Food Storage Recipe - Quick Pizza Sauce

 This is such a simple and quick way to make some pizza sauce. I use it on flat bread, home made pizza, and so much more. 

 Melt a tablespoon of butter in a pan.

Add some garlic and some Italian seasoning. Cook until fragrant.

Stir in 2 tablespoons of tomato paste to coat it with the seasoning and garlic.

Stir in 1/3 cup of water and 2 tablespoons of cream cheese until very well combined. 

Bring to a simmer and cook until thickened. About 3 minutes. 

Remove from the heat and use. 

This recipe is very easy to double if you need more. 

An Outdoor Fire Place

 This is such a neat idea for making an outdoor Fire Pit. Could come in hand if power goes out and give a place to cook food. 

Keep an eye out on local facebook groups for pavers etc. I bought enough a few years ago from someone local to make a new sidewalk in my back yard for $10.00!! And had a whole stack left over.

Food Storage Recipe - BLT Macaroni Salad

 

BLT MACARONI SALAD

8 Oz. Elbow Macaroni Pasta 

6 slices bacon, cooked crispy and crumbled

1 cup cherry tomatoes, halved

1/2 cup mayonnaise

1/4 cup sour cream

1 tablespoon apple cider vinegar

Salt and black pepper to taste

2 green onions, thinly sliced

Cook the Elbow Macaroni Pasta according to the package instructions until al dente.

 Drain and rinse under cold water. Set aside to cool.

 

In a large mixing bowl, whisk together mayonnaise, sour cream, apple cider vinegar, salt, and black pepper to make the dressing.

 

Add the cooked and cooled macaroni, crumbled bacon, halved cherry tomatoes, sliced green onions, and chopped fresh parsley to the bowl with the dressing.

 

Toss everything together until well coated with the dressing.

 

Cover the bowl and refrigerate the BLT macaroni salad for at least 1 hour before serving to allow the flavors to meld.

 

Serve chilled and enjoy!

 

Food Storage Recipe - Crockpot Hamburger Potato Casserole

 

Super yummy meal and easy to just throw it together. 

1 lb ground beef

4 cups potatoes, peeled and thinly sliced

1 onion, chopped

1 can (10.5 oz) condensed cream of mushroom soup

1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Salt and black pepper to taste

Optional: chopped fresh parsley for garnish

Brown the ground beef in a skillet over medium heat until fully cooked. Drain excess grease.

 

Transfer to your Crock Pot and mix together the cooked ground beef  with sliced potatoes, chopped onion, condensed cream of mushroom soup, shredded cheddar cheese, garlic powder, salt, and black pepper.

Cover and cook on low heat for 6-8 hours or until the potatoes are tender.

 

Serve hot, garnished with chopped fresh parsley if desired.

Is Your Garden Planned?

Really, I have been planning my garden all winter!! This Heirloom Seed Pack is a great way to get all of the variety at one time. I had tried some tomatoes and green peppers last year just to see how they would grow here. They grew great and this spring I am planting everything. I have a food dehydrator to use and tons of other ideas. This is going to be a great year.
I hope that you all are planning on having a garden , no matter how small it is , it will be a huge help!! Having a garden will really help you and keep you from spending so much at the grocery store. I have also been saving money by having meatless meals 2-3 times a week. This is the year to jump in and have a garden. DO IT!!

A Camping Hammock

This is so neat! I want one of these so bad. Lawson Hammock Camping Tent would really come in handy if you are stuck out some where in the open. You could get up and out of sight, but be protected from the elements. Really nifty idea. This is something that every single one of us needs for our BUG OUT BAGS!! Keep a couple of them in the trunk of your car. Could really come in handy.

Cooking Off Grid

 

1. Let's Get Cooking Off the Grid!

Are you tired of relying on electricity to cook your meals? Looking for ways to whip up delicious dishes off the grid? Whether you're prepping for a survival situation, going camping, or just trying to be more prepared, cooking without electricity can be a fun and rewarding challenge. In this blog post, we'll share some tips and tricks for cooking off the grid that will help you create mouthwatering meals with just a few simple tools and techniques. So get ready to embrace your inner chef and get cooking!

2. Why Cooking Without Electricity Can Be a Game-Changer

Cooking off the grid isn't just about survival skills - it can totally change the way you approach cooking! Imagine the freedom of creating delicious meals without being tied down to electricity. It's all about getting back to basics, connecting with nature, and honing your culinary creativity. Plus, it's a great way to impress your friends and family with your resourcefulness. So, why not shake things up and give cooking without electricity a try? Trust me, you'll be amazed at what you can whip up with just a little bit of ingenuity and a sense of adventure. Stay tuned for more tips and tricks to elevate your off-the-grid cooking game!

3. Keeping It Simple and Delicious: Tips for off-grid cooking

Alright, folks, let's talk about keeping it real simple and delicious when cooking off the grid. Who needs fancy gadgets and electricity when you can whip up mouth-watering meals with just a few basic tools and ingredients? Think easy recipes that pack a punch in flavor - like one-pot wonders or grilled delights. Experiment with fresh herbs, spices, and local produce to elevate your dishes. And don't forget to embrace the challenges - cooking off the grid is all about embracing the unexpected and finding joy in the process. So, stay tuned for some no-fuss tips and tricks to take your off-grid cooking to the next level!

4. Get Creative with Your Ingredients and Utensils

Alright, now let's get down to the fun stuff - getting creative with what you've got! Don't limit yourself to traditional ingredients - think outside the box and experiment with local flavors and seasonal produce. Who said you can't use a rock as a mortar and pestle or a tin can as a makeshift grater? Embrace the challenge and let your creativity shine through. Remember, the beauty of off-grid cooking lies in improvisation and making the most of what you have. So, get playful, try new things, and let your culinary imagination run wild! Your taste buds will thank you for it. Get ready to be amazed by what you can whip up with a little ingenuity and a whole lot of heart! Let's do this!

5. Embracing the Slow Cooker and One-Pot Wonders

Alright, folks, get cozy because we're diving into the world of slow cookers and one-pot wonders. When you're off the grid, these kitchen heroes can be a game-changer. Chuck all your ingredients in one pot or slow cooker, let the magic happen, and voilà - a delicious, fuss-free meal is ready to satisfy your hunger. From hearty stews to flavorful curries, the possibilities are endless. Plus, the slow cooking process enhances the flavors, making every bite a delight. So, dust off that slow cooker or grab a sturdy pot, and get ready to enjoy some mouthwatering meals with minimal effort. Who knew cooking off the grid could be this easy and tasty? Let's keep the culinary adventures rolling!

6. Don't Forget to Enjoy the Process (and the Food!)

Hey there, foodies! Cooking off the grid isn't just about making meals; it's about enjoying the whole experience. Embrace the simplicity of preparing a meal without the need for electricity. Take a moment to appreciate the sizzle of ingredients in the pot and the aroma wafting through the air. And when it's time to dig in, savor every bite of that flavorful dish you've created. Whether you're sharing it with friends around a campfire or enjoying it solo under the stars, make sure to relish not only the food but also the adventure of cooking without the usual modern conveniences. Bon appétit!

7. Wrap Up: Happy Off-Grid Cooking!

Alright, folks, we've reached the end of our off-grid cooking adventure! Remember, cooking without electricity isn't just about the end result; it's about relishing every step of the process. So, next time you whip up a delicious meal off the grid, take a moment to soak in all the sights, sounds, and smells around you. Whether you're camping in the wilderness or simply trying something new at home, embrace the opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the joy of cooking. Happy off-grid cooking, and may your meals always be flavorful and satisfying! Cheers to more delicious adventures ahead!

All Season Solar Cooker

Stockpile Seasonings!

This could make all of the difference in the world on how well you eat and keep you from getting bored of eating the same things everyday. Having a lot of seasonings on hand can change things up. I have chili, taco, dasher, salt, pepper, and tons more stockpiled. seasonings can really make things go from boring to great!!
Stockpile the ones that you use the most and keep a few on hand for when you want things to be different. I also have some meat tenderizer, which can be a life saver. One thing that you can do id go through your favorite recipes and some new ones and make sure that you have stockpiled all of the stuff that goes into those recipes. We use a lot of chili powder and taco seasoning so those are ones that I have tried to stockpile a lot of.
Just make sure that you have the right seasonings on hand and you can cook anything better!!!

Step-By-Step Guide to Camping for Beginners

Are you ready to embark on your first camping adventure? Camping is a fantastic way to connect with nature, unwind, and create lasting memories. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through everything you need to know to have a successful camping trip. From choosing the perfect destination to setting up your campsite and practicing Leave No Trace principles, we've got you covered. So grab your gear and get ready to experience the great outdoors!

Choosing Your Camping Destination
Selecting the right camping destination is crucial for a memorable outdoor adventure. Start by reflecting on the type of environment you enjoy most. Are you drawn to the tranquility of forests, the serenity of lakeside views, or the ruggedness of mountain terrain? Each setting offers a unique experience, from the activities you can engage in to the wildlife you might encounter. Next, consider the amenities you require for comfort. Campgrounds vary widely, from those offering basic plots for pitching TENTS to sites with electricity, water hookups, and even Wi-Fi. For those seeking solitude, backcountry camping might be appealing, though it requires more preparation and self-sufficiency. Research is key; utilize online resources, maps, and reviews to gather information about potential sites. Pay attention to regulations, particularly regarding fire restrictions and wildlife protection measures. Availability is another factor; popular destinations may require reservations well in advance, especially during peak travel seasons. Balancing your desire for adventure with practical considerations will guide you in choosing a destination that ensures a fulfilling camping experience.

Essential Camping Gear and How to Select It
To embark on a successful camping journey, the right gear is paramount. Your checklist should feature a sturdy TENT tailored to the size of your group and the weather conditions you anticipate. A high-quality sleeping bag, rated for the temperature range you'll face, is a must-have for a comfortable night's sleep under the stars. Don't forget a sleeping pad for added insulation and cushioning from the ground. A reliable camping stove, alongside durable cooking utensils, will ensure you can prepare meals efficiently. Light sources, such as headlamps or lanterns, are essential for navigating and enjoying your campsite after dark. A comprehensive first aid kit, customized for the duration and nature of your trip, is critical for addressing any minor injuries or health needs. Additionally, water purification methods, whether chemical treatments or a filtration system, are crucial for ensuring access to safe drinking water in the wilderness. Select gear that balances functionality with weight, especially if you'll be hiking to your campsite. Quality should be a guiding principle in your selection process, as investing in dependable gear ensures safety, comfort, and longevity, enriching your camping experience.

Preparing and Packing Your Backpack Efficiently
Efficient packing begins with a well-thought-out plan. Start by laying out all the items on your checklist to ensure nothing is forgotten. When packing your backpack, prioritize placing heavier items towards the middle and close to your back to maintain balance and reduce strain during your hike. Items that you will need to access frequently, such as water bottles, snacks, maps, and a first-aid kit, should be packed in outer pockets or near the top for easy reach. Clothing can be rolled instead of folded to save space and prevent wrinkles. Utilize compression bags for bulky items like sleeping bags and jackets to minimize their volume. Remember, the goal is to maintain a manageable weight while ensuring you have all necessary gear. Consider the length of your trip and the weather conditions to pack appropriately, avoiding overpacking. Sharing common items like tents and cooking gear with your camping companions can also lighten your individual loads. Double-check your pack before setting out to confirm you have everything you need without carrying excess weight.

Setting Up Your Campsite
Finding the ideal spot to pitch your TENT is the first step in setting up your campsite. Look for a spot that is both flat and elevated to avoid any issues with water runoff in case it rains. Ensure the area is not only level but also sheltered from the wind if possible, providing a more comfortable resting environment. Before setting up your tent, it’s important to remove any debris, such as rocks and twigs, that could potentially damage your tent floor or make sleeping uncomfortable. After clearing the site, lay down a footprint or tarp under your tent to protect it from moisture and wear. Assemble your tent by connecting the poles, threading them through the fabric, and anchoring it securely to the ground with stakes. If you expect windy conditions, using guy lines for extra stability is advisable. Organizing your interior space efficiently can enhance your camping experience; designate areas for sleeping, storing gear, and changing clothes. Being meticulous during setup not only ensures your comfort but also the longevity of your camping equipment, allowing for a more enjoyable outdoor adventure.

Campfire Safety and Etiquette
When building a campfire, prioritize safety and respect for the environment. Always locate or create your fire in an existing ring or pit to limit its spread and protect the surrounding nature. It’s critical to use local wood, as bringing wood from distant areas can introduce non-native pests that harm the ecosystem. Keep the fire manageable; a smaller, controlled blaze is safer and easier to extinguish than a large one. Stay informed about the campsite's current fire regulations—conditions such as drought may lead to restrictions or bans on open fires. If you're using a portable stove or grill, ensure it's placed on a stable surface to prevent accidental spills or flare-ups.
When it’s time to put the fire out, do so thoroughly. Douse it with water, stir the ashes, and apply more water. Check the ashes with the back of your hand to ensure it's cool to the touch before leaving the site. This careful approach ensures that your campfire is a source of enjoyment rather than a hazard or nuisance to others and the environment.

Cooking and Food Storage Tips
To make mealtime enjoyable and safe while camping, efficient food preparation and storage are key. Choose meals that are simple to cook and don't require extensive kitchenware. Prepping some ingredients at home can save time and reduce the need for cleanup at your campsite. Use sealable containers or zip-lock bags to keep food items fresh and secure from animals. It's crucial to store your food away from your sleeping area, using bear-proof containers or suspended systems like a bear hang, especially in areas known for wildlife activity. This not only protects your provisions but also minimizes the chances of unwanted animal visitors during your stay. For cooking, a portable camping stove or grill is often the most convenient and safest option, allowing for control over cooking temperatures and reducing the risk of wildfires. Lastly, always clean your cooking utensils and area immediately after use to avoid attracting insects and animals, maintaining a clean and safe camping environment.

Leave No Trace Principles
Adhering to Leave No Trace principles is essential for preserving the natural beauty and integrity of the outdoors while camping. These guidelines focus on reducing the environmental impact of your visit so that future generations can also enjoy pristine wilderness areas. Firstly, plan ahead and prepare by knowing the regulations and special concerns for the area you'll visit. This includes understanding the capacity limits of your destination to avoid contributing to overuse. Dispose of waste properly by packing out all trash, leftover food, and litter. Make sure to use designated disposal facilities when available. When relieving yourself outdoors, do so at least 200 feet from water sources, trails, and camp areas, and cover all human waste. Leave what you find, avoiding the temptation to take natural objects or disturb historical artifacts. Minimize campfire impacts by using established rings or portable stoves, and ensure all fires are completely extinguished. Respect wildlife by observing from a distance without feeding them, which protects their health and your safety. Lastly, be considerate of other visitors by keeping noise levels down and preserving the solitude of the wilderness for everyone to enjoy. Following these principles helps ensure that the wild spaces we cherish remain vibrant and undisturbed.

Dealing with Wildlife
When in the great outdoors, the chance to see wildlife in their natural habitat is a highlight for many campers. However, it's crucial to approach these encounters with a mindset of respect and safety. Maintain a safe and respectful distance from all wildlife, ensuring you do not disrupt their natural behaviors or habitat. Direct feeding of animals is strictly discouraged as it can alter their foraging habits and make them dependent on humans, leading to potentially dangerous interactions. Proper storage of food and scented items is key to preventing wildlife from being attracted to your campsite. Use bear-proof containers or elevate your food with a bear bag away from your sleeping area. Should you find yourself in a close encounter, remain calm, do not attempt to touch or startle the animal, and slowly back away while keeping your eyes on the creature. These practices help protect both you and the wildlife, preserving the natural balance and your safety.

Make your own Ranch, Dry Onion Soup Mix and Taco Seasoning

 

Make your own Ranch, Dry Onion Soup Mix and Taco Seasoning and store in Small Glass Mason Jars.

 

Taco Seasoning:...

1/2 cup chili powder

1/4 cup onion powder

1/8 cup ground cumin

1 tablespoon garlic powder

1 tablespoon paprika

1 tablespoon sea salt

Put ingredients into a jar and shake.

 

Dry Onion Soup Mix:

2/3 cup dried, minced onion

3 teaspoons parsley flakes

2 teaspoons onion powder

2 teaspoons turmeric

1 teaspoon celery salt

1 teaspoon sea salt

1 teaspoon sugar

1/2 teaspoon ground pepper

Mix all ingredients in a jar, then give the jar a good shake. I’d recommend shaking the jar to mix the ingredients well before each use.

Use 4 tablespoons in a recipe in place of 1 packet of onion soup mix. Store this in a dry, cool place.

 

Ranch:

5 tablespoons dried minced onions

7 teaspoons parsley flakes

4 teaspoons salt

1 teaspoon garlic powder

Mix together and store in an air tight container.

For dressing: Mix 2 tablespoons dry mix with 1 cup mayonnaise and 1 cup buttermilk or sour cream.

For dip: Mix 2 tablespoons dry mix with 2 cups sour cream.

Mix up a few hours before serving, so the flavors all blend.

 

 

MREs - Pepperoni Pizza!

I just got one of these and I must say that I wish that I had some way of getting some more of them. There are 18 servings in this one heavy MRE polytray!! I have the Mashed Potatoes with Chicken Breast in gravy. Great deal on some MREs to put back for the whole family. I am not sure how it would do in a Bug Out bag - it does weigh a bit. But it would do good in your house food storage or in the back of your bug out vehicle. Pepperoni Pizza MREs sounds like something to have on hand also. Kids would love them.
You warm them up the same way as you can a smaller MRE - just boil some water in a big pot and put this in it for a few minutes.

Powdered Dehydrated Items You Need

This is a great item to have on hand. Powdered Peanut Butter and Powdered Butter. We always use both and with this having such a long shelf life we will have what we need in case of an emergency. These are big #10 cans of the powder. Easy to reconstitute or use in recipes. I printed off some great recipes today that will use the peanut butter powder. Cookies , etc. I am trying to think of everything that my family might need. I am starting to feel a little anxious though, like I am still not doing enough. I think all of this cold and bad weather is getting to me. I cannot wait until spring when I can start a garden.

Multi-Function Survival Tool

This is a great addition to anyones survival kit. It has an ax, hammer, pull up nails, or use to pry open items, and so much more. A Multi Function Survival Tool that does not take up a lot of room. I love it. The next thing that I want to try and find for a low price is a shovel. I also need some more garden tools. I plan on having a much bigger one this year and will need some tools for it. Also on the look out for a GPush Reel Lawn Mower. I do not have a very big yard right now , so this might work for it.

Some Uses For Salt

 

Sixty Great Uses For Salt


Although you may not realize it, simple table Salt has a
great number of uses other than simply seasoning your
food.

The following list will give you sixty uses of salt, many of
which you probably didn't realize:


Soak stained hankies in salt water before washing.


Sprinkle salt on your shelves to keep ants away.


Soak fish in salt water before descaling; the scales will come off
easier.


Put a few grains of rice in your salt shaker for easier pouring.


Add salt to green salads to prevent wilting.


Test the freshness of eggs in a cup of salt water; fresh eggs sink;
bad ones float.


Add a little salt to your boiling water when cooking eggs; a
cracked egg will stay in its shell this way.


A tiny pinch of Salt with egg whites makes them beat up fluffier.


Soak wrinkled apples in a mildly salted water solution to perk
them up.


Rub salt on your pancake griddle and your flapjacks won't stick.


Soak toothbrushes in salt water before you first use them; they
will last longer.


Use salt to clean your discolored coffee pot.

Mix salt with turpentine to whiten you bathtub and toilet bowl.



Soak your nuts in salt brine overnight and they will crack out of

their shells whole. Just tap the end of the shell with a hammer to

break it open easily.


Boil clothespins in salt water before using them and they will last
longer.


Clean brass, copper and pewter with paste made of salt and
vinegar, thickened with flour


Add a little salt to the water your cut flowers will stand in for a
longer life.


Pour a mound of salt on an ink spot on your carpet; let the salt
soak up the stain.


Clean you iron by rubbing some salt on the damp cloth on the
ironing surface.


Adding a little salt to the water when cooking foods in a double
boiler will make the food cook faster.


Use a mixture of salt and lemon juice to clean piano keys.


To fill plaster holes in your walls, use equal parts of salt and
starch, with just enough water to make a stiff putty.


Rinse a sore eye with a little salt water.


Mildly salted water makes an effective mouthwash. Use it hot
for a sore throat gargle.


Dry salt sprinkled on your toothbrush makes a good tooth
polisher.


Use salt for killing weeds in your lawn.


Eliminate excess suds with a sprinkle of salt.

A dash of salt in warm milk makes a more relaxing beverage.



Before using new glasses, soak them in warm salty water for
awhile.


A dash of salt enhances the taste of tea.


Salt improves the taste of cooking apples.


Soak your clothes line in salt water to prevent your clothes from
freezing to the line; likewise, use salt in your final rinse to
prevent the clothes from freezing.


Rub any wicker furniture you may have with salt water to prevent
yellowing.


Freshen sponges by soaking them in salt water.


Add raw potatoes to stews and soups that are too salty.


Soak enamel pans in salt water overnight and boil salt water in
them next day to remove burned-on stains.


Clean your greens in salt water for easier removal of dirt.


Gelatin sets more quickly when a dash of salt is added.


Fruits put in mildly salted water after peeling will not discolor.


Fabric colors hold fast in salty water wash.


Milk stays fresh longer when a little salt is added.


Use equal parts of salt and soda for brushing your teeth.


Sprinkle salt in your oven before scrubbing clean.


Soaked discolored glass in a salt and vinegar solution to remove
stains.


Clean greasy pans with a paper towel and salt.


Salty water boils faster when cooking eggs.



Add a pinch of salt to whipping cream to make it whip more
quickly.


Sprinkle salt in milk-scorched pans to remove odour.


A dash of salt improves the taste of coffee.


Boil mismatched hose in salty water and they will come out
matched.


Salt and soda will sweeten the odor of your refrigerator.


Cover wine-stained fabric with salt; rinse in cool water later.


Remove offensive odors from stove with salt and cinnamon.


A pinch of salt improves the flavor of cocoa.


To remove grease stains in clothing, mix one part salt to four
parts alcohol.


Salt and lemon juice removes mildew.


Sprinkle salt between sidewalk bricks where you don't want grass
growing.


Polish your old kerosene lamp with salt for a brighter look.


Remove odors from sink drainpipes with a strong, hot solution of
salt water.


If a pie bubbles over in your oven, put a handful of Salt on top of
the spilled juice. The mess won't smell and will bake into a dry,
light crust which will wipe off easily when the oven has cooled.


Augason Farms Deluxe 30 Day Emergency Food Supply 200 Servings

Pumpkin Muffins

 

Budget Planning

 

 

Since I am wanting to stop spending money, I think that I need a Budget Planner to see what money is actually coming in and what goes out. If I see it all in writing, I will be able to budget it better!! I hope. This is going to be hard, to not spend any extra money. But we have very little bills so we should save a bunch. I hope. That is the the whole plan ~ TO SAVE MONEY!! I want to have cash on hand in case of an emergency.

Hand Crank Radio, Light, & Cell Phone Charger

Everyone should have one of these Hand Crank Radio With Cell Phone Charger. Such a neat item to have and small enough to add to a Go Bag and not add any weight. 

 Portable emergency radio with standard analog tuning for AM/FM/WB/7 preset NOAA weather channels. Excellent reception and clear sound, easily listen to your favorite radio, AM radio (520-1710 KHz), FM radio (87-108 MHz), WB radio (162.40-162.55 MHz). It's small enough to fit in your pocket and listen whenever and wherever you want. 3.5mm headphone jack for you to enjoy the radio privately without disturbing others 

 Emergency weather radio with an ultra-bright LED flashlight and extendable 180° rotatable reading lamp that can be adjusted to any angle to illuminate a large area, keeping you out of the dark during emergency power outages or at night. Loud SOS alarm and eye-catching flashing light to call for help in emergency to escape from any danger. Solar crank radio can charge your phone, tablet and USB devices to provide emergency power 

 NOAA radio is always at the ready! More convenient and reliable for instant, automatic, all-day messaging about weather alerts, allowing you to prepare and stay safe in advance of impending natural disasters such as hurricanes, tornadoes, typhoons, rainstorms, fires, blizzards, sandstorms, tsunamis, floods, etc.. You can stay informed no matter where you are 

 Powerful solar hand crank radio has 3 charging options, with a 2000mAh built-in rechargeable battery that can be charged via USB cable, solar panel and hand crank. No more power outages in concerns in any situation. It's a must-have tool for anyone who wants to be prepared for emergencies Hand Crank Radio With Cell Phone Charger

Keeping These Items In The Cupboard Will Save You Dollars In The Kitchen

If you're like the majority of people, the first place you cut back to save money is in the kitchen. Eating frugally doesn't necessarily mean switching to beans and rice. It does mean eating smarter and planning for leaner times.

Tough economic times have forced so many people to give up their favorite past times like going to the movies every Friday or going to their favorite restaurant as often. Most non-essential items from the grocery list have been deleted like all the different varieties of cookies, chips and microwaveable snacks.

Keeping these items on hand will save you money and help you out in "a pinch."

1. Egg Replacer- it's powdered and mixes with water. Sometimes, when you have 3 eggs left you have to decide between breakfast and a snack for the kids, egg replacer will come in handy. Mix it with a little water and add it to your favorite recipe instead of eggs. Cakes and breads come out fluffier and lighter. A box will go a long way and that alone will save you money and trips to the grocery store for eggs, especially during the holiday season when the price of eggs goes sky-high. An added plus is that it's cruelty-free. It can be found in most grocery stores.

2. Bouillon Cubes- These little treasures come in so handy when there isn't much time or there's no chicken or beef for a soup on a cold winter's day. A jar is only a few dollars and they keep an exceptionally long time. They come in Beef, Chicken and Vegetable flavor. A bouillon cube is basically stock that's dehydrated into little cubes. Just add these cubes to a few cups of water, add a can or box of frozen mixed veggies and soup pasta (purchased on sale, of course) and you've got a little soup made in minutes. Add a can of your favorite beans or extra peas and you've got additional protein in your meal. Combined with a grilled cheese sandwich on the side, your kids will love it!

3. Baking Soda- Not just for the fridge anymore, you can use baking soda for so many things like

* brushing your teeth. Just put a little in the palm of your hand, wet your toothbrush and dab it in the baking soda making a little paste. You'll get white teeth and fresh breath.
* It can be used as a deodorant under your arms (not after shaving because it will burn).
* Use it for heartburn by mixing one-fourth teaspoon to one-fourth cup of water. Stir it well and drink it. It tastes salty but will clear up acid indigestion within 30 seconds.
* You can also add it to warm water and wash your floor with it as a safe, non-toxic alternative to harsh cleaners that aren't safe for your babies or pets.

4.White Vinegar-Surprisingly, you can use it to clean your pipes. Just pour baking soda down your drain and add the vinegar, which is inexpensive and can be bought by the gallon. It will cause the baking soda to bubble up and dislodge grunge from your pipes. It doesn't dissolve hair but soap scum and build-up will disappear. It's a safe alternative to liquid drain openers. If you use it quarterly, as the seasons change, your drains will flow freely and you won't have plumber bills.

Keep these items in your pantry or cupboards and you'll be eating frugally, saving dollars on your grocery bill and helping the planet. It's a win-win alternative to what you may be doing now.

Food Storage Recipe - Crockpot Chicken & Gravy

 

Super easy recipe. Serve over rice or mashed potatoes.

Put 3 chicken breast in your Crock Pot. 

Add a can of cream of chicken soup, 1 cup of water, 2 packets of chicken gravy mix over the chicken.

Mix that up over the chicken.

Add any seasonings you use. I just added a bit of seasoned salt and some pepper.

Cook on low for a few hours in you Crock Pot. 

Shred up the chicken and add a small bag of frozen mixed vegetables.

Let cook for about another hour.

Serve over rice or mashed potatoes. 

You do not have to add the mixed vegetables if you don;t have them. It will still be great.

 

All Natural Cleaners

 It is always better to use natural cleaners. Not full of nasty chemicals. Safer for the household. Here are a few "recipes" for some natural cleaners.

Natural Bleach - 

Vinegar

Water 

Dish Soap

 

Deep Clean Toilet Pods - 

Baking Soda 

Citric Acid

Castile Soap

Essential Oils

Form in an old ice cube tray. Use 1 per use.

 

Clean Dishes Dishwasher Pods -

Baking Soda 

Washing soda

Salt 

Dish soap

Form in an old ice cube tray. Use 1 per use. 

Glass Cleaner Spray - 

Water 

White Vinegar

Essential Oil

Mix all in a spray bottle. 

 

 

 

 

April 8th 2024 Solar Eclipse

For real - If you are driving anywhere on April 8th , make sure you have a full tank of gas, some food, jumper cables, phone chargers, and maybe some cash. 

Tiny towns around where I live in Indiana are going to packed with out of towners and it is going to be a nightmare. I am driving 50 miles to go to see the Totality . Really kind of worried about how bad the traffic will be. I have a box full of snacks, a case of water, phone charger etc. Better to have items that we might need than to not have them and need them. 

Everyone stay safe.

Food Storage Recipe - Quick Pizza Bread

 

 My son actually asked for pizza for breakfast and I don't have any right now in the freezer. I also didn't feel like making a pizza. So I grabbed some bread, put some pizza sauce on it , and topped it with shredded cheese. I also put some Italian seasoning on top. Baked until the bread was nice and toasty.

 Quick and easy "Pizza".