tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1436314989594658592024-02-07T19:04:49.077-06:00Better Homesteads and Hovels (NARC)Showing a real homestead.... always a work in progress... as we progress to sustainability.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.comBlogger85125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-66040210994942114452021-10-17T23:10:00.004-05:002021-10-17T23:10:35.710-05:00Harvest Season<p> I really worked my garden this year and learned more about canning and preserving. I consider it important to know how to do those things before the economy/ supply chain/global warming gets the better of us.</p><p>I started working outside the home this fall, picking up 20 hours a week to buy groceries and keep my sanity in yet another homeschooling year. It is amazing what a few consistent hours away from the constant demands for Mommyhood will do.</p><p>And the weather has allowed my garden to continue to give for an additional 6 weeks, which really helped this year because the summer was so hot and dry that even with constant watering nothing wanted to bloom.</p><p>So finally, this week with a serious threat of frost, I harvested and tucked it all in for a good winter's rest. That was 12 hours of work, after homeschooling and work hours every day. It was also a great way to get out in the beautiful fall weather and exercise in a most useful way.</p><p> I planned to start some serious canning this year when my mother and her friend, an old experienced canner, ordered us a bunch of peaches to put up for the winter. Then she explained that she couldn't do the work anymore, so I volunteered to. So I bought my supplies early ( canning supplies have been a little harder to find since covid), and started studying up on it. The 4 dozen + peaches I canned are awesome, totally worth the work.</p><p>Then some tomatoes, pickled stuffed peppers, and just this week 12 pounds of red spiced cabbage. I have also been drying things like herbs and dried leeks (highly recommend) and trying out some jams. I do recommend the ground cherry jam. Ground cherries are easy to grow, are prodigious producers, and are quite tasty. I enjoyed harvesting some flowers and making bouquets, and drying some types for teas. </p><p>I still have Brussels sprouts out in the garden, then are pretty hardy and like frost, and a dozen pumpkins. I will probably end up canning pumpkins. I love cooking with the sweet, healthy veggie. I also still want to plant more tulips for spring.</p><p><b>Pumpkin Biscuits</b></p><p>2 cups pumpkin (More or less 1 can)</p><p>6 cups whole wheat flour</p><p>1/4-1/2 cup baking powder</p><p>milk to consistency</p><p>salt- optional</p><p><br /></p><p>Mix flour with baking powder. Add pumpkin and blend with hands (kinda like one does with regular fat in a biscuit), then add milk to desired constancy. If you make the dough soft, the biscuit will be soft. Pat into biscuits, bake on oiled cookie tray.</p><p>Bake at 350 for 15 minutes, or until center is done.</p><p><br /></p><p><br /></p>Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-81147014870485820022021-07-29T15:55:00.001-05:002021-07-29T15:55:14.099-05:00<p> What Does Homemaking mean in the 21st Century?</p><p> This I am stealing from FaceBook may help answer that:</p><div class="kvgmc6g5 cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Work as a chef, own a bakery: Way to go!</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Cook for your family: You poor kitchen slave.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Work in fashion or own a clothing store: Slay, Queen!</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Mend or make your family's clothes: Are you Amish?</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Teach 35 children in a classroom: Such a servant and a gem!</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Teach your own child: Backwards weirdo!</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Fold men's and children's clothes in a department store: Way to go earning your own money!</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Fold your husband's clothes: You poor oppressed woman!</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Run a lunch truck: Support women businesses!!</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Hand your husband his lovingly packed lunch before he heads out the door: 1950's patriarchy!</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Getting paid to push papers isn't better than managing your home budget.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Wiping down counters in your own shop isn't more valuable then quietly cleaning your own bathroom sink.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">A paycheck doesn't equal worth.</div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">The world's praises aren't the ones that matter. Achieving personal success isn't the way to glorify God.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Pretty sure the verse doesn't say, "Whatever you do, do it for a paycheck and high esteem in the eyes of the world."</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Your work matters. </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">It is valuable. </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">It is sacred. </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">It is important. </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">It is God honoring.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Go ahead and study how to slice and dice even if you'll only use the skills within the walls of your home. Go ahead and learn the science behind sourdough, even if you don't plan to start a side hustle.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Learn, grow, serve, give, sweep, teach, love, submit . . . </div><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">And do it cheerfully.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">Do it to the glory of God.</div></div><div class="o9v6fnle cxmmr5t8 oygrvhab hcukyx3x c1et5uql ii04i59q" style="background-color: white; color: #050505; font-family: Roboto, Helvetica, Arial, sans-serif; font-size: 15px; margin: 0.5em 0px 0px; overflow-wrap: break-word; white-space: pre-wrap;"><div dir="auto" style="font-family: inherit;">~ Bloom Wild Schoolhouse</div></div>Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-61760396401272604922020-12-08T12:57:00.001-06:002020-12-08T13:03:56.700-06:00Kids' Clothing talk<p> I just read an article on creating a capsule wardrobe for your children. The funny thing is, I have been doing this for 15 years before capsule wardrobes ever became a thing. Why? Because it saved my sanity. Imagine how much easier mornings are when your kids have to choose from items that all match. And then it also reduced the amount of clothing they had, so there was less to wash and less laying all over their bedroom floors.</p><p>I took it a bit simpler and put shelves in the laundry room to store their clothes- it gets it permanently off their bedroom floors (except the stray sock or two), and get it so all you have to do to "put it away" is find their tote on the shelf and put it in it (often times I don't even fold it first).</p><p>We made space in the house we built so they could change right in the laundry room, or the bathroom next to it, most of the time to make it even easier.</p><p>I just had my 9th kid, but I'm buying less clothing than ever, how did that work? Well, I'm a sucker for well-built clothing and will often store anything I think will be useful upstairs in totes (by size and gender) to use on the next kid. </p><p>So how do you <b>build one</b> for your child/children? First of all, go through their clothes and pick out their favorite pieces- the ones they wear all the time. If they are in good condition, put them in the keep pile. Take these favorite pieces and find several more pants/bottoms that match and they like to wear (a total of perhaps 6-7 or maybe as few as 3-4 depending on how often you wash and how many changes they need in those days. Usually 10 is max in my book). Then do the same with tops and jackets. Underwear and socks are a little simpler as they don't have to be seen. I still find if I buy 6-10 pairs of identical or nearly identical socks then when we lose one or wear one it, its only one and not a pair we lose. Now you have a capsule wardrobe. </p><p>So there are probably a few pieces that are good quality and would match into the wardrobe- keep a couple of these and put them in a "<b>back up" tote-</b> out of the normal flow of laundry options, and pull the one or two out when a piece is needed to be replaced due to stains or rips. The rest simply rehome. </p><p>Now, what about wardrobe extras? </p><p><b>Swimsuits</b>- how many do you need? I need 1-2 per child in the summer. As my parents have a lake cabin and a pool in their other house. We can live with 1 if we always bring it home after a swim.</p><p><b>Karate/dance/exercise clothes</b>- we use a different tote or store these in the bags we will grab as we run out the door (haven't done much of that this year :))</p><p><b>Dress Clothing</b>: We do not put this in the normal tote, nor do these have to match anything in the normal tote. They are on hangers, waiting for the special occasion. My boys have 1-2 suits each (we use them every week) my girls' vary more because Grandma buys too many dresses and I have a harder time paring them down. I often hang the tights and sweaters right with the dresses so it's a one-hanger grab and dress.</p><p><b>Seasonal</b> clothing: We live in Minnesota and to handle the weather, I do change the kids' clothing from summer to winter each year (and back again).</p><p>Now <b>teenagers</b> are fun, as they come with their own ideas. Luckily, mine have been willing to keep their clothes in the totes in the laundry room. My teens each have their own idea of what they like to wear. I have one who wears golf pants (has 4 all in the same color) and Hawaiian shirts (these obviously all match the golf pants). Besides that, he has 2 hoodie jackets, under and socks that are different from his brothers so they don't get mixed up. Another teen has chosen to wear all black. Makes shopping simple. He still only has 4 pants and several shirts and pjs. Another teen wears nothing but Duluth Trading 2XLTs same tan pants and 4 t-shirts in different colors. This kid doesn't wear the hoodies the others have but has a jacket instead. My 12-year-old daughter is growing so fast that I buy her a longer pair of pants every few weeks. Her tote right now is very minimal when we remove all that doesn't fit.</p><p><b>Shoes:</b> My kids only have 1 pair of shoes in each category. Some skip entire categories altogether. Tennie/daily shoes, dress shoes, winter boots, sandals. my girls who do horse lessons have their horse boots.</p><p><b>Tote maintenance</b>: Every month or so, I pull out a kid's tote and go through it. I pull out anything too small, anything too stained or ripped, and replace what is needed. I look for anything that doesn't match. or if there are too many of 1 thing in a tote. The first place I check for replacement is the backup tote, then I go upstairs to the big storage with all the totes. If I still can't find what is needed I will order from a good quality supplier (or see if a garage sale or second-hand store has it, but usually I have to buy tall sizes and that is harder to find at garage sales). I also check that everything is still matching. </p><p>Sometimes due to growth spurts or seasonal changes a complete wardrobe change is required. This is where you hope your need and a sale at a good children's brand matches. Usually, good brands come out with lines of clothing that all or mostly match, making buying a capsule wardrobe easy.</p>Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-22004656669112293492020-08-08T22:14:00.002-05:002021-10-17T23:16:57.557-05:00What this pregnant mom of 9 really grooves on now<p> Facebook is really good at advertising, not a surprise, so I have been seeing articles on what supplies new moms can not live without ( I assume most of these lists are all about selling things, but my list is not) and I thought I would make my own list, as I have less consumerism and a little more experience than most moms.</p><p>So here is<b> my current grooves list:</b></p><p>1. Support belt- I need both my support belt and my chiropractor to keep my hips functioning this pregnancy.</p><p>2. Extra pillows on the bed- to keep stomach contents in their proper place at night and prop up legs</p><p>3. Good bras- I have searched high and low and the best I have found come from Target ( And they are the cheapest) <a href="https://www.target.com/p/women-s-nursing-seamless-bra-auden-153/-/A-54236901?preselect=54173405#lnk=sametab">https://www.target.com/p/women-s-nursing-seamless-bra-auden-153/-/A-54236901?preselect=54173405#lnk=sametab</a> the sizes on both playtex and leading lady have been very inconsistent this year. And I have never found a $70 bra to live up to the cost. I actually like the padding this pregnancy because my nipples are extra sensitive and it protects them against the toddlers who crawl on me and bump them. This bra support a 38DDD pretty well, and even though it soft, I still get tired of it by the end of the day.</p><p>4. Skimpy dress- a knee-length mumu style that covers me enough to be allowed in public but keeps heat-trapping down to one layer of cotton. This is of course only because it is summer here. What you need will depend on your location and temps.</p><p>5. Heartburn meds- again about sleep</p><p>6. Hemroid cream- this is truly a life saver, and it doesn't take much. I am still using the same tube I bought with baby #5.</p><p>7. nursing pads- not needed now but very useful after birth, along with menstrual pads (I use cloth) and a few disposable supplies to make new motherhood slightly easier.</p><p><b>Next list: things I am preparing for baby.</b></p><p>I got rid of all my baby stuff 2 years ago, when I turned 40 and my youngest was over 2. I thought we were done (cue laughter).</p><p>1. A place to sleep. I like a bassinet next to the bed. A porta-crib also fits there and will be used when she outgrows the bassinet. Nothing fancy, as she will be spending most of time cuddled next to my breasts.</p><p>2. A place to change her in the family room. For many of my kids the ottoman became the defacto changing table. This time we are out of ottomans, so I turned a tote into a changing table/ottoman by attaching a changing pad onto the lid (thanks velcro), and inside I am storing her diaper supplies. We are cloth diapering, with prefolds and snappy, size-changing covers. We also use old towels cut up as diaper wipes (these can be tossed if I don't want to wash them). I used cardboard boxes inside the tote to separate and organize the supplies.</p><p>3. Clothing, as guessed at for sizing and seasons- bought mostly second hand at garage sales this summer. I have 8 children as guides on growth and timing for sizing. But basics like onsies and footies are almost always needed in all sizes and temps, and garage sales sell them for a quarter each verses anywhere from $2-14 each in the stores.</p><p>4. Receiving blankets- my mother-in-law makes the best ones, 45" square double flannel with cute designs. I have saved everyone she has made each of my 8 children and feel sorry for anyone that has to survive on store-bought versions. 8-12 of them I would recommend. (you could get by with 6 if you are on top of laundry).</p><p>5. An extra place to set the baby when she is not in my arms. At a garage sale I found the perfect fit- a little bouncy seat and a little swing, for $5/each. Do not buy new, they will only be used for a few months top.</p><p>6. Car seats- we splurged, bought new with an additional base so we can use the same seat across both cars. (after note, didn't work. The bases didn't fit in either the van or the car). </p><p>7. A place to wash baby- a sink with a towel on the bottom works for the youngest. Once they can sit the sink is still a great place, although the towel on the bottom isn't needed anymore. I find plain water is the best to bathe baby with. If something is extra sticky or stinky a little bit of soap can be used.</p><p><b>Things we will eventually need for baby- but don't need yet.</b></p><p>1. A highchair. I like to $20 from Ikea. They are small, cheap and have a washable cover. The child will only use one from about 8-16 months, so not worth spending lots of money on. Perhaps a nice garage sale find, but I find in our kitchen size means so much that Ikeas might just be the right choice again.</p><p>2. Baby dishes. She will need sippy cups, as we go from breast to cup without ever using bottles. I like having all matching pieces so everything fits everything else. 2-4 cups would probably be enough. Baby spoon can be useful, although I prefer the finger feeding stage, and when they come out of that they are usually big enough that regular spoons and forks will work. At most one set of silverware in baby/toddler size. I have never found a "Spill proof" bowl or plate to be of any value. (But bibs that cover any cute clothing would be a requirement).</p><p>3. Toys. Someday- don't rush, people love to give toys as gifts.</p><p>4. Stroller. Someday when covid-19 is no longer a major threat to baby we will be going out (also needs to be snowless outside to be useful), and an umbrella stroller is so worth having around- often kept in the car, for when its time to go and do things. I don't recommend a fancy thing, just a basic $40 (I ran over mine and found out new ones are now $70. Luckily I could replace the wheels for only $30) stroller that folds small and sets up quickly. If baby was born early in a normal summer we might have gotten a stroller that fits the car seat on top, but by the time we will need one this time she will be old enough to use the umbrella style with no problems.</p><p>5. Baby proofing supplies. maybe a few outlet covers, but for everything else just move the dangerous stuff out of her reach for the next 10 years (or get rid of them entirely). Rubber bands can lock cabinets together for stuff you can not move, but I do recommend high shelves for most things.</p><p>6. More clothing. Every healthy baby keeps growing, and garage sales are a great place to stock up on future sizes. Some people organize them by size in totes or paper bags, so they are ready when your baby is.</p>Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-32601142513231538572020-05-16T18:42:00.000-05:002020-05-16T18:42:05.420-05:00Homesteading...When you are going to school, summers off are kinda nice and summer trips are often the only time available. I have used those things as excuses to avoid gardens and yard work.<br />
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This year I have no excuse. So we bought 9 fruit trees and 6 blueberries to start our orchard. The raspberries we planted 10 years ago finally took root and the grapevines seem to like it here.<br />
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Then we decided to put in a sandbox around the playground for my littlest kids. Nothing like awesome sand and water play to keep kids outside. I'm excited. Excited to build a future and stay put.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-76011266651961097342019-12-21T22:44:00.000-06:002019-12-21T22:44:11.965-06:00Good Bye Wrapping Paper, I'll never buy you again.<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxFG1G7_hQiwBdj6p0FIeQcQs3quQghiCVJ-L0zju55rT4wJ20-WjyyhPyJY-bOkHfa83UpV2hi3OFCbRaTbj7O9FQL5ViSbbhPVm6Tx1E_mfEePDVz8RmSyZGg1xr6hRZqcpZniD3PYx/s1600/wrapiung+bags.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" data-original-height="220" data-original-width="118" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhnxFG1G7_hQiwBdj6p0FIeQcQs3quQghiCVJ-L0zju55rT4wJ20-WjyyhPyJY-bOkHfa83UpV2hi3OFCbRaTbj7O9FQL5ViSbbhPVm6Tx1E_mfEePDVz8RmSyZGg1xr6hRZqcpZniD3PYx/s1600/wrapiung+bags.jpg" /></a></div>
I have literally tossed the wrapping paper that has been plaguing my storage space under my stairs. It was too ripped up to use anyways. My cousin has an esty site and this week she has been selling cloth wrapping bag sets- complete with ribbons. So I was happy to replace my paper for something more sustainable. All my wrapping supplies now fit in a single gallon zip lock (specifically the ones they arrived in). For presents going out of the house there are lots of other options- papers from packaging/newspaper, cloth that is part of a present, ect.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-2683765668733520682019-12-05T23:36:00.000-06:002019-12-06T14:07:14.237-06:00Learning about Carbon Footprints of ClothingHere is the take home quote: <span style="background-color: white; color: #343c40; font-family: "arnhem" , serif; font-size: 20px; text-indent: -7px;">“What we need to do is to care for our clothes. We need to make them last longer,” she says. “Even extending the life of our garments by an extra nine months of active use would reduce the carbon, water and waste footprint by around 20% to 30% each.”</span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; color: #343c40; font-family: "arnhem" , serif; font-size: 20px; text-indent: -7px;">What that this say about the pieces I've had and worn and loved for 10 years?</span><br />
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It takes 700 gallons of water to produce one t-shirt and another 700 gallons of water to wash it over its lifetime, Benedetto says. More than 2 billion shirts are sold around the world each year.</div>
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"By 2025, two-thirds of the entire world's population will face shortages of fresh water and be exposed to hazardous chemicals from textile production alone," she says. "And one would think that it's just in China and Vietnam and India, where we're manufacturing, but this is actually having an impact on our water in Europe and in the United States as well."<br />
<br />
And here is part of how we can handle it: ( yes read both)<br />
<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/15/opinion/sunday/shopping-consumerism.html" style="text-indent: -0.35em;">https://www.nytimes.com/2017/12/15/opinion/sunday/shopping-consumerism.html</a><br />
<br />
<a href="https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-the-life-changing-magic-of-making-do/?fbclid=IwAR0O5kCF8eEFlpPHw_mttGS0i-2mm3AJfY3EErKjq7yZbs3Oyy1v17wbwqM">https://www.theglobeandmail.com/opinion/article-the-life-changing-magic-of-making-do/?fbclid=IwAR0O5kCF8eEFlpPHw_mttGS0i-2mm3AJfY3EErKjq7yZbs3Oyy1v17wbwqM</a></div>
Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-32149436679459638572019-06-28T11:50:00.000-05:002019-06-28T11:50:29.272-05:00Number GameIf we play a numbers game with Minimalism we get:<br />
<br />
assuming our house has the average 300,000 items and we want to get rid of 2/3rds of it- that is 200,000 items to purge.<br />
<br />
and if I use kitchen sized white garbage bags, averaging 20 items per bag. That is 10,000 bags I have to purge.<br />
<br />
If I do it at a rate of 10 bags/month (that means I actually had 1 day to clean, plus regular get rid of accumulations) that means I'd spend 1,000 months or 90 years to purge that much.<br />
<br />
Wow, do Americans have a lot of stuff.<br />
<br />
I've been reducing stuff in my house since I started Flylady.net in 2003. But a major cleanout came when I read Marie Kondo's book. I loved the "spark joy" aspect of it. It is easy to hold on to things because they can be useful, but when you hold or try on something that actually sparks joy- you get it. It's the feeling of loving how you feel with it. Once your wardrobe is 90% spark joy (and 10%, I need it and would have to replace it if I got rid of it) dressing is a happy thing every morning, now if we can just replicate that feeling with everything in the house.<br />
<br />
And don't be afraid to get rid of the can opener that can't and replace it. Your life is too valuable to waste fighting with can't openers. :)Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-28147429864647741982019-06-28T10:40:00.002-05:002019-06-28T10:40:47.388-05:00Minimalism winWe only mow the part of the yard we play in, the rest is left to grow wild. Well, my brother has borrowed our weed whacker, so the edges around our rock beds haven't been whacked. But this morning, after a night of rain, we had wildflowers- tall with crowns of yellows and whites edge our yard with butterflies dancing around them. My son went outside and said. "Mom, I think this is what Eden must have looked like."Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-30905218859624653212019-06-27T13:10:00.001-05:002019-06-27T13:10:26.966-05:00Summer KitchenMy house is wonderfully insulated. We have 12" outside walls- mostly styrofoam and windows on the inside and outside of that- creating very insulated windows.<br />
<br />
In the winter all I have to do to heat the house is bake some cookies/muffins/whatever I want and the house stays warm all day, and night.<br />
<br />
But in the summer- the house also keeps all of its heat/cool. We live in northern Minnesota, so most of the time we need nothing more than fans in a few windows to keep cool, if I add no heat to the house by cooking.<br />
<br />
Every get tired of cold meals? After a nice week of 80 degrees, I get really want a hot, cooked meal. ( and due to my food allergies, restaurants don't provide much for me).<br />
<br />
So I decided to build a summer kitchen. They used them often 100 years ago. Mostly it was an outdoor tent/bower with a cooking fire/stove. Jelly, jams and other preserves were often done outside all summer long, along with their regular food production.<br />
<br />
So I came up with the crazy idea to build my own.<br />
<br />
A friend was selling a screen tent- I bought it. Yesterday I set it up. Inside the tent is our picnic table, and I will pick up a work surface at a second-hand store- some kind of table/counter/desk. I bought a spray handle for my garden hose and will grab an outdoor extension cord from my garage. That way I can use my toaster oven/crockpots/rice cookers. I also plan to bring out my Coleman camp stove and my camping dishes. It should be awesome.<br />
<br />
Of course it is raining all day today- so using it/working on it is going to have to wait another day.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-35035408991879247132019-06-07T20:35:00.001-05:002019-06-07T20:38:43.823-05:00Shopping todayI went clothes shopping today- for myself. For a minimalist that is a huge thing. Of course, it helps when your mom goes with you and does all the paying.<br />
<br />
I based my wardrobe in navy back when I started teaching at Bemidji State U. It has simplified everything a great deal. And instead of just simplifying my work clothes the color scheme bled over into my homework/play clothes too. One thing about navy is that is not black, I can't wear black near my face, it washes me out, but I could do navy, and just like black it matches almost everything else- and some things like my favorite purples and pinks really well.<br />
<br />
Anyways, summer came on here overnight, and it was hot. In Minnesota some summers it only reaches 80s a few days, but today it was officially 88, and most signs read into the 90s. Yesterday was almost as warm and tomorrow will be 85 or higher. My summer hot days wardrobe officially consisted of 2 pairs of capris and 1 little black dress (organic cotton). Well, one of my capris finally gave up the ghost. It only handled 8 years of life, and about a dozen repairs before it ripped beyond salvage as a piece of clothing. So I knew I'd have to replace that. So we headed out today to Nisswa, MN which has a nice selection of women's boutique clothing shops, and probably the best selection of decent wearable items for people who can't manage clothes from Target.<br />
<br />
Ideally, I was looking for 1-2 pairs of nice navy capris. But I was actually open to anything that could improve my summer wardrobe situation. Now, there are a few things you should know about my preferences, one is I prefer natural fabrics, I run from the slinky rayon/spandex blend like mosquitoes from garlic, two is that I am taller than average, and often wear talls. I am also mostly modest, prefer to not always have sleeves (at least a cap sleeve, and like my skirts and shorts to reach my knees).<br />
<br />
Searching for things that are appealing (minimal bling please!), and that comply with all my other requirements made browsing fairly fast. First, I found a Navy T-shirt dress. Simple, right color easy to dress up or down. Lots of possibilities so I bought it. It also had pockets. I turned down a striped overshirt, the cut of it suggested pregnancy and I don't need any help in empathizing my post babies belly. The only shorts I even cared enough to try on was a pair of legging capris. I bought it because it was better than nothing.<br />
<br />
But the last store we hit actually had quite a lot of interesting items of things worth trying. And after trying on 20 pairs of shorts/capris. I actually bought 3. I pair of plain denim, 1 blue short (bonus, it was organic cotton), and 1 pair of linen capris with some floral design, that picks up some blues and pinks. Then we went back into the clearance section and I fell in love with some organic wool sweaters in men's xxl. Perfect to wear with leggings (I'd actually been keeping a lookout for sweaters to wear with my favorite wool leggins/longjohns.)<br />
<br />
7 items??? How does that even classify as minimalist?<br />
<br />
Well, I am hoping they are as well made and versatile as they look. that will give them 8-20 years in my wardrobe, being worn in all hot seasons. They match my color schemes and replace items that have worn out over the last ten years. I was very careful in my selections, and if these pieces work as well as I am hoping they might be replacing a few things I haven't gotten rid of yet.<br />
<br />
So careful shopping- planned, local, buying at least half my pieces of organic fabrics. and not much just because it fit or somebody else liked it on me.<br />
<br />
One of the pitfalls both my Mom and I recognized is when we shop we our moms we buy things because they like it, and we never actually wear it. It sure made it easier to explain that a piece wasn't really me, when Mom's had the same issue too.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-61525429000792859072019-05-26T10:33:00.002-05:002019-05-26T10:33:58.474-05:00More on Kitchen MinimalismBesides the dishes the family eats off of, there are dishes made by making foods. You know what? I only use a few favorite pieces over and over again. You probably do too.<br />
<br />
Much of my cookware are pieces of a really nice set my mom got me for Christmas one year. I went through and tossed everything that wasn't the set. That helped a lot. The set was pretty large- including a family size wok, that we use all the time.<br />
<br />
Then I went through our bakeware. Now, I do bake a lot, and that was harder, so I thought about how many cookie pans I use and actually ended up buying a few more nice ones while getting rid of the abused ones. That was such a nice addition/change.<br />
<br />
I looked at the small appliances, the kitchen tools, cleaned out everything I don't use. I still have my two waffle makers. I could imagine the riot if the kids were told there would be no more waffles :)<br />
<br />
Then I went through the plastics cupboards- matched everything to its lid- got rid of the rest. What was left was some newer glass bowls with matching lids, a few large mixing bowls with matching lids and just a few storage containers- perfect. It all fits neatly in my cupboard/shelf with the lids on. Talk about saving time!<br />
<br />
Everything from top to bottom was scrutinized, decided if it was worth to keep and if it passed that test, it was reorganized. I, of course, did this with a damp rag to remove dust and residue.<br />
<br />
Then I went through the food. Old stuff, unused stuff, things I bought for something specific I never made- tossed or put into use.<br />
<br />
My kitchen has so far endured 2 major cleanouts in my quest for minimalism. I think it is due for another. Each time I am better able to decide what it worth holding on it (ie cleaning again and again) or is not.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-49045558206913771382019-05-20T20:33:00.000-05:002019-05-20T20:33:03.561-05:00Kitchen for 10- with less dishes than everWe have never gotten a dishwasher to work well enough to make it worth the noise and smell.<br />
Or the fact you have to wash dishes before you wash the dishes. So we got rid of it.<br />
We also decided to do shelving rather than cupboards when we built our house. So nothing hides and nothing can get gooey without being seen.<br />
<br />
Everything is seen. This helps me not to collect things I already have, sitting just out of sight behind some pretty wooden doors.<br />
<br />
But it didn't solve the washing dishes problem. In a single day, we can easily use enough dishes to fill 3 sinks. And every time I get a pretty dish set, things break until we are out of enough to set a table.<br />
<br />
I got tired of sweeping up broken dishes. Then Target got this 99cent per dish thing. Plastic-like, solid blue (matched my kitchen), dishwasher and microwave safe and with nice smooth edges and large enough bowls to eat a serious bowl of chili. So far they have held up a year, and Target still has them in stock- not that I've needed to buy any more.<br />
<br />
Right now, we limited the dishes we have out to 1 set per person. Every person has 1 plate, bowl, and cup. We have extra we can bring out for guests. But it limits the number of dishes in the sink at any one time.<br />
<br />
One of the nice things about the open wire shelving I have in the kitchen is the automatic over the sink dish racks I can stack my freshly washed dishes on, and leave them there.<br />
<br />
Also, I always am looking at the tools in my kitchen. Are they really being used enough to justify having them there? Or are they just clutter?<br />
<br />
And If I have tools I actually value in that kitchen (which should be all of them, or else they are given away). I will wash them immediately and get them ready to use again. That way they don't rust in the sink waiting for one of my kids to do the dishes, and they are ready to use when I want to use them.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-90854303296932458062019-05-18T11:08:00.000-05:002019-05-18T11:08:17.051-05:00Family Laundry- minimalism approachHave you ever packed for a trip?<br />
I have a family of 10. We love to travel the country in our big silver van. Once you get 10 people in there, there is not a lot of space left, so everyone is allowed only a small bag of stuff.<br />
<br />
And it works and is simple and glorious.<br />
<br />
About 3 days worth of clothes (and laundry quarters) and we can just about go anywhere for as long as we want. Gee, why can't we simplify at home like this?<br />
<br />
Well, it so turns out, we can to some degree.<br />
<br />
In Minnesota we do deal with distinct seasons, you can not wear summer clothes in the winter or vica versa.<br />
<br />
So to simplify life at home, each child has 1 tote of clothes, that fits on a laundry room shelf. I change it out to keep them looking decent and warm/cool enough. The clothes that is out of season (but still worthy of another season) goes in a storage room, organized by size.<br />
<br />
Most totes can hold 3-4 pairs of adult sized pants, 3-6 T-shirts, 2 hoodies, and no lack of socks or undies. For little kids, who often needs to change more often, more clothes fits in the same size tote, so it works out well.<br />
<br />
The other advantages of this simplifications are that it gets the clothes out of the bedrooms- imagine only a few stray pieces on your child's floor rather than a whole closet full. And it makes laundry as breeze- dirty clothes drop on the laundry room floor (is it really that hard to put it 12" away in the laundry basket?) so I pick it up from there, pile it into the washer, dryer and then throw it back in the totes. When I have time to kill I may actually fold it first.<br />
<br />
My husband and I have our clothes in our bedroom- but I do keep mine simplified and off the floor :)Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-64456255355427570582019-05-18T10:28:00.000-05:002019-05-18T10:28:17.698-05:00Prepareing For AusterityGovernments and nations are facing Austerity measures, and many families are routinely running out of cash before their next pay check too.<br />
<br />
Here is a list of ways to help prepare for low/no cash times.<br />
<br />
<span style="font-weight: bold;">Eating</span><br />
<br />
Have a food storage built up- every time you go to the store buy a little extra, store this for when you need it. Kidney beans were on sale this week for $.69/can. I bought 2 dozen because I know how often we use them.<br />
<br />
Use basics- learn to cook from scratch using basics as flour, sugar, and oil. These basics store well and are way cheaper then mixes or prepared items from the store.<br />
<br />
Long Term basics - learn to love beans and lentils and whole grains. I would recommend storing whole wheat and using a grain grinder. This is way more cost effective and healthy than using white flour.<br />
<br />
When you have a pantry full of food because you planned ahead it is a lot easier to eat when cash is low.<br />
<br />
Same thing goes for clothing- for yourself make sure you have good basics in your wardrobe. For most of us I am referring to a couple pairs of jean/work pants and a few sweaters and t-shirts, undies and socks, good work shoes and work gloves, and a sun hat. .... these are clothes that are good for physical labor, which gardening and milking cows and walking everywhere is way more fun when you are dressed for it.<br />
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For kids- have a few good basics in the next size or 2 up.<br />
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Garage sales and second hand stores are great for good basics in clothing, it also helps you not to spend when you shouldn't.<br />
<br />
Keep a cash "spending budget" Budget your money when it comes in and figure how much you can spend total for the month or however long until your next payday. Everything you need to write checks for like electric and rent<br />
<br />Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-82024326578909497092019-05-17T12:51:00.002-05:002019-05-17T12:51:24.296-05:00kicks out of little thingsIt is amazing how happy you can be when you choose to get kicks out of the simple things in life<br />
like a dog chasing after the ball- it is hysterically funnyRound Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-46600872861564074462019-05-17T09:38:00.000-05:002019-05-17T09:38:21.595-05:00Origins of personal minimalismOne day, while picking up the living room, I realized if I threw away that ripped up paper (recycled), or a broken toy, I would never have to pick it up again.<br />
<br />
A new day dawned in my sanity and I have been fighting it ever since.<br />
<br />
Now, whenever I find something where it doesn't belong and my life would not miss it- it is gone.<br />
<br />
Gone, sweet gone!<br />
<br />
It keeps me from drowning in stuff.<br />
<br />
Next came Marie- I went through pieces of my house- 1 little section at a time and removed anything that didn't spark joy, (dusted with a wet rag too) or that I wouldn't have to go out right out and repurchase. And little by little things got more organized.<br />
<br />
I learned to thank things before giving them away or saying goodbye (even my poor old dog, got thanked as he was slipping out of this world). It makes it easier and turns any negative thoughts into gratitude.<br />
<br />
Now, I am not the esthetic minimalist. Everything is out and visible. We have kitchen selves instead of cupboards and purposely build the house with little storage space. So I can not stick things away without seeing them. The whole intent was to keep it easier to see how much we had so we would have to think twice about buying/keeping/storing things.<br />
<br />
There are many sections of stuff, I have gone through several times, and will still go back and reduce.<br />
<br />
The reducing of stuff begin with a way for me to cope with living in a busy house with 10 people and being a master's student. Now it has allowed me to clearly see stuff as tools, and like tools, they do no good if you can not find them or if they are not in working condition or if you have more then you need, It has helped me become non-attached to stuff.<br />
<br />
I have become more attached to experiences, people and memories. And I am grateful for google docs, and pics and blogger to store much of those memories for me.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-56925859580545431412019-05-15T11:46:00.000-05:002019-05-15T11:47:05.585-05:00ChangesA lot has happened since life got too busy to blog here.<br />
I am now a master's student a BSU, and have 8 children, and I teach there to pay for tuition.<br />
Going back to school has caused me to simplify my life in almost all other ways.<br />
I have had to focus on what is important.<br />
<br />
What is important?<br />
1. Family- my spouse, kids, parents, grandparents, siblings, ect<br />
2. My spiritual growth- I take time every day to prayer and study and realigning myself with my Heavenly Father.<br />
3. My school work/teaching. I feel called to teach- to reach out and show love and belief in another through instruction.<br />
4. My health and physical maintenance- using and enjoying the awesome body I have. It is a gift that is useful to me now and for eternity and I try to treat it well, and learn to work with it. This means things like eating right, exercising and using it in every good way, and being thankful for it.<br />
<br />
Everything else is secondary-Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-91701933539599370922019-05-15T11:37:00.001-05:002019-05-15T11:37:14.105-05:00Time to talk about mimalismyeah- I forget I still had this blog. Now I am going to use it to talk about my favorite sustainable habit- Minimalism.<br />
<br />
What is minimalism? A habit of being happy with less, of needing less, buying less, but being more.<br />
<br />
stay tuned. Perhaps we will discuss something useful to you.<br />
<br />Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-11885746733204009012011-05-27T19:45:00.003-05:002011-05-27T19:50:37.147-05:00Fruit Pizza<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQ9V9wIz79C0Xzoqz7jN6KyLFf_asoZ2-JVoWWIukfKgOtr0tfvNo7sBcj0NPnrZMKl_BPEwZDV0ajKkGjBU9g7wUbr2r8_7aW_oNKuZi8vknGd3NMCw5902Tk4a-yBFWSnAXdthzKMAh/s1600/fruit+pizza.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 300px; height: 400px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjrQ9V9wIz79C0Xzoqz7jN6KyLFf_asoZ2-JVoWWIukfKgOtr0tfvNo7sBcj0NPnrZMKl_BPEwZDV0ajKkGjBU9g7wUbr2r8_7aW_oNKuZi8vknGd3NMCw5902Tk4a-yBFWSnAXdthzKMAh/s400/fruit+pizza.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5611561775280928786" border="0" />Fruit Pizza</a><br /><br /><br />crust<br />mix:<br />1 stick melted butter<br />1 can (defrosted) apple mango juice concentrate<br />2 eggs<br />2 tsps almond extract<br />2 tsps baking soda<br /><br />let rise.<br />then add:<br />4 cups whole wheat flour<br />1 cup coconut<br />1/2 sliced almonds<br /><br />press intp greased cookie tray to form crust<br /><br />bake at 350 for about 20 minutes<br /><br />Frosting:<br />mix until light and fluffy:<br />8oz cream cheese<br />3 Tbs soft butter<br />1/2c honey<br />1 tsp almond extract<br /><br />Spread frosting on cool crust- top with all sorts of fresh fruitsRound Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-43471675705023747022011-03-31T20:45:00.005-05:002011-03-31T20:51:56.343-05:00Homemade donutsEver try to roll out and fry something with a newborn attached to your breast?<br /><br />Not easy- but well worth it.<br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh13pgZd04BDlGdWIGw8Mi2vRhuGxvQkVloJEXVQBtikYDuFrPVoePtsS1kUiXxjcE5oyXyutUpqveH1JgNEsCLVuCUgz7dbJkaKYMYTBkEeJbHemUpoRHRAFhCiM_7wB0QghY9l4UuMKXQ/s1600/donuts.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh13pgZd04BDlGdWIGw8Mi2vRhuGxvQkVloJEXVQBtikYDuFrPVoePtsS1kUiXxjcE5oyXyutUpqveH1JgNEsCLVuCUgz7dbJkaKYMYTBkEeJbHemUpoRHRAFhCiM_7wB0QghY9l4UuMKXQ/s400/donuts.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5590425917690495346" border="0" /></a>Grind wheat<br /><br />7 cups flour<br />1 1/2 cups sugar<br />1/2 tsp salt<br />3 tsps baking powder<br />1 Tbs cinnamon<br />1 Tbs nutmeg<br /><br />4 eggs<br />4 TBS melted butter<br />1 1/2 cups water<br /><br />- roll out on well floured surface, cut with donut cutter, fry in hot oil, then shake in powdered sugar.<br /><br />We also served a small spoon full of chocolate icecream in the middle..... dreamyRound Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-63916049232404219122011-01-28T21:41:00.001-06:002011-01-28T21:43:42.723-06:00Whole Wheat PancakesWhole Wheat is the staple of my diet. It stores well, grinds easily, sprouts easily, can be grown from the storage part and is highly nutritious. My favorite thing in the whole world to make out of whole wheat is pancakes.<br /><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;" id="internal-source-marker_0.6634319738807081">Whole Wheat Pancakes</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">For every cup of flour add:</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">¼ tsp salt (pinch)</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">¼ tsp baking powder</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">½ tsp sugar</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">dash of cinnamon</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 egg</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 tsp oil</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 cup water (give or take for your favorite consistency)</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">for 4 cups of flour</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 tsp salt</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 tsp baking powder</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">2 tsp sugar</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">several shakes of cinnamon</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">4 eggs</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 Tbs oil</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">4 cups of water (give or take for your favorite consistency)</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Wheat Storage:</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Whole wheat stores really well. There has been wheat found in the Egyptian pyramids- over 2000 years old- that has been able to sprout.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Store wheat in an air tight container. I use Home Depot’s orange buckets with a mylar liner- or food grade buckets without a liner.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Purchase whole wheat at....</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Stone Woman Herbal</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Crow Wing Coop (usually I order 50 pound bags)....and store in buckets - last November I paid $.74 per pound of organic red winter wheat.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Grinding Wheat...</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Grind only what you plan to use that week- fresh ground wheat loses 50% of it’s nutrition after 3 days.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">My grinder- Whisper Mill- now called the “Wonder mill” I have had it for 10+ years- use it nearly every day. Retails $200- 270.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Available online:</span><br /><a href="http://www.kitchenkneads.com/"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 153); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">www.kitchenkneads.com</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><a href="http://thewondermill.com/"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 153); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">http://thewondermill.com/</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"> (parts and accessories- I love it when I can get replacement parts)</span><br /><a href="http://beprepared.com/product.asp_Q_pn_E_FP%20M560_A_name_E_Wonder%20Mill%20Wheat%20Grinder"><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 153); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: underline; vertical-align: baseline;">http://beprepared.com/product.asp_Q_pn_E_FP%20M560_A_name_E_Wonder%20Mill%20Wheat%20Grinder</span></a><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">There are many other grinder options. Just do some Internet research and enjoy- </span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">I also keep a hand powered grinder in case I want/need wheat when electricity isn’t available.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Pointers for baking with whole wheat flour</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">reduce the fat</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">- fat’s job is to cut the gluten in the recipe so it becomes flaky- there is much less gluten in whole wheat flour then in white flour- so you can easily reduce the fat by up to 50%.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">add water</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">- the bran in the whole wheat absorbs moisture. So always add more water. I often add it in little amounts until I have the desired consistency. </span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">let it sit a bit</span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">- letting the recipe sit for a while once it is mixed allows the bran to absorb the water (makes it softer)- so let it sit and then add more water to reach your desired consistency.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">remember- </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">the softer the dough- the softer the finished baked good.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">increase flavorings- </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">the whole wheat covers up usual amounts of flavorings- if you want to taste it- add more. This is true for vanilla, extracts, herbs, spices and garlic.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: bold; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Whole Wheat Cookies </span><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 container juice concentrate</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 stick butter- melted</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">2 eggs</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">1 tbs vanilla</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">cinnamon (to taste)</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">add 2 tsp baking soda and watch the reaction foam</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">4 cups flour</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">then add chocolate chips, nuts, oatmeal, raisins, coconut ect to taste and desire.</span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;"></span><br /><span style="font-size: 11pt; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(0, 0, 0); background-color: transparent; font-weight: normal; font-style: normal; text-decoration: none; vertical-align: baseline;">Drop onto greased cookie sheet- bake 350 for about 10-12min.</span>Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-54001161876087771842010-12-29T22:02:00.002-06:002010-12-29T22:21:52.069-06:00simple cures<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1WUlGLmAOEasKWqhT0Z9IMFVAhTbs19mUz1oy52Fa_h03N6Q2aV0XIG0jx_JcAIYgcVLhtKVn7tOuE0Oxduxg3RHZ37jyCTBWtlzmIF59GQho7oF9IyGQPokGg3jMj5Y5CF7lp79-e7y1/s1600/foot+cure.jpg"><img style="display: block; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1WUlGLmAOEasKWqhT0Z9IMFVAhTbs19mUz1oy52Fa_h03N6Q2aV0XIG0jx_JcAIYgcVLhtKVn7tOuE0Oxduxg3RHZ37jyCTBWtlzmIF59GQho7oF9IyGQPokGg3jMj5Y5CF7lp79-e7y1/s400/foot+cure.jpg" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5556321036170886114" border="0" />here is a picture of a simple home remedy to a problem that has plagued me for over a month. </a><br />My foot has an extra long second toe- with a short first toe- but it is the metatarsals that cause the real problem (the long bones in the foot leading down to the toes). It is called Morton's toe and is nothing unusual- was a favorite look for toes of Greek statues and even the statue of liberty has the second long toe.<br /><br />My problem comes in when I walk- all the weight that the big toe normally takes gets thrust upon the 2nd toe because it is longer, and the second toe isn't really built for this and can cause direct pain the ball joint of that foot. It can also cause the way you walk and balance to change- thus affecting the knees, hips, back, neck and head.<br /><br />So because of that direct pain that makes me not want to walk on that toe- I went to see a podiatrist- he took an x-ray and gave me the name of it, and told me to buy some new balance shoes (which is the only brand of tennis shoes I wear, when you can talk me into wearing any shoes at all).<br /><br />But because it is December, I had already over spent my budget (even included a new pair of boots for me), and because the kids are home all day, I decided not to buy the shoes yet and did some research online. The highest recommended cure for this was to pad the big toe as pictured- making it behave has if the big toe is long enough to take the weight it is supposed to and creating a much more balanced foot.<br /><br />so I have been walking around all day with some gauze taped to my foot with medical tape- these are both items I had left over from several years ago.... and I love it. Not only can I walk with out pain, but my hips that have been killing me all of pregnancy have stopped hurting. I think I will repeat that again. My hips, which have been killing me for all of this pregnancy, have stopped hurting. I can move again!!!! I can walk again and wiggle and even nap now without my hips causing major pain.<br /><br />I am so thankful for the internet and all the information it provides.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-11690781834921752542010-12-25T11:11:00.003-06:002010-12-25T11:31:58.730-06:00Adapting abilities of kidsKids are amazingly adaptable. It is Christmas and because of behavioral challenges this year my kid got almost nothing for Christmas except socks- and they are thrilled. Socks are now the coolest thing to be wearing on your feet and sliding across our living room floor in. Socks make good bombs, and are a perfect place to hide your sister's candy cane. Even our puppy has decided he likes socks, usually though he prefers the worn and unwashed varieties.<br /><br />What this shows to me is the adaptability and resilience children naturally possess. I am thrilled. This means that when reality hits home and all the cheep stuff from China is no longer lining our store shelves (for any of many numerous reasons) that the kids will still be happy with Christmas or birthdays.<br /><br />The toys my kids did get were all second hand, but that makes no difference to them other then there is no store packing to slow down their play.<br /><br />It is a good thing fun times and families do not depend on cheep oil. Kids and puppies are willing to have fun almost anywhere and under almost any condition (assuming they are healthy). They dance, march and make toys out of what ever is available.<br /><br />How can we be as adaptable as our children?<br /><br />Maybe we need to give up our preconceived notions of what a holiday or gift should be. Give up the notions that Christmas decorations come from a store, or that potato soup is not an acceptable holiday dinner. It is as acceptable as you make it. And we made it so last night with the addition of cheese and crackers, veggies and dips. Or it would do with the simple addition of fresh Christmas cookies.<br /><br />There are so many ways in which a switch in our mindset is all that is needed to make things right. Maybe we should focus on doing and being rather then having. After all Christmas doesn't come from a store.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-143631498959465859.post-5415161873055362492010-12-09T11:34:00.002-06:002010-12-09T13:12:02.643-06:00Going Green in baby stepsSo, you have decided to "go green" for new year's. What does that mean? How do you do it?<br /><br />The biggest component of going green is changing your mindset. You start to think about the impact of your actions upon future generations and their ability to live safely upon this earth.<br /><br />Obvious things are to reduce, reuse and recycle as much as we can. Then we take time to get informed on the best actions and purchases to make that have the smallest ecological impact on our earth over the next 7 generations.<br /><br />But to make things simple for those just starting out here is my list of simple but important changes.<br /><br />1. Recycle- get yourself a box/tote/bag and lable it recycling. If your community offers curb side recycling use it, if not learn your drop off points. (also it helps to know what they accept for recycling...there are often fliers available with this)<br /><br />2. use less energy for house heating/cooling. Start by caring enough to turn off excess lights, close windows and doors all the way, insulating, using window coverings, and just plain turning down the thermostat and wearing a sweater (winter only), in the summer put in shorts and turn it up, although I'd recommend open windows and lots of well placed fans for the best amount of airflow.<br /><br />3. drive less by simply planning your errands and routes before time. If you reduce your trips to town by half that cuts your car emissions by 50% (and your gas bill). Also use opportunities to walk and take your bikes out to run errands.<br /><br />4. buy used whenever possible/logical. Used clothes are often barely worn and at a much lower price, used toys are still new to your kids. Used furniture and small appliances are often good ideas too. some stores even often used house building/remodaling good. Look in your phone book and get your needs known, people are happy to share what they know is available.<br /><br />5. think about every bit of trash you throw away. Ask yourself is there something I could do differently to avoid this throwing? I find that premade and fast food packaging often clog my garbage can, so I focus on cooking from scratch. I also changed out paper towels for rags, kleenexes for hankies and we now cloth diaper (although that choice was initially made more for allergies then environmental concerns).<br /><br />6. Use natural cleaning products. I use vinegar and baking soda on most floors, bathrooms and other places that need scrubbed (I add essential oils for nice smells and germ killing). I also use 7th generation dish and laundry soap. For personal use, it is all natural soaps, shampoos, deodorants, toothpaste. Almost any product is available in a natural counter-part at a co-op or other natural foods store.<br /><br />7. forget about perfect green lawns. You have my permission to focus your efforts instead of something that can be grown and then eaten. homegrown tomatoes and radishes are very satisfying to munch. If you need a lawn, let it grow as long as possible between mowing (about 4-5 inches is good) and then let nature fertilize your lawn with the falling leaves, just mow these right up. Or landscape in a way where no one will miss your lawn. Lots of food grow on pretty plants.Round Bellyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/13621944578934830242noreply@blogger.com0