Home Canned Food is Chemical Free, Safe, and helps you to maintain a sound budget - Instructions for Turkey Soup

A recent study, published online in the Journal of the American Medical Association, has shown that people who eat canned (tinned) foods are actually ingesting more of a hormone-disrupting chemical than was previously thought. It's bad enough that Big Ag is chemically manipulating the genetic structure of our foodstuffs and that they're then growing our food in chemical-laden soils devoid of nutrients. We can't stop them from overloading feed animals with hormones, antibiotics, and other substances that contribute nothing to our nutritional health. They seem content to bathe us in a killer cocktail of elements that have nowhere been studied for their cumulative effect.

Hypothermia – Signs and Symptoms and Treatment

With winter fast approaching, with all of it's thrills, chills, and spills, now is a good time to include an article found at UtahPreppers.com by Phil801. People will be out and about in the snow and ice, with winter camping, snowshoeing, skiing, and more.  Phil 801 has written a great article about Hypothermia.

Survival Sanitation in a Emergency Sanitation Situation

When you are in a emergency situation, proper sanitation is of utmost importance if you want to keep your family from getting seriously sick. When you add to that a lack of medical facilities due to grid-down issues, staying healthy becomes even more crucial.

When the grid goes down it doesn't take long for serious sanitation problems to erupt. Take Auckland New Zealand for example:

Identifying and Handling Spoiled Canned Food

How many of you have wondered what spoiled canned food looks like and how to take care of it? Our mothers have all told us to look for bulging cans or lids that have popped off, but did you know that you may be dealing with very hazardous substances? The best thing is to always err on the side of caution. No one wants to have the worst of the worst to deal with, but it is best to know what to look for and how to dispose of it properly is you ever encounter powerful toxins. This can occur whether it is store bought foods or home canned.

Getting Rid of Earwigs or Not. It's up to you.

I've noticed that it's the season for earwigs in the garden. They hop aboard your pant legs and come into the house. Yuck! So .... if you'd like to get rid of them in the garden there is an easy non-toxic way, and you won't have "friends" visiting indoors. They have a useful purpose outside, but I certainly don't like them in my home. 

It's the Season for Apples

BEST APPLES FOR BAKING!

Almost any apple can be enjoyed when eaten fresh. However, not all apples are ideal for the kitchen. 

Below is a chart with some of the best baking and cooking apples in North America. 

Note: When it comes to cooking with apples, it may be helpful to know the following:

Storing Vegetables, Fruits, and Herbs

Learn how to store your vegetables, fruits, and herbs, especially at harvest time!

Apples

Never leave apples in a bowl on the counter if you want them to keep. Apples keep well for about 6 months at temperatures between freezing and 45°F. If you don't have a root cellar, a double cardboard box in a cool mudroom or cellar can approximate the conditions.

Did You Know That Vinegar Is A Stain Remover?

Browse through the list of handy hints to use Vinegar as a stain remover. Why spend money on pricey laundry stain removers with so many chemicals that are harmful to your body. Have you taken the time to read the label? They all tell you to keep them off your skin and how to wash it off your body to avoid chemical burns or toxins leaching into your skin. ... You don't have that problem with vinegar! Vinegar is non-toxic and inexpensive to boot.

Canning - Reasons for Liquid Loss from Jars

As strange as it may seem, there are many reasons for liquid loss from jars during processing. 

The following are possible reasons: 

Living on Food Storage — Real Life Experiences

I read the following article by Carolyn Nicolaysen on Meridian Magazine several years ago, and found it interesting. You may see yourself in many of the experiences she writes about, or you may also find that you are prepared in many areas, but lacking in others. Aren't we all? 

As we read the scriptures, study the words of the prophets, and look at the signs all around us, we may feel a prompting from the Holy Ghost to prepare for what is to surely come. And come it will quicker than many anticipate.  The better prepared we are then we shall be able to weather the  stormy days ahead. It would be better to live amongst those who are fully prepared and waiting to assist the Lord in all that needs to be done in the days preceeding his coming in great glory, than to be amongst the faithless or simply lazy. We shall see harsh events occur all around, but we can be secure in knowing that we have done all we can to be prepared. 

TEST RESULTS - cooking with different kinds of alcohol

Melody Barber did an experiment with Alcohol. No not wine, but denatured and isopropyl alcohol.  Remember we should have different fuels on hand to use. Where one may not be appropriate to use another will be. 

Keep in mind that "One is none, Two is One, and Three is better than One."

Many people think they are just going to fire up the old BBQ and cook away. Well just let us assume for a moment that you cannot for some reason use the BBQ. Just let your imagination run wild over a myriad of reasons.  The list could go on. You should always have other methods planned out and ready to implement.  Such as Solar Cooking. Yep, the sun may not be working with you that day (you know, the sun is hiding behind the clouds) , and you have to choose another method. A wise person does not rely on one or two styles of cooking, they have many different methods in place so if the inevitable happens they are prepared. 

Results from four alternative ways to bake bread

Melody Barber passes this experience on to everyone. - So, my son wanted scones today and we were feeling ambitious so we made a big batch of wheat bread dough and tried different cooking methods.

For the Control Group - We fried scones in coconut oil on the gas stove -- Yummy!

Baked in an applebox oven

Plans to Build Your Own Solar Oven

If you do not want to purchase a Solar Oven, then break out the hammer and nails and build your own! 

Here is a comprehensive site on many types of Solar Ovens you can make.

FREE plans and instructions. It would be a great ward or family project. Solar Ovens are pricey, but the do-it-yourself variety work exactly the same without the hefty price tag.

http://solarcooking.org/plans/


For anyone who tried the link before and found not a single plan ... it's because I posted the wrong site by accident. Thanks go to the person who caught it first!

Every Commercial Sun Oven Under The Sun!

Just sharing this site with you so you can see what kind of options you have with solar cooking.  You might want to shop around for the best price, but this was fun to see all the pictures in one place, and watch the videos of the different solar ovens in action!   Make sure before you order one, that you check other sources to compare the shipping charges.  That can make a big difference in the final cost. I'm sharing this so you can see the many options, but not endorsing this site as having the best prices. 


I can only tell you about the Global Sun Oven since that is the one I own, but as you can see they ALL use the power of the sun to cook your food.

I had no idea you could purchase a Pressure Cooker for a Solar Oven. I am seriously considering it. Yes, I am! 

http://www.solarovens.net/

Quarantine, Quarantine, Quarantine - By Kenneth Moravec

If we are so unfortunate that we have an biological attack then you will want to quarantine yourself and family. Don't think it can't happen; and don't be embarrassed that everyone will think you are crazy. Nope! You are protecting your family. Read the following short article on quarantining. If you are wise and choose to be prepared you will also print up a sign to post in your window that states "This House Is Under Self-Quarantine". Add a skull and crossbones to make it look even more menacing. 

Kenneth Moravec has worked extensively in the military with biological weaponry.  He knows his stuff.  Bottom line:  When it hits--stay home!

Spencer W. Kimball - "Preparedness - the Ten Virgins"

The ancients looked forward to the coming of the Lord and asked, "When shall all these things be?" The pioneers thought it would be soon and watched for signs; our grandparents watched for the sprouting of the fig tree; our parents watched for the reddening of the sky; and we ourselves have heard all our lives that the Second Coming is near.

Do we lose faith, do we lose patience, do we lose hope, do we get weary in waiting, because the day is long and the event delayed?

The writer of Hebrews warns: Cast not away therefore your confidence, which hath great recompence of reward. For ye have need of patience, that, after ye have done the will of God, ye might receive the promise. For yet a little while, and he that shall come will come, and will not tarry. (Hebrews 10:35-37.) 

What If ... What if we had a Biological Attack or an Pandemic?

If we had a biological attack or a pandemic it is important to maintain impeccable personal hygiene. We don't even have to experience such a horrible event to know that these simple steps are important for everyday life. We shouldn't be waiting until illness strikes to keep on top of healthy habits.

Kenneth Moravec who has over 20 years of experience in the field of Nuclear/ Biological Weaponry, knows what he is talking about and if we are now or later looking at the possibility of an actual pandemic, then what he says below are words to live by.  Adults and children should be taught to maintain healthy standards of hygiene.

Impeccable personal hygiene

The Coming Tests and Trials and Glory by Bruce R. McConkie

The prophets of the past and the present warn us of them impending world wide destruction preceding the coming of our Lord and Savior, Jesus the Christ; and they do this so we can be prepared. We choose to follow the prophets or ignore their counsel and guidance. We choose to follow our Heavenly Father or toss his words aside. As if our own counsel is far better than the Lord's.  May we heed the words of our prophets and be safe.

Got Clean Clothes?

Do you relish using so many cancer causing chemicals while washing your clothing?

Can you wash your clothing a few times without using any laundry detergent because you have so much residue still left on your clothing and towels even after doing a double rinse?

Do you enjoy breathing in the toxic fumes of the chemical fragrances from your detergent and fabric softener?

Do you think the price of laundry detergents have gone through the roof and keep soaring higher and higher?

Prophetic Statement by President Boyd K Packer

A bit over 21 years ago in the May 1990 Ensign President Packer gave this council and advice.

"I have thought much lately of the other prophet Joseph,

Prophetic Statement by President Gordon B Hinckley

In the October 1998 General Conference Priesthood Session almost 13 years ago he gave us this council:

"And there shall arise after them seven years of famine...

Prophetic Statement by Elder L Tom Perry

Almost 16 years ago he gave guidance in the October 1995 General Conference, it seems to be even more pertinent today.

I believe it is time, and perhaps with some urgency,

Prophetic Statement by Elder Joseph B Wirthlin

In the October 2005 General Conference he stated:

We can

Prophetic Statement by President Harold B Lee

In the December 1970 Improvement Era he stated:

Now the only safety we have as members of this Church is

Prophetic Statement - President Marion G Romney

In April of 1975 General Conference he stated ...

"We will live to see the day when we live on what we produce."

First Presidency Letter to the Priesthood Leaders on June 24, 1988

23 years ago we received this council.

Prophetic Statement - President Ezra Taft Benson

Almost 31 years ago in the we received the following council and warning: 


In the November 1980 Ensign we read:

Prophetic Statement - President Dieter F Uchtdorf

In the October 2005 General Conference said:

We recognize that we are living in a time of turmoil, disaster, and war. We and many others feel strongly the great need for a "defense, and for a refuge from the storm, and from wrath when it shall be poured out without mixture upon the whole earth" (D&C 115:6)"

Prophetic Statement by - Elder James E. Faust - in the October 2005 General Conference

Almost six years ago in the October 2005 General Conference Priesthood session gave us the following council and warning:

Prophetic Statement - President Gordon B Hinckley

Almost six years ago in the October 2005 General Conference Priesthood session gave us the following council and warning: 

Alcohol Stove Tutorial

Here is a tutorial for making alcohol stoves. Tom and my brother made several alcohol stoves and experimented with them. Tom bought a couple of Alcohol Stoves that were made in the 70's that had never been used. He loves them. If you can find one of the older Alcohol Stoves you've made a great find! If it's in great condition don't pass it up. 

First don't decide you'll only settle for a brand new Alcohol Stove and wouldn't ever consider obtaining a used one, or making your own. They all work the same, some with a simple design, some more elaborate, but they all work. Take a look at the Tutorial and instructions that Tom and my brother used at www.scottbryce.com 

Hundreds of Uses for Vinegar

I prefer to use vinegar in my home, instead of toxic products. It's non-toxic and inexpensive.  Look and see how many uses for vinegar you can incorporate into your home.

A Chocolate Cake Recipe Popular in the Depression of the 1930's

This is a simple moist cake that can be baked in a Solar Oven. The ingredients of basic and can be found in most kitchens. If you store what you eat, and eat what you store, you'll always have your families favorites. This cake has no eggs or milk making it a good cake for people with allergies.

A budget chocolate depression cake with cocoa, vanilla, oil, vinegar, and other ingredients.

Making Candles with Unrefined Beeswax

Tom has been after me to make beeswax candles, but I have been working on making Hard Lotion with Beeswax. I found a beekeeper that gave me two buckets of unrefined beeswax. I gave a bucket to my sister-in-law Joanne and kept one for myself. We both wanted to make Hard Lotion.  If you were thinking about making beeswax candles or Hard Lotion you'll find the following instructions on refining the beeswax helpful. 

Our Priceless Pioneer Legacy - By Ezra Taft Benson

The historian Lord Macauly said, “The people who do not revere the deeds of their ancestors will never do anything to be remembered by their descendants.”

We hope the present generation will continue to be reminded by sermon, song, eulogy, and family traditions of the noble virtues of their pioneer ancestors and to recognize that it was by and through the hand of God that they were delivered from their oppressors and that the settlement in Ephraim’s mountains took place.

Rocket Stove - Another new brand - EcoZoom Versa

We have the StoveTec Rocket Stove which is a vast improvement in looks over our homemade stove. Homemade versions have been around in the camping and "hippie" world for years and years. Commercially made rocket stoves are newer on the scene. The designs seem to get better every year, which of course makes sense.  I'm not pushing for any particular type, but it is in your best interest to either make your own rocket stove or purchase one. 

Dew Collection For Survival Water

What if... you were stranded or had to bug out and didn't have water. How could you collect water to stay alive? TacticalIntelligence.net gives us a tutorial. I too do not plan on being stranded or have to bug out for some reason, but if I was in such a situation I now know what to do, as you will too! Read below to find how easy it is:

Your Family Deserves a Dependable Clean!

Here's a big WHAT IF? What if you don't have access to a store? What if the stores are closed, perhaps for an extended period of time? What if Elder Dallin H Oaks was right when he came to our Stake Conference about 6 years ago, and said the next big thing to happen would be a Total Economic Collapse. What if the prophets are right and we have to live off of what we have stored?

Naw! That couldn't be true, could it? 

We all know we should store food, but remember the prophets have said "every needful thing". My list of every needful thing includes Toilet Paper. 

Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree

In early spring we sing a rousing joyous song to the Apricot Tree.  With Popcorn Popping on the Apricot Tree we anticipate jars of golden sweet candy. Today was the culmination of hoping, praying, and blessing the Apricot Tree ... Seven quart jars packed full of golden apricots. Our apricot tree has only been producing for three years. Each year we have been blessed with a bigger and better crop than the previous year.

Homemade Lofthouse Cookies Recipe

You all know and love the Lofthouse Cookies that sell in our local grocery stores for way too much money; and I mean WAY TOO MUCH money

What If, yes what it you could make them yourself for literally pennies and just moments of your time? 

Really just moments and pennies!

Homemade Baking Powder

Baking powder is a key ingredient in many cake, cookie and bread recipes; but that doesn't mean you have to pay someone else to make it. Here's how to make your own baking powder:

Prep Time: 2 minutes

Total Time: 2 minutes

Cinnamon Roll Biscuits Recipe

I gave you the recipe for Homemade Baking Mix and it was a total winner. You can use it in place of any recipe where you normally use Bisquick. 

But, how about a recipe for Cinnamon Roll Biscuits using the Baking Mix. We all liked them very much, and I even shared the recipe with my Sister-In-Law JoAnne. 

These are so easy to make.

15 Food Companies that Serve You ‘Wood’

As most of you know I can or make from scratch all of the food we eat. Because I do not want the strange chemicals in our diet found in so many of the foodstuffs or stuff they try to pass off as food, that are manufactured today. 

Perhaps your favorite food additive is Propylene glycol? Tommy likes to say, "Why would I eat something that is used as a coolant for my car engine?"  

How Prepared is the Average Latter-day Saint Ward? - From UtahPreppers.com

It has become cliché for people to suggest that their preparedness efforts consist of a gun and ammo, so that in the event of an emergency they can forcefully demand that their Mormon neighbors give up some of their food storage. But do Mormons store as much food as people think they do? Do we all have a year supply of wheat, beans, rice, and freeze dried snacks?

We Eat Clay (And Wear it, too)

I went to a class several years ago with my sister-in-law. The topic was Clay. I was very skeptical, especially about eating or drinking it. Ummm, that's dirt! Who eats dirt on purpose? After the class I bought a small container and I've never looked back. Since then I've bought buckets of Redmond's Clay and have used it to heal my family and pets. 

We all know the stories of Christ healing with clay don't we? Well, NEW FLASH ... it works!

This Nation Shall Endure

Ezra Taft Benson, devotional address given at BYU on 4 December 1973

Humbly and gratefully I stand before you this morning, humbled by the responsibility which is mine as I face this choice audience, and grateful for this great and unique institution, founded by a prophet of God.

As an introduction to what I trust the Lord will be pleased to have me say today, I quote a short paragraph from a memorable prayer given at the dedication of the London Temple by President David O. McKay:

Powdered Eggs & Egg Substitute

If you have stored Dehydrated Eggs I suggest you practice using them in your baking and cooking so you will know how they behave in your recipe. Most of the time it works exactly the same, but I have made a few flops when using powdered eggs. 

Home-Made Insect Repellent Spray and Lotion

Simple, simple, simple! Isn't that what we all want? What could be easier and more natural than using essential oils instead of using those poisons that fill the commercial bottles of insect repellents? Natural essential oils smell wonderful and don't cause harm to your body.

Make your own insect repellent sprays and lotions with one or more of the listed essential oils.

Hard Working Foods

I just thought you might find this list as interesting as I do. It is great to know that our loving Heavenly Father has provided a way through our diet to control so many of the health problems that plague man, simply by getting a variety of fruits and vegetables. If you are looking to target specific health concerns you can find the appropriate all natural way from the list.

Cinnamon - Medicinal Uses

Imagine This - You get an infection, you can't go to the doctor, you have no insurance, or you choose to heal yourself naturally.

Whatever reason you choose, Cinnamon is a strong natural healer. You all hear me talk about Oregano Oil, but Cinnamon was also given to us by our loving Heavenly Father to heal our bodies. Read the following article by Rebekah Joy Anast to learn you you can use cinnamon to heal your body. Cinnamon is a must have in your first aide kits.