tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-12241970653552008492024-02-20T18:20:35.620-07:00Preparedness Brings Peace"...if ye are prepared, ye shall not fear." --D&C 38:30; food storage; preparedness; recipes; food storage recipes; preparedness tips; be prepared; preparing for the future; peace through preparedness; hundreds of food storage recipes; canning; gardeningUnknownnoreply@blogger.comBlogger560125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-79199830008390771242011-08-29T10:34:00.004-06:002011-08-29T10:49:53.475-06:00Newsarticle entitled "Hurricane Irene and being prepared"<span class="Apple-style-span">The Deseret News published an article by Seth Saunders today on how preparedness helped him and his family through hurricane Irene. He said, "We were all calm. The reason we felt so calm was that we felt prepared." He also stated, "I was less worried about what we needed to do because we had already done it it."</span><div><span class="Apple-style-span">
<br /></span></div><div><span class="Apple-style-span">You can read the full article <a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/705389910/Hurricane-Irene-and-being-prepared.html?pg=2">here</a>. </span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-38883910326621107022011-02-08T16:17:00.008-07:002011-03-27T16:31:31.768-06:00A Great Life and a Bright Future<span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(47, 57, 58); font-family: 'Lucida Grande', 'Lucida Sans Unicode', 'Lucida Sans', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 13px; "><p uri="/ensign/2011/01/make-yours-a-great-life.p30" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; ">Here's a portion of an uplifting <a href="http://lds.org/ensign/2011/01/make-yours-a-great-life?lang=eng">article</a> by Elder Paul V. Johnson in the Ensign, January 2011 issue. He talks about how we live in challenging times, yet there have <b>always been</b> challenging times. Sharing examples from his own family and the scriptures, he says, "None of these people allowed the challenges they faced or the conditions of their world to determine the trajectory of their lives."</p><p uri="/ensign/2011/01/make-yours-a-great-life.p30" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px; "></span></p><blockquote><p uri="/ensign/2011/01/make-yours-a-great-life.p30" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 18px; ">"There are no better days than these days, because “these are [your] days” (<a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/hel/7.9?lang=eng#8" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(72, 111, 174); text-decoration: none; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; "><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Helaman</span> 7:9</a>). You are here on earth at this time for a reason. You have what it takes. You have skills, knowledge, and natural talents given to you from God. If you live righteously, you will have access to the inspiration and strength you will need to triumph over any challenge you face. You will have the protection of a worthy life; guidance from the Lord through the Holy Ghost and prophets, seers, and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">revelators</span>; and the power of sacred promises that are yours because you keep your covenants.</span></p><p uri="/ensign/2011/01/make-yours-a-great-life.p33" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; ">Take these things that are yours and have a great life!</p><p uri="/ensign/2011/01/make-yours-a-great-life.p34" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; ">The reason I am so confident about your ability to find a bright future in the midst of a challenging world <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">isn</span>’t because I know each of you individually, but because I know that the Lord lives and loves us. He is the real reason each of us has a bright future. We can do all things through Christ who strengthens us (see <a href="http://lds.org/scriptures/nt/philip/4.13?lang=eng#12" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; color: rgb(72, 111, 174); text-decoration: none; background-position: initial initial; background-repeat: initial initial; ">Philippians 4:13</a>). Because we are children of our Heavenly Father and because of the Atonement of Jesus Christ, I know our futures are bright."</p></blockquote><p uri="/ensign/2011/01/make-yours-a-great-life.p34" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; "></p><p uri="/ensign/2011/01/make-yours-a-great-life.p34" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 20px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 0px; padding-left: 0px; border-top-width: 0px; border-right-width: 0px; border-bottom-width: 0px; border-left-width: 0px; border-style: initial; border-color: initial; outline-width: 0px; outline-style: initial; outline-color: initial; font-size: 13px; vertical-align: baseline; background-image: initial; background-attachment: initial; background-origin: initial; background-clip: initial; background-color: transparent; line-height: 18px; ">So take heart--make yours a great life and have a bright future!</p></span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-2386543015177567272010-12-25T21:36:00.001-07:002010-12-25T21:37:03.838-07:00Merry Christmas 2010<iframe width="425" height="344" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/icilgwdHiZg?fs=1" frameborder="0"></iframe>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-58232958237473006452010-12-10T07:54:00.003-07:002010-12-10T07:58:25.502-07:00Holiday Safety<div>Some good ideas from the SLCPD for cutting down on holiday crime can be found at:</div><div><br /></div><a href="http://www.slcpd.com/assetts/images/getinformed/brochures/holiday-safety.pdf">http://www.slcpd.com/assetts/images/getinformed/brochures/holiday-safety.pdf</a><div><br /></div><div>Their ideas include tips for safety At Home, Traveling, Out and About, Decorating, and Donating.</div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-53067714389488099702010-10-29T10:43:00.007-06:002010-10-30T09:00:34.223-06:00Caramel Corn<div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWI_eByk0Qrq67ihxGLeadS807tLfRCPCJSOkdxvnfpZkYJNjRTGbk2hSZGJsg_sVhQ76GlmXBlkXn-G7eiSzwpAsx4z1TLB7Js7bfCXaksxAWLPuXBJ6kgjJzEGWjyi5txch77bdr-0/s1600/IMG_8446.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgpWI_eByk0Qrq67ihxGLeadS807tLfRCPCJSOkdxvnfpZkYJNjRTGbk2hSZGJsg_sVhQ76GlmXBlkXn-G7eiSzwpAsx4z1TLB7Js7bfCXaksxAWLPuXBJ6kgjJzEGWjyi5txch77bdr-0/s400/IMG_8446.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5533652574194093682" /></a></div><br /><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="text-align: center;margin-top: 0.25em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 0px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-weight: normal; line-height: 20px; font-size: medium;">This is my favorite recipe for crunchy caramel corn. It's easy to make and it's a delicious way to use popcorn from your food storage.</span></span></h3><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="text-align: center; margin-top: 0.25em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.4em; color: rgb(225, 119, 30); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;"><br /></span></span></span></h3><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="text-align: center; margin-top: 0.25em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 0px; font-weight: normal; line-height: 1.4em; color: rgb(225, 119, 30); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 20px; "><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: x-large;">CARAMEL CORN</span></span></span></h3><h3 class="post-title entry-title" style="text-align: center; margin-top: 0.25em; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0px; margin-left: 0px; padding-top: 0px; padding-right: 0px; padding-bottom: 4px; padding-left: 0px; line-height: 1.4em; color: rgb(225, 119, 30); "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 20px; "><em><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; ">Combine in pan:</span></span></em></span></h3><div class="post-body entry-content" style="margin-top: 0px; margin-right: 0px; margin-bottom: 0.75em; margin-left: 0px; "><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 1.6em; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-family: georgia; font-size: medium; ">1 stick butter or margarine</span></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); line-height: 1.6em; font-family: georgia; "><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; ">1 cup brown sugar</span></div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: georgia; line-height: 1.6em; font-size: medium; ">1/4 cup white corn syrup</div><div style="text-align: center; color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: georgia; line-height: 1.6em; font-size: medium; ">1 teaspoon salt</div><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="line-height: 25px; font-size: medium;"><br /></span></span></div><em style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: georgia; line-height: 1.6em; font-size: medium; "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: normal; font-size: 16px; "><em style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: georgia; line-height: 1.6em; font-size: medium; "><b>Bring to boil; boil 5 minutes.</b></em><b style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: georgia; line-height: 1.6em; font-size: medium; "> </b></span></div></em><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><em style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: georgia; line-height: 1.6em; font-size: medium; "><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="color: rgb(0, 0, 0); font-family: Georgia, serif; font-style: normal; line-height: normal; font-size: 16px; "><em style="color: rgb(51, 51, 51); font-family: georgia; line-height: 1.6em; font-size: medium; "><b>Remove from heat and add:</b></em></span></div></em><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 25px; ">1 teaspoon vanilla</span></div></span><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 25px; ">1 teaspoon baking soda</span></div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 25px; ">Pour over 12 cups popped corn. </span></div></span><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><span class="Apple-style-span"><div style="text-align: center;"><span class="Apple-style-span" style="font-size: medium; line-height: 25px; ">Spread on cookie sheet. Put in 250 degree F. oven for 25 to 30 minutes, stirring every 10 minutes.</span></div></span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-13906502691526422292010-06-16T12:08:00.003-06:002010-06-16T12:22:39.995-06:00Disaster-Proof Your Important Papers<span style="font-weight: bold;">In case you have to evacuate your home in an emergency,</span> keep <span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">copies</span></span> of your <span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" >most vital papers</span> in a portable container you can easily take with you.<br />There would include:<br /><ul><li>Birth certificates and adoption records</li><li>Marriage certificates and divorce decrees</li><li>Drivers' licenses</li><li>Passports/Visas/Green cards</li><li>Social Security cards</li><li>Titles, deeds and registrations for property owned</li><li>Wills and trust documents</li><li>Mortgage and loan information</li><li>Insurance policies</li><li>Bank account records</li><li>Investment account records</li><li>Credit card numbers</li></ul><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Keep <span style="font-size:180%;">original</span> copies of difficult-to-replace documents,</span> such as birth certificates and titles, in a <span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">safe deposit box</span></span>. Make sure the box is held in more than one person's name. While information regarding bank accounts, insurance policies, and investments can be reproduced from account numbers, having immediate access to hard copy may be helpful.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Keep a list of all the documents you have and where they are located.</span><br />Make sure that those who need access to them know where to find this master list. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Kiplinger's</span> <span style="font-style: italic;">Your Family Records Organizer</span> (www.kiplinger.com/organizer; 800-280-7165, Operator 89) is a CD-ROM product created to help you keep track of all these documents.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Key contact numbers to carry in your wallet:</span> Doctor...employer/spouse's employer...children's schools...banks...insurance agents...minister, rabbi or priest...close relatives, friends and neighbors...utility companies...alarm-system company.<br /><br />(Source: Barbara Hemphill, "Kiplinger's Personal Finance -Taming the Paper Tiger at Home," pg. 90)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-26589506410139611462010-03-04T12:25:00.008-07:002010-03-04T17:10:20.247-07:00How Would One Prepare Financially for Hard Times?<div class="post-body entry-content"><div style="text-align: left;"> </div>Let's face it -- times are tough -- and they will most likely get tougher before they get better. (Not what you wanted to hear, but something you probably knew already.)<br /><br />We can feel peace even when there is trouble around us. There are things we can do to help us make it through these turbulent times. The following is a <a href="http://preparednessnibblesandbits.blogspot.com/2009/02/how-would-one-prepare-for-financially.html">re-post</a> from an <a href="http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=2d58fc3157a6b010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&hideNav=1">article</a> printed in the June 1980 <a href="http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?locale=0&vgnextoid=a6246a008952b010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD">Ensign</a> and suggests some timeless ideas on how to prepare financially:<br /><br /><div class="post-body entry-content"> <blockquote>1. The breadwinner in the family should make every effort to stay employed and keep earning wages or salaries, profits, and benefits. <a name="15"></a> <p>2. Try to build tenure or seniority with your employer, and demonstrate both creative and productive skills. </p> <a name="16"></a> <p>3. Keep knowledge and skills current through continuous upgrading; thus, you can compete with the best and offer the best service or product available in your field. Even family members not employed should do the same. Where possible, everyone should have or work toward a potentially marketable skill or product. </p> <a name="17"></a> <p>4. Protect yourself during a recession—or times of inflation—by keeping monthly expenditures well under control. It is no time to have any excessive debt or large installment payments. Also, you may not be able to borrow money for major things like houses, farms, or businesses. Wait until money is more available and the interest levels are moderate. </p> <a name="18"></a> <p>5. Have an emergency cash reserve. The longer or deeper the economic downturn, the greater the need for ready money in such cases as unemployment, reduced income, illness, or injury. </p> <a name="19"></a> <p>6. As much as possible, get ownership and clear title (or deed) to cars, major appliances, homes, farms, businesses, etc. During a recession or depression, repossession, foreclosure, and garnishment—and the resulting risk of bankruptcy—are more likely since cash demands continue and income may stop. Ownership of your major possessions would provide you with great security. </p> <a name="20"></a> <p>7. Have an adequate one year’s supply of food and clothing. It takes most families months and even years to build a good supply and learn how to store and rotate it properly. Get started now. </p> <a name="21"></a> <p>8. Be willing to make significant life-style changes. Economic hardship could force you to sacrifice many comforts and luxuries such as recreation, travel, nonessential clothing, eating out, entertainment, and gifts; can you make some of these changes voluntarily now? Expenditures might have to focus on essentials such as food, housing, utilities, health care, and transportation. </p> <a name="22"></a> <p>9. Organize your extended families to give help to each generation as needed. </p> <a name="23"></a> <p>10. Self-reliance is important. Knowing how to make bread, sew clothes, make gifts, toys, and home decorations, paint the house, fix the plumbing, etc., will become increasingly valuable. As much as possible, be able to sustain life. Grow a garden, cultivate fruit trees, keep animals, etc., wherever practical, or have access to these resources. </p> <a name="24"></a> <p>One of the best defenses against a recession or a depression is owning things like food surpluses (such as grain, sugar, corn, rice, beans, and dried fruits), precious metals and gems, coal and wood, land, etc. They have intrinsic value, demand for them stays high, and they can be used in many ways. </p> <a name="25"></a> <p>11. Be good friends and neighbors. During hard times, you’ll be exchanging products and services much more.</p></blockquote><p>(Source: <a href="http://www.lds.org/ldsorg/v/index.jsp?vgnextoid=2354fccf2b7db010VgnVCM1000004d82620aRCRD&locale=0&sourceId=2d58fc3157a6b010VgnVCM1000004d82620a____&hideNav=1">“Questions about Coping Financially: Welfare Services Suggests Some Answers,” <i>Ensign</i>, Jun 1980, 12</a>)<br /></p> </div> <span class="post-author vcard"> </span> <p style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;">*Previous posts on <a href="http://preparednessnibblesandbits.blogspot.com/search/label/Finances">FINANCES</a></span></p></div> <span class="post-author vcard"> </span>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-50871343171697065952010-02-28T10:48:00.010-07:002010-02-28T11:02:22.504-07:00Preparing Your Family for an EarthquakeWhen preparing for an earthquake, plan on having enough supplies to get you and your family through at least the first 72 hours. After a major earthquake, there's a good chance that traditional emergency response teams will be too busy to take care of you and your family. You need to prepare your home and neighborhood.<br /><br /><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">The Plan</span></span><br />*Stock up on at least a three-day supply of food, water, clothes, medical supplies and other necessary equipment for everyone in your family. Make sure everyone knows where to find them.<br /><br />*Decide where and when to reunite your family should you be apart when an earthquake happens.<br /><br />*Choose a person outside the immediate area to contact if family members are separated. Long distance phone service will probably be restored sooner than local service. Do not use the phone immediately after the earthquake.<br /><br />*Know the policies of the school or daycare center your children attend. Make plans to have someone pick them up if you are unable to get them.<br /><br />*If you have a family member that does not speak English, prepare an emergency card written in English indicating that persons identification, address and any special needs such as medication or allergies. Tell that person to keep the card with him/her at all times.<br /><br />*Conduct Earthquake: Duck, Cover & Hold drills every six months with your family.<br /><br />*Know the safest place in each room because it will be difficult to move from one room to another during an earthquake.<br /><br />*Locate the shutoff valves for water, gas and electricity. Learn how to shut off the valves before a quake. If you have any questions, call your utility company.<br /><br />*Make copies of vital records and keep them in a safe deposit box in another city or state. Make sure originals are stored safely.<br /><br />*Before a quake occurs, call your local Red Cross chapter and Office of Emergency Services to find out about their plans for emergency shelters and temporary medical centers in case of such a disaster.<br /><br />*Establish all the possible ways to exit your house. Keep those areas clear.<br /><br />*Know the locations of the nearest fire and police stations.<br /><br />*Take photos and/or videos of your valuables. Make copies and keep them in another city or state.<br /><br />*Include your babysitter and other household help in your plans.<br /><br />*Keep an extra pair of eyeglasses and house and car keys on hand.<br /><br />*Keep extra cash and change. If electricity is out, you will not be able to use an ATM.<br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:180%;" ><br />General Tips</span><br />*Stay away from heavy furniture, appliances, large glass panes, shelves holding objects, and other large decorative masonry, brick or plaster such as fireplaces.<br /><br />*Keep your hallway clear. It is usually one of the safest places to be during an earthquake.<br /><br />*Stay away from kitchens and garages, which tend to be the most dangerous places because of the many items kept there.<br /><br />(Source: <a href="http://ussc.utah.gov/pdf/prepare/eq_family.pdf">http://ussc.utah.gov/pdf/prepare/eq_family.pdf</a>)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-67090067718973130822010-02-27T18:51:00.016-07:002010-02-27T20:23:16.801-07:00Breakfast RecipesI love breakfast! It's one of my favorite things about getting up in the morning.<br /><br />Breakfast foods are usually simple to prepare and can be inexpensive. We sometimes have "breakfast" for dinner. Here are three of my family's favorite breakfast recipes:<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqnIRuCsbBBiAchsbY21VpLX_H9Xx5sel33qT8rENg4QAVxC61GTol97dWIYSVxTTqruh3NBc-Zy7irbJoVdTFAqR0035dtb1sMvSv_ib2_k-hKPehcVOsDmb-zMoFuTJmziXxkoUmsveU/s1600-h/IMG_4703.JPG"><img style="margin: 0pt 10px 10px 0pt; float: left; cursor: pointer;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqnIRuCsbBBiAchsbY21VpLX_H9Xx5sel33qT8rENg4QAVxC61GTol97dWIYSVxTTqruh3NBc-Zy7irbJoVdTFAqR0035dtb1sMvSv_ib2_k-hKPehcVOsDmb-zMoFuTJmziXxkoUmsveU/s400/IMG_4703.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5229561919904896082" border="0" /></a><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >EVERYDAY PANCAKES</span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:lucida grande;" >I use 1/3 cup non-instant powdered milk and 1 cup water in place of milk. Mix non-instant powdered milk with dry ingredients, mix water with liquid ingredients.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">3 eggs</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1 cup milk</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">3 tablespoons vegetable oil or melted shortening</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, stirred and measured</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">3 teaspoons baking powder</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1/2 teaspoon salt</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1 tablespoon sugar</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Beat eggs thoroughly; stir in milk, shortening, and sifted dry ingredients just until blended. Bake on lightly greased griddle. Makes 8 to 10 pancakes.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;font-family:lucida grande;" >Variation:</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:lucida grande;" ><br />Apple Pancakes:</span><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"> Stir in 1 cup finely chopped apple.</span><br /><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:lucida grande;" >Blueberry Pancakes: </span><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Stir in 1 cup fresh, frozen, or canned and drained blueberries.</span><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4q5HlFUm_3Ui7C3fg88iV6ILmPF9a5SZI_aMJRUOFNizThJ_IKDFrZYI8g3A5rhlQgTvdsdzUeSc6moLdntdFs3SyIL7QMxcZfeVD41m9rZ4vmQs__xV1oYj4ulvCvr74pGB7YaBr-IVj/s1600-h/IMG_5706.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4q5HlFUm_3Ui7C3fg88iV6ILmPF9a5SZI_aMJRUOFNizThJ_IKDFrZYI8g3A5rhlQgTvdsdzUeSc6moLdntdFs3SyIL7QMxcZfeVD41m9rZ4vmQs__xV1oYj4ulvCvr74pGB7YaBr-IVj/s400/IMG_5706.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5320865083113595698" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">FAVORITE WAFFLES</span></span><br /><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:lucida grande;" >I use 2/3 cup non-instant powdered milk and 2 1/4 cups water in place of milk. Mix non-instant powdered milk with the dry ingredients, mix water with the liquid ingredients.<br /><br /></span><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">2 1/2 cups all-purpose flour, stirred and measured</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">3/4 teaspoon salt</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">4 teaspoons baking powder</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1 1/2 tablespoons sugar</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">2 beaten eggs</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">2 1/4 cups milk</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1/2 cup melted shortening or vegetable oil</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Stir together dry ingredients. Combine eggs, milk, and shortening. Combine liquid and dry ingredients just before baking; beat until smooth. Bake in hot waffle iron. Makes 12 waffles.</span><span style="font-style: italic;font-family:lucida grande;" ><br /></span><br /><br /><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGzIgL1KwPGkhHMNaMbAuAScfsTfxEwUaF-6rfqQZs4qlaLgYlYTpO-JkMYNQSWwL6ZzBcafJcyXTIZiZKSHjpCdA6IMQxTSXLI-vgtu4Dx15m8NWsJf_U5SRfY6ul6zewjv-Mafkj9ZQ/s1600-h/IMG_5640.JPG"><img style="cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjXGzIgL1KwPGkhHMNaMbAuAScfsTfxEwUaF-6rfqQZs4qlaLgYlYTpO-JkMYNQSWwL6ZzBcafJcyXTIZiZKSHjpCdA6IMQxTSXLI-vgtu4Dx15m8NWsJf_U5SRfY6ul6zewjv-Mafkj9ZQ/s400/IMG_5640.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5316855075299652034" border="0" /></a><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="font-family:lucida grande;"><span style="font-weight: bold;font-size:130%;" >GRANOLA</span><br />8 1/2 cups 6 Grain Mix</span> (Rolled - Red Wheat, White Wheat, Rye, Oats, Barley and Sunflower Seeds)<br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1 cup shredded coconut</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1 1/2 cups finely chopped mixed nuts</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1/3 cup packed dark brown sugar</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">3/4 cup water</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">3/4 cup vegetable oil</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1/4 cup honey</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1/4 cup molasses</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">3/4 teaspoon salt</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1 teaspoon ground cinnamon</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">1 1/2 teaspoons vanilla extract</span><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">2 cups raisins, chopped dates or other dried fruit, if desired</span><br /><br /><span style="font-family:lucida grande;">Preheat oven to 300 degrees F. In a large bowl, combine 6 Grain Mix, coconut, and nuts, if desired. Stir until evenly distributed. In a medium saucepan, combine brown sugar, water, oil, honey, molasses, salt, cinnamon and vanilla. Heat and stir until sugar is dissolved. Do not boil. Pour syrup over grain mixture. Stir with a large wooden spoon until syrup coats other ingredients. Spread mixture in two 13" x 9" baking pans or on 2 large baking sheets with raised sides. Bake 20 to 30 minutes in preheated oven, stirring occasionally. Bake 10 minutes longer for a crunchier texture. Cool on racks. Stir in raisins, chopped dates or other dried fruit, if desired. Spoon into a 10-cup container with a tight-fitting lid. Seal container. Label with date and contents. Store in a cool dry place. Use within 6 months. Makes about 10 cups.</span></span><br /><br /><br />MORE <a href="http://preparednessnibblesandbits.blogspot.com/search/label/Breakfast%20Recipes">BREAKFAST RECIPES</a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-19863701167571045422010-01-23T22:02:00.007-07:002010-01-23T22:21:38.675-07:00Help People in Haiti<p> <nobr><span class="dateline"></span></nobr></p><blockquote><p><nobr style="font-weight: bold;"><span class="dateline">22 January 2010</span></nobr> The First Presidency of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints issued the following statement today: </p><p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> Our hearts are filled with sadness as we have watched the suffering in Haiti in the wake of the devastating earthquake. We turn to the example of Jesus Christ who reached out to “lift up the hands which hang down” and “strengthen the feeble knees.” We are keenly aware that many in America are dealing with economic challenges caused by the recession. However, we are appealing to members to donate to Church Humanitarian Services as their means allow in order to help our Haitian brothers and sisters. Many have already contributed and others are anxious to do so. </p> <p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"> Money is not the only need in Haiti. People are frightened, bewildered, and wholly uncertain about their future. In addition to what people can do in helping with food, water and shelter, there needs to be a calming influence over that troubled nation. We invite our people everywhere to supplicate God for a spirit of calm and peace among the people as urgent aid and reconstruction efforts continue.<br /></p><p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml">(Source: <a href="http://newsroom.lds.org/ldsnewsroom/eng/news-releases-stories/first-presidency-appeals-to-church-members-to-help-people-in-haiti">www.newsroom.lds.org</a>)<br /></p></blockquote><p xmlns="http://www.w3.org/1999/xhtml"></p>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-35216754771896986612010-01-05T21:09:00.003-07:002010-01-05T21:23:36.223-07:00Self-Reliance Link"Self-reliance is a simple concept that encourages each of us to take responsibility for our own needs—physical, emotional, spiritual, social, and economic." Check out a new link with excellent information on Self-Reliance <a href="http://www.lds.org/topic/self-reliance/index.html">here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-13000962280228420562009-12-25T22:59:00.008-07:002009-12-26T12:18:44.493-07:00Merry Christmas!<span style="color: rgb(0, 153, 0);">Wishing you and yours a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year, too!<br /></span><br /><br /><object height="340" width="560"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/tXXwtFWpAI8&hl=en_US&fs=1&"><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/tXXwtFWpAI8&hl=en_US&fs=1&" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true" height="340" width="560"></embed></object><br /><br /><a style="color: rgb(255, 0, 0);" href="http://www.youtube.com/mormonmessages#play/all/1/tXXwtFWpAI8"><br /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-43582766039477957362009-11-29T20:54:00.003-07:002009-11-29T21:26:04.360-07:00Neighborhood Christmas Food Drive in Lieu of Neighbor GiftsThis year our neighborhood is trying something different...and fun. Love it!!!<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Dear Friends and Neighbors<br /><br />At Christmas time we like to give<br />to friends and neighbors dear,<br />but maybe we could think of those<br />less fortunate this year.<br /><br />Instead of giving neighbor gifts<br />we'll fill the Food Bank's shelves. ...<br />Let's warm the hearts of those in need<br />like Santa's little elves.<br /><br />As friends we'll join together<br />and bring food in cans galore,<br />non-perishables are very best<br />because of how they store.<br /><br />Monday Night, December ____<br />will be the time we meet,<br />from 6 - 7:30<br />it's cocoa, donuts & heat.<br /><br />__________________'s<br />is where we're going to be.<br />Dress up warm, we'll be outside<br />and bring the family.<br /><br />But if you cannot make it -<br />no big deal, you see,<br />we'll still be glad to take your food<br />to the Food Bank charity!<br /><br />Just drop it off on __________'s porch<br />or _____________'s will do,<br />up to a week beyond the date -<br />Merry Christmas to YOU!!!<br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-41744829504078134362009-11-26T08:13:00.002-07:002009-11-26T08:18:14.648-07:00Happy Thanksgiving!Hope you have a wonderful Thanksgiving!Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-49586397289029971552009-11-23T22:18:00.004-07:002009-11-23T22:43:20.360-07:00The Rest of the Story...<span style="font-style: italic;" id="obmessage">Perhaps you remember Lynn <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Crapo</span> who did a <a href="http://preparednessnibblesandbits.blogspot.com/2009/03/real-life-living-it.html">guest post</a> earlier this year. She sent me an email a few days ago and updated me on her situation. I requested her permission to share it on this blog so that other readers may be uplifted by her faith and ability to count her blessings. Thanks again for sharing Lynn! You are INSPIRING! We'll keep you and your family in our prayers.<br /><br /></span><blockquote>Hi there.<br /><br />I am sure you remember the <a href="http://preparednessnibblesandbits.blogspot.com/2009/03/real-life-living-it.html">guest post</a> I did for you back in Feb. of this year.<br /><br />Life has been fast paced and hectic since then and I almost forgot about it (the post and our no spend month) until just today.<br /><br />My husband DID actually lose his job. A little earlier than we expected. He went to work one day back in August and was surprised to find that the entire department had been laid off..........just like that. No warning. The whole place was in a shock. They actually took all the employees jobs from that department and gave them to a company in the Philippines to do for them. It was kind of ironic.......as we have MANY members of our ward from the Philippines over here searching for work. They are taking any job they can to provide for their families they left behind. It's so sad. And now my husband and many others have lost their jobs to those who are there. It's so strange.<br /><br />Anyway.....I just wanted to update you, as you had always asked how we were doing and were so kind with your comments.<br /><br />I wanted to let you know how blessed I feel. I know. I bet you weren't expecting that.<br /><br />But I do.<br /><br />My dad (64 years young) just had a heart attack last Thursday. My mom has been with him every day in the hospital. She is plum worn out. But she made the drive up here (2 hours) to pick up my brother from the airport with our help, (flew in from England) to go and surprise my dad with a visit. We are so excited and can't wait to hear how that surprise went.<br /><br />You see........my brother, Mike who just came over here, is a Bishop there in his ward. Earlier this year he suffered a brain infection and went crazy. He almost lost his life. It was a horrible and scary time for the entire ward, and his wife and kids. And of course the rest of us here, feeling helpless so many miles away. But my dad and my mom did what they could to get over there to say their good byes. The doctors didn't know if he would make it.<br /><br />But he did. With my dad's love and help. (And of course a priesthood blessing and loads of people praying for him.) He has come SO far in his physiotherapy. My brother had to "show" his brain how to read and write all over again.<br /><br />Now here he is.....returning the "favor" for my dad. : D I can't wait to hear how that meeting went. My dad is not eating these days, as it's too hard on his heart to do anything since the attack.<br /><br />However, with prayers and a blessing, my dad is also receiving a miracle. You see......his heart is creating it's only blood vessels around the area that is 100% blocked. These little tiny blood vessels that are new are working like mad to grow and mature and pump his blood for all it's worth.<br /><br />I feel SO blessed.<br /><br />Now for one more thought on being blessed.......<br /><br />I just remembered my post for your blog tonight...........when my mom and brother and my brother in law who drove my mom up to the airport........... came over for a hot meal (it's SO cold these days) before I sent them on their way back home (2 hours drive again). I felt blessed when I realized that all I had to do was to go down to our basement and get what I needed from our food storage. IT was all there. No worries for things needed to feed others.<br /><br />...<br /><br />I have faith that things will work out. It's been 4 months now that my husband was laid off........but things will get better. We know it.<br /><br />I just had to share this with you.<br /><br />Thanks again for all you do.<br /><br />Lynn <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Crapo</span><span style="color:#888888;"> </span></blockquote>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-50549166928273920302009-11-20T10:18:00.005-07:002009-11-20T10:33:31.800-07:00Edible Thanksgiving FavorsIf you didn't get a chance to see Alisa <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Bangerter</span> demonstrate how to make these cute edible Thanksgiving favors on <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">KSL</span> Studio 5, have fun watching it here:<br /><br /><p id="kslvid4823544"></p><script type="text/javascript" src="http://pandora.bonnint.net/video/embed-1.php?id=4823544"></script><br /><br />Studio 5 Holiday, Party and Ideas Contributor Alisa <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Bangerter</span> shares six fun ideas.<br />__________________________________________________<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Fall Leaf:</span><br />Divide homemade or purchased sugar cookie dough into three or four portions. Color each portion a fall color such as red, orange, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">terra</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">cotta</span>, copper, olive green, yellow, tan, etc. using paste food color. For brown color, use cocoa powder. For each cookie, press together several colors of dough and roll out so the colors mix slightly and the dough has a variegated look. Cut using a leaf shaped cookie cutter. Bake and cool. If desired, use melted chocolate or chocolate icing and a pastry bag with a writing tip to write the name of each guest on a cookie. Place a cookie at each place setting with several candy acorns. Tip: dust cookies with gold luster dust for a beautiful sheen. Luster dust is available at baking supply stores.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Candy Acorn:</span><br />Mix together 1 cup of creamy peanut butter, ½ cup of margarine and 3 cups powdered sugar and mix well into a soft dough. Roll a 1" ball of dough into an acorn shape. Dip the top of the dough shape into melted chocolate or almond bark and press into finely chopped nuts to form the acorn cap. Break a stick pretzel in half and insert in top to create acorn stem. Set on was paper until chocolate has set. Display at each place setting with leaf cookie.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Indian Corn:</span><br />Create a dry mix of items that would resemble Indian corn with a mixture of fall colors. Use items such as: cold cereal, popcorn, nuts, candies, dried fruits, etc. Take a square (approximately 12" square for a large favor) of cellophane and place approximately 1 cup of mix in the center. Tuck cellophane around mix and fold in back if needed to wrap the mix into an oblong shape. Tie cellophane closed with tan string. Cut <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">cornhusks</span> (available in the Mexican food isle of grocery stores) into long strips with pointed ends. Wrap ends on corn husks around end of mix and tie with string. Wrap ends with a ribbon and tie a bow. Attach a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">nametag</span> or small photograph if desired and set at each place setting.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Cornucopia:</span><br />Place sugar ice cream cones in a steamer basket over hot water. Let each cone steam for a few minutes which will soften it. Carefully bend end up to form a cornucopia shape. Cone will harden quickly. Fill with a mixture of fruit shaped candies, nuts, pretzels, etc. If desired, place a ribbon around the opening of the cornucopia and attach a tiny name tag to serve as a place card.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Pilgrim Hat:</span><br />Dip large marshmallows in melted chocolate or almond bark. Set onto flat round chocolate covered cookies (chocolate covered graham rounds, fudge-striped cookies, chocolate ginger snaps, chocolate wafers, etc.). Let set until chocolate is hardened. Wrap marshmallow "hat brim" with a black ribbon. Using a rolling pin, roll out a yellow <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Starburst</span> candy and cut into a square to form a "buckle". Attach to ribbon with a tiny amount of melted chocolate or icing.<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Turkey:</span><br />Dip the bottom of a chocolate <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">crème</span> drop candy into melted chocolate or almond bark. Immediately attach the candy to the bottom of a leaf shaped or round cookie (I used Dare brand maple leaf <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">crème</span> cookies or you can use any round type cookie). Attach a candy corn point down to the top of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">crème</span> drop using melted chocolate. Attach a red hot candy to the side of the candy corn to become a "wattle". Adhere a small pretzel under the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">crème</span> drop to create "feet". (Option: Instead of a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">crème</span> drop you could also use a chocolate covered cherry, an unwrapped caramel, an unwrapped peanut butter cup or any other chocolate covered candy about 1" in diameter.)<br /><br />(Source: <a href="http://studio5.ksl.com/?nid=59&sid=4823544"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">KSL</span> Studio 5</a>)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-90492273679475062522009-11-17T11:00:00.008-07:002009-11-17T12:58:59.050-07:00Preparing for Holiday Gatherings<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDMSrMMxhmyHL6dObkyq6Fd_rhZ4vcmg3F-KjF1Q8FIcAAqufnKVJmUzcRt4rkWqY6E4vByigmZEBrCUaR4oLw6NdY7NLifjPHcN1INu6OJfliaSEXUmGov5Mla9YTrjk6JdPhtNribu0/s1600/IMG_5474.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgDMSrMMxhmyHL6dObkyq6Fd_rhZ4vcmg3F-KjF1Q8FIcAAqufnKVJmUzcRt4rkWqY6E4vByigmZEBrCUaR4oLw6NdY7NLifjPHcN1INu6OJfliaSEXUmGov5Mla9YTrjk6JdPhtNribu0/s400/IMG_5474.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5405161944296661874" border="0" /></a>I love this time of year with Thanksgiving fast approaching and Christmas just around the corner. Some of my happiest memories include holiday gatherings with family and friends. By planning and preparing now to entertain, we can help "make the season bright" for others as well as ourselves.<br /><br />In an article entitled <a href="http://www.ldsliving.com/magazine/show/2266/Please-Be-Seated">"Please Be Seated"</a> by Shari Well, she writes, "People often avoid entertaining because they assume it's too expensive, too time consuming, and possibly outdated. But psychologists tell us that it is important for our mental and emotional health to gather friends at the dinner table and entertain. If you keep entertaining simple and fun, it can become a wonderful family tradition."<br /><br />Shari shares tips on:<br /><ul><li>Getting Organized for a Party</li><li>Making Purchasing Decisions</li><li>"Painting" the Table</li><li>"Painting" the Plate</li><li>Desserts</li></ul>She concludes with, "After working all week, many may not feel like entertaining. Yes, it's a little extra work, but there are many benefits. You have an outlet for creativity, you will form closer friendships and family relationships, and you'll have an opportunity to make new friends. Remember to cook with your heart and record the memories and the recipes for your loved ones."<br /><br />(Source: <a href="http://www.ldsliving.com/magazine/show/2266/Please-Be-Seated">Shari Wells, "Please Be Seated", LDS Living Magazine</a>)<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-size:130%;">For some other fun holiday gathering ideas check out these posts from <a href="http://skiptomylou.wordpress.com/parties/">Skip To My Lou</a>:<br /></span></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://skiptomylou.wordpress.com/2007/12/16/breakfast-with-santa/">Breakfast With Santa</a><br /><a href="http://skiptomylou.wordpress.com/2007/12/20/traditions/">Pajama Party</a><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-2217944032346917192009-11-14T09:25:00.003-07:002009-11-14T09:31:51.320-07:00Great Christmas Gift ListSomeone has put together a "Great Christmas Gift List" for 72-hour kits at: <a href="http://www.farmington.utah.gov/downloads/services/72_hour_kits.pdf">http://www.farmington.utah.gov/downloads/services/72_hour_kits.pdf.<br /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-46060064249056630682009-11-13T15:38:00.004-07:002009-11-13T15:58:37.337-07:00One Year AnniversaryI've learned a lot about preparedness and food storage during this past year and hope you have, too. Here are some good reminders from last year's <a href="http://preparednessnibblesandbits.blogspot.com/search/label/Begin">post</a>:<br /><br />1. BEGIN WHERE YOU ARE:<br />Think about what you are already doing and what you have already in store.<br />Make an<span style="font-weight: bold;"> inventory</span> of what you have.<br />Make a list of what you need.<br /><br />2. SET GOALS:<br />Decide what you want to work on (ie. three-month supply, drinking water, financial reserve, longer-term supply, 72 hour kit, etc.)<br />Set reasonable goals (ie. weekly plan, monthly plan)<br /><br />3. DO SOMETHING:<br />We can't do everything all at once, but we can do <span style="font-style: italic; font-weight: bold;">something</span>.<br />Begin today!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size:180%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Best wishes in your quest to prepare and enjoy the peace that preparedness brings!</span></span><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-41097003904399621152009-11-02T12:15:00.015-07:002009-11-02T13:16:10.160-07:00Roasted Pumpkin Seeds (Tutorial)<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKuFG061Z6cbGJW8e2jdcJacjOrCcjjHs6XM1QHB54e5tgDKhS6Ru3mz7msFES8-xTAvyQkjGV0bX745Xx4qGMSAC6GFxXQLuR9kdZ3XSAAdh_lN_HJU5R2eMyeJh2WAUVdE59Srhs5pA/s1600-h/IMG_6420.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiKuFG061Z6cbGJW8e2jdcJacjOrCcjjHs6XM1QHB54e5tgDKhS6Ru3mz7msFES8-xTAvyQkjGV0bX745Xx4qGMSAC6GFxXQLuR9kdZ3XSAAdh_lN_HJU5R2eMyeJh2WAUVdE59Srhs5pA/s400/IMG_6420.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399596938027000866" border="0" /></a>Got pumpkin seeds? We do! This year I decided to try roasting some (never have before.) So I got online and looked at a variety of recipes and kind of came up with one of my own.<br /><br />As we were carving our <a href="http://preparednessnibblesandbits.blogspot.com/2009/10/happy-halloween.html">pumpkins</a> from our garden Saturday afternoon, I saved about two cups of seeds. I carefully washed and rinsed them in a colander with small holes and let them drain. Then I lined my cookie sheet with a non-stick cooking sheet and spread out the seeds to dry.<br /><br />One recipe I read recommended letting the seeds air-dry for 24 hours. (My drying time turned into two days.) This step helped make it easier to clean the pumpkin residue from the seeds. Some people prefer the extra pumpkin flavor, so leaving it on is entirely optional.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG5cjKNqShm0Ka-hxSL-i8ywX8ga7rl-OX0cvfRqckjz7B_Zq1KXP8qUtrjbhAWSO3Vs5OyDFn3V86-2HMvE62u9ulpAn4V6V9mzfogCsKNdMgd-CYgedFYze_fkwbto6vF8TlowiyWZQ/s1600-h/IMG_6398.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhG5cjKNqShm0Ka-hxSL-i8ywX8ga7rl-OX0cvfRqckjz7B_Zq1KXP8qUtrjbhAWSO3Vs5OyDFn3V86-2HMvE62u9ulpAn4V6V9mzfogCsKNdMgd-CYgedFYze_fkwbto6vF8TlowiyWZQ/s400/IMG_6398.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399598074064332466" border="0" /></a><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">ROASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS</span></span><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">2 cups pumpkin seeds<br />2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil<br />1 teaspoon cinnamon (or 1 teaspoon: cayenne, garlic powder, cumin, curry, any favorite spice)<br />1 teaspoon sugar<br />1 teaspoon ground sea salt<br /><br />Remove seeds from pumpkin and rinse with water to remove any remaining pulp.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfT74CSw2c7TJwULD9lD-2mknE_RxCTkQ_Efn6v8FdEwn2iWXejEwoAn2W57F_TfXy30RDp_DLdBdrpvm0eR7gt3wBIWxcVYRHGuLhtwfJanGfCOvuXhGuasy_jdK1wNrG67nWo4rKOk8/s1600-h/IMG_6396.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgfT74CSw2c7TJwULD9lD-2mknE_RxCTkQ_Efn6v8FdEwn2iWXejEwoAn2W57F_TfXy30RDp_DLdBdrpvm0eR7gt3wBIWxcVYRHGuLhtwfJanGfCOvuXhGuasy_jdK1wNrG67nWo4rKOk8/s400/IMG_6396.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399598374091776834" border="0" /></a>Spread seeds on a cookie sheet and let dry 24 hours.<br /><br />Heat oven to 350 degrees F.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9iiV1ZNjdNVfIzmuihn8-_j2ksMhqL9JsUoKZgMMHlWt4PZGfVIQHXiBgBj3R8EIiMTeyEhmOIYfSIJm_eeKA8jRLcxreq3ImOHvZQXU717GcIBJPkOaH9B-8ucenSW3KtuwGUef-Fc/s1600-h/IMG_6401.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhq9iiV1ZNjdNVfIzmuihn8-_j2ksMhqL9JsUoKZgMMHlWt4PZGfVIQHXiBgBj3R8EIiMTeyEhmOIYfSIJm_eeKA8jRLcxreq3ImOHvZQXU717GcIBJPkOaH9B-8ucenSW3KtuwGUef-Fc/s400/IMG_6401.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399598733541173794" border="0" /></a>Mix oil with spices and/or salt and toss mixture with seeds.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCNKvaqh2yUXrO7chaZAtFYbRAoQ9wS5TBmtzxNurbWXvcWzIflmzd-mEfLR7XOA9XKEN7WJxCa4X1xQ1dwz6AFiBW_i5DH2i7YJ2hN1l8ti5DDQChHBxBnXf0dVa-BRRXJZZZMBIBcc/s1600-h/IMG_6404.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDCNKvaqh2yUXrO7chaZAtFYbRAoQ9wS5TBmtzxNurbWXvcWzIflmzd-mEfLR7XOA9XKEN7WJxCa4X1xQ1dwz6AFiBW_i5DH2i7YJ2hN1l8ti5DDQChHBxBnXf0dVa-BRRXJZZZMBIBcc/s400/IMG_6404.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399597663922444370" border="0" /></a>Spread coated seeds over a baking sheet.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoyxtyk8WzNGH9orLNt-rN076bhBKSZvcMgb1G9cE-wnMjI38lipMSBIsVl3fl8BpYplRMJ8Lzyv87Lu3GxdtiqMC5R9yINgeZmXBc8Q7P-S4UdPPjA4kYAGvTffp6PDfNX_32u_tZaMo/s1600-h/IMG_6407.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoyxtyk8WzNGH9orLNt-rN076bhBKSZvcMgb1G9cE-wnMjI38lipMSBIsVl3fl8BpYplRMJ8Lzyv87Lu3GxdtiqMC5R9yINgeZmXBc8Q7P-S4UdPPjA4kYAGvTffp6PDfNX_32u_tZaMo/s400/IMG_6407.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399597400834106018" border="0" /></a>Bake seeds approximately 25 minutes or until crisp and very lightly browned,<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmQuDze_Nd2tE7XYSwKfsGohBNEfy8N-6a9CnnQFbeC7b8Kf-WMk5U-wdODIWim-HG21pKEW1PL7YJAjVWb0GvxOlIGcOl03qthRHfPpP4rZtTTGF26yvJX3M26JMuy758z0oOcfkQtzc/s1600-h/IMG_6414.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmQuDze_Nd2tE7XYSwKfsGohBNEfy8N-6a9CnnQFbeC7b8Kf-WMk5U-wdODIWim-HG21pKEW1PL7YJAjVWb0GvxOlIGcOl03qthRHfPpP4rZtTTGF26yvJX3M26JMuy758z0oOcfkQtzc/s400/IMG_6414.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399597158086381714" border="0" /></a>tossing occasionally.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTf4jhlMi2eHMffENUetKs_jpLjo_lXTEeAPBcayVCkj9ZRM8L7zM_jOPwxp_U2HETvRfXHnbGg6PjqIPK_UqABCI3fKj3zIwJGlmclTojY8GWmEwabXm_G7TWp370j6AjBoUPLZFGA2U/s1600-h/IMG_6417.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTf4jhlMi2eHMffENUetKs_jpLjo_lXTEeAPBcayVCkj9ZRM8L7zM_jOPwxp_U2HETvRfXHnbGg6PjqIPK_UqABCI3fKj3zIwJGlmclTojY8GWmEwabXm_G7TWp370j6AjBoUPLZFGA2U/s400/IMG_6417.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5399599318847132498" border="0" /></a>Let cool. Makes 2 cups.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: left;"><span style="font-size:130%;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">ROASTED PUMPKIN SEEDS</span></span><br />2 cups pumpkin seeds<br />2 tablespoons olive oil or vegetable oil<br />1 teaspoon cinnamon (or 1 teaspoon: cayenne, garlic powder, cumin, curry, any favorite spice)<br />1 teaspoon sugar<br />1 teaspoon ground sea salt<br /><br />Remove seeds from pumpkin and rinse with water to remove any remaining pulp. Spread seeds on a cookie sheet and let dry 24 hours.<br /><br />Heat oven to 350 degrees F. Mix oil with spices and/or salt and toss mixture with seeds. Spread coated seeds over a baking sheet. Bake seeds approximately 25 minutes or until crisp and very lightly browned, tossing occasionally. Let cool. Makes 2 cups.<br /></div><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-weight: bold;">Do you have a favorite Pumpkin Seed recipe?</span></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-50551800522027483792009-10-31T19:07:00.002-06:002009-10-31T19:14:59.877-06:00Happy Halloween!<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPv3Z1eL7ipCI4v3TrMEMGxrkchq0vEWkGRJsOFRA2kc1ioNCFm-YFCp2Zl57hgNOSwvK573hQegmAn5Xnegjl7eZn-SHwbw8NZau6F2-xhKkjzDsVzpL7viL86RvZTOqr37gmFV9iqg/s1600-h/IMG_6392.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXPv3Z1eL7ipCI4v3TrMEMGxrkchq0vEWkGRJsOFRA2kc1ioNCFm-YFCp2Zl57hgNOSwvK573hQegmAn5Xnegjl7eZn-SHwbw8NZau6F2-xhKkjzDsVzpL7viL86RvZTOqr37gmFV9iqg/s400/IMG_6392.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5398937488154999746" border="0" /></a>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-10430202462966746312009-10-25T16:00:00.006-06:002009-10-25T17:02:45.109-06:00Twice Blessed - Donating Food Storage<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFBIAHGW0QyNXvbdoyaRkNw4X77NIbGjS1Cb06_YPOsUi2u_DG6lCFwraohAuxLUKDCcBbBz4nZnYbljeU66hFiVMF-pwBlOx6T5qGLSgpfAMog5vXtLEl1gzqRR3NYQE_pSPPE0tnjQ/s1600-h/IMG_6371.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXFBIAHGW0QyNXvbdoyaRkNw4X77NIbGjS1Cb06_YPOsUi2u_DG6lCFwraohAuxLUKDCcBbBz4nZnYbljeU66hFiVMF-pwBlOx6T5qGLSgpfAMog5vXtLEl1gzqRR3NYQE_pSPPE0tnjQ/s400/IMG_6371.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5396669371498618386" border="0" /></a>Do you have cans or cases of food nearing expiration? Don't let it go to waste - donate it to a local food bank. Not only will you have had the peace of mind knowing that you had food available on your shelf, but you will also bless others who are <span style="font-weight: bold;">now</span> in need.<br /><br />This would also be a good time to re-evaluate your family's likes and dislikes as you replenish your storage. I over-estimated how much chili my family would eat the last time I purchased an entire case. As the expiration date draws near, I'm making plans to make a donation to my local food bank <span style="font-weight: bold;">before</span> it expires. No guilt, no waste - twice blessed.<br /><br />For information about Utah Food Bank Services, go <a href="https://www.utahfoodbank.org/home/index.php?option=com_content&view=article&id=18&Itemid=25">here</a>.Unknownnoreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-6240543833477980442009-09-18T12:39:00.013-06:002009-09-22T16:13:43.860-06:00Pear Freezer Jam Tutorial<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFTbD9rr-y_BqkWnWhuy9ogjcos3CgLURZ_bq0b8sU5hf_j3yfeFQ_ue4OUVkdvPco_FZdk3SOiy2lLzCIZtoq-_1eCkPbj_zDqQctbTtRBlv1QLmUYH2V5enG_Ot2wNIcyi-RODLWxM/s1600-h/IMG_6192.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzFTbD9rr-y_BqkWnWhuy9ogjcos3CgLURZ_bq0b8sU5hf_j3yfeFQ_ue4OUVkdvPco_FZdk3SOiy2lLzCIZtoq-_1eCkPbj_zDqQctbTtRBlv1QLmUYH2V5enG_Ot2wNIcyi-RODLWxM/s400/IMG_6192.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5382907533491833522" border="0" /></a><br />If you're canning pears, be sure to set some fresh pears aside to make this delicious jam. (Even if you're not canning pears, go buy some fresh pears and try making it.) It's gotta be my favorite!<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center; font-weight: bold;"><span style="font-style: italic;">BALL SIMPLE CREATIONS</span><br />NO COOK PEAR FREEZER JAM<br /><br /></div><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGRQVxRCn2jkfXs2fir62N3v2y5IGkokvQxr2Le2WyAbRHqv-ha4bNozoGhqvODeQCDU2-Mlkzop4AM-ts6sLGRZq82EEIUDaRUPc98Fy-KR1BvusRFqe2SnQbGkNi26VoFVcLT-9-0hM/s1600-h/IMG_6199.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgGRQVxRCn2jkfXs2fir62N3v2y5IGkokvQxr2Le2WyAbRHqv-ha4bNozoGhqvODeQCDU2-Mlkzop4AM-ts6sLGRZq82EEIUDaRUPc98Fy-KR1BvusRFqe2SnQbGkNi26VoFVcLT-9-0hM/s400/IMG_6199.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384412910168392610" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">4 cups crushed fresh pears<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5mFTC_1bFF230mmEbUu590Arc84X-NOhhPfWUOzGcRjDQcvlk_DxxzcWjs98t9ilcEYTz9cHwnnF42UGHVDjOZX43ZyLVW0OLSHCpf4FsSrGVkEydgL84GBiSJmOuWhKIaCsjfGF3OU/s1600-h/IMG_6198.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjO5mFTC_1bFF230mmEbUu590Arc84X-NOhhPfWUOzGcRjDQcvlk_DxxzcWjs98t9ilcEYTz9cHwnnF42UGHVDjOZX43ZyLVW0OLSHCpf4FsSrGVkEydgL84GBiSJmOuWhKIaCsjfGF3OU/s400/IMG_6198.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384412743245760274" border="0" /></a>(peel pears and remove seeds before crushing)<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-oUEv9hBYy624ggHeJNK3fu2IGA2GUaGFlz6e6FF42oAdTuJCJviTBxinbhHKgz8s0xy0DgjQue578-WE7QpcvhrludACE_gE4EVQVEazY9eENe4FRWxh_U4l9D-QLh5cpQ0Z_-veuUE/s1600-h/IMG_6201.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-oUEv9hBYy624ggHeJNK3fu2IGA2GUaGFlz6e6FF42oAdTuJCJviTBxinbhHKgz8s0xy0DgjQue578-WE7QpcvhrludACE_gE4EVQVEazY9eENe4FRWxh_U4l9D-QLh5cpQ0Z_-veuUE/s400/IMG_6201.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384411952218435266" border="0" /></a>1 1/2 cups sugar<br />1 (1.59 oz.) pkg. Ball Simple Creations No Cook Freezer Jam Fruit Pectin<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">5 (8 oz.) glass or plastic freezer jars<br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt6_V2L6LE7OrNQfrjg4MiKV439gktfjUdZVPrUhIYg8vp9rxOScOkzoHTXxUcQW7KgAUcYwqhSlnnmI3yb3QF4geCkB4ct0YGDYs77RW2LXCXQdD4P7Kt5cfxjBOWdPgw2ezwbAqcJcs/s1600-h/IMG_6203.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjt6_V2L6LE7OrNQfrjg4MiKV439gktfjUdZVPrUhIYg8vp9rxOScOkzoHTXxUcQW7KgAUcYwqhSlnnmI3yb3QF4geCkB4ct0YGDYs77RW2LXCXQdD4P7Kt5cfxjBOWdPgw2ezwbAqcJcs/s400/IMG_6203.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384410981095453666" border="0" /></a>1. Stir sugar and contents of package in a bowl until well blended.<br /></div><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJch0YPalGMIxIW11HP2OSXo2Kjh_E4jLwU3cnmX6GgYqxjMKthwUcgqimBMyyq0o33c2NNEuYr1XqMgJy8tVjmx-5kjk04w8-DagOe8Lq4q-wIzuu2WgxxCaLmVyaZY6tPMmGIa81qQ/s1600-h/IMG_6205.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJch0YPalGMIxIW11HP2OSXo2Kjh_E4jLwU3cnmX6GgYqxjMKthwUcgqimBMyyq0o33c2NNEuYr1XqMgJy8tVjmx-5kjk04w8-DagOe8Lq4q-wIzuu2WgxxCaLmVyaZY6tPMmGIa81qQ/s400/IMG_6205.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384410678379301378" border="0" /></a><div style="text-align: center;">2. Stir in 4 cups crushed fruit. Stir 3 minutes longer.<br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PoZFeFUhYOPRLBPv-XrLo_3n7Y0nIQHov5gDqFoWXngFTRgLTXFswmpCsBPktlPEaZ-2qqdtodZc_Sa4_FoHNDzMBLo3WfDuEQ7GFCbBLM4ofIHIbtct6Kn52J0-UrAad1kgA1qsviI/s1600-h/IMG_6208.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2PoZFeFUhYOPRLBPv-XrLo_3n7Y0nIQHov5gDqFoWXngFTRgLTXFswmpCsBPktlPEaZ-2qqdtodZc_Sa4_FoHNDzMBLo3WfDuEQ7GFCbBLM4ofIHIbtct6Kn52J0-UrAad1kgA1qsviI/s400/IMG_6208.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384410433291573602" border="0" /></a>3. Ladle jam into clean jars to fill line. Twist on lids. Let stand until thickened, about 30 minutes.<br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPejRFtZeysPJi1rejVE8IhYic70HVjWPy2lXsyF-KPoMxPovPa4Oa0u5cONvWBVBl_Q6Q-8NxbHYMESMUPMOmJz-AVpH3D4ygF-1z8vhwYVKoq1JbX3f6WCMbvDrhlZGgIAPMqKaymZM/s1600-h/IMG_6210.JPG"><img style="margin: 0px auto 10px; display: block; text-align: center; cursor: pointer; width: 400px; height: 300px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPejRFtZeysPJi1rejVE8IhYic70HVjWPy2lXsyF-KPoMxPovPa4Oa0u5cONvWBVBl_Q6Q-8NxbHYMESMUPMOmJz-AVpH3D4ygF-1z8vhwYVKoq1JbX3f6WCMbvDrhlZGgIAPMqKaymZM/s400/IMG_6210.JPG" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5384411504178653410" border="0" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">4. Refrigerate for up to 3 weeks, or freeze for up to one year.<br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Makes 5 (8 oz.) half pints.<br /></div><div style="text-align: left;"><br />Ball has created a demonstration on how to make strawberry freezer jam. You can see it at: <a href="http://www.freshpreserving.com/pages/quick___easy_videos/33.php">http://www.freshpreserving.com/pages/quick___easy_videos/33.php</a><br /></div>Unknownnoreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-17320986207079754612009-09-15T12:39:00.006-06:002009-10-27T19:31:15.863-06:00Principles of Self-RelianceWhile going for a walk the other day, I listened to a talk given by Silvia H. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Allred</span></span> entitled, "Principles of Self-Reliance" on my mp3 player. Today I decided to look it up on the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">internet</span></span> and found a <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">pdf</span></span> of her talk. If you'd like to read it in its entirety, click <a href="http://ce.byu.edu/cw/womensconference/archive/2008/pdf/silviaHAllred2008.pdf">here</a>.<br /><br />She has personally experienced an unexpected family tragedy as a child, the financial collapse of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Argentina</span> in 1989, and "the devastating effects of earthquakes in El Salvador and Chile." She said, "These events have taught me to follow the counsel of our leaders about living the principles of self-reliance."<br /><blockquote>"There are many other types of adversities we might encounter in the normal course of our lives, such as loss of a job, accidents, divorce, health problems, death, etc. <span style="font-weight: bold;">Those who prepare are blessed in the present and will be blessed if adversity comes.</span><br /><br />"Family preparedness is a well-established welfare principle, and women are instrumental in family preparedness. We prepare for difficult times. We prepare for the day of scarcity. We put away for emergencies. We save for a rainy day."</blockquote>Some other highlights from her talk:<br /><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Personal and Family Finances</span> - <blockquote>"The two overriding principles of sound financial management are: first, live within your means, and second: save for a rainy day.<br /><br />"What does it mean to live within your means, and how do you do it? It simply means to ensure that your expenses are less than your income." ...<br /><br />"The second principle is to save for a rainy day. Keep in mind that small sums saved regularly, over time, compound into large sums of money. Financial <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">advisors</span> agree that saving at least 10 percent of your income will provide flexibility and security in your future." ...<br /></blockquote><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Home Storage</span> - <blockquote>"We have been advised to acquire and store a reserve of basic food and water that will sustain our lives during difficult times or in emergencies. By following this counsel, we will help protect ourselves if adversity comes. Through careful planning and faithful efforts, we can gradually store a supply of food according to our circumstances."<br /><br />"Begin modestly by purchasing a few extra items of food that are part of your normal family diet. You can do it when you do your normal grocery shopping. Take advantage of items that are on sale. Here are just a few other ideas:<br /><br />• Complete a three-day supply of basic food items and then build your storage to a one-week supply.<br />• Gradually increase it until you have a one-month supply, two month supply, three-month supply.<br />• Consider items that will keep and store well, such as wheat, beans, rice and canned goods.<br />• Concentrate on essentials.<br />• Create a rotating system to avoid spoilage.<br />• Water should be stored in leak-proof containers and should be kept away from heat sources.<br />• Prepare a 72-hour emergency kit for each family member and keep them within easy reach.<br />• Be prudent. Don’t go to extreme measures to store food. Be obedient and faithful, and God will sustain you through trials."</blockquote><br /><span style="font-weight: bold;">Physical Health</span> - <blockquote>"The state of our health affects every facet of our lives: our feeling of well-being, our attitudes, our social interactions and our service to others.<br /><br />"Habits that contribute to our physical health are:<br /><br />• Eating nutritious meals.<br />• Exercising regularly.<br />• Getting adequate sleep.<br />• Practicing hygiene and sanitation.<br />• Avoiding substance abuse."</blockquote><br />She concludes with:<br /><blockquote>"To be self-reliant in all these, we should:<br /><br />• Assess current circumstances.<br />• Set realistic goals.<br />• Identify available resources.<br />• Make specific plans to reach goals, and follow such plans.<br /><br />"I know that sound personal and family financial management, home storage, and physical health will be a great blessing to our families. Being self-reliant increases our ability to serve others, to assist the needy, and to give support and understanding to the emotionally-starved. Through righteous living, gospel study, and loving family relationships, we can achieve self–reliance and family preparedness, which will help us solve many of life’s problems." ...<br /><br /></blockquote>I appreciate her words of wisdom. Thank you Sister <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Allred</span></span>!<br /><br />(Source: Silvia H. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Allred</span></span>, "<a href="http://ce.byu.edu/cw/womensconference/archive/2008/pdf/silviaHAllred2008.pdf">Principles of Self-Reliance</a>," May 1, 2008)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-1224197065355200849.post-45950783728831519912009-08-04T13:33:00.007-06:002009-08-04T13:48:38.920-06:00Free Produce - Everybody Wins!Sara at <a href="http://mormonfoodstorage.blogspot.com/">The Pantry Panel</a> shares some great ideas on how to preserve fruit that would otherwise go to waste.<br /><blockquote>"Many yards, especially in older neighborhoods, have fruit trees with fruit that go to waste because it is never picked. Many of us would like to preserve fruit, but either don't have fruit trees, or our fruit trees are too young to bear fruit. Is there a way to make a connection between unwanted fruit and people who want to preserve it? ...<br /><ul><li>Keep your eyes open. Look for fruit trees around town, especially trees that have started to drop ripe fruit. This is a sign that the tree's owner may not be using the fruit.</li><li>Be prepared. Look trustworthy and well groomed; these people may be trusting you to be in their yard. Bring ladders, gloves, and boxes or buckets.</li><li>Knock and ask in such a way that they do not feel pressured to say yes. Never steal!</li><li>Leave the yard cleaner than you found it. It's nice to put overripe fruit into a pile so it's easier for them to clean up after the overripe fruit."</li></ul></blockquote>Read the complete post <a href="http://mormonfoodstorage.blogspot.com/2008/10/finding-fruit-with-april.html">here</a>.<br /><br />(Source: Sara, <a href="http://mormonfoodstorage.blogspot.com/2008/10/finding-fruit-with-april.html">The Pantry Panel</a>, "<a href="http://mormonfoodstorage.blogspot.com/2008/10/finding-fruit-with-april.html">Finding Fruit with April</a>", October 9, 2008)Unknownnoreply@blogger.com3