Free Food!!

It is true! You can get free food. Just by foraging. Grab your copy of Edible Wild Plants: Wild Foods From Dirt To Plate (The Wild Food Adventure Series, Book 1) and go on a walk. Maybe just walk around your neighborhood and see what you can find. You will be amazed at what you will find and how , if you ask, your neighbors will happily let you take the cherries off their tree instead of letting them go to rot. My parent's neighbor went on vacation for the summer to Alaska and they called my mom from there one day and told her to take whatever she wanted from their garden. They knew that it would all go to waste and be gone before they got back. My parent's have had fresh veggies all summer and she has been canning and freezing what she can't use up!!

This would be a great way to teach your kids about edible wild plants. Make a day of it , or a weekend by going camping, with your kids. Go hiking and pick out what can be eaten and find out ways to use the stuff that you get. Have your kids figure out how many ways they can use the berries that they just picked. What mushrooms are safe to eat. and more. This would make a great homeschooling activity.

***Please ask first if it is in someone's yard that you see something that could be foraged.***

Weeds are nutritionally superior to our domesticated crops and better acclimated to growing conditions, making them hardy and resilient. Our ancestors all over the world revered these plants for food and medicinal properties. Here are several edible wild plants-herbs-that you should learn how to identify so you can add these nutrient-dense foods to your diet. Be sure to use a field guide for plant identification.

Dandelion (Taraxacum spp.)-high in iron, beta-carotene and potassium. The blossoms can be made into a wine or fritters. Dandelion roots, made into a tea or added to soups, relieve acne, eczema and water retention by strengthening the liver.

Lamb's-quarters (Chenopodium album)-rich in iron, calcium, beta-carotene and vitamin C. Throughout history, lamb's-quarters were used as a nourishing food during times of famine and war. It is more nutritious than spinach and requires no care in the garden. It is also called goosefoot, because of the shape of the leaves. Can be eaten raw or cooked. The tea can relieve sunburns and headaches.

Nettles (Urtica dioica)-high in iron, beta-carotene and vitamin C. Because of the stinging hairs on nettles, they should be cooked. Use them in soups and as steamed greens. Nettles are excellent for skin, hair and nails.

Chicory (Cichorium intybus)-Chicory flowers are used to garnish salads, main dishes and cakes. Young leaves are picked before the plant flowers and added to salads. The root is sautéed as a vegetable or it is dried, roasted and brewed as a coffee. Make a poultice of the leaves for inflamed skin.

Chickweed (Stellaria media)-high in vitamin C. Traditionally, chickweed was given to frail people to strengthen them. Add the leaves, flowers and stems to soups, salads and stir-fry dishes. Chickweed is also made into a salve for skin disorders for everything from diaper rash to psoriasis.

Knotweed (Polygonum aviculare, P. erectum)-high in silica. Used to strengthen the connective tissue in the lungs and as a remedy for swollen arthritic joints. Steam the young tender stems and add to stews or quiches. Add the seeds with your other grains to make gruel and breads. Always cook knotweed, eating it raw can cause intestinal discomfort.

Common Mallow (Malva neglecta)-rich in beta-carotene. The leaves are soothing and anti-inflammatory. Can be eaten raw or cooked, and is used to thicken soups. Made into a tea or syrup, it relieves sore throats, coughs and ulcers. Make a poultice from the fresh shredded leaves and water for skin rashes, burns and insect bites. Garnish your salads with the delicate pink and white flowers.

Purslane (Portulaca oleracea)-high in omega-3 fatty acids, beta-carotene, and vitamin C. Purslane strengthens your immune system, liver and heart. An excellent cooling herb, add to cold soups like gazpacho. If you are pregnant or have digestive problems, avoid purslane.

Violet (Viola spp)-rich in vitamin C. Who can resist the beautiful heart-shaped leaves of violet? Or a springtime dessert made from the crystallized purple, lavender, yellow or white flowers? Violet tea is used for bronchitis, coughs and fevers. Make violet honey and take as a remedy for heartache.

Yellow Dock (Rumex crispus)-Young leaves are high in oxalic acid which inhibits calcium absorption, so eat in moderation and cook in 2 changes of water. Grind the seeds into a nutrient-dense meal and add to breads. It is recommended to remove the astringent papery flanges from the seeds before using. Do this by rubbing the seeds between your hands. Pour them into a clean container, tilt it slightly and sweep the seeds with a playing card, keeping the chaff near the top and letting the seeds roll to the bottom. Make a poultice of the fresh leaves for skin rashes and nettle stings. The root is astringent and antiseptic and used for acne, jaundice and constipation.

Whenever harvesting your edible weeds, be sure to collect them from areas that haven't been sprayed. Allow them to grow in your garden and collect them as you harvest your plants and combine them into nutrient packed meals for your family.


Modern Day Food Foraging

Edible Wild Plants: A North American Field Guide to Over 200 Natural Foods

Buying Bulk Foods

Harmony House seems to have some great prices. I really want to try it out and they have sampler packs that you can try. This will be my next thing to do. I hope soon. 

Is there anyone out there in that has tried this Harmony House??


Click here to visit Harmony House Foods, Inc.

 

 

Cooking With Stockpile!! Frugal Meal Idea!!

Here is another frugal meal idea that I make often. I always have these items in my stockpile.

1 box of Macaroni & Cheese
1 can of water packed Tuna
1 can of cream of chicken soup

cook the macaroni as the box says to do it , add the cheese, drained Tuna, and cream of chicken soup. Your done. We crunch of crackers and put that on top of our serving and it is really good.

The great thing about this is that it is fast and you can use any kind of creamed soup you want. Cream of mushroom, cream of broccoli, etc - you get the idea. But, this is a super cheap and easy meal. Maybe try the macaroni with a small can of can ham with the cream of broccoli. That sounds good.

Very frugal.

Food Storage Recipe - 3 Ingredient Peanut Butter Cookies

 

Actually kind of too hot now to bake , but I did get up early to bake some of these easy cookies that only uses 3 ingredients. 

1 cup Peanut Butter

 

1 cup sugar 

 

1 egg 

 

Roll into 1 inch balls and push a cross cross with a fork. Bake at 350 for 12 minutes.

 

They are so yummy and use items that I always have in my food storage.

FreeCycle - Local Free Items

The Freecycle Network You should all join your local Freecycle group. It is an awesome thing. You can find stuff on there that you might need for free and give away stuff that you don't need to someone who does need it. Great way to organize your own home. Get rid of items that you don't need and clear out some space.

Going Camping

 

This is so strange. Cleaning out my shed and found this huge carrier case with wheels leaning up against the wall in the back corner. Pull it out and it is a Bushnell 12 Person Instant Cabin Tent!! Wow!! Not sure where it came from, brand new, But I cannot wait to go camping with this. 

Get a couple of Air Mattresses and we are all set. I have all of the camping equipment that anyone could need. 

This is going to be so much fun. Can't wait.

Food Storage Recipe - Corn & Black Bean Wraps

Corn and Black Bean Wraps 

NEED:

1 can of black beans , drained

1 can Southwestern Corn , drained

1/2 cup shredded Monterey Jack cheese

Some fresh chopped cilantro

1/4 cup of salsa

4 tortillas

Preheat the oven to 350 degrees.

In a bowl mix together the beans, Southwestern Corn, cheese, cilantro, and the salsa. 

Mix this up well.

Spoon the black bean mixture down the middle of each tortilla. 

Roll the tortillas up and place on a slightly oiled cooking sheet.

Bake for about 10 minutes and turn over and bake for about 10 more minutes.

 

black beans

15 Boxed Food Mixes You Never Have To Buy Again

15 Boxed Food Mixes You Never Have To Buy Again

Food Storage Recipe - Beef & Rice Bake

 

I love this meal. Easy to throw together and taste so great.

NEED: 

1 pound ground beef

2 cups water

1 cup frozen corn

2 teaspoons of chili powder

1 can Stewed Tomatoes, undrained

1 package Rice a Roni Spanish rice mix

 Heat oven to 375 degrees.

Spray a casserole dish with non stick cooking spray.

Brown the ground beef in a skillet until completely cooked through and broken up. 

Drain the ground beef very well.

Stir in the remaining ingredients and bring to a boil.

Spoon it into the casserole dish and cover.

Bake for 40 - 45 minutes or until the rice is tender.

SERVE.

I like to serve with shredded cheese and sour cream if I have them.

 

How to Sew Reusable Bowl Covers

How to Sew Reusable Bowl Covers

 Perfect reusable bowl covers to make. Would be a great gift idea, too. 

Food Storage Recipe - Vegetables In Cream Sauce

 Great way to make the frozen California Style vegetables a lot better.

NEED:

1 package frozen California Style Vegetable Mix

1/4 pound Velveeta cheese cut into 1/2 inch cubes

1/2 package of cream cheese

Layer all of the ingredients in a microwave safe bowl and cover.

Microwave it on high for about 13 minutes. Stir it half way through and finish. 

Serve - great with any kind of meat. 

Outdoor Multi-tool Trekking Pole

Food Storage Recipe - Cinnamon Sugar Pull Aparts

Preheat your oven to 400 degrees.

Open your can of biscuits, I just use the cheap cans of 10 from Savalot, cut each one into fourths, dip each one into some melted margarine, roll them in the Cinnamon Sugar, and drop them into a liberally greased bread loaf pan! Just drop them in anyway. It will bake all up and you put the delicious mess out on a plate and you all just fight over pulling them apart and eating them!!! 

So good with a cup of coffee!

Food Storage Recipe - Breakfast Casserole

 

Breakfast Casserole - You can eat this any time of the day. Great dinner, too.

NEED:

1 can of jumbo flaky biscuits - cut each into 8ths.

1/2 a pack of sausage , like Jimmy Dean

8 ounce bag of shredded cheese

8 eggs

Spray the Casserole Dish with non-stick spray. 

Put all of the cut up pieces of biscuits on the bottom.

Spread the cooked and well drained sausage over the biscuits.

Pour the 8 beaten eggs over this and top with shredded cheese.

Cook in a 350 degree oven for approx. 35-40 minutes. 

Food Storage Recipe - Mexican Tortilla Stack

 

Layers of yummy!!

NEED:

1 pound of ground beef

1/2 pound of Velveeta cheese , cut into 1/2 inch cubes

1 cup of frozen corn

1 jar of thick and chunky salsa , medium

12 corn tortillas, cut into quarters

sour cream

Preheat the oven to 400 degrees.

Brown the ground beef in a large skillet then drain very well.

Add the Velveeta cheese and stir until melted.

Stir in the salsa and corn.

Spread 1/4 of the meat mixture in the bottom of a casserole baking dish.

Top with tortilla pieces. 

Repeat the layers 2 more times and then top with remaining meat mixture. 

Cover tightly with foil.

Bake for 30 minutes. 

Serve with sour cream on top. Green onion if you have it.

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.