral) with your poultry or none rumen animals, the <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Litsea-Cubeba-Essential-Oil-May-Chang_p_121.html">Litsea Cubeba</a> will stop things like bird flu, Cocci, and other respiratory issues in no time. Simply drop into water and watch the disease stop. *Also pray animals dwelling with Litsea and Witch Hazel for cleaning virus from surfaces and air. No need to wipe. Do this once a day for two or three days and you're good. I hope these ideas give you some helpful ways to treat your animals if you ever cannot get to a vet or want to use natural remedies as well. </div>
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Melisa</div>
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Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-9380974461256788892016-09-23T14:33:00.001-07:002016-09-24T03:47:10.209-07:00Wild Foods, Why We Wild Harvest and Our Beauty Berry Jelly Recipe<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I cannot wait to get outside in late summer and fall months to gather all the things God has laid at our feet to use. We often wild harvest, not because we have to but because we want to! At least I do anyway. As well as growing a garden, our wild harvesting is another way to help feed the family healthy food for little to nothing. It's also a great way to get exercise and teach my children about the wild world around them. And it's so much fun to be outside with my little people, talking about the different ways God blesses our path. We discuss how sweating is good for our bodies, how the vitamin D we get from sunshine will be used in our bodies for calcium and which wild foods are ready next and where to find them. One reason the current generations know nothing about self sufficiency is because no one is teaching them. Ok parents, have you kept your kids from ever having to get dirty and then want them to go on a wilderness trip, just to hear them cry about how hot and sticky they are? How about bugs, dirt and worms? Yes, now is the time for a wake up call if you are not introducing them to the outside world and all it has to offer your family. Getting your bodies acclimated to the weather, being acquainted with the surroundings and knowing what foods are available are a need you may wish you have paid attention to if times get harder. I try to keep it pretty simple when teaching my kids but we are all sweating, learning and working together and that's the fun of it. Not to mention how much free food we are able to put up when others are forced to pay for it through grocery store lines. You can learn how also, and now is a great time to get started. Check out our YouTube channel for more ideas. Simply click the image labeled Our YouTube Channel, to the left of the screen when you finish reading here. It will take you straight to more free ideas on how to find herbs and plants in the wild and has some of my personal tried and true gardening tips. <br />
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Have you seen this plant near you? If so, you also have access to free food!<br />
Harvesting foods from our garden and from the wild definitely makes a huge dent in our large grocery bill, but these are skills that take persistence to cultivate. Our house is full of folks (think <em>Eight is Enough</em>) but we certainly don't lack for anything, especially food. Wild harvesting is a wonderful way we spend time together and put back for winter. You too might want to start thinking very seriously about what (if anything) you have available to wild harvest if or when hard times hit you. Not all foods come in at the same time, do you know when each thing is ready? It's a real skill and takes years to learn. Somethings cannot be eaten mature, while others can. You need to be aware of these things BEFORE a hard situation hits you. Costs for foods rise no matter what. Start now so you can help your family save money. I've been wild harvesting seriously for about 12 years and I'm still learning more each time. When you aren't tied to a system that requires money changing hands, it is total food freedom. Not only is wild harvested food free of any pesticides, herbicides and other chemicals, it's totally free except your time and a little work. I cannot think of a better way to spend my time with my children, than teaching them in a hands on way of an awesome Creator and how He provides for them. When your food is free given by God why would you turn your nose up to be dependent on others (like stores) for what you already have ?!?! I for one, cannot express the joy I have seeing my children and I learn to harvest from the wild while at the same time we get to also enjoy putting up the fruits of our labor - literally. <br />
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Our find for this week is Beauty Berries. It is a beautiful purple fruit that grows in shady areas and forests across the country and is a bush of tall stalks. Berries are found in clumps on each stalk at every leaf section. Stalks reach 4 to 6ft tall. Often mistaken for a poisonous food, it is not. It's highly nutritious and makes a great jelly. It doesn't have a lot of flavor, but the essential oils I add in the recipe give it just enough tang to enhance it, kill any grassy flavor and make it into a really yummy jelly. <br />
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Here is the recipe:</div>
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<strong>Beauty Berry Jelly</strong> </div>
10 cups berries covered with 10 cups water, ( you can do more if you would like but use equal parts)bring all to a rolling boil for 10 minutes. Mash with a potato masher as it boils and after boiling to infuse water with berry juices. Let sit for about 20min. Strain off busted berries and this will render about 6 cups of juice. Use 3cups of this juice per batch of jelly. You can double the jelly recipe but do not enlarge any more than that or it will not set up. <br />
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For each batch of Beauty Berry Jelly, pour 3 cups juice into stock pot and add the following ingredients. <br />
2 Cups Organic Sugar<br />
One box of Low Sugar Pectin Sure-Gel (Pink Box)<br />
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2 Drops <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Bergamot-Essential-Oil_p_156.html">Bergamot Essential Oil</a><br />
3 Drops <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Orange-Sweet-Essential-Oil_p_125.html">Sweet Orange Essential Oil</a><br />
*The citrus essential oils will cut grassy taste commonly associated with wild berries and their products. Use in any wild berry recipe to get out the grassy taste. <br />
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I am a dumper and dump all above ingredients into stock pot. Bring all to a rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, it takes a while to get to this point. Once it is at this hard boil, then set a timer for 3 minutes. If you double recipe, you need to boil hard for 4 minutes. Once time is up, pour into your cleaned jars. Cap off with clean lids and turn jars upside down on counter for 10 to 15 minutes.</div>
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Turn to upright position after about 15 minutes and viola. Wild beauty berry jelly is some of the prettiest jelly you have ever seen. It is magenta in color and absolutely stunning. </div>
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I hope if you make some, you will let me know how it turned out. Happy hunting for your wild foods! I hope you found this helpful. Melisa</div>
Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-4247229682546748322016-09-17T17:49:00.001-07:002016-09-19T12:18:41.444-07:00Two Highly Useful Essential Oils For A Pandemic!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I have researched and used essential oils in home and business for almost two decades. This information is not coming second hand, but with experience. In the event of a national epidemic or pandemic, here are two highly useful oils you might want to have on hand. *Keep in mind MOST diseases that cause epidemics or pandemics are viral in form - from Zika Virus to Swine Flu. Although we have many antibiotics available there are not many anti-viral products. That's where essential oils can really be of some use to you and your loved ones. I am giving you combined years of research and am not quoting from just one source for my information. I highly recommend getting <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/The-Illustrated-Encyclopedia-of-Essential-Oils-_p_182.html">"The Illustrated Encyclopedia of Essential Oils" by Julia Lawless</a> if you want to further your understanding of essential oils, how they are made, their principal constituents and main actions on the body. It gives detailed pictures, safety data, processing and even how each oil has been traditionally used. It's the best place to start, in my opinion. *Not all experts agree on every aspect of safety and some further research on your own is needed to understand each oil you use and their concerns. Some recommend not ingesting, while others are advocates of it. If your oils are tested and proven pure, it's then up to you to do the research and find what you are comfortable with doing. Many oils are not to be ingested by pregnant women or epileptics. There are some oils, even if 100% pure, that should not ever be ingested. Ravintsara is one example. It is toxic to ingest. So do your own homework and know your oils and the safety recommendations of each. Here are two highly useful oils, though often overlooked, I recommend for a pandemic and why.<br />
1- <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Litsea-Cubeba-Essential-Oil-May-Chang_p_121.html">Litsea Cubeba Essential Oil.</a> It is one of the highest quality anti-viral essential oils and has been shown effective at killing viruses such as flu, common cold, reducing cancer cells in the lungs and shown to aid in all respiratory issues from asthma to tuberculosis. This oil has also been proven effective at removing warts, calming nervousness, aiding in digestion and an awesome oil for sanitation purposes. I personally use it to clean animal dwellings such as a chicken coop or dog kennel. <br />
*To make your own house cleaning spray simply add a few drops of Litsea Cubeba to 16oz of Witch Hazel. Then spray any surface, soft or hard. You can use in the kitchen and in the coop. When a sickness is coming through, make sure you spray the couches, curtains, shower curtains, and bedding. Put a few drops into the wash for sanitizing the laundry items. <br />
The fruits are shaped like small peppers and very citrus like in taste. The plant is native to India, China and Taiwan. The oil is also used in traditional Chinese medicine for pain, chills, headaches, travel sickness and even cardiac arrhythmia. The germ fighting power is in the fact it contains 'citral' as it's principal constituent, up to 85%. This one oil is probably the most overlooked gem in the cold and flu season.<br />
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2- <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Thyme-Essential-Oil_p_180.html">Thyme Essential Oil.</a> One of the earliest medicinal plants recorded. This oil boasts application in many areas. Some listed are acne, respiratory, disease prevention, dermatitis, body lice (scabies), head lice and internal pests. <a href="http://homesteadmoma.blogspot.com/2016/08/the-only-thing-youll-ever-need-for-lice.html">See my post here for the only remedy you'll ever need for lice.</a> Thyme is highly anti-viral, anti-bacterial and anti-septic. The 'thymol' is it's principal constituent and is used today in most mouth washes. The original Lysterine mouth wash was created with Thyme essential oil for it's ability to kill germs and the bacteria that causes bad breath. Thyme oil is recorded as being effective for use on stress related illnesses, asthma, rheumatism, sore throat, chills, colds, flu and other infectious diseases. As recorded in the British Pharmacopoeia, Thyme essential oil is indicated for use with dyspepsia, chronic gastritis, bronchitis, pertussis, asthma and tonsillitis. It is one of the main ingredient for our <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Sore-Throat-Spray_p_181.html">Sore Throat Spray</a> for it's highly effective germ killing abilities. *As mentioned above, to make any household disinfectant simply add a few drops of essential oil into 16oz of Witch Hazel and spray any surface. <br />
A real plus for Thyme is it's both a germ fighter and a pest killer. It is known that disease and pests are birds of a feather and usually flock together. This amazing oil has been reported to kill both internal and external pests effortlessly. A few drops in a carrier oil and rubbed into the skin or head of a person with lice or body lice could be very helpful to kill the pests. Put a few drops in shampoo and conditioner is another way to get the oil through out the scalp. A bath with a few drops Thyme oil could help animals with mange or people dealing with body or head lice. A spray on a bed with bedbugs could kill and repel them as well as mites and other bugs. <br />
*Thyme should not be ingested by pregnant women. When using any essential oil internally make sure it is diluted and of a food grade that has passed Gas Chromotography testing for 100% purity. This is the only way to tell if an oils is truly pure and uncut. I hope you found this to be helpful. <br />
MelisaHomestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-52218394364884462142016-09-05T23:00:00.002-07:002016-09-06T09:07:02.949-07:00"City Can't Pay it's Bills", typical American headline. Election is just 'changing of the guard' on the Titanic.<div class="defaultFont">
* Washington Post article is linked below and is one of many reasons for writing this. I hope it sinks in. Here is what was in the Costco flyer for September. <br />
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Any questions?!?! Yeah, Mountain House is at Costco! Things that make you go hmmm....<br />
If your still in denial about the direction of our economy, I just cannot do much more for you. Roll over, close your eyes and go back to sleep.<br />
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As more and more cities go bankrupt, I am so thankful we heeded the warning signs when we did. I have tried with all my might to offer help to those interested and even homesteader classes. No one is willing to get dirty or sweat. The article I list below is exactly why we were willing to leave the convenient life in the city, for the hard and dirty life of the country. We now enjoy the freedom to let our kids run barefoot because it's a choice, not because the money isn't there. Very shortly those people who refuse to leave their city life behind will no longer have that choice. Children will be running around barefoot due to a lack of money and guts on the part of the parents to build a sustainable life for their children in the country while they had the chance. Food that could be grown with a little hard work, will not be anywhere in sight. Eventually that bloated city money will stop and you will wish you had been willing to work for you food or move and drive a little farther but didn't because it wasn't convenient. And hasn't it struck you as odd that Costco is selling preps and other survival supplies? What do they know that you will not admit? Ship is going down folks and this election is just the 'changing of the guard' on the Titanic. Stop sending the GOP your money and buy a small farm house and get busy. Rent a fixer upper on the edge of a small community and commute to work. There are tons of little old houses in rural communities that rent for pennies on the dollar. You can do something to put your family into a better place. But get growing you some food now before seeds are being rationed as well as water. It happens every time folks, read history. I've heard every excuse out there, but your starving kids won't understand!</div>
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Here is a typical head line for America. “City Can’t Pay It’s Bills, Making Major Cut Backs.” <br />
Well, ya don't say?!?! How many times will the people who get up and still have a job overlook that it is only a matter of time before it’s their turn to loose it. I heard it said this way, “A recession is when your neighbor looses his job and a depression is when you loose yours.” Very well said. It’s not going to be enough for people to think only about food storage and how much prepping they can do from now to SHTF. You cannot store enough food to last your family several years! You people are going to have to realize that city life and easy money is based on a complete and total lie that is about to come crashing down. The city is a great way of life, but not sustainable for the long haul. One city after another is getting it’s hand dealt to it after waking up to the reality that NO ONE is too big to fail in the lower 99%. Those of us at the bottom of the food chain will have to totally find a way to fend for ourselves. No big banks care or will bail us out. So in the spirit of love, get yourself moving in a sustainable way before you loose everything! Can you live without power? Can you live on a 15ft x 15ft garden? Can you buy all the preps to feed yourself and family for about 5 yrs or until the economy turns around? I bet the answer to all of these are NO. If so, get the heck out of dodge and get busy on a homestead BEFORE it's too late and your stuck in a crash! </div>
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See very eye opening article here at this link, <a href="https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/virginia-politics/city-on-the-brink-petersburg-cant-pay-its-bills-and-time-is-running-out/2016/09/04/9327c962-6ef9-11e6-8533-6b0b0ded0253_story.html" target="_parent">https://www.washingtonpost.com/local/virginia-politics/city-on-the-brink-petersburg-cant-pay-its-bills-and-time-is-running-out/2016/09/04/9327c962-6ef9-11e6-8533-6b0b0ded0253_story.html</a> Yes, another American city is going to have to make cuts to all of it’s services such as fire, police, trash, museums, ball teams and even the education of it’s children. The Fire Dept actually had some equipment repossessed. And what they don't tell you is how the city taxes will have to go up just to maintain the 'about to die status'. But why? Because “pride cometh before destruction and a haughty spirit before the fall.” Yes America will fall on it’s face financially and if the people do not begin NOW to prepare a sustainable way to exist they will starve themselves to death. Disposable and hyped up on credit is how the majority of the American people have chosen to live and it’s coming home to roost. You cannot live off of lies and fake money before it makes the full circle and comes time to pay to the piper. Remember Detroit? I wish I could make the mass of you reading this see how it’s only a matter of time before you are the fireman or school teacher who gets the cut. Only another 6 months before you cannot pay the mortgage or car note. Why you do have a car note anyway? You should be forgoing credit and buying only what you can afford. But that's another soap box. What could it be, only a year or two before your trash services aren’t an option and you must be forced to burn or bury your trash? Burning isn’t an option for those in the city and if you cannot afford to dump it yourself, well you should now see how diseases can take over a community quickly. What about the foods you have stored? Well the guys that lost their jobs two years ago are waiting for you to make one wrong move and they will help you with that. Or maybe you're already thinking about a bug out location? It's not going to work long term. Especially with a soil that has never been tilled or worked. What will you do then? You need to seriously get your family unplugged and on the path to sustainability BEFORE it's too late. You need food foraging skills NOW. You need a wife that doesn't whine about her nails getting done and her new clothes so you can buy garden seeds and a good $500 tiller NOW. You need to stop taking them out to eat and start learning how to milk a goat or grow potatoes NOW. If you aren't getting my drift, you will be staring at a starving family in the face. It takes a bit of time to get all the pond to feel the ripples, but eventually ALL THE POND FEELS THE RIPPLES. </div>
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It's not about the amount of preps you have. That is also disposable. You need to return to the way of life that made this country great. At the turn of the 20th century the American population had about 90% of the entire population in farming. Now we have less than 1%. One question America, if you aren't willing to grow your own food and get a little sweaty or dirty, do you think when a crisis comes someone else is going to do that for you? Forget it, you will starve if you cannot start now figuring out how to homestead and use wild foods to get your family in a better position for the long term. We (my husband and I) both work and work the farm. We do it because it's a way of life that will be rewarding in the long run, not because it's easy. I cannot give anyone reading this a desire or wisdom but I can say, act now to avoid what is soon coming to a city near you. And remember, the bigger they are, the harder they fall. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe0fol-ad6ZoSxNj8ayRFng">I hope you will check out my youtube channel for homesteading tips, wild foraging, soap making and herbal remedies.</a> God put man in a garden to tend it and keep it. We left God and the land we were given, the consequences are about to be rendered. I hope you all find your way back to a love for Him and sustainable way of living, because it's the only thing that can truly feed you body and soul when you're hungry physically and spiritually and your preps have run out. I don't think you will like the results of ignorance. "If ignorance is bliss, why aren't more people happy?" TJ<br />
Melisa </div>
Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-50500268997175289182016-09-01T15:09:00.001-07:002016-09-13T18:59:31.901-07:00How to build the best bug out bag for large families - stop spending money on junk! Happy preparedness month! I would like to share with you my large family 'bob' and how to build your own. I have read many articles about camping bags, wilderness survival bags, bug out bags and so on. I have looked at so many and in my humble opinion most of them are a waste of money. I am a Mom of six and for all the bases I want to cover we cannot afford to waste what money we do have. I have my spin on the 'bug out bag' because I would need to rent a U-Haul to include everything we might need in a survival situation or intense camping trip. So for those of you who also have large families, I'm giving you the best options that I have found, showing you how to build your own or add to the one I think is the very best on the market. I hate wasting money on cheap crap, so I've searched the web and am sharing the best I have found/use for our family, so y'all will quit spending money on big band aids and other useless junk. *This is my honest, unbiased opinion and unpaid advice. It's not too hard to put together a great bag for many people, just requires a bit more thinking to make it work well. Pace your self financially and do one thing at a time if you need too. Buy things in steps so as not to over whelm or discourage yourself.<br />
To start with I would highly recommend looking at<a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00QV9MBUQ/ref=ox_sc_act_title_7?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A1E93RZ8T51FT9"> this one here, it's the best for the money</a>. Just think about who will carry what ahead of time, so you can lot items based on abilities. It's a big bag, so think ahead. Although I have a much larger family than four, it can easily be built on for camping or survival by adding a few more ration bars which run about $10), rain coats (which are around $1 at Walmart) and a few tooth brushes ($4). It comes with everything you would need to provide water, food, rain cover and shelter a four person group for 3 days. Add those extras mentioned for more people. It also has a fire starter, lighter, basic tent, water bottle, bandages, multipurpose tool and other items most kits leave out. I hate to see so many people buying bags that lack in those needed items. Essentially a lot of people are spending money on big band aid kits. When you're not getting much more than assorted size bandages, it's a waste of money in my book. I want diversity and to be able to address just about anything that may come up. *Whether you buy a kit, carry these things in your pocket or build your own bag, you must have these things in your 'bob'. <strong>These are the most important of all:</strong> knife and/or multi-tool, cord, cover for rain, emergency blanket for cold, light of some kind, water or small filter to drink from wild habitats, some food, basic first aid, a good compass and map. Most bags have to have the last two added in by you. Only you know where you're headed and it's your job to cover that. The one mentioned above has all thes but I want to have a bit more, like the ability to deal with bigger wounds and things of that nature. <br />
So on to the medical part. That bag also has a descent medical kit enclosed, but <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B003BS2PW4/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=AQK11O1HS2GGC">this basic medical trauma bag is great as well if your just looking for medical.</a> At a reasonable price of $19.99, it comes with a lot and is the best to start with, for the money. You do need a good suture kit to go in all your survival/camping/bug out bags! You can buy <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B014SRY5FG/ref=ox_sc_act_title_3?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=A3N51DZH4J1HV4">this one very inexpensively here.</a> With the suture kit, you will need clean utensils and <span id="goog_1762754372"></span><a href="https://www.blogger.com/">this pack here is good.<span id="goog_1762754373"></span></a> *I am NOT advising anyone to suture or perform any medical procedure themselves. This is for emergency use only, in the event a doctor/vet cannot be gotten to. <a href="http://www.backdoorsurvival.com/dealing-with-wounds-in-a-survival-situation/">This article by Dr. Joe Alton</a> is the very best one on emergency suturing I have ever read. It cuts to the important issues and gives you a short crash course on when to and when not to close a wound. *Don't forget clotting cloths or Alum powder (the canning kind). In the basic medical trauma bag mentioned above, the clotting cloths are included. You can buy them separately, but will run you $10 to $15 a piece. The basic medical trama bag not only covers bleeding but has a tourniquet kit and directions as well! *Bleeding will be intensive if it is a full moon and much less or a non issue during quarter moon. You should research that now, before it's needed. Moon phases effect the gravitational pull of things on earth. *Note* if you have the money to spend at once and want everything mentioned already and don't want to have to track down each individual item to put things in your kit or medical bag, <a href="http://store.doomandbloom.net/medical-and-dental-kits/grab-and-go-deluxetrauma-bag/">this one is compact and designed by a doctor.</a> It's on my list next. While your at it, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/161608278X/ref=ox_sc_act_title_4?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER">read this very important book BEFORE tragedy strikes or you find your self needing some basic medical knowledge. (Special Forces Med Book)</a><br />
Now that you have food, water, rain/shelter medical and heat covered, you will need to remember a few other things: a map of the area you are traveling in and a good compass <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001ID4ZY0/ref=ox_sc_act_title_5?ie=UTF8&psc=1&smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER">(this one is great for the price).</a> If you're traveling with little ones DO NOT FORGET TO PACK EXTRA DIAPERS, WIPES, AND TOILET PAPER! I always throw in underwear and pants for any toddlers that are with us. I always keep <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Super-Salve-Organic-herbal-salve-for-athletes-foot-bites-burns-cuts-scrapes-and-poison-ivy_p_111.html">this Super Salve</a> (a product we do make) in ours as kits/bags as well. It is great for any minor wounds, cuts, diaper rash, scrapes or burns. Leaves no scarring and help speed healing. From nasal wounds/polyps to rashes, it has always come in handy and could be used as a moisturizer in as well. For lighting, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001NTT45Y/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1">I choose this hybrid flash light here.</a> I read a review from a vet, who tested several and it got the top score. It works whether by solar or LED battery but every single time you turn it on, it works! The solar option is very strong and it's water resistant as well. For the price we bought a couple and it's brighter than any other lights we have (flash lights or head lamps).<br />
A few other needed items I have put into our kits are: an extra bar of soap and a wash cloth or two in a gallon size freezer bag (baby wipes run out fast and I want to wash up myself), an ACE bandage, saline to flush a deep wound of debris or aid in eye/ear/nose/throat care, super glue or Newskin (for shallow cuts), a topical pain killer such as Lidocaine or <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Clove-Bud-Essential-Oil_p_129.html">Clove essential oil</a>, a cleaning solution such as peroxide or iodine, and our <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Essential-7--Essential-Oil-Survival-Kit_p_178.html">Essential Oil Survival Kit</a>. The Essential 7 Kit comes neatly in a small pouch and will cover everything from bug repellent and upset stomach to basic first aid issues. Instructions are included. *Don't forget any back up meds that may be required for sustaining life such as heart meds, Epi-pen, Benadryl for allergies or inhaler for an asthmatic. If your doctor knows your traveling, he usually will write you an extra dose prescription for 'just in case'. You can also buy your own inexpensive backpack and a can of Scotchguard for making the bag water repellant. Spray the bag and make your own from these suggestions here. <br />
These things are essentially what I use/do and would advise anyone with a large family to look at when purchasing a bag or building their own for real life camping, travel or survival situations. I hope this is helpful for those of you who travel, camp or need a survival bag for a large family. For more on wild herbs/homesteading/gardening and the like, <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe0fol-ad6ZoSxNj8ayRFng">check out our Youtube channel at Homestead Moma.</a> <br />
MelisaHomestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-9271013509052337462016-08-30T08:05:00.003-07:002016-08-30T16:39:23.680-07:00How To Treat Your Poultry For Antibiotic Resistant Sinus Diseases & How The US Just Killed Homesteading & Small Farms<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is so much to say here, that I'm just going to drop my recent Youtube at the bottom, so you can see it for yourself. We are successfully treating our poultry for antibiotic resistance with natural remedies and antibiotics! The turkeys we are raising contracted it from
the feed. Once we removed the feed, no more turkeys got sick. Here is how we are treating them and how you can treat yours with inexpensive yet effective remedies. <br />
Also in the video I cover how we in the US, (the FDA actually) are going to put small farms and homesteading out
of business. We have less than 1% of our population in farming (most of those grow corn, soy and cotton) and we are just about to kill those homesteaders and animal farmers that are left with a regulation called the Veterinary Feed Directive. You need to look
at this closely. I explain in the video. Please like, share and subscribe if you are a homesteader, gardener or interested in learning more on these subjects! Yes, antibiotic resistance is real, but don't throw out the baby with the bath water. This video
shows how to treat a flock with a few inexpensive items. Then how this antibiotic resistance is being used as an excuse to KILL homesteading and small animal farms in the US. Corporate farms will still use antibiotics in there animals to grow them quickly,
because they keep vets on pay roll. Yet those who need medicine to keep their animals alive in a rare situation like ours here, will not be able to afford it. Please watch! You will feel the effects even if you don't fully understand the reasons. I firmly
believe a famine could possibly result from this regulation. Yes, big corporate farms will still be able to lace your food with antibiotics, while the little guy will NOT be able to afford them for life saving treatment. Also the blog post below entitled <a href="http://homesteadmoma.blogspot.com/2016/05/youre-staring-famine-in-face.html">"Your Staring Famine In The Face"</a> should help you understand the depth of where this will get us as a nation. <a href="https://youtu.be/Q0WUMWprz3o">https://youtu.be/Q0WUMWprz3o</a>Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-57611876850420455452016-08-25T08:41:00.002-07:002016-08-30T16:37:09.805-07:0010 Ways To Homestead & Survive In The City This is how I began homesteading in the suburbs right near a big city. This is where I got many of my skills way before we moved to the country to do it on a larger scale. I am so glad I didn't sit on my rump complaining about what I didn't have. My kids and I were totally able to embrace our current homestead because of the life style I gave them in the city. When I was growing up, my single Mother raised me with very few absolutes, but there was one thing that was absolutely NOT allowed. It was saying "I can't". If those words ever slipped from my mouth, my southern Mama would quickly give me this reply, "I can't, never could do nothing". Translated, it means that those people who say "I can't", will never do much of anything and will always look for an excuse to get out of doing what they can do. "At the very least", I was told, "you can always say, I will try". And in most cases, she was right, I could do whatever I put my mind to do. You can too. I took that lesson with me all through life, no matter the situations or places I've been, and it has been my #1 Homesteading or Survival Skill: sheer determination. Here are some things we did, not because we wanted to, but because our times call for it. I hope that they might be of help to you if you're homesteading or working on survival skills in the city or suburbs. I would like to say, that your ultimate survival is in God's hands and whether you live, die, sustain your family or are able to benefit others, all glory goes to Him. Make sure your spiritual survival kit isn't lacking before your earthly one.<br />
1. Snub convenience foods for a better, healthier way. By putting back healthy foods and learning how to cook them from scratch, you can be fine when others are in a total panic for what to do for the next meal. Seek out farmers or gardeners around you so you can begin learning how to can or freeze foods your family will eat/need in the winter or could survive on in a worst case scenario. Make friends with farmers, gardeners or the Amish. Ask to buy their leftovers or even ask to pick what they don't want to. Biblically it's called gleaning. Some farmers will offer you the ability to 'pick on the half'. This means they grow it, you pick it, and split the harvest with them. You each get half of what you've picked. This is a great way to get produce that you haven't put sweat equity or time and money into growing.<br />
When it comes to canning, my favorite canner is an <a href="https://www.amazon.com/s/ref=nb_sb_noss_2?url=search-alias%3Daps&field-keywords=All+American+Canner">All American Pressure Canner.</a> They have a few different sizes so you can choose the one that fits your budget or needs. Hands down the best canner ever. You can also find it at Shetler's Wholesale, I give the number below in #10. You can do a water bath and pressure canning in it. You can also do some cooking as well. I will also add here that teaching your self how to cook from scratch would be a very useful skill. *If you don't have the 'right' ingredients, right equipment or a recipe book, can you throw together something that is in your freezer? Or make something from leftovers, that the family will actually eat? Start teaching yourself scratch cooking because it will be needed in worst case scenario or on a farm when the store is 45minutes way and the natives are hungry. :)<br />
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These strawberries are a combination of ours and some that were bought as day old berries from a local farm. They made good jam. The tops were used to make wine!</div>
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2. Buy in bulk from growers, not the store. Also look for the day or two old stuff. Ask the folks at the farmers market if they have anything that you might be able to buy in bulk. An example is something like tomatoes that are a day or two old and will go bad. The farmers there will usually let these go for pennies on the dollar because they are just about to go rotten anyway. The picky population in our current society who want everything to look 'perfect' will snub their nose up at spots and such, but you can walk away with tons of produce this way. Some family owned supermarkets will do this for you as well, but the deals are not as good because they need to make a profit too.<br />
3. Learn how to sew, this is something that can be done inside your home without needing a ton of space or money. Ask friends and neighbors who may assist you if they know how. They may even be looking to get rid of a machine or extra material. Take a class near you and bring the kids, they would most likely love learning it too, if you have taught them that learning is a virtue not to be overlooked. Start with looking at the $1 rack of material at your local Walmart or craft stores. I hardly ever pay full price for material. If it isn't what I was looking for, I usually find a way to make it work anyway. My husband has worn many a patched pair of jeans to work. I've made my girls lots of dresses and we've saved hundreds if not more because of this simple skill. <br />
4. Learn how to make soap and teach at least one other member of the family in case you aren't able to do it. When we lived in the suburbs, I learned how to make soap for my children's skin problems. I also learned how to make it from scratch buy buying fat from a butcher and getting wood ashes from a friends wood stove. In a worst case scenario, we would have a very important bartering item, when everyone else's supply had run out in a few days or weeks. Knowing how to make soap will cover so many bases. You need soap for cleaning people, pets, washing dishes, washing clothes, cleaning house, shampoo, and it can even be used for brushing teeth when you cannot get tooth paste. Look for easy ways to get started, learning to do it with and without electricity. Our<a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Make-Your-Own-Survival--Homesteaders-Soap-Kit_p_110.html"> Survival & Homesteader's Soap Making Kit</a> has easy to follow instructions and all you need to make a batch of soap with or without the power being on. I'll be teaching this in a class in Gonzolas, LA (near Baton Rouge) March 4th-5th, 2017 at the National Prepper & Survivalits Expo. <br />
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5. Make do, do over or do without. Ha, this sounds cliché but it really is a skill that requires discipline. It's simply practicing self discipline. On a farm, there are usually BIG set backs that must be tended to and that much anticipated clothes shopping trip for fun, just flies right out the window when an animal gets sick or the tractor tire has to be replaced for $300. These types of things will break many people in their homesteading venture. On a bigger scale, it could cause some to lose it in a survival situation because of no self discipline, determination and willingness to do without. I've seen it happen in adults, who were never made to except they must do without for others, a greater good or other things more important than what they wanted at the time. Wavering the cost of being more self sufficient against clothes that can wait, be gotten at a thrift store or made yourself is not a even a compromise in my book. It's smart. I started making myself and my children watch our pennies and do without extras (wants) way before we moved to the country. This helped us stay out of financial trouble when other events were weighing down on us. We quit keeping up with the Jones'. We don't buy many new things and are willin' to make do with seconds so we can do other things with our hard earned money, like put up fencing for animals or buy seed for the pasture. The entire family benefits from these animals and therefore the entire family should understand the work to keep them safe, fed and in good health. This is big responsibility in action. Even if your children don't know it, you can explain it to them so they learn these things young. Give everyone in the family what they need, but wants are extras that take away from a greater good or the ability to be self sufficient. *Don't hand your children everything they ask for and have some dream that they will magically turn out to help with garden chores, if they've been plugged into a video game half the day. If you have TV, movies or video games in their face most of the time, you can hang it up. Teach them self discipline now and give rewards for it, like a date for thrift store shopping or a trip to the coffee shop. These little extras do make life sweet and won't kill your pocket book as well. <br />
6. Put up a clothes line. I know this seems like a simple thing, but it helps in many ways. Where we live, it is HOT and HUMID. I was raised hanging clothes on a line. Single Mom, dryer breaks, thank goodness there was a line out back. We had been using the small clothes line in the suburbs so it wasn't a new idea or hard to get used to on our homestead. This year, it made a big difference. I resolved to use it only and no dryer, unless it rained. Because our dryer puts out heat, that makes the AC work harder as well. It did indeed save us 20% on our electric bill to use the line as our only way to dry clothes. The dryer was only used as a back up. Wow, 20% is a lot of money to save and it adds up when it continues for several months during the summer. I'll be looking into putting up a good one on the inside this winter. <br />
7. Teach the kids gardening skills, how to use wild herb and where to find water. *You may not always be with them. Can they do it if they had to? Or will they say, "I can't?" Try things to make it an awesome experience. Even if you only have a few raised beds, you can get them involved. Let them pick some of the things to grow. Even if it bombs, so what. I started making a notebook of our gardening adventures. Each year we have a contest for the cover artwork. Some years it's colorful, sometimes in black and white. The winner gets to put their artwork in the cover pocket for that year's garden. It is a good way for us to turn a chore into fun. We log everything we grow in this three ring binder by cutting out the picture and description of each item from seed catalogs. Then we glue them to white sheets of paper that get slipped in to tabbed clear pockets. This way we know when an item is due to be ready and all other specifics about that crop. Get organic sprays that the kids can easily use without you worrying if it gets on them. <a href="http://homesteadmoma.blogspot.com/2016/06/natrual-homestead-pest-repellent-safe.html">Use my Safe Farm Spray recipe found here</a>. Grow the coolest things ever, for their benefit, not just what you want. I never ask, but usually say "So, what are you going to grow this year?" In this way my child just automatically knows they will be growing something and get excited about looking the seed catalogs over for the coolest tomato or squash that they can show off to others. It does make it fun. Below are some pictures of the binder from last year. <br />
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Also take them to the park, with a Peterson's Field Guide in hand. Go to a near by field or forest to identify useful herbs in a survival situation. If you weren't around, could they pick out the herbs and plants useful for food and medicine? Do they know where the good supply of native herbs are in relation to your home if needed for sustaining life? Can they get there without you? If they were kidnapped could they find there way around a forest or field near you? Do they know which direction moss grows? This sounds silly, but folks are walking off cliffs now a days, chasing cartoons. Simply put, it's your job to teach your kids these survival skills, not anyone else. Don't think your kids have learned anything from a one time a year camping trip. You have to live it, or it's not going to be natural for them. <br />
*Add a bit of situational awareness here: besides gardening, wild foods and herbs, make sure they know how to locate water (not in your own home) in your immediate area and how to clean it if needed. Do you store it, is there a pond or river near by, can they haul it without you? Ask them how they could get to it and bring it to the house if they needed to in a survival situation. Make them think outside the box. Critical thinking shouldn't only be done at school. Your unit, your responsibility. <br />
Below, the girls are wild herb pickin'; we do this with friends and as a family all year round. I can now send them out for something I need and they know what to get, how to properly gather it and where to find it. <br />
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8. Begin teaching team work now! Practice makes perfect. If times get hard where you are, is your family used to functioning like a well oiled machine? Are the kids 'go getters' or they type to complain and whine that things are hard? Will they drive you crazy and pitch a fit, or get in and help? If not, you need to unplug and get the family into a routine that allows for the entire group to work together. On the weekends, start working together in the garden, on projects around the house, raking leaves, cutting wood or even doing chores for neighbors. We took turns helping friends with farm work when we lived in the suburbs. We drove to other people's houses to milk their animals, pick vegetables, gather eggs and learn to can. We made it a point to do this together. The kids learned WITH US. We don't ask our kids to do anything we aren't willing to do ourselves. Likewise, we do expect them to do all that their age and physical abilities will allow. When you work together, the children will see the willingness of the parents and naturally learn to work with them. If doing as little as possible is your motto, it's there's too! "Monkey see, monkey do". That's another absolute from my Momma. When or if you have a rough time, survival scenario or are planning to move to the country, every imaginable and unimaginable catastrophe will happen. Do you all break under pressure or react in real time? You need to know now. Once we woke up to a cow face down on the ground inches from a water hole. She had caught her foot in her bridle and fell, nose to dirt, and was worming herself around, seconds from drowning. Because hubby and kids knew how to function as a team it saved her life. Another time my husband cut down a neighbors tree, it fell the wrong way and ended up across the road blocking traffic and tearing down a fence on the other side. Thank God our kids didn't even wait to be told what to do. They jumped in, elbow deep with the right equipment (tractor and chains) and knew how to help us at the right time. My husband had to stay in the road, with the tree and make sure no one came by and hit any debris and explain why the road was unable to be traveled. Although it was not a big deal situation, we were very pleased to see them react in a helpful way that 'got 'er done'. Your kids need to be able to be told what to do, but also they need to have enough life experience to understand the situation at hand and react in a manner that is going to get the job done well even without being told in some cases. If your kids aren't getting these experiences on a regular basis, don't expect them to be of any help in a bad case, life or death situation. Did you allow them to say "I can't"? Our did you give them the skills to be able say, "No Problem"? Remember, we reap what we sow. Kids aren't little robots, they are people who will have their own will, but the more encouragement, preparation and skills you give them, the more confidence you give them to handle the rough times with ease. <br />
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Another thing here on this topic of team work, is to get them practicing fire drills or if you live near a fault line have them know what to do in an earthquake. Have a day where you work together on doing laundry by hand. Stop going shopping on Saturday and plan a practice drill together. Our new washing machines always seem to break. Yes, even brand new and top of line and they cannot hold up. So, we've gotten plenty of practice in this area. </div>
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*A quick tip here, a good ringer helps get out all the water. <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Calliger-Clothing-Wringer-Laundry-Chamois/dp/B00OAPW6GM/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1472135420&sr=8-1&keywords=Clothes+Ringer">Ours is this one I found on Amazon</a>. It's worth every penny and does a great job. Doing clothes by hand makes for a very long, hard day, but it's also good team work. Will your family know how or complain if they ever need to do it for survival? Whether you live in the city or country you need to be practicing the idea of team work and how to 'move' together in an "Oh, Sh*t" kinda situation. Quit blowing money on take out food and take a CPR course as a family. Look up how to do it on youtube if money is a problem. I put my oldest through a suturing class, just in case she is ever in a situation that requires it. Then she came home and showed me how. Visit the park and practice with the family dog locating a hidden child. I did this many times to see if our kids got abducted or lost in the woods, could the dog be a helpful member of the team and find our child? He did very well. Simply use the child's clothes for the dog to smell and each time the hidden child is found, reward the dog with a treat. Simply put, this is your unit. Your leading will determine the success or failure of the team. Every member, even the dog, can be a participating and beneficial member! :) </div>
9. Buy a wheat or corn grinder and get some grains to start learning how it operates. These grains can be stored for a very long time in the whole grain form and put in a closet if needed, but could save your family when other foods aren't an option. Grinding your own grains will help lower the grocery budget too. It's a lot cheaper and healthier to make your own flour and breads from scratch. Even whole wheat flour from the store is processed in many ways that leave the nutrition virtually worthless. Whether you are teaching yourself homesteading skills or putting food aside for a rainy day, a grinder is absolutely an investment with many rewards. If you needed or wanted to grow your own grains or your animal's food supply you will need a grinder to crack the corn for the animals, grind your own wheat for bread or both. All old time stories from world war stories to famines include the much needed grains as part of survival. I am not affiliated with any company but of all the grinders I have seen I like the Grain Maker the best. Just personal choice, as my husband is a metal guy by trade and helps me with my big purchases. We both like the quality, price and versatility of this one the best. It is by far a better purchase for the money spent. <a href="http://grainmaker.com/">Here is the link</a>.<br />
10. Start buying those large pieces of equipment, tools, and things now. Those things that are industrial strength and good for the long haul, will only go up in price and value when/if the SHTF or you finally moves to your place in the country. We bought our tractor on payments while we still lived in the suburbs. We bought almost all of our big needed items for our farm while we were living frugal in a tiny home with a little .25 acre lot. From a good canner to good tools needed to mend a fence, we started putting back money to make these purchases ahead of time so when we moved and needed them, we had them already. Even if you aren't ever planning a move to the country, you will find that having the 'right' equipment or tools will determine the success of your job. That has been my husband's motto for life, "the right tools for the job" are very important indeed. Craigslist is a great place to start for equipment that is second hand. I LOVE the farm and garden section. Also check out Shetler's Amish Wholesale. You have to call and request a catalog and they carry almost any farm/garden item you can imagine. The number is 260-368-9902. It's like an Amish version of Harbor Freight (but with much better quality) and Sam's Club combined. The more you buy, the more you save. Tons of great stuff and a lot of it is American or Amish made. Another great place to look is <a href="http://www.scruggsfarm.com/lawn--and--garden.html">here, at Scruggs farm and garden.</a> They carry everything from pea shellers and animal medicine to boots and tractor parts.<br />
I hope you found this helpful.<br />
MelisaHomestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-51879822931345580062016-08-18T14:48:00.003-07:002016-08-18T21:23:24.770-07:00Make Your Own Survival - Homesteader's Soap Recipe *Milk Version Too! This is a repost of a previous one that I have updated and revised for ease and for newbies to my blog. It is one very important post for those just waking up to the reality that life throws curves and those that know how to handle it often do better than those that don't. <br />
It's very easy to make your own soap for survival and all you need is three basic ingredients (water, lard and lye, aka sodium hydroxide) and some utensils. I add peppermint essential oil to this recipe for a nice smell, but it's not a must. This recipe is also going to involve electricity but you can do it without it. I'm going to lay this out so it is as easy as possible for those who have never done it before and who cannot get to a class. I will be teaching how to make this basic soap in a class titled "Basic Soap Making for Survival With and Without Electricity" at the National Preppers and Survivalists Expo in Baton Rouge. March 4th & 5th, 2017. If you can come, you can see how truly easy this can be and I'd love to have you! <br />
A lot of people out there would love to learn how to make a pure natural bar of soap and in a survival situation, you may need to make it yourself or do with out it. I have heard of soldiers and others who were not able to get soap, who placed it up there with food for one of the things they desired most in a worst time. <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Make-Your-Own-Survival--Homesteaders-Soap-Kit_p_110.html">I do have soap making kits available as well for those who would like the convenience of having all needed ingredients to come premeasured and together in one order</a>.<br />
So here is my recipe for a basic <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Plain-Ol-Lye-Soap_p_64.html">plain ol' lye soap</a>, free of nasty chemicals, fragrances, dyes, and preservatives. I put the kit together so it would be a little easier to get started and understand than when I first got started years ago for my own children's needs.<br />
Many of you have probably heard the "scare" tactics commercial soap companies used for years, that says lye or homemade soap is harsh or even dangerous. Well, that couldn't be further from the truth. ALL SOAP IS LYE SOAP. Many companies will disguise their soap's lye ingredient as Sodium Talloate or some other form used to describe the saponification process using lye and fats like tallow. Again even liquid soap is lye soap. Most liquid soap uses Potassium Hydroxide, but it is still a form lye. <br />
Old fashion lye soap, the plain or milk are the very best for skin problems. It is all we use in our house from hand washing to dishes. It never breaks out our skin and doesn't over dry it either. With all the chemicals in commercial soaps, my children break out and itch constantly. We cannot use any soap or detergent from the store. So here is my all natural soap base that you can use to make many different versions. At first stick to the basic soap and master it. Then, when you're confident, add other ingredients like goats milk. We have a lot of skin issues and our homemade lye soap has no chemicals, and helps with our skin problems like eczema and acne. I have chosen to use more of an old fashion soap that is not super fatted because super fatted soaps usually do not set up right. They will separate and go rancid easily. They also do not clean as well. This basic soap is safe for even using on teeth in place of tooth paste. Although tooth paste sellers would probably disagree, because it will hurt their sales. For more on that topic, research <a href="http://fixyourteeth.org/">Dr. Gerald F. Judd.</a> You will be surprised at his findings, and how easy/cheap good dental care really is. Making soap has saved us tons of money in many ways. <br />
For those of you who would like to purchase a totally pure soap, instead of making it for yourself, you may find it <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Plain-Ol-Lye-Soap_p_64.html" target="_blank">here.</a>.<br />
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This basic soap has only 4 ingredients and leaves a wonderful smell behind if used in laundry. Lard, lye, water, and peppermint essential oil. If needed you can leave out the peppermint essential oil, you only need the other three for making soap. *You can use this basic recipe for any soap, milk as well. Just replace water with a milk (goat, cow, sheep, ect.). Also make sure the milk is frozen at least half way. <strong>The lye gets very hot when it hits the liquid</strong> and will quickly cook the milk, so it must be partly frozen or you will have cheese, not a smooth milk for soap. I do also use this recipe with organic fats other than lard. I do not use coconut oil as the base fat, because of the 'detergents' in it. If not using lard alone, use organic fats like coconut, shea or mango butter. Also a solid fat will render a better soap, do not use a liquid only as it will not set up. Lard is cooked down without chemicals to render a firm fat. It is also what most homesteaders used for years and years. It really makes the best soap, plenty of suds, and hard bars that last for a long time. These bars will last about 4 to 6 times loner than a commercial bar! I am not kidding. They really go far and the lard is why. What about other oils? You can mix and match oils, but using a large amount of liquid oils with this recipe or any others will sometimes cause separation when trying to set up. I don't like having to babysit it. I want to walk away and not be surprised when I go back to check on it. You can use some liquid oils but not as the majority. Don't try changing the basic recipe until you have more experience. Then you could play with it a little, just so long as the total fat used is 3 lbs and 6oz total. *You can use some coconut oil with this recipe, but not for the entire amount. It's still too soft at room temp to give a good hard bar with this recipe. <br />
When getting started you should also wear apron, safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself and the product. Also lye gets very hot, so stainless steel or glass utensils are best. Very sturdy plastic will work, but with plastic there is always the risk of melting or small particles coming of into product.<strong> *Sturdy plastic only and pick utensils carefully to make sure they can hold up. When using metal for soap making, ONLY USE REAL STAINLESS STEEL. Other metals break down with lye exposure!</strong><br />
<u>Utensils needed:</u> <br />
Steel shafted stick blender (In a survival situation you will be stirring a while, in place of the stick blender)<br />
Steel Pot big enough for recipe ( for this recipe, 10 to 12in round and at least 4 inches deep)<br />
Sturdy Plastic Pitcher that will not melt with high heat of lye <br />
Stainless Steel Ladle<br />
Kitchen Scale (Good one costs about $50 or more. A digital is not a must and in a survival situation it will need precious batteries you could use elsewhere so I keep an old fashioned weight scale in my kitchen I bought from the Amish)<br />
Candy Thermometer (You do not have to have this, it helps but is not a must.) <br />
Soap Mold (not thin plastic) A sturdy Tupperware like container or steel mold or dish will work. You can find them at crafter stores online. Mine is a 12 & 1/2in by 10in rectangle. Mine precuts bars by shaping into individual bars with a divider. If your mold doesn't individualize bars you will need to cut using a straight edge and good knife when soap is firm but still somewhat soft, like cutting a block of cheese. Make sure you can flip the big soap out of the mold to cut it. Make sure your mold will allow for this.<br />
<u>Basic Soap Ingredients:</u> <br />
This recipe makes fifteen 5oz bars, so it's a larger recipe than most people use. You may need to adjust based on your mold. <br />
3 lbs & 6oz of Lard *(makes the best soap with a good price, regular coconut oil contains detergents I do not want on my skin or my family's)<br />
9.5oz of Lye (Sodium Hydroxide) <br />
24oz Water Or Frozen Milk (at least half way frozen)<br />
2oz Peppermint Essential Oil <br />
<strong>*Vinegar</strong>, this is must to stop a lye burn instantly if you get it on the skin. It is acidic and lye is alkaline so it stops the burn on contact. A jar of pickles will do in a pinch!<br />
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First label pitcher as 'LYE PITCHER' so no one will drink from it. Then begin by weighing fats (Lard) and place total amount of fats in pan on medium heat to melt. Let fats melt then remove from heat and place on an eye that is not hot to cool and make your lye mixture, directions below. <strong>*In a survival situation, you will need to pour the lye mixture (water and lye crystals) into the pan containing the 3lbs 6oz of lard, to melt it that way. You will most likely not have electricity in a survival situation, so the heat of the lye water mixture can melt the lard for you. From there, simply stir until it is as creamy as a thin cake batter. Without electricity this will take a good while, sometimes a few hours. </strong><br />
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Next, weigh and add water or partly frozen milk (24oz) to pitcher, and place in sink surrounded by a little cold water. This will help cool down lye mixture quicker. *If using milk, it will be better to even place ice in water around pitcher to help the milk not curd. When using milk, it will turn light brown or orange, this is ok. It is because the lactose (milk sugar) is carmalizing. Then weigh and add lye to pitcher slowly. Go slow so no splashing occurs. NEVER add any liquid such as water to lye crystals, because of the possible volcano like effect. *This is what people were doing with the drain cleaner in the 80's that caused blindness. They ran the sink water onto the drain cleaner containing lye. It then erupted on them. Always add the lye to the liquid and stir slowly and then let sit to cool. I open my kitchen window to let fumes escape and turn on a box fan. Remember to keep your vinegar handy, just in case it splatters at anytime in the process.<br />
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Once cooled to a temp around 150 F or (*in a survival situation just make sure it's not steaming anymore*), you can then pour lye liquid into melted lard, or fats. Using your steel ladle to stir as you go.<br />
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Once the lye liquid is all in the pot with lard, blend with steel shafted stick blender.<br />
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Once it's beginning to firm up a bit, (or temp is about 125 F) add your Peppermint Essential Oil and blend once more. KEEP YOUR FACE BACK. The Peppermint will produce a strong fume as it is incorporated into heated soap.<br />
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If I am in hurry, I don't use the thermometer for my basic lye, personal soap. If I'm making a specialty soap or for selling, I do. But for this recipe it isn't a must and in a survival situation you probably will not have one on hand. Just let soap get thick and creamy a bit before adding essential oils or heat could kill their volatile properties. After you've mixed in the Peppermint well, pour into mold. This is a big mold my husband welded for me. Make sure your mold is on a towel or some surface that will not scorch because the heat of soap will transfer to surface through the mold. Also it will be heavy, so think about how to pick it up and where to put it when your finished. Sturdy handles come in handy.<br />
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*You may want to decrease recipe (by making only half) if you have a smaller mold or increase if needed. Last but not least, *place out of the way of those who might think it is cake batter or pudding.* Lesson learned, I now put on the frig covered with a towel to set up. It will take about 12 to 24hrs to set up. Sometimes, the humidity in the air will cause this time to speed up or slow down. Like candy making, the weather really seems to effect the process. You will then need to slide soaps out from between dividers with gloves on. Lye is still caustic. Then set on a glass or plastic tray to cure for two weeks. Metals other than steel reacts with the caustic lye and will cause issues. After that your soap is ready to use. <br />
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*This was written for educational purposes and I am not responsible or liable for any damages, reactions or adverse effects from someone using this or any of my personal recipes. I am also not responsible for the product you create.* I urge you to be careful, and remember to try your first lye soap making without anyone else around. I hope you found this helpful! You can find our handmade soap at Homesteadmoma.comHomestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-79470003277774970042016-08-13T06:37:00.002-07:002016-08-15T06:19:45.137-07:00The Real Dirt About Gardening For Survival I know the 'survival' mindset is very popular right now. There's always a new threat of earthquakes, pandemic, flooding, wild fires, food shortages and so on. *As stated in another blog post below, (You're Staring Famine in the Face), less than 1% of America's working population is in farming, fishery or forestry. So, I would like to take a minute to pass on some knowledge to the folks who are not avid gardeners, but may find themselves in a disaster or other scenario where it could be a needed skill. You need to be doing it now, to know how to do it later! Should a disaster such as an earthquake or other event ever occur, your mind, body and resources will be pushed yet limited to what they are accustomed to dealing with normally. If you do not normally make your self garden, weed, problem solve for bugs, understand soil needs, ect...you will be even less able to cope in a 'survival' type situation because of stress and scarce resources. In short, practice makes perfect. You need to practice these skills now, before you regret it. <br />
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Let me share with you the attitude of the proud, those who will starve in a survival situation. A few years ago, I attended church with a pretty wealthy family who's kids really liked my garden and decided to put their own together the following year. The parents, being accustomed to having everything they ever needed at the drop of a hat, wouldn't even help the kids except to till the ground. I asked the Dad what he would do, not having any skills in that area, if a crisis or survival situation actually called for him to provide for his family with his own two hands. To my surprise he says to me "how hard can it be to throw some seeds out there ?" Well, my first thought (after choking on his prideful attitude) was obviously, you wouldn't know. My vocal answer to him was this, "If you think you can sit on some stock of seeds and just get out there when your hungry, and think your going to have the know how to deal with issues or over come the learning curve required to get food on the table, you're going to go hungry." It takes years of practice to learn to do anything well. No matter your career, interest, hobby, or sport. Even seasoned farmers and gardeners will tell you it's a game every year. The skills needed to know how to react and knowing what to do for certain things like diseases or bugs, need to be gained years before you actually have to do it for provision. Read the book before you take the test. Don't think seeds will just grow themselves, that is the gardeners job, as God said, "He put man in the garden to tend and keep it". And believe me it takes a lot of tending and keeping, even for a small garden. <br />
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Above we're filling up the kids wagon to haul to the garden. It takes a few trips on the day we plant tomatoes. We grow some in every color, this makes it super fun for teaching the kids about an agrarian life style and how important these skills are. They will always remember purple and orange tomatoes. :) <br />
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The next topic I want to share is size or the amount of land required to produce the proper amount of food needed. You cannot grow 2 tons of food on a .25 acre lot. Sorry to bust your bubble, it ain't going to happen. I've tried. To my disappointment, it's a joke. Make sure that you can grow things on a large enough scale to actually feed your family. Most big producers will not fit into a raised bed. Reserve the beds for small fruits like strawberries, lettuce, spinach, squash, and some bushy plants if needing to save space. In a real survival situation you will need room to grow hearty things like corn, potatoes, beans, peas, and such. Listen to people who have lived through a war or famine. It's all those type crops that got them through. A few raised beds will NOT keep you fed. Unless you are very diligent about succession planting, have a green house for winter and can eat greens everyday. There are ways to do it smaller, with a green house but that is going to require a lot of work and energy. So get busy figuring it out now. You cannot do the big producers and hearty things successfully in raised beds and get very much food. <br />
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You can do some of these things in a large green house in winter. I know an Amish man that rotates his poultry and early spring growing in a huge green house and that works, but farming is his full time job. Maybe you should consider getting one if your budget will allow. To feed a family of even just four, most of the year, your going to need at least 1/3 to 1/2 an acre garden. And you'll still need to succession plant. Keeping up with a garden is a rewarding way to live, but like the Amish friend told my husband once..."there's only so much time in a day." So decide to get proactive now rather than later to figure out what works for you. The people who can pull a rabbit out of the hat, garden for 50 all year on .25 an acre or less, are full time gardeners with nothing else going on, with paid help and that IS their full time job. For most people it isn't realistic. If doing fruit trees or fruit, you'll need more space or try edible landscaping. They do not go into that figure of 1/2 acre for a family of four. They are extra and need their own space. <br />
I know how frustrating it can be to spend so much time trying to get enough food to make it worth my time, only to end up with a few cobs of corn, a few melons, a few tomatoes, and a few peppers at the end. That was when I did it on .25 acre lot. Now, I don't even play. My kids and I grow a full acre garden of veggies with no problem every year. I learned to throw out the books, roll up my sleeves and figure it out my self. Some books are helpful, like seed saving books, but sometimes sweat gives you better results. For more production try the oldies but goodies, the big producers are those row crops mentioned below. Look at these crops for the most bang for your time and money. <br />
*We must have caught someone's eye, because the helicopters searching for weed, fly over us often. I guess one lady and a bunch a kids growing an acre garden is really something suspicious. Lol...I've learned to just ignore it. The kids think it's cool. :(<br />
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Those cups are our tomatoes, we plant around 200-300 each year. Everyone joins in and we haul them and plant them together. I thank God for these times with the children. <br />
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We haul in some of the strangest things. We grow fancy melons, cucumbers and things that produce well. If it can't hang with our heat, it's gone. It must be a good producer or it's not worth our time. Go for quality row crops and quit wasting your time with things that don't produce as much. To try it out, till up the whole yard if needed, I did when we lived in the suburbs. Our entire back yard had to be sodded when we moved. I grew corn and peas right in our little back yard. It was one good way I could get what I wanted out of the garden. Maybe you could invest in a piece of land or rent a place where you can grow row crops that will yield more than what you could ever eat. Beans, peas, melons, and squash/zuccinini, corn, okra, potatoes, sweet potaoes and all the things old timers grew are the best producers. They were doing it well before all these new fangled ways became popular, and they were getting enough food to eat. In other words, if it ain't broke, don't fix it. Row crops are your staples and usually your items that give you more nutrients as well. But you MUST get varieties that are good for your climate and soil. Your local co-op and other farmers around you will be one of the best places to look for those items that will be of real use. What do the locals consistently grow with success? Around here it's G-90 or Silver Queen sweet corn. I tried for years, wasting much time and money on other 'better' varieties. Heirloom corn cannot keep up here and it's a total waste of our time and money. Just to be let down. Finally I gave in and now grow either one of those two, and have an abundance each year. What a waste, to spend your time and money on something unproductive when all you need to do is ask around and give it a try. <br />
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We grow an heirloom variety of purple okra that is found at the local farm supply for a very cheap price. We grow it because 1-it's navite here and grows well, 2- seeds are very reasonable to buy locally on a large scale and 3- it's a good producer. The co-op seeds are also tons cheaper than these fancy seed catalogs. I do grow the fancy stuff, we have a tomato in every color of the rainbow. We have orange water melons and even a white cucumber. It took years of trying to see what would and would not work well in our soil, climate and garden. The local co-op seeds are usually native to the area and do better than seeds from other places. We also know how to bring in the bacon, by sticking to some row crop staples that don't go out of style, like purple hull peas and green beans. By growing these in large quantities we feel our time is worth the effort. If you've spent lots of money on heirloom seeds that will not survive your climate, or produce little to nothing, you will starve. </div>
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If it comes from similar climates, in another country, it might work as well. One of the best buys I ever made was on winter squash seeds from a Guatemalan Blue Squash. It is the only winter squash that can take our heat and humidity in Mississippi and still be very productive. Even though, all the seed catalogs have Watham Butternut as a favorite, but ours always bombed. Nothing but a couple of raggedy little squash for all my time and work. It's better suited for the north and cannot hang with the southern heat. The squash from Guatemala, however, is an awesome producer here. I am always shocked at how much we get off of one 30ft trellis. Below is a medium sized one. They get huge and put out loads of squash. It's worth my time to get that food. I wouldn't know this if I had not been actively trying to figure out these things, before it could be a needed skill. And though I hope the grocery store is always an option, if anything happens we can do it. </div>
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You need to make sure you have enough seeds to do the job. Buying from the co-op makes this affordable. Buying from an expensive seed supplier does not cut it if you need seeds by the pound. <a href="http://johnnyseeds.com/">Johnnyseeds.com</a> is a good one for online bulk purchases of seeds. I ALWAYS plant more than what I need, and end up glad I did. I garden with kids and critters with two and four legs around me all day. There is no planning for some of the unreal things that happen around here. So whether it is a natural disaster like a storm or the dogs chasing a rabbit through my beans, I plan for that by planting twice as much as I wanted to get, so I at least get what I needed to get in the first place. In raised beds, row crops or in seed starting, this has saved our food every year in some way. <br />
Also go into it easy and if the soil has never been worked, don't be ashamed of using a chemical fertilizer just to get started. We did then have weaned ourselves into an organic approach on most things by using our animals manure and other composted material. *Lime for the soil is all natural and most soils need to be tested to see if you need it. <br />
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There we're loading up the corn from a good pickin'. Dogs are a great investment. Not only do they keep away would be thieves, they also keep away varmints that will kill a good crop. Rabbits, coon, deer, you name it...our dogs are our first line of defense in protecting our food supply. <br />
Last but not least, humble yourself before it's too late. Make friends with the older folks around you and there is a free flowing well of knowledge right at your finger tips. If you are not actively gardening, take a class or get with someone who is to get you started now! You will need these people as a life line of support as well as learning from them or to trade with in a disaster situation. In bad times, if you are a stranger, they will have nothing to do with you because you will be a threat to them and their food supply. A friend/pastor to third world countries once told me, morals go out the door when you're hungry. People who are normally upright and kind will be killing for food. And those who have it will also be doing the same to protect it. Do NOT think these folks who bust their butts and sweat for a living will befriend you then. Try to form relationships with those in your neighborhood or area of survival now. People who do not know you will laugh at you or 'worse' in a crisis situation. They have their own families and lives to watch out for, you are a stranger and if you intend to make it through, you should have been doing what they were doing years ago. Community needs to be formed way ahead of a crisis. Building trust is as important as building a storm shelter. Your work ethic and skills should speak for you. Hard working folks will only look at deeds not words. "New comers are not to be trusted", is an unwritten rule in the country. Most of the time it's true. We live in a small community off of the interstate, and new comers are usually trafficking drugs up to other states. Everyone keeps a close eye on newcomers here, because they often mean trouble for small towns or very rural areas. In a crisis, you don't need others being leery of you, when everyone is high strung and motives will be questioned. <br />
You probably will also need to depend on animals at some point and starting now will give you an understanding of there needs such as food, shelter, pests and diseases. So start evaluating what you can do now rather than later for this learning to begin. We began our homesteading in the suburbs about 14 years ago. We had chickens and bunnies right in the suburbs. Do whatever you can, where you are now. <br />
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Seriously, I make it a point to befriend old folks. Especially old timers that know how to farm, garden, bee keep and just survive. It's always a treat to have one old timer or another stop by to check in on me, my family and offer garden tips. We chew the fat and carry on about farm stuff and local gossip. My bee man is near ninety years old (he won't tell me for sure) and he still brings me goodies and offers tips that help me in some way every time he comes by. Thank God my husband isn't the jealous type, because I've got a lot of old timers for miles to help me when I need it. They know I want to learn, and they love that a younger person has time for them and wants their knowledge. There's a different older man almost daily coming by to check in on my projects and offer wisdom. They love sharing wisdom and our family is loving the learning we get to do and friendships we have made. One near and dear to us passed away a year ago, but right up to his death, he taught me things. This man was near ninety as well, and went out and wild harvested some Sassafras root for me, so I could have Sassafras tea like he had growing up. I already knew what it was, but I thanked him and came home to make my tea, because he cared enough to take the time to dig it for me. Sassafras was the original base for Root Beer. It's slightly spicy and good served warm with honey. It was a major staple crop for colonial Americans to sell to England.</div>
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Sometimes the bush hog is the best way to haul it! If you get a bumper crop, take the kids to a local farmer's market or gas station and sell out of the truck. We do this sometimes and the kids make a little pocket money for their time and effort. They get to keep the money for whatever is sold. <br />
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Lesson, be sure to invest your time learning now, because when you need it, you'll have the proper skills. If it's ever a game changer and you have to do it for survival, you cannot afford to be unskilled, unlearned and out of shape. I hope you found this helpful. Now I'm going to pick my okry and sweat for a while. :) *I'll be teaching a class on Basic Soap Making With or Without Electricity at the National Preppers & Suvivalists Expo in Baton Rouge, March 4-5th 2017! Check it out at <a href="http://npsexpo.com/">NPSexpo.com</a> Make plans now to attend!Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com9tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-58924513892922793222016-08-10T13:53:00.000-07:002016-08-12T07:47:38.217-07:00Two things old timers knew, that you must know about wound care.<div>
I am going to share with you two things old timers knew, that you must know about wound care, especially if the patient is healing outside.
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The wounds of a person or animal all will be effected greatly be these two things. If you are not able to see a doctor or get to an air conditioned facility such as a hospital, these two things could save your life. You need to know them.
I was taught by old timers to pay attention to these two very important things, so I hope you listen up. You may need the knowledge one day. I am so glad I knew what to look for when I needed it. <br />
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Two days ago my daughter was riding her beloved pony. She isn't allowed to ride near the cows, but they weren't around when she went out to ride. I guess she thought they weren't around, so all would be fine. They had come into the front pasture where she was later on. The pony usually scares them off and they normally hang out in different pastures anyway. Thank God the faithful dog went with her. My husband had gone out to check on things and the dog’s actions alerted my husband that something wasn’t right.
In the blink of an eye, the bull charged at the pair (pony and daughter) and the pony took a life saving blow for our daughter. Who, by the way, got some pretty good licks in on that bull with a riding crop. Between her blows and the dog, the bull lost. All
this happened in a blink of an eye and before we knew what had happened. My husband, who was about 200 ft away was unable to stop it, though he ran to her rescue, it was over as quickly as it started. The scene ended with only a wounded pony and
one ticked off 10yr. old. Don’t mess with country girls or their horses! God smiled down on us and our daughter wasn’t hurt, but we had to act fast to help the pony who had been gored pretty bad. Here’s the two things you should know that could mean life or
death for you, your family/friends or your animals if someone is wounded and you cannot get medical help. This will specifically address wounds that must be treated and healed outside.
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You can see in the pictures the shoulder wound and in the top one, a ligament is hanging out. It was so deep it required three different layers of stiches. Below you can see how little blood there was as vet shaves area for stitches. </div>
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1- <strong>Know the weather and protect from bugs!</strong> The weather is a major contributor for germs, pests and/or disease. We are in the thick of Mississippi and it’s August. What do you think is my first priority in wound care, besides cleaning? Bugs! Yes, flies and horse flies are
going to lay eggs as soon as they can, and maggots will be all in the wound to take up residence. Even ticks will try to get a spot in an open wound. So after cleaning with (YES) peroxide once and iodine, we then pour Neem Oil right into the wound. You can
pour around it if you do not feel comfortable to use on the wound. It burns like hell, but gets the job done. This oil is known world wide for repelling pests (very popular Egyptian remedy for lice) and it can actually stop the tissue from profusely
bleeding by just slightly<br />
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<span class="_5yl5">cauterizing </span>the tissue. It isn’t as good as clotting cloths or other remedies. It is more for bug repellent and is what we use in our garden. Old timers knew one thing you should never do in summer was to dehorn or do any other things
that would open an animal up for pests in summer. With humidity and bugs, you have nothing more than a test tube for infection. You could also use <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Cedarwood-Atlas-Organic-Essential-Oil_p_165.html">Cedarwood Essential Oil</a> . Always address this (bugs) when dealing with a wound that is going to be exposed to the outside elements in summer. On people or animals
you should also consider whether or not to cover. This is up to you. Some wounds are much better left open especially if it is humid outside. Sweat will not be your friend if the wound is covered. If it’s summer, treat for pests and consider leaving open to heal. Winter is a much
better time to deal with animals and wounds if the patient will be healing outside in the elements. No bugs, less humidity, less warmth for infection to grow in. *You must reapply this or another bug repellent daily to keep the pests away.
This is just as important as your daily antibiotics for an outside healing wound. Pests can be a source of infection and are just as important to fight off in summer as germs.</div>
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Below the pony is shaved up and ready for stitches. But where's the blood? Just a drip here or there. Shouldn't it be oozing or gushing out?</div>
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We called the vet because we could (amazingly) see very clearly right into the wound. It was a very deep gore that went into the shoulder and she would most likely need to be stitched up. The cut was about 8 inches long and a few inches deep. So this brings us to
our next important topic for knowing how to treat wounds outside. </div>
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Above the vet is numbing before stitches. Again notice the lack of blood even in the opened wound. He applied nothing to stop bleeding and neither did we. So what gives?!?!</div>
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2- <strong>Know how to handle bleeding by the moon!</strong> If it is a planned wound, such as dehorning or a non-emergency surgery you should only do it at the right time. If not, you should know how to handle it. It can be easily judged by the moon. The moon controls the amount of blood or bleeding. God gives us the moon for signs and seasons. The moon phase was in between full and quarter. *Quarter actually looks like it's directly cut in half. This happened when it was much closer to a quarter moon, only two nights away. That kept the bleeding down to nothing. We didn't have to do anything this time for bleeding. A few drops is about all we saw. If the moon had been full she
would have bled like a stuffed pig! It’s all about the magnetic pull at certain times. Nothing crazy, it’s based on real science. It’s just the pull of gravity by the moon. Just like the tides. Quarter moon is drawing all things down with greater gravity
toward the center of the earth. Most babies (people or animals) are born on or near quarter moons because of this pull down. Those that are giving birth naturally, that is. Give or take a few days, it's almost always near a quarter moon. Since the accident happened on the eighth of August and the quarter moon was August 10th, the blood was almost non-existent. You can see the full, new and quarter moons on a calendar. Or check with<a href="http://www.moonconnection.com/"> moonconnction.com</a> for all the info about the different phases. Full moon is the direct opposite of quarter. When it's a full moon, it pulls things up or
out with a greater force and causes bleeding to be much more extreme. This would have meant we would have needed to use clotting clothes or applied pressure with alum powder (the kind used for canning) or even used a wash of white oak bark. That is only done when nothing else is available
and with very good straining or you’ll leave dirt in the wound. I have used it on many wounds with success. Any of these three would do the trick, but the wound, being so deep, wound also have been extremely hard to stitch up with much bleeding. Our vet had no problem at all. This was most amazing
and helpful because we had to deal with this wound at night. The wound was easily cleaned and stitched up all nice and pretty. *She did have to have antibiotics because it was a HUGE puncture wound. Anytime you are punctured by animals (or anything else really)
there is a need for antibiotics because other animals and objects carry germs that can be deadly to us. Hopefully you will not ever need this information, but should you find yourself dealing with wounds on your homestead, with people or animals that will
be exposed to the elements, knowing these two things will make a difference in the outcome.
Remember to plan *if possible* around the weather and the moon for the best of the patient. In reality, life does not always go as planned. I hope you found this helpful. For more tips, look for our <a href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCe0fol-ad6ZoSxNj8ayRFng">You Tube Channel, Homestead Moma</a> or our website <a href="http://homesteadmoma.com/">Homesteadmoma.com</a> <strong>*</strong>For a chance to learn some old time skills, including <strong>basic soap making and how to use essential oils & wild herbs</strong>...Meet us at the <strong>National Preppers & Survivalists Expo</strong> in Baton Rouge, LA at the Lamar Dixon Expo Center. March 4-5th, 2017. Hope we can meet you there! See more at <a href="http://npsexpo.com/">NPSexpo.com</a></div>
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Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-73373156200508499862016-08-10T04:56:00.004-07:002016-08-11T05:04:25.486-07:00Your Coconut Oil Could Be GMO Sourced! No lie, someone asked me about a year ago, what I thought about coconut oil. My answer was this, "Someone BIG invested in some coconut growing ventures and now all you'll be told is how healthy they are." I hate to say "I told you so", but, I couldn't have been more spot on. Now just guess who that BIG somebody is? Monsanto! Yep. Seems while everyone is jumping into that huge vat of coconut oil for everything from skin care to diet, Monsanto has been hard at work to 1- Sell you their new investment and 2- Produce this product to be able to contain the pesticides needed to kill the moths and butterflies that eat them or feed their larva. Ummm. Did you get that? Yes, the coconut plant itself contains the pesticide, so when you eat anything made from the plant or coconuts (including the oil) you are eating the killer toxins as well!!!! <br />
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I was really amazed at how many natural food gurus and natural mom type blogs popped up a few years ago touting this amazing oil for everything from a coffee additive to weight loss product. Why this one oil, when there are so many out there that are tons more useful, like raw Shea Butter for natural/organic skin care? It was almost over night that this one item became such the super food. I do not doubt some gurus, moms, and others had good intentions, but I fear some were indeed paid to push these ideas and gain the coconut or coconut oil a spot on everyone's kitchen counter. Yes, something was telling me that much of the hype was a paid for advertisement meant to look grass roots and organic. That's why I <strong>DID NOT</strong> embrace the 'Coconut Oil' movement to the tenth degree. I <strong>NEVER</strong> jump for fads, even if 'Healthy Mom's' are pushing it as the best thing since Wonder Bread, and neither should you. In fact, if your not questioning something so big pushed by tons of popular people, you should question why you aren't. At some point we cannot blame anyone but ourselves for falling of the cliff when we're just waiting our turn in line to do so, at someone else's encouraging. Of course <strong>NOT EVERYONE</strong> is out to get you or your money, just most people..Lol. Also another thing, I stated before, is how are all these 'healthy moms' and 'gurus' getting an audience of over a million within a year or so of blogging? Not grass roots, it's almost impossible to be reaching that many people right out of the gate. Wake up folks and realize what is real and then compare to what is obviously put up by media groups. I could say more here, but I'll be nice. Just remember the sirens and how the sailors would follow the beautiful music they sang, right to their own destruction. The sailors never knew what was happening until the ship was thrown against the rocks and dashed into a million pieces. The result, everyone was drowned in the sea. To beautiful music no doubt. Something to think about....<br />
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As far as coconut oil, we use it very sparingly in our kitchen and in our business. We use it in a few body care items, but I only buy the Non-GMO project verified type. Look for that label and avoid ALL Coconuts coming from Thailand. These are where the coconuts that have been genetically modified are coming from. Look for the marking above, that clearly states...Non-GMO verified before you buy then die.<br />
As stated in sources cited below, even desserts are listing it in their ingredients, that the desert indeed does contain GMO coconut oil. So what about when you eat out, eat processed foods, or cannot tell the origin of the products? You could be consuming this GMO coconut oil and the killing toxins it carries. I don't know about you, but I'll pass. You can read more at these links below which are the sources for this article. *Although source 1 states only testing of GMO coconuts is going on, source 2 shows us that it IS being put into foods and is currently listed as an ingredient in some desserts. Like with many other GMO products (such as corn) it's never told to the public that is in the food supply until someone gets sick or dies. Then we find out it could have been from the GMO ingredient. Ask yourself why would they keep it on the DL? Oh that's right...people may choose NOT to eat it if they knew the truth. Hiding things from the public so they cannot make an informed decision should be illegal. In a court of law it is considered concealing evidence. But if you are a BIG guy, I guess it's ok with our law makers. <br />
<a href="http://www.gmo-compass.org/eng/database/plants/47.coconut.html">http://www.gmo-compass.org/eng/database/plants/47.coconut.html</a><br />
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<a href="http://www.naturalnews.com/054912_GMO_coconut_food_labels_genetic_engineering.html">http://www.naturalnews.com/054912_GMO_coconut_food_labels_genetic_engineering.html</a>Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-39207868985674374982016-08-08T06:03:00.001-07:002016-08-08T06:31:43.784-07:00The Only Thing You'll Ever Need For Lice! I have seen and heard lately of the new 'Super Lice' that is resistant to most medication commonly used OTC for effectively ridding a person of lice. Well I'm here to tell you I would never use that OTC stuff anyway. It's too concentrated with toxins and chemicals for me to use on my children or self. I do, however know of an pretty natural remedy that will effectively rid you or your family of lice in a worse case scenario that you got any lice or super lice and couldn't treat it through a doctor or with an OTC. <br />
I had a friend who fostered children often and just a few years ago, a set of young children came into their home with this super resistant lice. I watched this poor gal try everything (from a distance of course). She went for the OTC stuff, took everyone to the doctor, tried tons of natural or DIY remedies. Then finally she found it! Listerine, yes, that did the trick after about 2 months of battling this horrible super lice, Listerine (you can use the off name brand, but it has to contain the same ingredients) kicked it in the butt. All she did was take each child/person and pour the Listerine on the head completely and wrap in clear plastic wrap daily. Leave on for about an hour and then your free to rinse out. She only had to do this for a few days it was done. You must repeat a few times, for the next week or two to kill any hatched eggs. *I have personally used this on animals with mange and seen quick results. <br />
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What makes this mouth cleaner so effective? Thymol is the number one potent ingredient but there are a few other. Yes, made from <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Thyme-Essential-Oil_p_180.html">Thyme Essential Oil</a>, thymol is the active component and a very effective pesticide/repellent, parasite expectorant and germ fighter. The herb itself is simply not enough to do this, you will need a form of the oil. Either an essential oil or a product that contains it.<br />
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There are a few others in the correct mouth wash that help this fight pests as well as germs so effectively. They are (picture of label above) Menthol, from <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Peppermint-Essential-Oil_p_120.html">Peppermint Essential Oil</a> and Eucalyptol from <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Eucalyptus-Globulus-8085-Essential-Oil_p_130.html">Eucalyptus Essential Oil</a>. Together these are the active ingredients (a power house) that both kill and repel pests and are why the mouth wash is so effective. If you did not have the mouth wash on hand you could combine these three essential oils. Again it's the oils, a very concentrated form of the plant components, not the herb itself that give this remedy its power. However, the mouth wash is much cheaper and I advise keeping a bottle, or two, on hand for an emergency situation. *You can also wash (blend with dog shampoo) or spray animals with this for mange and other pests that may burden your homestead. Put into a spray bottle undiluted to rid chickens of any lice or mites. Spray a few times a day. You will see results within days. Hope you found this post helpful! <br />
MelisaHomestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-3018750718788578382016-08-05T18:55:00.001-07:002016-08-05T19:03:39.921-07:00Take Advantage of Free Food - Bone Broth I was blessed to have a cow that we slaughtered here recently, and I specifically asked the butcher for the bones. This is one way to increase your food supply with what most people would call scraps. I call it, nutritious and free, bone broth. This full bodied and highly nutritious food is or close to free for anyone that is willing to take the time to make it. It's super easy and I'll share my recipe with you below. Let me say that although small butchers are just about none existent anymore, you can find some deer processors and other local folks that will be happy to just 'give' you or sell you the extra bones they have let over from deer or other wild game. This is one gold find and like I said before it's basically free food or close to free. <br />
Almost all cultures around the world have 1- had access to bones to make broth with and 2- considered it a necessary part of the diet. Bone broth often includes the over looked sources of proteins and is a great source of gelatin. These and other animal fats from cooking the bones down are vital building blocks to good health that people do not get in store bought stocks or soups made with the imitation stuff we call bullion. These are nothing compared to real bone broth and the nutrients, we as a society are missing do to industrialism, is just sad to say the least. Dr. Weston Price studied many tribal cultures and the one common denominator in good health was a diet high in animal proteins and fats. For most Americans that isn't affordable, but using this and other ideas we can increase our nutrition and try to gain back what was lost to a sick industrial food supply. Not to mention the teaching you get to do with your family around a pot of bone broth. It is touted as a nutritional super food by doctors studying leaky gut and other digestive issues. It has been shown to be effective at aiding in joint support and possibly reducing pain and inflammation from arthritis. It's been linked to being responsible for healthy skin, hair and nails. In many cultures around the world, it is a priority to teach a good diet from home and specifically which foods are needed to achieve these health benefits. It's vital we too pass these things on to the next generation as well.That really is the best part, if we do not pass on the secrets to vitality then how will our species thrive? It is as important as the broth itself. <br />
Recipe: First place as many bones as possible into a roasting pan and cover with a small amount of water. Maybe an inch in the bottom of pan. Place in oven to roast uncovered on 350 degrees F for a few hours, you'll know when it's ready. Once bones are good and brown, but not burnt, take out of oven and let stand to cool. Then place enough bones in stock pot to fill up half way. <br />
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Then fill pot within a few inches of the top with water. *If you make Magnesium water with prills, use this as well. I do. Next add a few seasonings. I like 1/2 teaspoon of Cumin, 1/2 teaspoon Fenugreek and Peppercorns (ground together), and 2 teaspoons of Sea Salt. Bring pot to a boil, then turn heat to medium and simmer for about 3 to 4 hours. If it boils down below half the pot level, then add a few quarts more water. Once good and thick, pour into quart size canning jars and place a clean lid and ring on them. Then repeat with the same pot of bones. You can do this twice with every stock pot of bones you cook and receive twice the reward of rich thick broth! <br />
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Once you have enough canning jars full, place in pressure canner and can at 10 pounds pressure for 30 minutes. Use these as you would any stock, but they will not be clear. Bone broth is made using bone, marrow, some pieces of fat and cartilage so the result is a thick cloudy stock. It's a much richer broth than a stock most people are used to and even has a stout flavor. It can really add flavor and nutrients to winter soups and stews. You will love having this to warm the heart and body when cooler weather comes!Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-33278263926435091802016-08-03T10:46:00.002-07:002016-08-03T10:54:20.472-07:00True Southern Okry!<div class="_1mf _1mj" data-offset-key="4c7h-0-0">
<span data-offset-key="4c7h-0-0"><span data-text="true">Did you know this about this southern favorite?</span></span></div>
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<span data-offset-key="4c7h-0-0"><span data-text="true"> The name okra...is an African word that means gumbo. It's a product from the slave trade and the proper way to pronounce it is "Okry" you should hear the 'e' on the end, the original word was "Okri". Most people don't know that red (also called purple or burgandy) is the old original southern okra. It gets twice as long and doesn't get hard unless left to over ripe. All the old timers where I live, grew up on the stuff. Sold here as Burgandy. The green shipped better without willting, so became the most common commerical okra and that's why it became popular, but wasn't until after the 1900's. I too grew up on the green, but after researching and talking to all the old folk, and growing it side by side to green, It's all we grow now. It's getting back to our roots, and 10x better okry! Not to mention the anthocyanins that it contains due to the rich color. These are those cancer fighting agents found in dark purple or blue fruits and veggies. They have been proven effective at fighting cancer in both lab and human studies, with a success rate ranging from 50% to 80%. So next garden season, you may want to include this fabulous item in your garden patch. And when you hear an old timer say "okry", don't laugh, they're saying it right! :)<br />
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Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-17803878161131990272016-07-27T08:08:00.001-07:002016-07-27T08:08:13.610-07:00Super Yum Salsa! <div class="text_exposed_root text_exposed" id="id_5798cb575aca59158856310">
We have been asked by a couple of folks for our homemade, canned salsa recipe, so here it is. You can adjust ingredients as you wish to your own taste. *We grow very colorful tomatoes in all shapes and sizes as well as use colorful peppers. All this will add a pizazz you won't find in store bought (boring) salsa. <br />
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<br /> Colorful Homemade/ Home Canned Salsa:<br /> 12 to 14 Cups of Diced Tomeatoes, Red are good but add Orange, Yellow, Purple if you can for a real flair of color.<br /> 2 Cups of <span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show">Peppers (we like Mild) Also the more color here the better. *If using hot peppers to make a spicier salsa, only use about 1/2 cup seeded hot peppers with the other 1 &1/2 Cups of Sweet.<br /> 1 &1/2 Cups Cilantro Diced<br /> 2 Tablespoons Diced Canned Garlic<br /> 1 Onion Diced<br /> 1 Pint of Homecanned Tomato sause for extra liquid<br /> 10 Tablespoons of Mrs. Wages Salsa Spices </span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show"><br /> Mix all together and put into pints or quarts. Make sure you fill to 1/2 to 1/4 an inch head space only. Too much room could prevent sealing, or cause a false seal. Cap of with clean lids and rings. I boil mine. This should give 7 Quarts or 14 pints. <br /> Next, I place my cans into my pressure canner with water, screw down top and turn eye on high. Once I am sure the body of water is boiling inside due to sound and steam escaping, I set the timer for 30 minutes. So it is inside canner with lid screwed on, but no pressure weight on for the 3timed 30minutes. When timer goes off, I turn of eye and let canner cool down about 10-15 minutes. Then I open and remove jars to let set up and seal. Viola! It's so nice to have home canned salsa and all those memories with those you love. </span><br />
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<span class="text_exposed_show">I hope if anyone tries it, you'll let me know how it turned out. Melisa</span></div>
Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-70061486178373680182016-07-12T18:58:00.002-07:002016-07-12T19:28:59.257-07:00The Best Essential Oil on Bug Bites, Cuts, Scrapes and Other Wounds Many times we go outside and forget the fact I make an all natural bug repellent that we sell all over the country and yes, we get bit. Sometimes we get bitten in odd places (you know what I mean) and sometimes there are cuts, scrapes or poison ivy we must deal with. After years and years of trying to find an oil that is both effective at stopping burn, itch, and killing germs to fight infection I have finally found the one I believe to be the best. It is <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Cedarwood-Atlas-Organic-Essential-Oil_p_165.html">Cedarwood Essential Oil</a>, Organic - Atlas. This one oil will not only calm burning, stinging, itching and clean wounds, but it will also work as a very effective bug repellent. It could also conceal you if you were hunting or in the woods and did not want your person scent to be very detectable. It could be used as a great deodorant for men, without having to use an unnatural synthetic that are known to cause cancer. It is also not an oil that will give away your presence, because Cedarwood will blend right into the surroundings. It is what we use indoors for repelling bugs and IT WORKS. <br />
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While we have many essential oils on hand, this one, Cedarwood (Atlas) Organic, has proven to be worth it's weight in gold, in both summer and winter. It's also highly antiseptic, antiviral, and antibacterial. We are currently using on a rash for my oldest daughter with wonderful results. After trying other creams, this oil seems to be doing way more to both heal skin and kill whatever is causing the problem. <br />
Have you ever been covered in chiggers? This oil can be applied in small amounts, straight on the skin and you will feel the calming in seconds. It is much more effective than Lavender, even for delicate areas. Yes, I am speaking from personal experience. Funny how Cedar is still used for a natural repellent when building chests for clothes. I think our ancestors and those who lived before us knew a lot more than we do now, and there must have been something to using Cedarwood when it comes to bugs. If you have ever owned a Cedar chest, you know how amazingly effective it is at repelling bugs.<br />
<span style="color: #cc3300;"> </span>I would not recommend any pregnant women use. It can be ingested but not by pregnant women. It also must be an Atlas variety only to be ingested. Others are toxic, and cannot be ingested, so know your oils! It can also be used for allergies. I combine it with Frankincense and other oils to reduce swelling and calm histamines when I have an allergy flair up, which happens often because I am allergic to a lot of things. For bug bites, cuts, poison ivy and scrapes you can rub right onto skin, but if there is a large open wound dilute it a bit. We used on a wound from a mean rooster, after he scraped my daughter's leg. It took care of the burn for her and seemed to kill the germs that could cause infection. We used after we cleaned the wound, but it is highly anti-septic and will also work to clean a wound if needed because nothing else was available. If you were hunting, cutting wood, or fishing and needed an all purpose oil, this would be it. Pests, wounds, poison ivy and calms stings or bites without a heavy scent. To get rid of lice, and or skin mites, simply dilute slightly into a bit of carrier oil and rub into skin or hair. For repelling bugs, rub (diluted) into skin, on clothes or put onto a cotton ball and place it where ever you want pests and rodents to stay away. Another use for getting rid of winter critters (such as spiders that hide) is to place the oil on the cotton balls and put the cotton balls into jacket pockets and into boots. It works on mice and snakes as well. It is my indoor version of moth balls. I hope if you are looking into keeping a natural pest repellent on hand or prepping your natural medicine cabinet, you will keep this great oil on hand. It's my favorite way to stop those summer itches, stings and bites!Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-55293488174527637332016-06-19T05:07:00.003-07:002016-06-19T05:30:44.917-07:00Natrual Homestead Pest Repellent: A Safe Farm Spray! Natural pest repellent are very easy to make. They are also very effective *if* you use the right ingredients. I started developing them for our household years ago with my children in mind and haven't repented yet. We now sell them all over the country and I write articles about how to make them for magazines, teach classes and blog here about them. I would like to share a few VERY easy safe and all natural pest repellents here with you. <br />
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Here is my recipe for a our Natural Homestead Pest Repellent! I call it Safe Farm Spray. It is my main go to for all outside dwelling plants and animals, best of all, it works! I use it on everything. It's totally animal, people, and planet friendly...though I keep for outdoor use because the smell of Neem is unpleasant but is very effective. I haven't seen a pest yet that will not be effected. The Neem also helps to control fungus on plants. An added bonus. It is so safe, you can let your children use it, and mine do! They love to help and this is a great way they can. <br />
*Natrual Homestead Pest Repellent: A Safe Farm Spray<br />
Fill sprayer with one to two gallons of warm water (not hot), depending on strength you are looking for, you can adjust here<span class="text_exposed_hide">...</span><span class="text_exposed_show"> a little by increasing or decreasing the water amount.<br /> Add 1/4 Cup of natural or organic liquid dish soap (I upped this amount a bit)<br /> .25 oz Lavender 40/42 (more cost effective)<br /> .50 oz Citronella<br /> 2oz Neem Oil<br /> *You can spray all plants, the house, the yard and animals (dogs, cats, chickens, cows, goats, horses, ect...). You can use in the chicken coop or in a barn as well. This makes 1 to 2 gallons. Pour into quart size sprayer if needed in smaller amounts. It is totally safe enough to let kids use as well. They love to help and this is totally safe for them to use so they can work with you with no worries! You may need to shake as you go, if you see the oils rising to the top. Usually that is not a big deal. </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">For all creepy crawlies, including ants, water bugs, roaches, or spiders. Also works on rodents such as mice, rats, snakes, and the like. This is an awesome all natural moth balls alternative! </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"> * Indoor Safe Pest Repellent: </span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">Place a few drops of Cedarwood Essential Oil on a cotton ball. Remember how people used Cedar chests to keep pests off of clothing? It works very well. So simply place these cotton balls wherever the pests come in your house or wherever you see them most. Viola, done!</span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show">You can also place a few drops of Cedarwood and Peppermint into a quart sprayer and spray around the house. This is not only a great disinfectant, but will keep pests OUT! Use in water if you do not have witch hazel around, just shake as you go to keep oils incorporated. I have a video to show you how easy these are. <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6becvqpeJJM">Click here to see the video on how to make this all natural pest repellent using cotton balls and an antibacterial house spray as well</a>.</span><br />
To make an all natural pest repellent for people, simply combine any herbal essential oils you like. I like Citronella and Lavender. I say 'herbal' because they are the ones that repel the best. I also say combine because they seem to work better synergistically. When more than one is used, it is more potent. Simply put into a carrier oil such as coconut or safflower and rub on. <br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"> <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Essential-Oils-_c_20.html">You can find affordable, 100% pure essential oils</a> and <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Org-Bug-Sun-Salve_c_7.html"><span class="text_exposed_show">a pest repellent for your family (made for my own children) that is all natural, organic, safe for people and planet, </span>from our family web store at Homesteadmoma.com </a>You can also find our Bug Bar pest repellent at Azurestandard.com</span><br />
<span class="text_exposed_show"></span><br />Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-1812849651519184512016-06-11T21:12:00.000-07:002016-08-04T17:29:27.229-07:00Essential Oil Survival Kit - The best oils for a worst case scenario! I am going to lay out the very best oils in my opinion to have on hand in a 'worst case' scenario or emergency situation. I am an essential oil business owner, and began using them in the cosmetic industry years before they were popular, when only hippies used them. I have personally and professionally worked with essential oils for over 17 yrs now. The wisdom, knowledge and research I share with you now are from almost 2 decades of use and experience. They are apart of my life everyday. Although there is no replacement for a well trained medical professional, I realize sometimes life puts us all into situations where what we need isn't always accessible. So here are my top choices for that time of need that a doctor or vet are not in reach. I will also give why and how you can use. I have put together a kit so as to give a more affordable option to people who do want to have these oils on hand. You may already have these oils, and if so great. If not you can check out the oils I recommend below or the kit to compare for yourself. It is <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Essential-7--Essential-Oil-Survival-Kit_p_178.html" target="_blank">Essential 7, The Essential Oil Survival Kit</a>. <br />
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I am trying to educate, not push a product. I want everyone reading this info to understand that: 1- I am not a doctor and am not advocating that you should not visit the doctor for medical advice, or a vet if it involves your pet; and 2- I am not trying to sell you anything. My information, time, research and willingness to share with you is all free. I am an essential oil business owner, but also an herbalist, wild crafter and most importantly a Mom. I understand everyone has different budgets and different preferences when purchasing essential oils. I am giving you my first hand knowledge along with my time and research because I believe God wants us to share what we know with others freely. So here are my picks for the essential oils for survival and why I chose them. I give links or works cited under a few oils, but most info you can easily research yourself with the internet. <br />
*To make an essential oil go farther and to use topically or when ingesting, you should always dilute. To do this, use a carrier oil such as hemp, safflower, jojoba, or the like. In a pinch any <strong>liquid</strong> cooking oil will do. Also note that if anyone gets the essential oils into the eye or on skin undiluted or is experiencing a severe burning sensation, DO NOT WASH WITH WATER. Simply rub a liquid oil onto the effected area, and this will 'pull out' the essential oil instantly. They are attracted to fatty acids like a magnet so this is the best way to remove quickly. You will see burning gone in seconds. *If you used for wound care and it is diluted but still burns, I would not flush with more oil to remove, because they need to be present in order to be effective. Removing then would also remove their antibacterial numbing and other properties. <br />
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1- First is<a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Clove-Bud-Essential-Oil_p_129.html" target="_blank"> Clove.</a> This oil is not only highly antiviral, anti-fungal, antiseptic, antibacterial, and pretty much 'anti-everything'; it is a total favorite of the dental and medical community including pharmaceutical companies. It has been the starting component of all the 'caines' such as benzocaine, novacaine, lidocaine, and others in the same family. It is synthesized now into a very powerful pain killer and antiseptic for use in wounds because it has the ability to numb as well as kill germs, including viruses. In a worst case scenario where there could be an out break of flu, Ebola, Avian Flu, or something else on that scale...this is the one essential oil I would reach for. If it is 100% Pure (Food Grade) it should be diluted by placing a few drops into a carrier oil or honey so it can be ingested when symptoms arise. Once diluted, it can be rubbed directly into lymph nodes and on wrists. It is very strong, so dilute well or it will burn. You want to get it into the blood stream so it can be internally effective so that is why I say rub into lymph nodes. It is a stimulating oil and rubbed onto chest or lymph nodes, it can help to 'move' chest congestion and lymph as well as kill bacteria, virus, or fungus that is causing sickness. If someone is having a problem with clogged glands, I would combine with Peppermint (both very productive stimulants) and rub into glands twice a day. It is all I used for my children when teething. I put a few drops into a tablespoon of liquid cooking oil and rubbed directly into gums to numb pain. This would also be my 'go to' oil for wound care. In a worst case scenario where an antibiotic or antiseptic product isn't available, this can be diluted and poured right into a wound. It is the only oil known to be so highly effective at both numbing and fighting germs. It may sting for a second, but will numb pain quickly. This is truly the 1st place winner and many dentists today still use this on oral infections and tooth abscesses for fighting germs and numbing power. It is GOLD. <br />
Most of my info on clove and it's essential oil comes from the book, "Back To Eden" by Jethro Kloss.<br />
2- <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Bergamot-Essential-Oil_p_156.html" target="_blank">Bergamot</a>. An Italian Citrus, this oil has been studied and shown effective at lowering blood sugar, cholesterol, and highly effective on anxiety. I would NOT rely on Lavender as my 'mood calmer' for those who are anxious in an emergency. Lavender is good, but the studies (and my personal experiences) point to the fact that Bergamot is multitalented on the body and mind. In a worst case scenario, many of us could be surrounded with friends and family members who have medical needs for things that need control. These most likely will include anxiety, nervousness, ADHD, diabetes, high blood sugar, high blood pressure or high cholesterol. Not only have these studies shown the Bergamot oil to be highly effective at calming nerves and adding balance to a hyper, nervous or upset person, but it is shown to be effective and medically useful at lowering high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and high blood sugar.. One study from the University of Taiwan shows that Bergamot is highly effective at calming the mood and helping to reduce stress of elementary school teachers. I read another that cited it useful at lowering blood pressure. This oil should be diluted and then rubbed into temples, wrists, chest and neck of anyone who is stressed. A few drops into a diffuser will help to disperse the oils effectiveness into an entire room and aid everyone in the area with it's aromatherapy. If there is someone around who needs treatment for high blood pressure, diabetes high blood sugar, or high cholesterol in your care, it would be helpful to research this more as to exact usage that would benefit them. I personally would have them consume it in a natural smoothie, mixed into peanut butter, or placed under the tongue. Only starting with a few drops diluted into the carrier oil to make sure that there aren't any adverse reactions. Use only 100% Pure (Food Grade) when ingesting any essential oils. In a worst case scenario, this oil will be an invaluable oil. In my opinion it has shown to be much more effective at calming nerves than Lavender and with an ability to add balance to the entire body's system I would not forget this oil when making my home emergency and first aid kit. <br />
<a href="http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2013/853809/">http://www.hindawi.com/journals/ecam/2013/853809/</a><br />
<a href="http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20100927006549/en/Clinical-Studies-Show-Bergamonte%E2%84%A2-Exhibits-Breakthrough-Results">http://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20100927006549/en/Clinical-Studies-Show-Bergamonte%E2%84%A2-Exhibits-Breakthrough-Results</a><br />
<a href="http://www.drwhitaker.com/benefits-of-bergamot/">http://www.drwhitaker.com/benefits-of-bergamot/</a><br />
3- <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Peppermint-Essential-Oil_p_120.html">Peppermint.</a> This oil is tops at reducing fever and calming upset stomach. Although Ginger is really good at tummy trouble, this one is much more appetizing and therefore easier to get down. I not only have personally used it to reduce fever, I have also used it to open the airways of an asthmatic (ME!). I have had some bouts with pneumonia and even pleurisy in the past. This oil will certainly open up the airways and has been shown to aid in circulation. If in a time of need someone cannot breathe, isn't getting enough oxygen or isn't responsive I would reach for this to hold under the nose; when diluted it can be rubbed on chest. If breathing is troubled, I would dilute and drop onto back of the tongue or put an undiluted drop into hands and cup over nose and mouth to breathe in. For fever reduction, place a few drops (diluted just a bit) onto spine, temples, soles of feet, and lymph nodes and rubbed in. For upset stomach I would place a few drops into honey to ingest or a drop into warm tea, add honey if you please. Honey will also help calm the stomach upset. Again, combine Peppermint with Clove diluted, for a way to simulate the circulatory system, move lymph and loosen chest congestion. Peppermint alone, or combined with Clove, could possibly aid an elderly person, a diabetic, or someone suffering from hypothermia with circulation. Simply rub diluted mixture right into skin with a good massage. Also these two combined are a powerhouse on someone with the croup or flu with coughing. Diluted you can rub on chest and into lymph nodes to help the cough be more productive and help with fighting the infection from the glands. <br />
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4- <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Cedarwood-Atlas-Organic-Essential-Oil_p_165.html">Cedarwood (Organic-Atlas)</a> This is a very useful but tricky oil that I would not recommend any pregnant women use. It can be ingested but needs to be an Atlas variety only. Others are toxic, and cannot be ingested, so know your oils! This one is also an amazing calmer and is much more powerful, in my own experience, at soothing bug bites and stings than Lavender. If you have ever owned a Cedar chest, you know how amazingly effective it is at repelling bugs. It is also not an oil that will give away your presence if needing to hunt. Cedarwood will blend right into the surroundings of nature and not alert anyone to your presence. It is what we use indoors for repelling bugs and IT WORKS. It can also be used for allergies. I combine it with Frankincense and other oils to reduce swelling and calm histamines when we have an allergy flair up, which happens often because I am allergic to a lot of things. For bug bites you can rub right onto skin, but if there is an open wound dilute it a bit. It is highly anti-septic and will also work to clean a wound if needed. If you were hunting and needed an all purpose oil, this would be it. Calms stings, pests, wounds or bites without a heavy scent. To get rid of lice and/or skin mites, simply dilute into carrier oil and rub into skin or hair. For repelling bugs rub (diluted) into skin, on clothes, or put onto a cotton ball and place it where ever you want pests and rodents to stay away. It works on mice and snakes as well. It is my indoor version of moth balls. <br />
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5- <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Rosemary-Spanish-Essential-Oil-_p_163.html">Rosemary.</a> This oil is one that many people can tolerate in their food and makes getting an antibacterial down the hatch a bit easier. It has been shown to be an anti-mutagen which could be very helpful to someone who is battling cancer. I would have them ingest this and Frankincense (also an anti-mutagen) if I ever knew anyone who was in that situation and there where no other viable options or they wanted to add a complimentary medicine to their regimen. It is highly antibacterial and should be considered when the common cold is going around or if having a bout of flu. You can add to foods such as spaghetti or soups for an extra bit of help with germ fighting. I ingest oils and have found that the best way to enjoy some of their benefits is to use them as you would an herb in food. So this one, being highly effective at killing germs and aiding in healthy cell reproduction, would be on my plate and in my first aid kit, if I were you. Highly antiviral and antifungal as well, it is a great one to reach for if dealing with an infected sore, toe nail fungus, ring worm, warts (not genital), or other skin infection or fungus. Reports have shown it effective at aiding with things like Alzheimer's, lung infections, hair loss and memory loss. In case of an internal infection since it can safely be ingested when diluted, it can be added right to honey (only like 2 drops) and swallowed. <br />
6- <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Litsea-Cubeba-Essential-Oil-May-Chang_p_121.html">Litsea Cubeba.</a> This is an oil most people have NEVER heard of. Also called May Chang in China, it is worth it's weight in gold as far as I am concerned. I have used it with my own lung problems and on my animals with MUCH success. One example is when my new chicks came to me with a bout of what certainly appeared to be bird flu, which isn't new to chicken keepers or hatcheries by the way. However, my baby chicks were dying and I had to stop it instantly, and I did with this oil! Avian Flu is viral and so I quickly reached for this oil. I placed a few drops into a quart of water with Vitamin B and gave them only this to drink. All my droopy looking chickens perked right up...and they stopped dying instantly.<a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gsBCSw-Cfms" target="_blank"> I also have a video on that, click here</a> Litsea is an Asian citrus pepper fruit that is used often in other countries as an antiviral. It's so powerful it is used in Asia to treat pneumonia, TB, COPD, Asthma, and Bronchitis and other bronchial issues. This is one oil I will never be without, Lord willin'. It is truly my favorite. I ingested and inhaled it with Peppermint when I was dealing with Pneumonia and nasal polyps. I believe firmly that it aided in the healing process. I blended it with the Peppermint in equal parts, and inhaled it in the cup of my hands. This was my inspiration to produce a blend called <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Be-Open_p_134.html">Be Open</a> after my experience. These two oils combined could possibly help an Asthmatic in a situation where an inhaler or nebulizer isn't an option. I now use the blend daily in place of my rescue inhaler most of the time and have reduced those medical costs significantly. They can be added to a spoonful of honey (1drop of each), diluted and rubbed onto chest, and inhaled by the hands. I also put the blend onto the back of my tongue to get fast relief. It helped me so much that I was able to decrease my inhaler and nebulizer intake by 3/4 my regular intake. During the worst of it the Litsea/Peppermint combo was very helpful at killing the problem (infection or virus) that was causing my pneumonia. All flu and colds are also viral. We cannot overlook that more anti-viral medication should be available, so here is an option in an emergency or worst case scenario. Here are the other things it has been shown effective at aiding with; athlete's foot, skin tags, stress, eczema, psoriasis, skin infections, skin fungus such as ringworm, indigestion, inflammation, and warts. Easy to use on animals as well as humans for all the mentioned above. This is my 'go-to' oil for animals. From skin issues, infections fungus, virus and ringworm to any bronchial issues, this is THE animal oil for most of my natural animal husbandry needs. All my new birds get this in their water with honey and vitamin B daily instead of antibiotics. You must change daily if using honey or it could ferment the water and leave them with nothing. So only add honey to animals water if changing DAILY. I then slowly wean down to weekly use of the Litsea on all birds then to monthly. *At the first signs of Cocci I was able to do this and stop an infestation before it started and only the one sick bird was lost. Highly effective at stopping disease and particularly virus in humans or animals! A total MUST for your emergency/first aid kit. <br />
7- <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Frankincense-Carterii-Pure-Essential-Oil-_p_159.html">Frankincense.</a> This oil of oils and worker of good things is my ultimate cream topping on the pie. Frankincense (Carterri) has been shown effective for many uses. I would use for any wounds, diluted and combined with Clove oil. The nick name of Frankincense is "Heal All" because of it's ability to help restore tissue growth and aid in good cell reproduction while also prohibiting tumor growth. Some known and reported uses are for growths, tumors, skin cancers, any topical or internal wounds, allergies, bacterial and viral issues, headaches, supports healthy blood pressure, immune response, warts, bruising, and tissue inflammation of any kind. So if I knew someone with cancer, combined with Rosemary this would be placed directly onto skin or added to honey (2drops each) to ingest. I have, when sick, added it to my fruit smoothies to gain the possible healing effects by getting it into the body. I have seen a difference when I used it and also noticed a bit more energy than before. Sickness time has seemed to be shortened as well. Frankincense is my 'go to' when allergies strike. It has been shown to be a calmer and help to block histamine when taken internally or breathed in. It can be dropped into a diffuser or diluted and rubbed onto nose, placed onto back of tongue, or breathed in from cupped hands. It is a main ingredient in my blend called Allergy Stop. It is one I would definitely keep around for any wound care in a first aid kit. <br />
Here is the kit I have put together: <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Essential-7--Essential-Oil-Survival-Kit_p_178.html" target="_blank">Essential 7, The Essential Oil Survival Kit</a><br />
*Remember no essential oils should be applied to an open wound without being diluted. Also some people are more sensitive to essential oils than others, so be careful and start out with a very small amount. I am not a trained physician and cannot give any medical advice. I am simply sharing what I would do, what has helped me or what I believe to be helpful to you in a 'worst case' emergency type situation and a doctor or vet isn't able to be reached. It is a good idea to have backup plans because you never know what might happen, but please do not deny someone the ability to see a doctor if it is needed and available. I cannot/will not be held liable for anything you try on your own based on this informative and educational blog post. I hope you found this information helpful. Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-3777282048303823792016-06-01T05:34:00.003-07:002016-06-11T16:17:46.202-07:00More Healing Wounds Naturally On The Homestead.. The other day our pony, Bella, decided to tangle herself up in her rope and cut a pretty bad rope burn on her hock. When she is not in the pasture, she is our 'sustainable' zero turn, lawn mower. We let her graze in other places not fenced by keeping her on a 100ft rope, so she can get around as she pleases. Well, somehow she got tangled and had a pretty bad wound that needed attention. We've always been able to treat our animals wounds, so this wasn't new, but the main concern I had was infection. Also in light of the new Veterinary Feed Directive, I am thinking more about sharing our natural remedies for animals and people. I would like to share what we do to help you when antibiotics are not required or even accessible. <br />
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Here, in the picture my daughter is pouring an herbal oil infused with Comfrey, Plantain, Ginger, Cloves, Tumeric, and Jewelweed. *It is very important to have the children involved and to teach them as you go, so they too will be qualified to handle any situation that could arise. They may need it one day. We applied this oil to the wound, after cleaning with peroxide and iodine. The open wound is healing after only two weeks because of this herbal infusion. Comfrey is the prime source for healing tissue, the others work at keeping it clean, drawing out impurities, and are highly antibacterial. I am now applying our <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Happy-Hocks-Essential-Oil-Blend-Foundering-Aid_p_142.html" target="_blank">Happy Hocks</a>. An essential oils remedy I first created to help wounds and foundering in horses and ponies. You should NEVER put essential oils on an open wound, it will burn like h*ll. Your patient will also not be able to trust your skills after that. So wait until the skin or a scab has formed to create a buffer to the wound. It consists of Litsea Cubeba, Fir Needle, Bergamot, Lavender, and Tea Tree essential oils. Any time there is an issue with hooves, or hocks, this is our natural go-to remedy and has proven effective numerous times. I'll address each herb and why I choose it later in this article. I'll do another on essential oils for wounds care and emergency situations. *We use peroxide while the wound is still open or fresh, and then iodine to follow. I know a new school of thought has risen about using peroxide, but it is a must when cleaning homestead wounds. Also at pulling out any objects that are stuck in the body. My daughter cut her foot and got an infection, after treating it naturally we were seeing that it was very serious, and had to take her to the doctor. Who of course told us not to use peroxide. After the week of antibiotics, she still had an infection. This was a clear sign that something was IN the foot. My Mom, a nurse, said "You need to be using peroxide and that foot would have been healed by now. Something is in it and only peroxide will pull it out." So I did, and within 30 of applying it, the stick that was jammed up her heel, came oozing out! I grew up using it, and all the medical persons I know still use it, against the modern "Don't Use Peroxide" shouts of our days. So in light of that I am going to share with you a breakdown of what we normally use and why. I give a lectures around the southeast, and if you can, try to make one. I love explaining God's design for nature and how it was created to be useful to us. I spoke at the Memphis Botanical Gardens just a few weeks back on wild and domestic herbs and how to use them for health and happiness on the homestead. These herbs mentioned are a main stay on our farm, I enjoy teaching about how to use them, so if you are able to attend a speaking even I give, please comment below or find my facebook page, Homestead Moma and let me know if you tried my methods or suggestions and how they worked for you. <br />
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To make your herbal infused oil (I make a lot and keep it on hand), you will need all the herbs mentioned above. Gather them WITHOUT washing because you do not want to introduce water. It will cause mold and bacteria growth in the oil mixture. Tear and bruise into pieces and cram your jar full. Then cover to the rim with Organic Olive Oil. Set into the crock pot of water, to keep on very low about 48-72 hours. Only let the water be half way up the jar, so it doesn't get into the jar of oil. <br />
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After 48 to 72 hrs. your oil has been infused with all those herbal properties you need. Just remove jar, wipe clean and strain through a sheet, pillow case or cheese clothe. <br />
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Now you're ready to deal with any wound that arises, be it animal or people. This is especially designed for open wounds so do not add any essential oils to this. Here is the list of herbs and oils I use and why I choose them. <br />
<strong>Comfrey:</strong> It is stiches in bottle. Proven to regrow skin cells and add in repairing damage to skin, this is something I grow LOTS of. Keep on hand and you'll not regret it. Even a wound that has been stitched up or glued back together can benefit. It will aid in the quick regrowth of tissue of any kind and even promote hair regrowth and lessens scaring. (I know personally)<br />
<strong>Plantain:</strong> It is nature's drawer. Like magic, it will help to draw out infection, poison, stinging, pain, and objects. Not quite as potent as peroxide for initial cleaning, but very effective to keep on wound. <br />
<strong>Tumeric:</strong> The best inflammation reducer on earth, as far as I know of anyway. :) <br />
<strong>Ginger:</strong> The ultimate in pain reduction. If you can, keep this in the house or grow it to have at a moments notice. Highly anti-bacterial, anti-septic, and anti-viral. This herb/spice is not only effective at helping stomach upset, it is the best pain reducer I have EVER used. (Used after birthing)<br />
<strong>Cloves:</strong> The highest ORAC carrying food on earth. ORAC is the ability to fight damaging free radicals. These free radicals are what damages tissue and causes aging. It is the highest in anti-septic, antibacterial, antiviral, and anti-fungal properties of an known herb. It has the greatest ability to numb pain of any herb. It is also why the benzocaine/novacaine family of medications was made originally from this herb. Highly used still today for tooth and mouth infections. Greatest germ killer around!<br />
<strong>Jewelweed:</strong> Another good one for soothing pain, irritation, sting, and burn. This is an awesome remedy for bug bites, stings, and poison ivy. It is often found in the same area as poison ivy. *Again proof of doctrine of signatures. I'll touch on that later. <br />
Healing wounds in a situation where antibiotics are unavailable, or you cannot reach a doctor is a must for basic survival skills. In summary, our pony never had to cost us a huge vet bill, because we were able to (had the knowledge and skills) remedy the situation ourselves. In our society we have become too dependent on others for our basic needs and if we do not try to learn and pass the knowledge other generations have had, we will regret it. Other cultures, other generations, and other countries still hold natural healing in high esteem, because it works! Americans disregard for knowledge and skills may prove costly. I hope we never have to be faced with a day that we cannot access modern medicine, but the truth is I have many times been able to keep our family out of an ER, or keep down the costs of healthcare for us and our animals, just because of having 1- knowledge and 2- skills. If that day does ever happen to you...are you capable of caring for yourself or those you love? I hope you find my articles helpful and encouraging. Don't forget to like our facebook page as well. This is where I post a lot of helpful tips for the homestead as well. <br />
Much love and blessings, MelisaHomestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-73157290247093816612016-05-28T05:02:00.001-07:002016-11-27T19:53:20.522-08:00You're staring famine in the face! *Update, I have been reinstated to FB, but because of this article I was blocked from FB for two weeks, had many other problems and have had my ad account over charged by both FB and Google by a total of almost $600. I was able to recover only $150. So, I am no longer on that very biased and often censored social media money trap. I removed myself. :) I also have had the scroll down removed from this blog's admin page so I cannot get to edit this article without majorly doing some work!!! My two videos talking about this on Youtube are also blocked from being monetized. Someone doesn't like this info getting out or this article! Read on to find out what it's about. Funny thing is, I think I'm the only person on the web so concerned about it. I have heard no one else touch on the subject that could leave America starving. How did we get to a point that only .70% (not even 1%) of our WORKING POPULATION is in farming?!?! Remember those tricky numbers played with unemployment? Well, it's also going on with the amount of farmers too. Just keep reading, your food depends on it.<br />
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I am an avid gardener, animal lover, homesteader, and wild herbalist. I rarely get on the 'you should be freaked out' ban wagon. However, I have just caught wind of a very dangerous regulation, called a directive, that is going to: 1- raise food prices, 2- decrease animal health, and 3- will possibly put the few American farmers that are left out of business. <a href="http://www.fda.gov/AnimalVeterinary/DevelopmentApprovalProcess/ucm071807.htm" target="_blank">Click here to read the bill for yourself</a>; then I will explain why this is soooo scary. <br />
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To begin with this bill advocates an 'oversight' concerning antibiotics that before farmers never had. It dresses up the regulation as a good thing, because it will regulate antibiotic use in feed for food producing animals. However, it will also regulate ALL other antibiotics (except a few) deemed "Medically Important". This means, that in order for a homesteader or farmer to treat an animal for a disease, infection, or injury...they MUST now call a vet. Whereas before, all "Medically Important" antibiotics have been kept on the feed store shelves and the farmer could treat sick animals without a large vet bill. This will all change now. Can you imagine what it is going to cost now to treat 40 to 100 cows with a runny eye? Often this is a beginning sign of RBI, a pneumonia-like condition, that if not caught early can destroy a herd. So calling a vet, will take time and money that most farmers DO NOT HAVE. Calling a vet to treat several animals would raise the bill by thousands. So, your food prices will go up! It's called the Veterinary Feed Directive, but this name is very misleading. It does make a new regulation to remove antibiotics from feed, unless you have a prescription. It also removed life saving antibiotics from public use for animals, unless you also have a prescription. Not many vets are large animal vets anymore, and those that are, charge a hefty fee to drive out on a farm call. Our vet charges $150 to $200 just to come out before any treatment is given. If you still don not think it is targeting the medically needed antibiotics, here is a quote from the website, " Now, the agency is moving to eliminate the use of such drugs for production purposes (i.e., growth promotion and feed efficiency)<strong> and bring their remaining therapeutic uses in feed and water under the supervision of licensed veterinarians." This last part is crucial...THEIR REMAINING THERAPEUTIC USES IN FEED AND WATER. That covers all life saving antibiotics as well as ones used for growth</strong>. Have you ever thought about how you might track down and inject a pasture of cows on a daily bases? It is impossible! Factory farms can do that, because the cows never see the light of day and are standing in their own sh** in very small quarters. But the real farmer with cows or animals in a pasture, cannot do it and someone is trying very hard to put the VERY FEW that are left out of business. And for those of you who say go natural, hmmm that isn't possible at this point. Farmers (the majority) do not have the skills, knowledge or time being so under paid, over regulated and over worked to figure out natural medicine at this point. It's just like you driving 30miles a day to work, then someone comes along and takes your car and your told just walk to work. You cannot even understand how upsurd this is. I know a lot of these farmers and they are so mild mannered and easy going, but this is going to cost the last of them all they have. Many have expressed to me how they will go under. Farming is the hardest job on earth. It's unaffordable and just plain destructive to pull the rug out from under them this way. Oh, and yes, you will go hungry when all this comes back around. Yes. those regulations <strong>WILL</strong> come back around to the people and food that was there last year, will <strong>NOT</strong> be there. *My vet says even injectables are included, although they will transition over later. <br />
Many farmers who treat several animals must use powder put into food or water, because to inject several on a daily bases is a lot of work. IT's impossible for animals on 100acres of pasture! Not all animals will be happy to be shot with a needle continuously either. It would be dangerous to deny small farmers the easier way of using a water soluble powder to treat a large number of animals at once. By putting into feed or water, the sick animals are treated without trouble or a large charge. This is going to cost everyone. Farmers must pass on their costs to consumers, and when food prices go up, the farmer (who cannot compete with big corporations) will go out of business. The fewer farmers, the less amount of food is being put into circulation. Then because of supply and demand, the bigger corporations can raise prices and no one is left to compete. Here is another quote, from the FDA, questions page..<strong>"What will this mean in practice? Answer: Once these changes are fully implemented, it will be illegal to use these medically important antibiotics for production purposes, period. Instead of having unrestricted over-the-counter access, animal producers will need to obtain authorization from a licensed veterinarian to use these medications for therapeutic uses — for prevention, control or treatment of a specifically identified disease." Notice that word "fully"...that means even shots or any "medically important antibiotic will go out of reach for farmers and homesteaders!!! So affordable and safe access to antibiotics will be no longer available to the homesteaders and small farmers and this is good?!? Just so long as it seems to have a good sounding cause, like antibiotic resistance or adding oversight to unrestricted use. Try adding cost and regulation as well as a national registry of animals to over worked and underpaid farmers and killing the self sufficient homestead movement at the same time.</strong><br />
<strong> </strong>Again, from their own mouths, it is clear...you will need a prescription to treat your animal for disease, (therapeutic uses)! So basically all antibiotics are going to be off the shelf and given only under very strict guidelines and costly measures. *That means more sick animals, less food in circulation and many farmers/homesteaders will give up or go under. See the list that even includes injectables that will go into transition from OTC to needing a VDF (prescription). All the "medically important" antibiotics will be unreachable by the common farmer! Wake up folks.<br />
Let's look at this in a very real way. I and many other people I know, have had to treat an emergency on the homestead, and haven't had the money to call a vet on the spot. My animals do not eat antibiotic-laced feed, but have had to receive a life saving antibiotic only a handful of times. Calling a vet 45 minutes away, and costing as much as the animal is worth, is not exactly affordable or promoting good animal husbandry. In fact, it's promoting sickness and possible death among those animals in the food supply when the farmer cannot afford a vet. Many sick animals are still processed into food although they aren't well or have died of sickness. This will only increase. Sounds yummy, huh? No! While the factory farms will still have the ability to lace their food with the antibiotics that are indeed causing antibiotic resistance, because their vet is on payroll. No need to worry, you'll still be getting the antibiotics from the animals coming from the factory farms.<br />
So how is this absurd bill getting passed? It is claiming to add oversight (the vet) to all animal care. It also claims to remove the antibiotics for safety because of the antibiotic resistance that is becoming a problem. Well, couldn't they just remove the antibiotics in feed? Yes, they could, but they are putting ALL antibiotics under "judicious oversight". As well as leaving the door open to factory farms to still use antibiotics in the feed, by simply saying they will need a prescription. All factory farms have vets on their payroll. So do you really think that the vet is going to turn down the factory that pays his steady income from the prescription it wants ? See, the antibiotics in feed help to add weight to the animals. It is used like a steroid. It fattens up the animals quick. So the factory farms will still be able to put antibiotics into the feed because they have vets on call. However, small farmers and homesteaders will lose the ability to treat and care for a sick or injured animal cheaply and quick. So masked under the "removal from feed" please read the bill and pay close attention to words like <strong>"Judicious Oversight", "Medically Important", "need a prescription to treat, prevent or use therapeutically for any sickness or disease". </strong>Again, this is no joke, and cause and effect will raise the costs of food to a level that you cannot imagine. If the cost of caring for an animal doubles, so will your food prices. You should contact your representatives now to find out why this thing got shoved into law, without even the consent or knowledge of most farmers. The costs of vet oversight to give life saving care to an animal will put most into a position to loose everything they have. And could cause our delicate food supply to take such a hit, most small farmers will have to give up and quit. Famine anyone? But I think that is exactly the reason this was pushed through without anyone knowing until months before becoming effective. Most of us cannot even imagine how few farmers there are left in America. It is a very scary number! America only has .25% of it's populace in farming. Oh, yes. NOT EVEN 1%! While Russia has a robust 10%, and China 33%, we here in America are staring famine in the face, by regulating our farmers to death and out of work. Not even 1% of our population is farming, while at the turn of the previous century (in the early 1900's) 90% of America was farming. Click on the link below, to see the 'tricky' numbers. *Notice that the US numbers are tricky, it combines farming, fishery, and forestry to get it's already low number. It also uses only the 'working population', while other countries includes the entire population! Below link is the comparison of the three major world 'Super Powers'. Russia, China, and the US. It is a joke how few farmers we have left. The accurate number without tricks, is about .25%. And if you look at the link, you will see <strong>the US ranks third to the bottom, in the entire world for farming</strong>. We are only beat by two countries (the smallest countries in the world) for last place. Vatican city and another small island are the only two that have fewer people in farming than the US. Yes, we have the fewest people in the entire world in farming for a country over a few miles wide. *Also note most farmers here in the US grow crops that you cannot eat such as GMO corn, cotton and soy. You're staring famine in the face! Check it for yourself. <br />
<a href="https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/fields/2048.html">https://www.cia.gov/library/publications/the-world-factbook/fields/2048.html</a><br />
United States: farming, forestry, and fishing: 0.7%<br />
manufacturing, extraction, transportation, and crafts: 20.3%<br />
managerial, professional, and technical: 37.3%<br />
sales and office: 24.2%<br />
other services: 17.6%<br />
*note: figures exclude the unemployed (elderly, children, and unemployed are not counted) roughly 1/2 of the population.<br />
(2009) <br />
China agriculture: 33.6%<br />
industry: 30.3%<br />
services: 36.1%<br />
(2012 est.) <br />
Russia agriculture: 9.7%<br />
industry: 27.8%<br />
services: 62.5% (2012) <br />
They listed .7% as the amount of farmers, in the US but only included 'the working population' to manipulate that high figure. Again that is more accurately .25%, <strong>NOT EVEN 1%!</strong> As they say, "No Farmers, No Food"! The hammer is about to fall and your still worried about the joke of an election..Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-3246532095566103072016-04-11T07:45:00.002-07:002016-04-11T07:45:30.799-07:00Your children need to be exposed to germs! Yes, you read that right and this is one of the many reasons I raise my children on a farm. They need germs! Your children should be getting a decent amount of germ exposure. If not, your child's immune system cannot function properly. Immunizations are in fact the man made imitation of God's way of subtle exposure to germs to strengthen the immune system. So if doctors apply this thinking, why shouldn't you? However, in God's way of immune building, there are no needles involved. It's as simple as cleaning a chicken coop or climbing a tree. The facts speak for themselves here. As our society has become obsessed with cleanliness, our sickness has increased. I am speaking for the state of most of America; we are able to clearly obtain scientific data to back this up. Here (<a href="https://www.sciencenews.org/article/how-farm-life-can-prevent-allergies?mode=magazine&context=3912" target="_blank">click here to read for your self</a>) is one of many articles quoting the results of the study group, who published their findings in Science Magazine. It clearly shows the correlation of increased allergies and asthma to be directly linked to lack of exposure to germs such as you would find on a farm. The original article sites specifically the exposure to dust from cow manure. It produces a protein called A20 that prevents allergies! We as Americans have moved away from farming and living in agricultural settings. In turn, we are reducing our ability to strengthen our immune systems and are suffering for it. You should make it a point to let your children get outside and play. We purposely do not entertain our children with electronic babysitters so they will do what comes naturally to them, and that is to go outside and explore the creation around them. <br />
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We know that when a child is exposing themselves to sunlight, they are getting vitamin D, a much needed nutrient. We also know that skin absorbs 70% of whatever is comes onto contact with. So are your children coming into contact with nature? Or are the lathered in plastic containing lotions, synthetically processed clothing, toxic soaps and shampoos, and constantly touching plastic and EMF carrying electronics? Do they go barefooted and play outside? Do you criticize them for getting dirty? Think about all the daily opportunities to encourage healthy living in your children. Do you do that? Or are you always worried about cleanliness and have sick children? Let them go play and have fun in nature, they way God designed them to learn and play. Do you have animals around? If not take them to a farm as often as possible and let them get dirty. Have them collect eggs and clean a chicken coop. God originally designed man to do these types of activities, and as the children are exposed to hard work, animals, and nature, they become healthier and happier people. Don't stop them from getting a little dirty; get outside with them to bond with them! Work in the dirt, milk a cow or goat, chase some chickens, grow a garden and do what God intended us to do and our families health will be better for it.<br />
God Bless<br />
MelisaHomestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-47857280036575930952016-04-11T04:28:00.002-07:002016-04-11T04:30:44.346-07:00 Using Essential Oils in Your Organic Garden, and How To Create A Sustainable Micro Eco-System (Homestead) I recently wrote an article for the Union Co. Mississippi Green Magazine and wanted to share it with those of you who are interested in natural homesteading.<br />
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Have you decided that now is the time to start avoiding chemicals in your lawn and garden? Have you discovered the power of nature in essential oils? Do you want to kick the chems, but not sure what could be used as a substitute for things like fertilizer, pest control, and disease control? I garden with 6 children in tow, and my first reason for gardening is their health. The foods offered in most stores are of course heavily sprayed with chemicals for pests, fertilized with chemicals, and even planted in the ground where pre-emergence herbicide granules are tilled into the soil. Some plants are even being genetically modified or injected to carry the pesticide in the plant, so they can say it isn't sprayed. Hmmm. Do you really want to consume that? At some point you should begin to wonder exactly how far this can go, before we, like the honey bees, get close to extinction. Did you know that in China, because the almond trees are injected with such potent pesticides and chemicals, the honey bee is almost extinct and people are now hired (or made) to hand pollenate the almond and fruit trees using q-tips and tooth brushes? Just how far can a society go before the damage is irreversable? As a child my father always told me, "The elevator goes all the way to the bottom floor, but it's up to you when you get off." I've decided to do just that. There is an awakening taking place. Millions of people are choosing to stop the madness and embrace the ideas of using the God-given natural forces in creation to better our lives. These organic and natural items are often at our fingertips, and usually very inexpensive. From composting to using essential oils there are so many options now available. I suggest you start now, doing simple things that will wean your home off the chemicals for a healthier lawn, garden, and family. I like to think of it as creating a micro-ecosystem of health in my own yard, a place of life and vitality! It is more cost effective to begin looking at the home as an entire cycle rather than compartmentalize each aspect, such as gardening, animal care, ect…. Living green is done best when we can embrace the idea of all these aspects and make each work to support the other. It is what most are calling modern day homesteading. Creating your's can be done in small steps. When God made man, he put him right in the garden he created and there was not a chemical one for Adam to use, so he had to rely on natural and organic means of survival. My thoughts are this: if he can do it, we can too! It takes a little work to get started, but you will be greatly blessed by your efforts with loads of fresh, healthy fruits and veggies for you, your family, and your friends. The vitamin D you will be absorbing has now been shown to be a beneficial nutrient in the fight against cancer. Also consider this, your skin absorbs 70% of what ever it comes in contact with. This includes minerals and nutrients in the soil. Yes, you are actually soaking in vitamins and minerals when working outside in the dirt and sun through your skin. So, get outside and let those young'ins run barefooted; it's really good for them! Maybe the exact placement of mankind in a garden setting had a healthful purpose after all!<br />
Here are some things my family and I have put into action that work, save us tons of money, and are healthier options to typical store bought plants, fertilizers, and other chemicals. I hope you will be able to use these 'hands on' techniques to your benefit. Gardening was created by God to be done within a family/friend setting and really many hands make light work. If you can, get those you love on board to a healthier home life. <br />
1- Start your own plants from seed or buy locally produced plants. They will be better acclimated to grow in the weather they are started in. Also many companies are spraying the tiny plants with chemicals known as Neonicotinoids, that are outlawed in many countries. These chemicals are used to control aphids and other seedling killers, but are known to kill honey bees. My personal thoughts are if it 'kills' anything, I really don't want it around my family. Last I checked, Bonnie Plants inc. did not spray theirs with any insecticide. They are also semi-local, coming from Arkansas. They are an awesome southern plant company. You can call and ask them questions anytime, as I often do. Many New Albany and Oxford greenhouses and nurseries are the best growers as they are producing those things best suited to our region. We also need to support those local businesses first. Here are some other places and their web addresses where you can find awesome heirloom and hybrid seeds that I have always had good success with. I grow heirloom mostly, as I have seen the hybrids to be much weaker.<br />
<strong>Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds: rareseeds.com <br />Seed Savers Exchange: SeedSavers.org<br />Territorial Seed Co: Territorialseed.com<br />Totally Tomatoes: Totallytomato.com<br />For Fruit:<br />Arkansas Berry: arkansasberryandplantfarm.com<br />and for best prices on bulk supplies checkout greenhousemegastore.com<br />Angel Wings Nursery</strong> in Byhalia, MS not on the web but located off Hwy 178 near the Victoria Exit. I know they start many of their own plants and do not have them shipped in.<br />
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Always check your local farmers market, nurseries, and green houses for plants as we should support our local community growers! Plants started and sold by local folks should also have become acclimated to the current weather, humidity, and so on and have the potential to do better than any grown in a huge greenhouse in other climates. Coming from other places can also bring diseases into your yard and garden that you didn't have before. For this reason I avoid buying plants, trees, and bushes from big corporate stores except for Bonnie Plants. If you cannot find a certain plant locally, try ordering from a nusery online that is near enough to you that the climate is similar. On ocassion I have bought a plant at a big store, but only if I can evaluate it very closely. <br />
After the season has begun producing it's fruit, don't forget to save your own seeds. Saving seeds from your own garden is very beneficial to stopping disease, because the more acclimated your seeds/plants become to your soil, the more disease resistant they naturally become to that enviroment. This is why disease resistant strains are becoming harder to find without hybridization. I recommend trying to start your own heirlooms and regrowing those from your own seed to produce a sturdy for your own garden. We as a people have culled the garden seed and plants to mainly store bought hybid varities that may introduce disease rather than adapting to become resistant to it in our own areas. It's much like the over-use of antibiotics. There needs to be bio-diversity in the garden to continue to allow nature to carry out it's designed ability to survive. Adapting to it's surrondings are important to how plants continue to live and evolve in an ever changing world. Too much domestication actually can produce weaker plants and could possibly contribute to the spread of disease because most of the plants are shipped in and not grown in the local area. A plant's DNA has the ability to unlock disease resistance, like 'turning on' a light switch. However, if not allowed to be used it will fade out to a degree. Much like the blind fish who live in deep sea caves. The information not being using on the DNA sequence is turned off, and then may become altogether unusable in the next generations. <br />
Simply put, the varities that are culled cannot be diverse enough to cover every disease, they also must be babied in order to live and produce food. This can also be very dangerous. When farmers and gardeners only plant a few varieties, certain diseases they are not resistant to can come through an area and easily wipe out a major portion of plants. All those that are not naturally resistant will die and could produce a famine. Think about the Irish potato famine. It does happen! We save and replant some of our own seeds every year to strengthen our own varieties. Some of these plants thrive, while others die. This is how certain varities grow even better, stronger, and learn to resist disease. It will become an asset to your garden to produce a seed/plant varity that will thrive in your own unique soil and weather conditions. You'll also save money this way. However, the only way this can be done is with heirloom types. Hybrids usually revert back to one parent type. So although we have grown both, I only save the heirloom seeds for next years replanting. Hybrids must be bought again each year for purity. <br />
2- Organic fertilizer is a lot cheaper and easier than you think. You can make your own organic soil if you are planning a small garden, using raised beds, or container gardening. Mix 1/4 sand, 1/4 peat moss, 1/4 yard dirt, and 1/4 manure. You may want to add compost and lime to this to make it more nutritious. Work in supplements from the kitchen, such as powdered egg shells, milk, and coffee grinds, as you are able. You want to create that eco-system that is sustainable (mostly self supporting) by using what you have. Organic fertilizer is right at your finger tips. For instance, way before spring and summer I save every eggshell from every egg I crack. The shells either go crumbled to the chickens for the calcium and grit they need in their gizzard, or get dried out for plant fertilizer. This is a simple way to use what is right at my finger tips (free) without paying the high price of organic fertilizer. I set the eggshells outside to dry and then powder in the blender to add to my 'breakfast for the plants' recipe. It adds much needed calcium to the tomato, pepper and eggplants. I also use up the coffee grounds this way. Veggie scraps feed the chickens while the chickens feed us. By feeding them scraps and letting them free range, you can also drastically cut back a feed bill. I buy feed but only use it sparingly. If you have any animals, use them to turn up the dirt and poop right where your going to be planting. In the off season, plant something to draw them to the garden. This last fall, we fenced in our garden area, planted Winter Rye Grass, and turned the cows into our garden yard to "fertilize" the garden organically. Chickens can be used the same way. They love the cheap green things, so for them, we planted Lettuce, Turnip Greens, and Rye Grass. You can use Mustard Greens or Kale also. They are let out into the smaller unfenced garden planted with these greens, to "have at it". They have had a blast out there scratching and adding manure for us to till into the soil come spring. If you know of someone nearby who has animals you can always offer to clean out a barn or carry off a load of manure. We have made this a family project to do on weekends. Cow manure is best, because their complex stomach system breaks down the grass seed. Horses have a simple stomach and cannot breakdown the grass seed so make sure you use cow manure. Other wise you will be planting grass seed into your garden. These are a few very inexpensive ways to organically fertilize and begin your own organic eco-system. <br />
Lime is another all natural "must" in southern gardens. The soil in the Mississippi is usually very acidic, so you should consider adding some lime every year. It's natural (comes from mined lime stone) and very inexpensive. Another way to increase your crop production rate is to add bees to your yard. In many cases you can even have bees in a city or suburb. Check with your local extension office for any guidelines. I do know Mississippi offers a program to pay you back half of your investment if you set up a honey bee operation in the state. This is because our population of bees is extremly low. Their presence benefits the entire community and state by aiding crop production and farming. Interested in bees? Ask somone currently selling honey at the New Albany Farmers Market or contact the Mississippi Bees Keepers Association for more info at mshoneybee.org<br />
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<strong>*Here is the my recipe for 'Breakfast for the Plants' using all natural ingredients:<br />4 Cups Dried Oats (just what you eat for breakfast) put into blender to powder<br />1 Cup Epsom Salt<br />2 Cups Organic Sugar<br />12 to 18 dried Egg Shells, powdered<br />1/2 Cup dried and powdered used Coffee grinds<br />Mix into a gallon Jug and add 2 Tablespoons to soil at plant roots once a week. Mix into soil so roots arent directly touched and possibly burned by salts. If using on potted plants, use only 1 Tablespoon per weekly dose.</strong><br />
3-Pest Control. Here are the things we have found very helpful at controling pests. For most garden plants such as tomatoes, we place a few marigold seeds betweeen each plant and that controls all tomato worms period. This works for peppers and eggplant pests as well. For ground and root problems, we have released beneficial nemetodes bought from Garden's Alive. These will actually help rid the soild of the root destroying nematodes. Chickens are one of the best pest control items you can use. They will scratch and search them out. Be it worms or creepy crawly bugs, they are not picky eaters! The best and most powerful pest control spray I have ever used is this one I make using essential oils and neem oil. I make it in the gallon spray jug and shake very well as I spray. It is as natural as you can get and safe for the children to use. This is a big deal because all my children like to learn to operate the sprayer. I want to know they are safe and allow them to feel welcomed to help me in the garden. Children need to feel loved and not shooed away, so using a natural spray is one way I can get their involvement and bond with them in the garden. This spray also seems to greatly help with blight and other diseases. I have no scientific study or evidence to back this up, but I have noticed to does seem to slow the progression of fungi on the tomato plants. Most all essential oils are naturally anti-fungal, anti-bacterial, anti-microbial, and anti-viral. I am quite sure this is why using an essential oil formula is not only beneficial for repelling pests, but alsocontrolling diseases naturally. I swear by it! Spray at evening (after dinner) so the bees are not affected. At that time they have already returned to the hive for the night. Also spray the under side of leaves, as the bugs will 'hide' under there.<br />
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<strong>*Natrual Homemade Pest Repellent For Plants: <br />Fill jug with one gallon of warm water (not hot)<br />Add 1/2 teaspoon of dish washing liquid<br />.25 oz Lavender<br />.50 oz Citronella<br />2oz Neem Oil</strong><br />
Shake well as it needs to stay suspended during your spraying. Because oil and water do not mix, you have to shake it often in order to keep it suspended. Most suspension ingredients are chemicals and cannot be added without adding some amount of risk, so I find it no biggie to just shake it as I spray. If you find yourself wanting a purely organic bought item, you should give DE (Diatomeceous Earth) a try. It comes in powder form, like many other pesticides and must be sprinkled on. Diatomaceous Earth is an off white talc-like powder that is the fossilized remains of marine phytoplankton. When sprinkled on a bug that has an exoskeleton it compromises their waxy coating so that their innards turn into teeny tiny bug jerky. But it doesn't hurt mammals. We can eat it. It's in lots of grain based foods because lots of grains are stored with diatomaceous earth to keep the bugs from eating the grain. It must be ordered online, because I have not seen it any stores in Mississippi. Another wonderful product for bugs with an exoskeleton such as aphids, squash bugs, and beetles, there is an awesome product called Kleen Green Naturally Enzymes. Only availible online, it can also can used at a very diluted ratio of 1.5oz per 32oz (1 quart) of water. It should only be used on mature plants, <br />
not newly sprouted seedlings as it could burn the young plant. It's like manure, an awesome natural product, but too much or used on tender plants could be harmful. I use it with our Lavender, Orange, or Fir Essential Oils as a household cleaner as well. It can also be used on animals for fleas, ticks, and mites. The website is Naturalgenesis.com For worms, catapillar and the like: I have only one word, Marigolds. We plant them all around and they have kept our garden FREE of bad worms on most all plants in the garden. I have a Youtube on this. Check out the channel Homestead Moma for exactly how we do this.<br />
You will also be needing to invest in a good natural/organic pest repellent for those people and animals you love. Here is a recipe you can use to make your own. Increase or decrease amount as you see fit.<br />
<strong>*Natural Pest Repellent For People and Animals:<br />Using a dropper place the following essential oils into a roll on, small 2oz spray bottle, or dropper vial:<br />5 drops Lemon Grass, Lemon Eucalyptus, or Peppermint ( Your choice ) <br />15 drops Citronella<br />5 drops Lavender</strong><br />
<strong>All Food Grade, 100 % Pure Essential Oils are found by clicking <a href="http://here./">here.</a></strong><br />
Mix all the<a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Essential-Oils-_c_20.html" target="_blank"> essential oils</a> with 1.75 oz of a liquid (organic is best) cooking oil and put into a small container to use while outside with the kiddos, grandkids, and other friends and family. We also make and sell natural/organic pest repellents safe for people, planet, and animals. I designed them for my own children's use while working with me in the garden. We also use on them on our family and animals. You can purchse <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Org-Bug-Sun-Salve_c_7.html" target="_blank">our natural pest repellents</a> and/or these and other Food Grade essential oils from our webstore at <a href="http://homesteadmoma.com/">Homesteadmoma.com</a> They are certified pure and lab tested for top quality. I use what I sell, so I only sell the best for an affordable price! When using essential oils, be sure they are pure, or they will not be as effective as they should be. All companies promise purity, however lab work is the only way to be absolutely sure of what you're getting. Do be careful when using pure essential oils, and if you ever get them into the eye area, wipe with a food grade cooking oil to remove. Essential oils gravitate to fatty acids and therefore will be plunged deeper into the body if you wash with water. However, they will come out of the flesh or tissue if you use an oil to remove. <br />
4- Disease Control. This is a tricky one for everyone in the gardening community. We have had great success with double planting. This was accidental one year, but as it turned out the fall crop seemed to be pretty large and the plants had much less disease (fungus) than the spring plants. They kept producing until frost killed them. Because the south is nothing more than a humid sweat box in spring and summer, we cannot expect anything less than some disease issues. So if succession planting (plant some now, then some later) is not a workable thing for you, try the organically approved spray Actinovate. This was recommended to us from Baker Creek Heirloom Seeds as the very best. This will be our first year to use it but have heard nothing but great reviews. I do use sulfur (lightly) as a dust and use wood ashes (also lightly) from the wood burning stove when seedlings are still in my greenhouse as they are both natural bug repellents and help to control diseases as well. These two items are both full of micro-nutrients the plants can use. There are also a few natural copper sprays that come highly recommeded offered by Gardens Alive or found in you local garden section at the store. For an all natural recipe that cost little to nothin' and is a good preventative and moderate at deisease control try this.<br />
<strong>*Baking Soda For Blight and other Diseases:<br />3 Tablespoons Baking Soda<br />1 Gallon Water<br />1 Tablespoon Liquid Cooking Oil<br />1/4 Teaspoon of Liquid Dish Soap</strong><br />
Mix all in a gallon sprayer shake well. You need to shake as you go to keep emulsified. Spray tops and undersides of leaves and until dripping. I find it best to spray for disease at night for best results, as that's when the humidity really works on the plants. Never spray in the heat of the day as the sun and chemical mix could scorch the plants.<br />
5- Weed Control. Last but not least, weed control will also be a very important part of gardening. You can use an easy, cheap, and organic way to control your weeds by covering your garden (after plants are about 1 to 1&1/2 ft tall) with straw. The plants need the micronutrients in the dirt, so I do not advise straw bale gardening, but a thick 6 inch covering with straw will strangle out most weeds just as well as using a weed killer or plastic covering. Make sure to use straw and not hay as you will be planting grass seed into your garden. Mulch or compost around each plant or worked into the bed's top layer will also keep the weeds from choking out the plants and help hold water. If needing to control weeds in a very big area you can fill your gallon sprayer with vinegar and spray away, just as you would use a chemical spray. Vinegar is totally natural, very inexpensive, and effective at killing all plants. Just be careful not to get it on those plants you wish to keep. Another great form of weed control is good ole fashion work. Yes, you and those you love should get out and grow together, pull weeds together and make memories sweating together. You cannot buy that, and it's organic! <br />
If you would like to ask me any questions about gardening, homesteading, or using essential oils, you can contact me by going to our website, homesteadmoma.com and using the 'Contact Us'<br />
form. Follow our family's homesteading adventures and glean more organic gardeing tips by liking our FaceBook page, Homestead Moma. Signup for our email newsletter at <a href="http://homesteadmoma.com/">Homesteadmoma.com</a>. or check out the You Tube channel for more tips, Homestead Moma I hope your garden season is fabulous, fun, healthy, and blessed! <br />
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Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-545405096505321602015-05-17T06:06:00.002-07:002015-07-14T16:15:44.477-07:00Healing Wounds Naturally On The HomesteadI always keep a jar of Comfrey oil on hand in our house, for wounds. It is one of the most powerful herbal remedies I have ever used/made. Comfrey is also called "Knit Flesh". Get it? It helps skin and other tissue including muscle, to grow back together quickly. I have been using in my home on little issues we humans have like cuts or something you didn't need to go to a Dr. for. Then we got a puppy. The dog being a playful puppy, got ahold of a loose chicken one day and gave her a slice down the back (all skin was off and muscle tissue was all that you could see). I was sure it would kill her. I didn't want to loose her, so I decided to try the comfrey oil and lay the skin in place where I could tell it went. Some muscle was still exposed under her wings and on her lower back. I soaked the girl completely and we made her a nesting box with food and water in our little brooding cage. I said to the children we should say a prayer for her and hope for the best. I really didn't expect her to make it. So we left her alone, you could tell she was in shock, and just daily brought her food and water. It was earlier in spring do new green grasses were coming up, so we gave her those as well. I checked on her in a week and the skin had grown back almost completely with very little muscle still showing. I poured the rest of the oil on her and checked back in another week. Viola! She was healed and only missing a few feathers after the second week check. We went ahead and left her in the brooder cage another week so she would be as good as new when we reintroduced her to the flock. I was so shocked I snapped a picture at the second week check so you can see for yourself exactly how good she looked, only missing a few feathers. She had almost no skin on her back at all! The kids were even very shocked. Of course the praying was just as important. I hope you may be able to plant and keep Comfrey on your homestead. It really helps for wounds when you don't have a vet around.<br />
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To make Comfrey Oil, simply gather from your plant or used dried herb. Fill a pint jar full of fresh herb or half full of dried herb. *Do not wash herb before using in oil, because you will introduce bacteria into the oil. You may want to add some Ginger for pain and Tumeric for calming immflamation. Cover completely with Organic Olive Oil and let sit in a crock pot with water half way up the jar. Simmer on low or keep warm for 48hrs. The oil needs to sit for about 48hrs to absorb all the healing properties from the Comfrey and any other herbs you added. *NO WATER can get into this oil or it will mold. It must remain oil only. So when you pull out of the crock pot wipe jar completely. After that just strain out with a pillow case, sheet, or cheese clothe. Your oil can also be then turned into salves or used straight. This is an awesome skin oil that can be used for cuts, scrapes, bruises, and burns. Hope you found this helpful.</div>
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Homestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8700206676193099888.post-69231019628219050152015-05-11T05:26:00.002-07:002016-08-18T14:47:49.201-07:00Make Your Own Survival - Homesteader's Soap Recipe *Milk Version Too! This is a repost of a previous one that I have updated and revised for ease and for newbies to my blog. It is one very important post for those just waking up to the reality that life throws curves and those that know how to handle it often do better than those that don't. <br />
It's very easy to make your own soap for survival and all you need is three basic ingredients and some utensils. This recipe is going to involve electricity but you can do it without it. I'm going to lay this out so it is as easy as possible for those who have never done it before and who cannot get to a class. I will be teaching how to make this basic soap in a class titled "Basic Soap Making for Survival With and Without Electricity" at the National Preppers and Survivalists Expo in Baton Rouge in March of 2017. If you can come, you can see how truly easy this can be and I'd love to have you! <br />
A lot of people out there would love to learn how to make a pure natural bar of soap and in a survival situation, you may need to make it yourself or do with out it. I have heard soldiers and others who were not able to get soap who placed it up there with food for one of the things they desired in a worst time. <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Make-Your-Own-Survival--Homesteaders-Soap-Kit_p_110.html">I do have soap making kits available as well for those who would like the convenience of having all needed ingredients to come premeasured and together in one order</a>.<br />
So here is my recipe for a basic <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Plain-Ol-Lye-Soap_p_64.html">plain ol' lye soap</a>, free of nasty chemicals, fragrances, dyes, and preservatives. For those who are interested and would like to get started but don't know where to find ingredients, I have listed websites and put together a basic kit with a hand crafted, industrial strength mold you will never need to replace or worry about buying again. You can also use a plastic (very good grade) mold that will not melt. That is everything except a cooking pot, plastic or glass pitcher, good weighing scales, and stick blender that you can find at many retail stores. I put the kit together so it would be a little easier to get started and understand than when I first got started years ago for my own children's needs.<br />
Many of you have probably heard the "scare" tactics commercial soap companies used for years, that says lye or homemade soap is harsh or even dangerous. Well, that couldn't be further from the truth. ALL SOAP IS LYE SOAP. Many companies will disguise their soap's lye ingredient as Sodium Talloate or some other form used to describe the saponification process using lye and fats like tallow. Again even liquid soap is lye soap. Most liquid soap uses Potassium Hydroxide.<br />
Old fashion lye soap is probably THE VERY BEST SOAP you will ever use. Plain or Milk are the best. It is ALL we use in our house from hand washing to dishes. It NEVER breaks out our skin and NEVER over dries. With all the chemicals in commercial soaps, my children break out and itch constantly. So here is an all natural soap base that you can use to make many different versions. At first stick to the basic soap and master it. Then, when you're confident, add other ingredients like goats milk. We have a lot of skin issues and our homemade lye soap has NO CHEMICALS, and helps with our skin problems like eczema and acne. So here is my basic lye soap recipe that is Chemical Free and NOT Super Fatted. I have chosen to use more of an old fashion soap that is not super fatted because super fatted soaps usually do not set up right. They will separate and go rancid easily. They also do NOT clean as well. My basic soap is safe for even using on teeth in place of tooth paste. Although tooth paste sellers would probably disagree, because it will hurt their sales. For more on that topic, google the name Dr. Gerald F. Judd. You will be surprised at his findings, and how easy/cheap good dental care really is.<br />
I have studied the use and making of homemade soaps extensively, as well as making it for it our home and for business for about 12 years now. I am confident we have reduced our exposure to toxic chemicals and helped our skin heal from many issues. I know we have saved tons of money I the process. I love my basic soap and hope you will too. <br />
For those of you who would like to purchase a totally pure soap, instead of making it for yourself, you may find it <a href="http://www.homesteadmoma.com/Plain-Ol-Lye-Soap_p_64.html" target="_blank">here.</a>.<br />
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This basic soap has only 4 ingredients and leaves a wonderful smell behind if used in laundry. Lard, Lye, Water, and Peppermint Essential Oil. *You can use this basic recipe for any soap, milk as well. Just replace water with a milk (goat, cow, sheep, ect.). Also make sure the milk is frozen at least half way. The lye gets to be around 400 degrees, and will quickly cook the milk, so it MUST be partly frozen or you will have cheese, not a smooth milk for soap. I do also use this recipe with Organic fats other than lard. I do not use Coconut Oil as the base fat, because of the 'detergents' in it. If not using Lard, use Organic Fats like Coconut, Shea or Mango. Also a solid fat will render a better soap, do not use a liquid only as it will not set up. Lard is cooked down without chemicals to render a tallow or fat usable. It is also what most homesteaders used for years and years. It really makes the best soap, plenty of suds, and hard bars that last for a LONG time. These bars will last about 4 to 6 times loner than a commercial bar! I am not kidding. They really go far and the lard is why. What about other oils? You can mix and match oils, but using a large amount of liquid oils with this recipe or any others will sometimes cause separation when trying to set up. I don't like having to babysit it. I want to walk away and not be surprised when I go back to check on it. You can use some liquid oils but not as the majority. Don't try changing the basic recipe until you have more experience. Then you could play with it a little, just so long as the total fat used is 3 lbs and 6oz total. I have put together a kit for those beginners who would like the industrial strength mold and ingredients all prepared in an easy to use and understand way..<br />
When getting started you should also wear apron, safety goggles and gloves to protect yourself and the product. Also lye gets very hot, so stainless steel or glass utensils are best. Very sturdy plastic will work, but with plastic there is always the risk of melting or small particles coming of into product.<strong> *Sturdy plastic only and pick utensils carefully to make sure they can hold up. When using metal for soap making, ONLY USE REAL STAINLESS STEEL. Other metals break down with lye exposure!</strong><br />
<u>Utensils needed:</u> <br />
Steel shafted stick blender (In a survival situation you will be stirring a while, in place of the stick blender)<br />
Steel Pot big enough for recipe ( for this recipe, 10 to 12in round and at least 4 inches deep)<br />
Sturdy Plastic Pitcher that will not melt with high heat of lye <br />
Stainless Steel Ladle<br />
Kitchen Scale (Good One costs about $50 or more. A digital is not a must, and in a survival situation it will need precious batteries you could use elsewhere so I keep an old fashioned weighted scale in my kitchen I bought from the Amish)<br />
Candy Thermometer (You do not have to have this, it helps but is not a must.) <br />
Soap Mold (not thin plastic) A sturdy Tupperware like container or steel mold or dish will work. You can find them at crafter stores online. Mine is a 12 & 1/2in by 10in rectangle. Mine precuts bars by shaping into individual bars with a divider. If your mold doesn't individualize bars you will need to cut using a straight edge and good knife when soap is firm but still somewhat soft, like cutting a block of cheese. Make sure you can flip the big soap out of the mold to cut it. Make sure your mold will allow for this.<br />
<u>Basic Soap Ingredients:</u> <br />
This recipe makes fifteen 5oz bars, so it's a larger recipe than most people use. You may need to adjust based on your mold. <br />
3 lbs & 6oz of Lard *(makes the best soap with a good price, regular coconut oil contains detergents I do not want on my skin or my family's)<br />
9.5oz of Lye (Sodium Hydroxide) <br />
24oz Water Or Frozen Milk (at least half way frozen)<br />
2oz Peppermint Essential Oil <br />
<strong>*Vinegar</strong>, this is must to stop a lye burn instantly if you get it on the skin. It is acidic and lye is alkaline so it stops the burn on contact. A jar of pickles will do in a pinch!<br />
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First label pitcher as LYE PITCHER so no one will drink from it. Then begin by weighing fats (Lard) and place total amount of fats in pot on medium heat to melt. Let melt and place on an eye that is not hot to cool and wait on lye mixture. *In a survival situation, you will make the lye mixture (water and lye crystals) and then pour into solid lard, to melt it that way. You will most likely NOT have electricity so the heat of the lye water can melt the lard for you.<br />
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Next, weigh and add water or partly frozen milk to pitcher, and place in sink surrounded by a little cold water. This will help cool down lye mixture quicker. *If using milk, it will be better to even place ice in water around pitcher to help the milk not curd. When using milk, it will turn light brown or orange, this is OK. It is because the lactose (milk sugar) is carmalizing. Then weigh and add lye to pitcher SLOWLY. Go slow so no splashing occurs. NEVER add any liquid such as water to lye crystals, because of the possible volcano like effect. (*This is what people were doing with the drain cleaner in the 80's that caused blindness. They ran the sink water onto the drain cleaner containing lye. It then erupted on them.*) Always add the lye to the liquid and stir slowly and then let sit to cool. I open my kitchen window to let fumes escape and turn on a box fan. Remember to keep your vinegar handy, just in case it splatters at anytime in the process.<br />
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Once cooled to a temp around 150 F or (*in a survival situation just make sure it's not steaming anymore*), you can then pour lye liquid into melted lard, or fats. Using your steel ladle to stir as you go.<br />
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Once the lye liquid is all in the pot with lard, blend with steel shafted stick blender.<br />
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Once it's beginning to firm up a bit, (or temp is about 125 F) add your Peppermint Essential Oil and blend once more. KEEP YOUR FACE BACK. The Peppermint will produce a strong fume as it is incorporated into heated soap.<br />
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If I am in hurry, I don't use the thermometer for my basic lye, personal soap. If I'm making a specialty soap or for selling, I do. But for this recipe it isn't a must and in a survival situation you probably will not have one on hand. Just let soap get thick and creamy a bit before adding essential oils or heat could kill their volatile properties. After you've mixed in the Peppermint well, pour into mold. This is a big mold my husband welded for me. Make sure your mold is on a towel or some surface that will not scorch because the heat of soap will transfer to surface through the mold. Also it will be heavy, so think about how to pick it up and where to put it when your finished. Sturdy handles come in handy.<br />
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*You may want to decrease recipe (by making only half) if you have a smaller mold or increase if needed. Last but not least, *place out of the way of those who might think it is cake batter or pudding.* Lesson learned, I now put on the frig covered with a towel to set up. It will take about 12 to 24hrs to set up. Sometimes, the humidity in the air will cause this time to speed up or slow down. Like candy making, the weather really seems to effect the process. You will then need to slide soaps out from between dividers with GLOVES on. Lye is still caustic. Then set on a glass or plastic tray to cure for two weeks. Metals other than steel reacts with the caustic lye and will cause issues. After that your soap is ready to use. <br />
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*This was written for educational purposes and I am NOT responsible or liable for any damages, reactions or adverse effects from someone using this or any of my personal recipes. I am also not responsible for the product you create.* I urge you to be careful, and remember to try your first lye soap making without anyone else around. I hope you found this helpful! You can find our handmade soap at Homesteadmoma.comHomestead Momahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10548976521639975830noreply@blogger.com0