Plaintain

This is the last one for tonight. Another "weed" we tend to overlook in our yards. So many wonderful uses for this as well. I will be sharing the links to several below.

https://thenerdyfarmwife.com/10-things-to-make-with-plantain/
https://www.feathersinthewoods.com/2015/05/harvesting-and-drying-plantain.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_tribes&utm_content=tribes&m=1
https://www.studiobotanica.com/plantain-medicine-the-ultimate-soothing-healer/
https://thenerdyfarmwife.com/10-things-to-make-with-plantain/
https://mommypotamus.com/plantain-salve-recipe/
https://abetterwaytothrive.com/simple-first-aid-salve-with-plantain/
https://abetterwaytothrive.com/simple-first-aid-salve-with-plantain/

Wineberries

Remember that app I was telling you about? I used it to identify this as well even though I was already familiar with it.  When my children were growing up they waited patiently for these small berries to make their appearances so they could pick them and enjoy them. 
Over the years we have eaten them right off the bush, made sorbets, eaten them in salads, dropped them in tea and more!

https://wingingitonthehomestead.com/wineberry-vinegar/
http://www.twobearsfarm.com/2015/07/wineberry-sorbet-recipe.html?spref=pi
https://homeiswheretheloveis.wordpress.com/2012/07/02/wineberry-pie-and-a-new-dinner-recipe/
https://www.lifeslittlesweets.com/wineberry-recipes-collection/
https://www.backyardforager.com/wineberry-wildcrafted-cocktail/

Here are some links to recipes and ways to use them, Enjoy!

Dandelion

How many of you have Dandelion in your yard? How many of you consider it a dreadful weed? Are you aware of all the things you can make with it?

I went on a walk today and used an app called "Picture This" to identify all the cool things in my yard. This is one of many things I found.

It wasn't until recently that I found all the marvelous things you can make with it. You can even eat the leaves! Check out some of the links I posted and let me know if you try any of them!

https://www.simplycanning.com/dandelion-jelly.html
https://simplybeyondherbs.com/dandelion-salve-and-lip-balm/
https://www.growforagecookferment.com/dandelion-recipes/
https://moonandspoonandyum.com/dandelion-recipes/
https://canadiancookingadventures.com/recipe/dandelion-iced-tea/

Homemade Butter

Butter has got to be one of the easiest things to make!  All you need is heavy cream and salt (if you wanted salted butter).  That's it! Do it yourself or let your kids make it.

Put it in a mixer with whisk attachment or put it in a jar and shake it.  Easy peasy!

I made 3 small bowls in a matter of minutes.

Blueberry Bagels

My daughter loves blueberry bagels for breakfast and we couldn't find any last time we went shopping. Well I have tons of blueberries in the freezer so I thought why not try and make my own!

They didn't turn our pretty or exactly how I envisioned but they do taste good! I also learned a few things that I will do differently in the future such as roll them smaller and thicker, leave them on a floured surface to rise (not parchment paper) and move the oven rack down some.  Simple enough!

This is the recipe I used..
https://findingbakersbliss.wordpress.com/2015/01/27/blissful-blueberry-bagels/

Hot Fudge Pudding Cake

Being stuck in the house with no where to go have you feeling blah? Try this recipe for a nice surprise for the family.

Hot Fudge Pudding Cake

3/4 cup flour
2/3 cup sugar
1/2 teaspoon salt
1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder
1/2 cup milk
1/4 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 square unsweetened chocolate, melted and cool
1 teaspoon vanilla

Sauce
1/2 cup sugar
1/4 teaspoon salt
1/2 packed brown sugar
3 Tablespoons cocoa
1 1/2 cup boiling water

In large bowl measure flour, 2/3 cup sugar. 1/2 teaspoon salt, baking powder, milk, butter, chocolate and vanilla. Beat on low speed until mixed and then beat on 4 minutes at medium speed. Pour into an 8x8 dish.

To make sauce mix 1/2 cup sugar, 1/4 teaspoon salt. brown sugar and cocoa in medium bowl. Sprinkle over chocolate mixture.  Pour boiling water over all. DO NOT STIR Bake at 350 for 60 minutes. Cake will separate into cake and sauce layers.

Cool slightly and serve with whipped cream.

Whipped Cream 

heavy whipping cream
powdered sugar to taste
1-2 tsp vanilla
Mix using a whisk attachment until desired consistency.

Stevia

Years ago my sister gave me a book called "Growing and Using Stevia ". Not sure why I held on to it but I am glad I did.  Before we were told we have to stay home except for essentials I ran out to the local greenhouse and low and behold they had Stevia plants! I picked up two and came home, grabbed my book and started reading. 

Reading the book I have learned how to start stevia from seeds, cuttings and transplants, how to grow them outdoors in the garden or in containers, how to harvest the leaves to make green stevia powder or liquid stevia extract and several recipes to use it in.

Now I am excited to watch them grow and take advantage of both plants to try new things including trying to start my own plants.

Does your local greenhouse carry the plants?

Dr. Bonner's Castile Soap

Does anyone here use this soap? I do for certain things. Today I was looking around the internet at all the different uses and recipes for it. Needless to say I am pretty certain I will be getting all the different ones and using them more! In the meantime, looks like I will be making a folder of recipes just for these.  Below you can find a few links you can use. There are plenty more!

Please share any recipes you have tried or your favorite scents.

https://prettysimpleideas.com/2014/05/uses-for-dr-bronners-castile-soap/
http://www.lifewithlovebugs.com/how-to-make-castile-soap-body-wash-diy/
https://www.lisabronner.com/dilutions-cheat-sheet-for-dr-bronners-castile-soap/
https://www.naturallivingideas.com/castile-soap-benefits-uses/
https://greencleaninghacks.com/castile-soap/

Protein Ball Recipe

Protein Ball

1/3 cup honey
1/2 cup natural peanut butter
1 cup rolled oats
1/4 cup dark cocoa ( I used Black Dutched with this batch)
1 scoop protein powder (Use whatever is your favorite)
2 TBSP Chia seeds
2 TBSP Flax seeds

Mix honey ans peanut butter until well blended. Add the rest of ingredients mixing well. Roll into small balls, put onto pan lined with parchment paper and refrigerate for approx an hour until set.

Snack Cake Mix

This recipe has always been a favorite of mine and the family.  Just mix up the entire recipe, preportion into bags or containers and label.

Snack Cake Mix
8 3/4 cup all purpose flour
2 TBSP baking soda
1 TBSP salt
5 1/4 cups granulated sugar

In large bowl combine all ingredients with a wire whisk. Divide into 6 portions (Approx 2 1/3 cup each). Store in bags or containers and label with date and contents. Store in cool dry place for 10-12 weeks


Applesauce Snack Cake
1 pkg snack mix
1 egg
1/3 cup vegetable oil
3/4 cup applesauce
1 1/2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon ground allspice
1/8 teaspoon ground cloves
1/2 cup chopped nuts
1 cup raisins

Preheat oven to 325. Pour snack mix into ungreased 8 or 9 inch square baking pan and set aside.

In small bowl combine egg, oil, cinnamon, applesauce, allspice, and cloves beating with a fork to blend. Stir into snack cake mix. Stir in nuts and raisins. Bake 35-40 minutes. Cool - Makes 9 servings

Banana-Walnut Snack Cake
1 pkg snack mix
1 egg
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup mashed ripe banana
1/2 cup buttermilk, milk or water
1/2 cup chopped walnuts

Preheat oven to 350. Pour snack mix into ungreased 8 or 9 inch square baking pan and set aside.

In small bowl combine remaining ingredients beating with a fork to blend. Stir into snack cake mix. Bake 35-40 minutes. Cool - Makes 9 servings

Carrot Snack Cake
1 pkg snack mix
1 egg
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 cup grated carrots
3/4 cup orange juice
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1/2 cup chopped nuts
Cream-Cheese Frosting, below

Preheat oven to 350. Pour snack mix into ungreased 8 or 9 inch square baking pan and set aside.

In medium bowl combine egg, oil, carrots, orange juice and cinnamon, beating with a fork to blend. Stir into snack cake mix. Stir in nuts. Bake 35-40 minutes. Prepare frosting and set aside. Cool cake and then frost- Makes 9 servings

Cream Cheese Frosting
3 TBSP butter or margarine
1 3 oz pkg cream cheese, softened
1 2/3 cup powdered sugar, sifted
1/2 teaspoon vanilla
In small bowl cream butter or margarine and cream cheese until light and fluffy. Beat in powdered sugar and vanilla until smooth.


Double Chocolate Snack Cake
1 pkg snack mix
2 TBSP unsweetened cocoa powder
3/4 cup water
1 egg
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon vanilla extract
1/2 cup semisweet mini chocolate chips
1/2 cup chopped nuts

Preheat oven to 350. Pour snack mix into ungreased 8 or 9 inch square baking pan and set aside.

In medium bowl combine water, egg, oil, and vanilla beating with a fork to blend. Stir into snack cake mix. Sprinkle with nuts and chocolate chips. Bake 35-40 minutes. Cool - Makes 9 servings

Gingerbread Snack Cake
1 pkg snack mix
3/4 cup hot water
1/3 cup molasses
1 egg
1/3 cup vegetable oil
1 teaspoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon ground ginger
1/2 teaspoon ground cloves

Preheat oven to 350. Pour snack mix into ungreased 8 or 9 inch square baking pan and set aside.

In medium bowl combine water, egg, oil, cinnamon, ginger and cloves beating with a fork to blend. Stir into snack cake mix.  Bake 35-40 minutes. Cool and sprinkle with powdered sugar- Makes 9 servings

Purple Dead Nettle

Have you ever heard of such a thing? Me neither! BUT guess what? I am pretty sure you have it in your yard because my yard is overrun with it. So with that being said I decided to follow a recipe and make some Purple Dead Nettle Salve. I picked my nettle, dried it in the dehydrator (can just leave it out to dry), crumbled it, put it in a jar and filled with oil (I chose avocado and olive). Please click on the link for instructions.  While I only made the regular oil, I hope to make the others soon.

https://thenerdyfarmwife.com/purple-dead-nettle-salve/?fbclid=IwAR0k7fFaa86mtqiDizVuWQDo8GwZvt2a4ENTooFxwTGvCCDs_gEmWeZdedE

Extracts

I have been making my own extracts for a while now. It is so simple and the taste in incredible!

Vanilla Extract
7-10 Vanilla Beans (I get Madagascar beans off Amazon)
8oz vodka or rum (I use vodka)

Run a knife lengthwise down the center of the bean to open it up. Chop the bean into 1" pieces. Place into a clean jar/bottle (I use a brown tinted bottle). Pour the alcohol over until beans are completely submerged. Put on lid and shake.

Place Jar in cool dark spot. Shake every few days for about 6 weeks.  The longer you go the more intense the flavor becomes.  I refill as needed and get several uses out of the beans.

Mint Extract

3/4 cup - 1 cup mint leaves
vodka

rinse and pat dry leaves. Roll and crush leaves between fingers. Place into a clean glass jar (I use a brown bottle).  Pour vodka over until fully submerged.  Put on lid and shake.

Place Jar in cool dark spot. Shake every few days for about 6 weeks.  The longer you go the more intense the flavor becomes.  Once its at the desired strength, strain and discard leaves.

Chickens

Good evening everyone.  I hope tonight finds you all well. What have you been up to?  As for me, I have been doing things around the house and finding things to help my family become more self sufficient. 

A few days ago we got baby chicks and purchased a used chicken coop. A few days after that we were offered 4 laying hens so we purchased them as well. We ordered a pen and all the supplies, did a curb side pick up and started getting things ready. We even got our first egg today! The babies are Bantam of some sort, a silver laced wyandotte, and 4 barred rock. The hens are 2 Rhode Island Red and 2 black sexlink. Now here's hoping none of the babies are roosters!

We cleaned, power washed and painted the coop. We got it moved tonight and hopefully tomorrow we will get the pen up. Then hens have been housed in a large dog crate at night in the basement but tonight they are spending the night in the new coop. I pray we have it secure enough! Below are the before and after pictures.

I am so excited for all the yummy eggs to come! Maybe in the future we will try our hand at meat chickens and/or turkeys.

Spaghetti Bread - Bread Machine

Spaghetti Bread  - Bread machine

1 package yeast
3 cup bread flour
1 TBSP sugar
1 teaspoon garlic salt
1/3 cup grated Parmesan cheese
1 teaspoon Italian seasoning
1 TBSP olive oil
1 1/2 cup warm water

Place all ingredient into the pan of your bread machine in order recommended by the manufacturer.  Program for a basic white bread and press start.  If you would like you can take the dough when finished and let rise in a pan and bake in the oven

Staples

What is a staple?
To me a staple is something you use often such as flour, sugar, salt, pepper etc..

To my husband a staple is celery, carrots, cup of noodles etc...

This is a definition I found.

A staple food, food staple, or simply a staple, is a food that is eaten routinely and in such quantities that it constitutes a dominant portion of a standard diet for a given people, supplying a large fraction of energy needs and generally forming a significant proportion of the intake of other nutrients as well.

Staple food - Wikipedia

What are your staples? some of mine are below..

sweetener - bread

flour - spices

yeast - bouillon

milk - coffee

butter - creamer

rice - noodles

potatoes - pasta sauce

cheese - pet food

Rice Side Mix

Rice Side Mix

3/4 cup uncooked rice

1/2 cup uncooked spaghetti or orzo

1/2 tsp garlic powder

1/2 tsp onion powder

1 tsp salt

Break spaghetti into small pieces or use orzo. Add everything together and keep in a jar or bag.

Rice Side Dish

1 recipe mix

2 Tbsp Butter

2 Cups chicken or vegetable broth/stock

brown butter in skillet. Add mix and liquid. Cook, stirring frequently until rice and pasta are cooked through.

Herbed Garlic Rice Side Dish Mix

1/2 cup uncooked spaghetti

3/4 cup uncooked rice

1 tsp minced garlic

1/2 tsp dried parsley

1 tsp salt

Break spaghetti into small pieces or use orzo. Add everything together and keep in a jar or bag. To cook:

brown butter in skillet. Add mix and liquid. Cook, stirring frequently until rice and pasta are cooked through.

Spanish Rice Side Dish Mix

1/2 cup uncooked spaghetti

3/4 cup uncooked rice

1 tsp salt

1 tsp minced onion

1 TBSP dried tomato powder (see notes below) OR 1 cup diced in place of 1 cup of the liquid

1/2 tsp chili powder

Break spaghetti into small pieces or use orzo. Add everything together and keep in a jar or bag. 

To cook:

brown butter in skillet. Add mix and liquid. Cook, stirring frequently until rice and pasta are cooked through.

*Notes - make dried tomato powder..Slice tomatoes into very thin pieces and dehydrate for at least 10 hours at 150 degrees. Keep in airtight container or freezer until ready to use. Store whole or grind into powder

Chicken Helper - DIY

Chicken Helper

1/2 teaspoon celery seed
1 TBSP minced onion
1/2 teaspoon minced garlic
1 teaspoon sugar
1 teaspoon chili powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups uncooked bow tie pasta

Mix all together in a bowl until combined. Store in jar or a bag.

1 cup cooked, shredded chicken
1 recipe mix
1 cup milk
1 cup chicken broth/stock
2 cups diced tomatoes
Parmesan Cheese

Add everything to a skillet and simmer until pasta is cooked through. Top with a bit of Parmesan cheese before serving.

Gluten Free- use Gluten Free pasta
Dairy Free - skip the Parmesan cheese and add an extra cup of broth instead of milk.

Beef Stroganoff Mix - DIY

Beef Stroganoff Mix

2 cups uncooked egg noodles
1 TBSP cornstarch or arrowroot powder
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon salt
1/4 teaspoon black pepper
1 teaspoon dried parsley
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon minced onion

Mix all ingredients together in a bowl until blended.  Store in jar or a bag.

Beef Stroganoff

1 pound ground beef
1 cup chopped fresh mushrooms
1 recipe of the mix
2 cups milk, or beef broth/stock
1/2 cup sour cream

Brown ground beef in a skillet. Add mushrooms and cook until everything is browned. Pour mix into skillet and add the liquid of choice. Let simmer until pasta is cooked. Add sour cream just before serving.

Gluten Free - Use gluten free pasta
Dairy Free- skip sour cream and use broth or stock instead of milk

Hamburger Helper - DIY

Hamburger Helper

1 Tbsp cornstarch or arrowroot powder
2 teaspoons paprika
1 teaspoon garlic powder
1 teaspoon onion powder
1 teaspoon salt
1 teaspoon sugar
 1 1/2 cups uncooked elbow macaroni

Stir all together until mixed well. Store in pint size mason jar or quart size storage bag.

Variations

1 pound hamburger
1 recipe of the mix
2 cups milk
1 cup filtered water
1 cup shredded cheddar cheese

Cook ground beef and drain. put back in pan and add in mix, milk and water. simmer until cooked thoroughly. Stir in cheddar cheese right before serving.

Chili Cheese - add 1 TBSP chili powder to mix
Gluten Free - use Gluten Free pasta
Dairy Free - use 2 cups chicken or beef broth in place of milk and skip the cheese or use a replacement.

Ants, Ants and More Ants

I think we can all agree that ants are horrible little critters that like to invade our houses every year despite our best efforts in keeping them out!

I learned years ago that ants DO NOT like lemon. One day I even sprayed lemon Pledge on my counters before going to bed because I didn't have anything else and believe it or not it worked!  Then I went to using any lemon type cleaner. Well then I found out that cucumbers are toxic to ants and that they cannot stand the smell of peppermint or vinegar!

Ant Spray

Peels from 1 cucumber
1 cup warm filtered water
15 drops peppermint essential oil
1/4 cup vinegar

Put cucumber peels on baking sheet and bake on 400 for 5-10 minutes being careful not to burn them but make sure they are dry like a potato chip.  Let Cool and then process in a blender or food processor until they are in powder form.

Pour the water, peppermint oil and vinegar in a spray bottle, using a funnel add the powder. Shake until it dissolves. Spray where you want it.

Disinfecting Spray/Wipes/Cleaning Recipe Links

Can't find your favorite disinfecting cleaner or spray? Check out the DIY versions listed below.

Spray
https://oneessentialcommunity.com/homemade-lysol-disinfectant-cleaning-spray-essential-oil/

https://beautyinthecrumbs.com/diy-disinfecting-spray/

http://www.momalwaysfindsout.com/homemade-disinfectant-spray/

https://www.tipsbulletin.com/homemade-disinfectant-spray/

https://livesimply.me/homemade-disinfectant-spray/

Wipes
https://myhomebasedlife.com/how-to-make-homemade-clorox-wipes/

http://www.liverenewed.com/2012/10/31-days-to-green-clean-homemade-disinfecting-wipes-updated.html

https://www.onegoodthingbyjillee.com/diy-cleaning-wipes/?utm_source=DailyRSSNewsletter&utm_medium=email&utm_content=Addtnl_Post_Title&utm_campaign=RSSNewsletter&omhide=true&mc_cid=5https://amindfullmom.com/diy-all-natural-disinfectant-wipes/d9dcde692&mc_eid=c6e14e4cea

Cleaner
https://www.lifescarousel.com/best-natural-disinfectants/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_smartloop&utm_content=smartloop&utm_term=16247866

https://brendid.com/lemon-infused-disinfectant-spray-cleaner/

https://www.mom4real.com/diy-bathroom-cleaner-disinfectant-spray/

https://homeschoolsuperfreak.com/homemade-cleaner/

Boredom Busters - Dice Games

Now that you have the card game links all saved, here are some dice games to add to it! I suggest printing out the instructions for the card and dice games and keep somewhere just in the case you lose power and can't get online to get them.

https://www.whatdowedoallday.com/dice-games-for-kids/

https://www.drawinghowtodraw.com/stepbystepdrawinglessons/2016/06/drawing-games-kids-roll-dice-drawing-game/

https://twindragonflydesigns.com/roll-a-monster-game-and-free-printable/

https://everydaychaosandcalm.com/dice-games-for-kids-and-families/

https://www.whatdowedoallday.com/pig-dice-game/

http://intheplayroom.co.uk/2015/06/18/games-to-play-with-dice/

https://www.themeasuredmom.com/dice-games-for-preschoolers/#_a5y_p=2472311

https://www.123homeschool4me.com/educational-dice-games-for-kids-perfect_99

Boredom Busters - Card Games

Here are some links for different card games I thought I would share..family, kids, toddler and more. Some use regular cards and some UNO cards. Pull out the cards and have some fun!

https://primaryplayground.net/5-math-games-to-play-with-uno-cards/

https://picklebums.com/games-you-can-play-with-uno-cards/

https://www.itsalwaysautumn.com/11-fun-easy-cards-games-for-kids-and-adults.html?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_smartloop&utm_content=smartloop&utm_term=37554788

https://busytoddler.com/2015/11/4-card-games/

http://www.homegrownlearners.com/home/2012/4/11/have-some-fun-with-cards.html

http://theenchantedaunt.com/kid-friendly-card-games/

https://picklebums.com/games-you-can-play-with-uno-cards/

Inexpensive Chicken Recipe Links

https://www.familybalancesheet.org/2010/01/easy-chicken-noodle-soup.html

https://www.today.com/recipes/easy-leftover-chicken-fajitas-recipe-t123705

https://www.tablespoon.com/meals/dinner/cheap-chicken-dinners?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=03_2017_standard&crlt.pid=camp.xrwstjmkopnb

Apple Chicken Walnut Salad

Apple Chicken Walnut Salad

Spring Mix
leftover chicken
green apple - cut up
walnuts
balsamic vinegar - drizzle over top

Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad

Mandarin Orange Chicken Salad

Spring Mix
Mandarin Oranges
Dried Cranberries
Diced chicken
dressing (unsweetened orange juice, dijon mustard, garlic powder, salt)

Chicken Salad

Chicken Salad

leftover chicken
homemade ranch - https://www.thegraciouspantry.com/clean-eating-ranch-dressing/?fbclid=IwAR1GIIbto0wX1j0ZbyD2INOKTlMhUOCphW617mkMf2vjcaZYIXfAWPFhuG8
grapes - cut up
celery - cut up
salt and pepper

Meal Stretcher - Whole Chicken

Who loves chicken? I know I do!!! Here are some ways to make that whole chicken you roast go further. I always buy the biggest one I can and go from there.

Cook your chicken in the crockpot or however you like to roast it.  I take the chicken, put in a crockpot with some water (on occasion I will add chicken bouillon), salt, pepper, poultry seasoning or whatever your favorites are.

Then take out, let cool and pick it clean. Use the meat for dinner and then freeze the other in portions needed for recipes.

You can then use the chicken to make chicken potpie (see recipes), chicken salad, chicken fajitas, chicken tacos, chicken fried rice and more!

Put everything else back in the crockpot, making sure there is enough liquid to cover everything.  Add some veggies (carrots, celery, onion) add some more salt and pepper and parsley. Let cook all day.  Strain it and then freeze in portions. Use as a substitute for broth or stock.
**Note - when you have leftover veggies or end pieces of veggies you typically throw away, keep in a ziploc bag or container in the freezer and keep adding to it. Then you can use this for your stock/broth instead of cutting up new.

What have you learned from this experience?

I can't help but think about things I should have done or things I should have purchased to be prepared for something like this. People always talk about being prepared for weather related emergencies but not something like this. AND who would have thought that people would resort to panic buying leaving hardly anything for others.

Have you learned anything from what we are going through right now? I can say I have! There are some things I buy in bulk but from now on I will make sure that when I buy something, I will buy in pairs. Need ketchup? Buy 2! When you need it again take the 2nd one you bought and go buy another. Try and keep 1 of the item to use and another for backup.  This will ensure you that you will always have at least 1 of what you use.

Don't buy or hoard what you don't use. Don't stock pile and let things go to waste or expire.  Only buy what you use, or what you will use and rotate what you buy so you aren't wasting stuff.  Don't eat canned meat, then don't buy it! I was guilty of this :( I would always keep canned spam, chicken etc and then end up throwing it away when it expired or giving it away. What is the purpose of that! Lesson learned!

We pulled out a tote I have with games and stuff in it to keep us occupied. Well don't you know I only had 1 puzzle, several games and no playing cards! Thankfully I do keep coloring books, word searches and the like to help pass time.  But again this says to me that I should probably get a few more puzzles, and maybe add some different things to the box. 

Now is the perfect time to read that book you've been wanting to read, plan a garden, clean out that closet that has been driving you crazy, learn something new, or try something new.  Look at this time as an opportunity to increase your knowledge or share your knowledge with others. 

What are you doing with your new found free time or How are you keeping the children busy?

Paper Towels and toilet paper

It is times like this that I am glad I don't use paper towels. A few years back I switched to un-paper towels that I purchased off of etsy and couldn't be happier. No more worries if the store runs out and I can't get any. Why not make the switch? Go check them out on etsy and make your own. https://thriftyniftymommy.com/diy-how-to-make-your-own-unpaper-towels/?utm_medium=social&utm_source=pinterest&utm_campaign=tailwind_smartloop&utm_content=smartloop&utm_term=34327000


And Toilet paper...who would have ever thought we would have a hard time finding toilet paper? Lucky for me, I also switched to buying it online as it was inexpensive, environmentally friendly and also helped other people.  I love that I can buy an entire box at one time.  I also buy my tissues from here and if you want paper towels, they sell them as well!
https://us.whogivesacrap.org/collections/all

Are your kids eating all the snacks?

I am sure with children home from school, you are finding that just like in the summer they are eating all the snacks in the house.

Share your ideas on how to stop this! We all want to know, lol! Here are a few that come to mind but please feel free to comment with what works for you!

1. Try and keep a normal schedule.

2. Pre-package snacks and write times on them.

3. Make a basket or some kind of container up each night for each child. Set it out in the mornings and let them know that it is all the snacks for them for the day so to choose wisely.

Monkey Bread

This is one of my families favorite recipes and I fix it every Christmas Morning.

Monkey Bread

4 cans refrigerated biscuits (4 pack)
1 1/2 cup brown sugar
1 Tbsp Cinnamon
3/4 cup butter or margarine
pecans/raisins (optional)

Preheat oven to 350. Cut biscuits into quarters and coat with some extra cinnamon and sugar.  Melt remaining  ingredients in a saucepan. Place half of biscuit quarters in a bundt pan and sprinkle with chopped pecans or raisins if you'd like. Pour 1.2 of butter mixture on top. Repeat with remaining biscuits and butter.

Bake for 30-40 minutes

What is Self Care?

Self care has always been a very important part of life that you should practice daily. However, given what is going on right now it is even more important.  Do you know what self care is? Do you practice it?  What are some of the things you do to promote self care in your life?

What is self-care?
Self-care is any activity that we do deliberately in order to take care of our mental, emotional, and physical health. Although it’s a simple concept in theory, it’s something we very often overlook. Good self-care is key to improved mood and reduced anxiety. It’s also key to a good relationship with oneself and others.

Set up a daily routine that consist of at least 15 minutes of self care. Something you deliberately do for yourself. See some of the examples below.

Take a nice relaxing bath with bath salts (add some candlelight)

     Calming Bath Salts
    1/2 cup sea salt
    1/2 cup Epsom Salts
    10 drops lavender essential oil
    contents of 1 green tea bag
  Mix together and store in a jar or container

Here are some links with a lot of good ideas.
https://www.developgoodhabits.com/self-care-ideas/
https://www.goodtherapy.org/blog/134-activities-to-add-to-your-self-care-plan/

Non- Drying Hand Sanitizer

One of my favorite authors is Merissa A. Alink and I love her book "Little House Living"  I will be sharing some of her recipes with you all and hope that you like them as much as I do!

Non-Drying Hand Sanitizer

4 Tbsp Witch Hazel
6 TBSP Aloe Vera Gel
5 Drops Tea Tree Essential Oil
5 Drops Lavender Essential Oil

Mix all together in a small bowl or container. Store in travel size shampoo bottle or something similar.
Tea Tree Oil and Lavender are both antibacterials and will help stop germs from spreading.

Fruit Leather

I had some strawberries that were going to go bad so instead of wasting them we decided to make fruit leather. Washed, sliced, blended and then put in the dehydrator.

Want to make your own? Here is a link with some really yummy recipes that don't require a dehydrator.

https://homemaderecipes.com/14-fruit-roll-ups-recipes/

Poor Man Donuts

I used to make these a lot when my kids were younger and we all loved them! Still a special treat today and cheaper than buying donuts in the store. Not to mention how much fun the kids have topping their own donut with their favorite topping.

Donuts
Refrigerated canned biscuits (the 4 pack kind, any brand)
deep fryer or pan with oil

Take a biscuit and use a small round object to make a donut hole in the middle. Put biscuit into hot oil and turn when nicely browned. Remove from oil immediately and repeat with the donut holes.

Top with favorite toppings.

Bowls or baggies with powdered sugar AND/OR
                                     cinnamon and sugar
OR frost using store bought frosting or make your own.

Vanilla Icing
1 cup powdered sugar
1/2 tsp vanilla
2-3 tbsp milk

Chocolate Icing
1 1/2 cup powdered sugar
3 tbsp oil
3 tbsp cocoa powder
3 tbsp water

Waffle Recipe

Waffles

1 3/4 cup flour
1 Tbsp baking powder
1 tsp baking soda
1/2 tsp salt
2 cup milk
1/3 cup oil
2 eggs

Preheat waffle iron. In large bowl with slotted spoon mix first 4 ingredients and beat until well blended.

Adding slightly more oil will increase the crispiness of the waffles.

Salad Time - Crouton Recipe

Nothing better than buying fresh lettuce and veggies from your local farmers market and making a great big salad. Then to make that even better try making some croutons from fresh bread you purchased or made.

Garlic Croutons

4 cups bread cut into 1 inch cubes or whatever size you like
1 tsp garlic powder
1 tsp dried parsley
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 tsp oil (I use olive oil)

Preheat oven to 400 and line a baking sheet with parchment paper (I use a silicone mat). Toss together the bread cubes and spices. Toss in the oil until well distributed. Make sure bread is evenly moistened. Spread the bread cubes out evenly onto the baking sheet. Bake for 12-18 minutes making sure to toss them around a few times.

Where are my iced coffee drinkers?

Who loves Iced Coffee? Me!!!!! Years ago I found a recipe and fell in love with it and have made some small changes to it to please my taste buds.  Now it is time to share it with you.

Iced Vanilla Coffee
Serves 1
( recipe can be doubled, tripled etc)

2 teaspoons instant coffee (not prepared, just the granules)
2 tsp pure vanilla extract (change to other flavors for a different taste)
1 teaspoon leftover coffee (I have never added)
2 teaspoons cold water
1 1/4 cups milk (whatever type you use)
chocolate shavings for garnishment (I have never used)

Put first 5 ingredients into a blender. Pulse blend until the ingredients are smooth and frothy.  Add teh cold milk and pulse until all is blended well.  Pour over a few ice cubes and add garnishments. Enjoy!

***I like the make this up in the evening and put in the refrigerator. Wake up in the morning, give a shake and pour over some ice. YUMMY!!! ENJOY!!!

Homemade Laundry Detergent

I have been playing around with different homemade laundry detergent recipes for many years BUT I finally found one that the entire family likes!  Its easy, works great, inexpensive and smells great!

Laundry Detergent

2 gal water

1/2 cup washing soda

1/2 kosher salt

1/2 cup baking soda

3/4 cup castille soap

30 drops essential oil

Gently Mix all together. Use 1/3 cup per load

Dairy Recipes

Homemade Buttermilk
(recipe yields 4 serevings)
1 cup whole milk
either 1 and 3/4 TBSP cream of tartar OR 1 TBSP white vinegar OR 1 TBSP lemon juice

Add together and let stand for approx 15 minutes at room temp. The milk should start to curdle. Stir well.

Fat Free Half & Half
1 1/3 cup dry nonfat dry milk powder
1/3 cup Fat Free coffeemate creamer (or any brand regular)
2 cups cold water

mix all together and blend with mixer or blender

Half & Half Substitute
7/8 cup milk
7/8 TBSP melted butter, cooled

Mix well

Evaporated Milk
1 cup plus 2 TBSP dry powdered milk
1/2 cup warm water

Whisk together all ingredients

Sweetened Condensed Milk
1 cup hot tap water
2 cups sugar
2 cups instant nonfat dry milk powder
6 TBSP melted margarine/butter

using a blender...add hot water, sugar, milk powder and margarine. Blend for a full minute. Mixture will be thin but will thicken after standing for approx a hour.  Makes enough to equal 2 cans.  Can be used right away or store in fridge for a week.

Sweetened Condensed Milk #2
1 cup evaporated milk
1 1/4 cup sugar

Put in saucepan. Heat until sugar is completely dissolved and let cool. No evaporated milk? make your own by slowly simmering any quantity of milk in a pan until reduced by 60%.

Milk 
equal parts of evaporated milk to equal parts of water.

What are you thankful for?

Forget about all the negative and troubling stuff going on around you. Take some time to sit and truly think about what you are thankful for.  Now write it down. I don't care if it's only one thing. Write it down. Write it in the comments, write it in a journal, just write it down and say it aloud or say it in your mind. Focus on it and remember that there is always something to be thankful for.

I am going to be using this blog to encourage, to educate, to help others and to help myself. I am going to share my life, recipes, tips, tricks, ideas, crafts, inspirational quotes etc. Take what you want to use, share with others or whatever. Please feel free to leave comments. We are in this together. We may not be able to socialize in person so we socialize on here.

Today I am thankful for my family and friends, my health, my family's health, my ability to share my knowledge with others, and everything that I have. I have been blessed with so much!

What are you thankful for?

Good Morning

Good morning long lost readers! What a crazy life we are living right now! I don't even know where to begin except to say that we are all in this together so you are not alone.  This morning a friend told me that I should start a Blog so without even hesitating I came back to this one I started so many years ago. I revisit occasionally but never post as I feel as if I am just writing to myself lol Then I thought well why not? It doesn't hurt to share what I know, or how I feel and it may even help someone else and that is my goal! I want to help others somehow and maybe this is the way. If there is something in particular you would like me to write about I am open to suggestions. Just leave them in the comments below.  I will talk with you all soon!