tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87116974601325533972012-01-17T18:04:41.355-05:00The crazy world of a former homeschool mama whose babies are young adults. Come learn about baking bread, Once-a-month/bulk cooking, making soap, sewing, self-sufficiency, what food storage is and how to start your own. What a 72 hr kit is and how to create one. I'm not an expert but I have been doing most of these skills for a long time. I like to be as self-sufficient as I can. I love learning new skills or ways of doing things at home instead of having to buy at the store. Come join me.Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.comBlogger1281100tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-56558083125454118442011-02-28T20:43:00.000-05:002011-02-28T20:43:44.013-05:00

First off, I don't like a lot of chicken in my rice. I'm not that fond of chicken any more. Though I will say the organic stuff was GOOD and had I realized just how tasty it was, I would have used another piece of breast meat and saved the strips for another day. And I so totally eyeball my spices that I'm guessing here on the amounts. (I'm pretty good at thinking this is 1/2 tsp and it actually

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-28858485887075752122011-02-28T20:01:00.000-05:002011-02-28T20:01:53.435-05:00

 This recipe is a starting point for making your own homemade chicken strips or nuggets. Mix and match spices and cracker types to suit your family's tastes and budget. You can use powdered Ranch Dressing instead of the spices. You can make it "taco" by adding in taco seasonings instead of the thyme, basil and marjoram. You can used an Italian seasoning instead of my spices. Or try using BBQ,

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-53856214120113598502011-01-10T22:39:00.001-05:002011-01-10T22:41:14.614-05:00

Darlene's Pressure Cooker split pea soup Made about 1 1/2 qts of soup. 6 Corelle-ware cereal bowls full. This method is different from most pressure cooking methods. We're not just dumping and pressurizing, so READ THE INSTRUCTIONS all the way through!  By follow instructions pressure canning/cooking is VERY safe! THINK about what you're doing and pressure canning/cooking is VERY safe! But if

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-44840848131410047512011-01-07T16:27:00.000-05:002011-01-07T16:27:04.025-05:00

This past Aug, I moved from a 4 bedroom house to a 1 bedroom duplex. Not only is there fewer rooms, but the 4 rooms (bedroom/bathroom/livingroom/kitchen) I do have are MUCH smaller than their counterparts in my old house. My kitchen is almost non-existent. AND the notice that I had to move gave me less than a month to get moved. Not a lot of time to sort a lot of things. Some of my food

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-61150544378347285962011-01-01T01:48:00.000-05:002011-01-01T01:48:40.333-05:00

Happy New Year to all of you. May this new year bring you happiness and prosperity.

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-56061179479246099542011-01-01T01:46:00.000-05:002011-01-01T01:46:49.188-05:00

Primarily, I'm talking about knitting here. But these facts also apply to crocheting as well. Gauge is gauge.  And to do a proper gauge swatch, you're supposed to knit at least a 4"x4" (10cm x 10cm) swatch, wash and dry it like you will do the finished article and THEN do the gauge check. Let's face it, most of us do NOT do a proper gauge swatch. Some of us are doing good to get the swatch done

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-88936368462225107332010-12-31T07:14:00.000-05:002010-12-31T07:14:59.598-05:00

I have the "there's nothing to eat and I'm hungry" syndrome going on here. I want something quick. I want something hot. I want something creamy and smooth. I want potato soup. I want some BAKED potato soup. I do NOT want to have to cook raw potatoes. I do NOT want to fry bacon. Besides, I don't HAVE any bacon to fry. I don't have any sour cream. I do, however, have 2 packets of instant potatoes

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-62291615477180797302010-12-31T04:34:00.000-05:002010-12-31T04:34:07.617-05:00

(Like ME!) When I moved to my one-bedroom duplex from a four-bedroom house this summer, I had to downsize. A LOT! Some of the things that didn't make the mile trip to the new place was a lot of my homeschool books (still need to sell them), my freezer and my dryer. There is simply NO ROOM to have them in this house. Life is all about choices, and these things were not as important to me as what

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-47986996345181234922010-12-31T04:14:00.000-05:002010-12-31T04:14:24.069-05:00

I received an email a while back asking me about washing upholstered furniture and curtains with soap to remove fire-retardant from them. (Soap as opposed to detergent. Detergent is what all of the stuff you buy in the store to clean yourself, your kids, your dishes, clothing, etc. is. Soap will remove fire-retardant, detergent will not.) About the fire-retardant. That's a toughy. I was a

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-37132008475641484622010-12-31T01:16:00.000-05:002010-12-31T01:16:37.254-05:00

OH, my stars! Do you REALLY want me to teach you this trick??? Ok, here goes.  There's 2 ways of making cakes in a cup/mug/bowl. One requires a boxed cake mix and a small  box of instant pudding. The other is completely homemade. Homemade 5 Minute Cake in a Mug Large Mug; or small bowl (Make sure it will hold 1 1/2 cups liquid because if it's too small it will spill out.) 4 Tbs flour (that's

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-20384410639127192482010-12-30T21:10:00.003-05:002010-12-30T21:18:01.574-05:00

Darlene's Christmas simmering potpourri6 springs from Christmas tree (Frazer Fir is what I had) 1 orange skin in pieces. I had taken the skins off in about quarters. 1 grapefruit skin. I had taken the skins off in about 6 pieces. 1 tsp vanilla 1/2 tsp nutmeg, ground 1/2 tsp all spice, ground 1/2 ginger, ground 6 whole cloves 1/2 mace, ground1 Tbs cinnamon, ground water to nearly fill the pan

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-24828659809363688952010-11-29T20:08:00.005-05:002010-11-29T20:30:04.434-05:00

One time about 25 years ago, my sister, her husband, my youngest sister and myself all got in the car in north Florida and drove to my parents house in northern Pennsylvania. It was about an 18 hr drive. We had a nice drive, arrived late and after greeting the family, went to our various assigned rooms and fell asleep.It was Christmas time and so, there was snow on the ground - fun for FL kids.

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-2353022422886212132010-11-29T15:03:00.002-05:002010-11-29T20:05:38.607-05:00

SOUP??? Spaghetti?? Yeah, that's right. Soup. Spaghetti soup.Why soup? Well....I have a cold. The monster cold of all colds. It's gone down into my chest - like it always does. Triggers the asthma - like it always does. Now it's turned into bronchitis, hasn't done that in years.It's 3pm. I'm just now eating "breakfast". (No, I did not just get up. Actually, I've been up since early am.) It's that

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-58166161733571890092010-11-13T14:43:00.003-05:002010-11-13T14:48:52.649-05:00

I have a tale to tell.Background: I WAS born in Philadelphia, PA. Only we left when I was 6.5 years old. Went to St. Petersburg, FL. The second year we were here in North Georgia, we had a really good snow. In fact, the next day, there was still snow all over the ground, though the roads were clear. (Even then, there still wasn't anything to write about for traffic, everyone was staying

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-53364428456470363982010-11-11T03:48:00.004-05:002010-11-11T03:58:12.622-05:00

Some of you may not know that I am a veteran. I was in the US Air Force for about 2 3/4 years and then in first the Utah Air National guard and then the Van Nuys Air National Guard for about another 2 3/4 years total guard service.A friend sent this link to me. Made me cry. Hope you guys enjoy it.http: com="" v="KTb6qdPu8JE"I also want to give a special thank you to all of you who served "in

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-1939671848459078312010-07-29T16:29:00.005-04:002010-07-29T17:42:05.009-04:00

It seems we live in a day and age where people have either forgotten about or have not learned how, to be positive. We have been given more than any other people at any other time in history. Yet we seem to be the most unhappy people ever created. In this country, we don't have to deal with heat/cold. Most of us (even those of us that are "poor") have heat and a/c in our house to mitigate the

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-89769818190386802302010-07-24T16:01:00.007-04:002010-07-24T18:22:59.354-04:00

For those days when you need something quick, I have a tasty recipe that lets you cook once and then making three or four different meals out of it. And you can make it in the crockpot if you wanted to cook it while you're gone/busy. (That how-to follows the first recipe)First a disclaimer. ANY chili recipe would work for these recipes. I just don't have a chili recipe that I love. At least not

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-74524634187730545892010-07-24T14:56:00.004-04:002010-07-24T16:00:52.124-04:00

Well, life has come full circle. The last of the at-home kids has flown the coop. He had the audacity to make Eagle Scout, turn 18 and move to dad's all in a matter of a few weeks. No more of my babies are at home. It sure is quiet around here now. YES!!!! lolThings I miss:I miss the hub-bub of having children in my home.I miss totin' 'em to activities. I miss the miles we drove and the talks

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-40059044224477031802010-03-08T13:12:00.009-05:002010-03-08T15:55:01.395-05:00

First some things you need to know. There are grains, "greasy" and "non-greasy" legumes; and "greasy" and "non-greasy" seeds that can be converted from their "seed" form to a flour or paste.Grains are drier and only have a little oil in their germ. You can grind grains in any mill, grinder or whatnot. Grains include wheat, corn, rice, oat groats, barley, rye, etc.Legumes and seeds are a different

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-63910594631015239792010-02-14T12:12:00.004-05:002010-02-14T15:20:26.059-05:00

Laundry detergent, bath soap, baby soap, shampoo, baby shampoo, spray window cleaners, spray tub and tile cleaners, "general purpose" cleaners, dish washing liquid, dish washer detergent, the list goes on.The idea that we need different soaps for different things was a marketing ploy to sell.... DETERGENTS and cleaning solutions.Until the Chemical companies came on the scene with "better" soaps (

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-72362053667224174072010-01-10T14:36:00.002-05:002010-01-10T14:39:36.566-05:00

Over on "Totally Ready" blog, they're having a giveaway for some neat preparedness items. You may be interested in some Ebooks on preparedness or the new version of "Making the Best of Basics". I have the first edition of that book and over the years, have used it a lot! It has some really good recipes in it as well as tips on making due with what you have and things you can store ahead of time

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-36456401880722828522009-11-16T22:13:00.004-05:002009-11-16T23:14:21.086-05:00

A while back, I joined a food storage website. It has really been a help to me become better prepared for emergencies of all types.There are lots of reasons to store food, but instead of typing all the reasons people have for storing food, I'll refer you to this blog - Food Storage Made Easy They have a write up that is really good explaining what it is and why people might choose to store food.

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-85680819851472572772009-11-14T21:13:00.003-05:002009-11-14T21:29:19.108-05:00

So I entered a give-way on the Harward's blog. She has a nice assortment of items in her give away and her blog looks like it will be interesting to follow. I have never followed a blog before, only done an RSS feed on a couple that I really like.I've been buying and making items for our 72hr kits and for some food storage items. I've been a canning fool at our local Country Cannery. I'm sad

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-80696783140047812462009-10-18T22:11:00.007-04:002009-10-19T01:28:19.788-04:00

As I indicated in my last post, I lived for about 5 years on land that had no electricity, septic system or running water. During that time, I got married and had 2 of my 3 kids. It wasn't until my son was 9 months old that we were finally able to afford to have a well dug. How did I survive? Truth be told, it was easy. At least it was for me. I wanted to be independent - and I was broke. lol So

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-79600592923966991222009-10-18T21:58:00.009-04:002009-10-19T01:28:58.005-04:00

Note: This post contains talk of potties and sewage. There is no crude or vulgar language, but it is to the point and perhaps a bit graphic. But...what good is talking about disaster preparedness if you're not going to give necessary information to get people to think about the subject?Lately there have been a few of the blogs that I frequent having discussions about sanitation in an area that

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-82557535343357073312009-10-04T02:08:00.003-04:002009-10-04T02:49:11.534-04:00

Ok, what is with Yankees and the FLOUR in Cornbread????!!! EEEEWWWWW! AND a bunch of sugar? I saw one recipe that calls for nearly a cup of sugar. Not the way we eat it here.Mamaw's Southern Skillet cornbread:2-3 Tbs bacon drippin's (ok, butter, oil, shortening, lard - pick your poison, but bacon drippin's are free and no better or worse than any other fat. Just save it in a cup when you cook

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-19508944111293155712009-09-17T12:55:00.004-04:002009-09-17T13:15:02.951-04:00

How about roast beef dinner and next-day hash? No, not the nasty stuff in a can but real hash.When I was a child, we would have roast beef with carrots and potatoes cooked around the meat. We would heat up our large, heavy, flat-bottomed aluminum roasting pan. Place some oil in the bottom and fry the meat on all sides. While that was frying, mom or I would peel and quarter potatoes, peel and cut

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-55241011487175930712009-09-16T15:53:00.003-04:002009-10-04T02:50:39.444-04:00

I just realized that many cooks do not know when a recipe needs baking POWDER or when it needs baking SODA to leaven a product.Baking SODA can only be used in a recipe where there is an acid ingredient to work with it. So if your recipe calls for lemon juice, buttermilk, vinegar or other "acid" food, baking SODA will work to leaven it. For the soda to bubble, it needs an acid. No bubbles, no

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-60786906472542209032009-09-12T12:39:00.004-04:002009-09-14T09:38:06.850-04:00

I have two of these recipes. One is the original, with conversion to an ABM included. The other is my tweaks to it - I use less sugar and salt than the original. Actually, I changed the sugar to honey and also used less than the original honey/sugar conversion would have been. 90 Minute Bread recipe 4 cups warm water .....................................ABM 1 1/3 cups water

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-52822235028241945042009-06-12T11:50:00.003-04:002009-06-12T11:56:20.932-04:00

Well, I just went in and changed almost all of the tags on my blogs. It seemed to me that there were too many "labels" being used, so I condensed them down to a smaller amount. I also added a search bar on the sidebar. I just went in and tested it and it seems to work.I also found some posts that I had written, but failed to post. I went ahead and deleted one and posted the other one.I'm also

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-91585280748052847012009-06-12T00:07:00.004-04:002009-06-12T10:35:25.566-04:00

Time for a post on the difference between CANNING food and meerly sealing the jar (making it "ping" and the lid button go down.)I just read a blog about canning and someone commented that they had an easier way to "can" salsa. Instead of putting the jars into boiling water (or using a dishwasher on the "sanitize" setting and keep them in there and hot), they put them on a tray in a 250 deg oven.

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-66648166658871130212009-05-16T21:07:00.006-04:002009-06-12T11:47:45.952-04:00

We've made the gluten, we've dealt with the bran and starch water so on now with how to use it.Gluten is also called "wheat meat". When seasoned, it tastes like meat and also has the texture of meat. Gluten can be made into "vital wheat gluten", the stuff that helps whole wheat bread to rise higher and be tender - foldable even. It's all in the final processing.Today we're making the dried gluten

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-70716425114805803652009-04-30T17:17:00.005-04:002009-06-12T11:47:28.009-04:00

Ok, so...we now have a container of bran and starch and a handful of gluten. NOW WHAT?Well, if you don't want to fool with it, you can pour the contents of the fluid container down the drain. You are pouring off fiber and nutrition, but it's your choice as to what you want to do. No food police will come cart you off if you don't use it.First off, the bran will last 4-6 days in the fridge or you

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-74359414748258372382009-04-30T14:06:00.008-04:002009-06-12T11:47:01.732-04:00

Back in one of my first posts I have a recipe for "foldable" whole wheat bread. I mentioned Vital Wheat Gluten as a component of the bread - the one that lets the bread rise higher and lets it fold without crumbling. I'm just now getting around to giving you the recipe to make your own gluten, also known as wheat meat. By making your own, you also get bran and starch to use. Yes, this is the same

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-78911344909529174982009-03-14T15:29:00.005-04:002009-06-12T11:46:18.108-04:00

One of my ezines has an ongoing forum for people asking what to do when they have already pared down their budget.One poster was only eating bread and eggs. Here is my reply to her:It is hard, isn't it? I'm a single mom, so I understand when there is no food budget. I work 2 part-time jobs, plus homeschool. I have kids in church and scouts, so I'm pressed for time as well.One of the things I've

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-80583836951732250022009-01-06T12:40:00.005-05:002009-01-06T16:20:54.358-05:00

Woohoo!I've learned to darn socks and did a pretty good job of it - as in it looks ok and feels ok.I noticed when I washed my socks, that the first one I made (and wore with a slipper for the other foot, was looking a little thin in spots. I realized that if I didn't do something NOW, I wasn't going to have that sock in a wearable condition for much longer. And since it took me NINE months to

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com14tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-5289912965235575862008-12-19T20:43:00.004-05:002009-06-12T11:45:50.158-04:00

A while back, I finally finished the other sock, the mate to the one I made earlier this year. And I've been wearing them often enough to have one of my kids asked if I had needed to have them surgically removed to wash them. Yeah, it's cold in this house, they're warm. Back AWAY from the socks and no one will get hurt!I've heard so many cautions about washing wool and how easy it is to felt the

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-52645055768730328532008-12-10T00:38:00.007-05:002009-06-12T11:45:12.175-04:00

Ok, so I've become a fan of alcohol. No, not the kind you drink! Sorry 'bout that. No, this is the plane old Isopropyl alcohol aka rubbing alcohol that you find in the "drugstore" section of any grocery store, pharmacy or Wallyworld type business.Remember my alcohol instead of deodorant? It worked well all summer long. When I worked inside or outside. Still using it with no complications. 2 or 3

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-32352464186758250672008-11-27T20:24:00.003-05:002009-06-12T11:44:49.018-04:00

Turkey and stuffing:Stuffing, yes, stuffing. As in I stuff my bird. My family has stuffed turkeys for generations and we've never gotten sick. However, we don't leave the turkey out, we don't prestuff the bird and then put it in the fridge, we don't slow cook the bird. In fact, we wash the cold bird inside and out with cold water, make the stuffing, IMMEDIATELY stuff the bird with it, season the

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-1219716718472310712008-11-27T18:06:00.004-05:002009-06-12T11:44:17.845-04:00

Ok, here are two really easy recipes for desserts, but taste delicious.This is such a yummy dessert! It's very rich.3 eggs, beaten 1 cup white corn syrup 2/3 cup white sugar 1/3 cup melted butter or margarine 1 tsp vanilla 1 cup chocolate chips 1 1/4 cups pecan halves 1 unbaked pie crust Preheat oven to 350 degrees. Line a 9 or 10" pie plate with the pie crust, flute edges. Place pecan

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-88162871158162654332008-11-27T16:41:00.003-05:002008-11-27T18:06:03.842-05:00

Hahaha, sob, sob, sob.In the last year, I was gifted with a new to me fridge. I had to buy a new blender (0ld one bit the dust and we have few thrift stores here, none with a decent blender). New equipment means changes in cooking times, in freezing and thawing times.Yep, veteran of countless Turkey dinners is sitting here on Thanksgiving day, thawing a turkey in cold water instead of baking and

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-11837591194061447432008-11-27T15:08:00.009-05:002009-06-12T11:43:56.709-04:00

Pumpkin pie ala Darlene The nutmeg, which was substituted for ground cloves, adds a softer sweeter flavor.4 eggs, slightly beaten 3 cups pumpkin puree, fresh, or from frozen and then thawed, or 1 29oz. can solid packed pumpkin 1 1/2 cups sugar 1 tsp salt 2 tsp ground cinnamon 1 tsp ground ginger 1/2 tsp ground nutmeg 3 cups (2 12 oz. cans) undiluted Evaporated milk, whole or skimmed (NOT

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-42180042641967055432008-11-27T13:35:00.007-05:002009-06-12T11:43:31.981-04:00

Happy Thanksgiving to all.Ok, we're in a depression and things aren't really all that great. There's no money to buy stuff, people are out of work, CEO's of some of the Big Corporations are ripping tax money off of the workers while maintaining their life-styles. They come in private jets, wearing costly apparel and want Congress to bail them out. They were paid to run these corporations for a

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-34673917023058204782008-09-22T22:47:00.005-04:002009-06-12T11:42:24.842-04:00

Ok, here's just what we need.Cake in a cup (or bowl)1 regular cake mix, your choice of flavor1 box instant pudding (NOT sugar free), 4 serving size. Flavor to compliment the cake flavorOpen both boxes and place contents in a large bowl. Mix thoroughly. I used a whisk and I got a not quite 10 half cup full each, from my chocolate cake/choco pudding and just over 9 half cup full from the carrot

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-35442358865290009492008-08-20T19:15:00.017-04:002009-06-12T11:42:00.769-04:00

I had a comment on using the alcohol and I realized that I have more info for anyone who might want it.For the first month or so, you may have to reapply the alcohol. I think it might be caused by the body releasing the toxins that have accumulated in those glands.That little 50 cent bottle (from Wallyworld - near the trial-size bottles of toiletries) filled with alcohol will be your best

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com12tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-10714259432603772062008-08-14T14:11:00.004-04:002009-06-12T11:41:25.407-04:00

For years I've been concerned about using commercial antiperspirant. The aluminum compound that is the active ingredient in making you not sweat is, well....aluminum. And aluminum has been indicated to be a cause of Alzheimer's Disease. Maybe it is and maybe it isn't, but since I have a hard enough time remembering all that I need to remember, I've tried to find a replacement for said

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-30663438999746599822008-07-24T00:45:00.004-04:002009-06-12T11:40:50.496-04:00

Hey, it's your lucky day. Two post for one!Amish Friendship BreadStarter:1 tablespoon active dry yeast1/2 cup warm water1 cup milk1 cup flour1 cup sugar Bread:1 cup vegetable oil1 cup sugar2 cups flour1/4 teaspoon baking powder1/2 teaspoon baking soda3 eggs1/2 cup milk1 small box instant-vanilla-pudding mix (opt)1 teaspoon cinnamon1/2 teaspoon salt (opt)1 cup raisins, chocolate chips, coconut,

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-21081369746011017122008-07-24T00:05:00.003-04:002009-06-12T11:49:23.059-04:00

Well after 6 weeks or so of being brain-dead and not being able to think of a thing to write about that would be interesting, I finally thought of something.I hope everyone's had a nice summer. My poor garden is just NOW producing tomatoes on the plants, but it seems that I'm not the only one around here with tomatoes that haven't bloomed until the last 2 weeks. It was just too cool at night for

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-51987370663492780372008-06-05T14:52:00.006-04:002009-06-12T11:40:13.608-04:00

I'm TIRED of missing appointments, being late and chaos. CHAOS (Can't Have Anyone Over Syndrome) Well, we're neater now, so it's not complete chaos, but there are still patches that I need to deal with and couldn't figure out how to do it.I downloaded several programs over the last few days. I had downloaded WASEO's calendar, and found a program called DiaryDominator on their website. I love the

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-2732214179979515582008-05-31T13:30:00.006-04:002009-06-12T11:39:39.463-04:00

(Red type is the added, edited text)But, but,....we don't have sleeping bags. Neither did the pioneers and they managed to crossed the continent without them. So here's how to make a bed roll.Another how to bedroll.How to roll a bedroll up and tie it.Since some people might like to invest in sleeping bags, here a site on the purchasing and care of sleeping bags.Or you can use two pieces of

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-74939105753936075032008-05-31T13:13:00.003-04:002009-06-12T11:39:04.999-04:00

This brings me to the next idea. Camping. (note, the links are almost all videos and not good for dial-up users. They will take a month of Sundays to load.)Come on, Mama, camping costs a LOT of money for the equipment. NOPE.Learn to think outside of the box. Pretend the world has come to an end and what's in your house or can be found in nature is all you have to work with. Then involve your

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-37517367229324898332008-05-27T23:38:00.006-04:002009-06-12T11:38:33.300-04:00

Sorry folks, after working on this post for about 4 hours, I went to another link and came back to my post having been eaten.I'm trying to redo/recapture the lost work.Ok, some more ideas I have on cutting expenses. This set includes some fun, low cost or free vacation ideas.Sometimes just a change in our schedule can seem like a vacation. Have breakfast for dinner, eat dessert first, get up

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-83313146525229048172008-05-21T14:33:00.004-04:002009-06-12T11:37:55.100-04:00

Most of "my ideas" are things I have learned from other people.Sometimes the weirdest things can make us sit back and look at what we're doing and see things in a whole new light.I once found a fortune cookie that said; "Do not lose your temper. No one else wishes to find it."It knocked me back on my heels! I had never considered that when I "lost" my temper that indeed, someone else DID indeed "

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-51676582697418598042008-05-20T21:11:00.003-04:002009-06-12T11:36:47.799-04:00

I'm so excited! A friend and her husband gave me three 3'x3' squares to do a square foot garden. They had them in their front yard, but decided they didn't want them any more, and gave them to me. woohooo!For the last 5 years, we've had a pathetic "container" garden. Not much grows in them - there's just not that much space. With these three squares, I can plant 27 squares of stuff.It's gotten

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-56711851043860097632008-05-18T23:22:00.005-04:002009-06-12T11:36:21.707-04:00

One of the biggest budget busters around here were eating out and the kids wanting to rent movies. We've had to learn to make our own stuff, though lately, we've slipped back into some bad habits - courtesy of an income tax return that made us temporarily "wealthier" than we've been in a while. We're having to break that eating out habit again. It only took a couple of times, and we were wanting

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-4463251934488386922008-05-16T16:22:00.004-04:002009-06-12T11:35:51.692-04:00

Someone wrote me about being a SAHM and that they might have to go back to work, despite having cut back and being out of debt - except for the mortgage.This is part of what I wrote back to her.I'm a single, working 2 part-time jobs, mostly at home mom. I homeschool 3 kids. I've been divorced for almost 13 years and have managed to stay home with the kids. I will add that I do have some help in

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-77779342654967530852008-05-14T02:36:00.005-04:002008-05-16T16:22:17.152-04:00

Whoa, have I been busy and delinquent!I have a couple of cute jokes for you for today. Tomorrow, wow, make it later today, I'll post about some ideas for a new SAHM that I have already written and will expand. It's 2:30 am and I have GOT to go to bed!A young boy enters a barber shop and the barber whispers to his customer, 'This is the dumbest kid in the world. Watch while I prove it to you.'

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-7122109077388803262008-04-02T09:15:00.008-04:002009-06-12T11:30:32.539-04:00

We make "white sauces" quite a lot and sometimes don't even realize that this is what we're doing.Ever made gravy? That's a browned white sauce. Ever thickened soup with flour? Make cheese sauce? Same principle.Sauces in general are nothing more than a fluid that has been thickened and has had some spices, for flavor. Then you can brown it or not. You can add other ingredients such as eggs,

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-8081786445260153412008-03-29T15:37:00.003-04:002009-06-12T11:30:03.734-04:00

Tamale PieThis makes a nice meal that is VERY low cost, and for vegans, just use the veggie bouillon and forgo the sour cream or get soy "sour cream".If you don't have access to a wheat grinder - sometimes you can get a used one for about $50, you can use a coffee grinder. I bought one at Wallyworld for $10. I use it to grind flax seeds, but before I bought the used wheat grinder, it's what I

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-90006042272125379542008-03-26T22:13:00.004-04:002009-06-12T11:29:27.586-04:00

This is an easy way to use up leftover juice, juice from canned fruits, or freshly-squeezed juice.The basic recipe is 4 cups of liquid to 2 packets of gelatin broken up this way:1/4 to 1/2 cups cold water2 packets of unflavored gelatin (around here, all we have is Knox brand, found near the Jello brand)3/4 to 1 1/2 cups boiling water2-3 cups juice, any flavors EXCEPT FRESH or FROZEN pineapple or

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-80914194755766879282008-03-25T23:55:00.005-04:002009-06-12T11:28:55.577-04:00

Sorry to say, that these do need to be cooked on the stove top or in a microwave, but they are easy to make.Each batch of the mix will make 15 one cup servings or 5 nine inch pies.To make each mix: Mix the ingredients together and store in a zip lock or mason jar(s) on the shelf. (These have a long shelf life, there's really nothing to spoil in it.) Write the cooking directions on a 3x5 card and

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-13162841340247224362008-03-17T22:21:00.002-04:002008-03-17T22:39:31.619-04:00

Things have been quite hectic and upsetting here, but seem to be settling down - at least for a bit.As I've gone through the hard times of the last couple of months, I think I've become attuned to the little, good things that I have been blessed with.For example:Last Friday evening I was running some errands. On the way home, we heard a noise that sounded like my Ham Radio antenna was flopping

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-16250977395354849962008-03-01T22:28:00.007-05:002009-06-12T11:28:17.087-04:00

I answered another person's question on one of my elists. The topic was making meatballs in the oven and the person posting wanted to know "do they splatter and cause a mess in the oven?"Here is my expanded reply:I put my meatballs on a stainless steel cooling rack and put the rack on my cookie sheet (Technically, it's a jelly roll pan - it has the lip on it), it took about 7 minutes to cook

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-24387692795171771132008-02-27T01:17:00.005-05:002009-06-12T11:27:15.147-04:00

Someone wrote into one of my lists and asked about raising chickens and doing a garden. She had had a friend back hoe her yard a couple of years earlier. They found rocks and she was left with a big hole that she had an excavator level last year. She was wanting to have chickens and a garden, but money is short. Her final comment was on how she was going to need some expensive lumber to do these

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-90149541092157431322008-02-26T03:10:00.003-05:002008-02-26T03:18:02.254-05:00

I had two really inspirational items come across in my emails this week. I thought I'd include them both for your enjoyment. The first is called Carrots, eggs and coffee. I don't know who wrote it, so I can't give credit to them. Just know that it's not my own.The second is a link to a website with a video that is 11 minutes long. It's well worth the viewing time. It's called the Last

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-46985942191838404082008-02-19T00:04:00.003-05:002009-06-12T11:26:31.292-04:00

No I haven't fallen off the face of the earth, things have just gotten incredibly crazy again.One day I may do a blog on court. Not fun, but the end result was the my ex was found in contempt of court on both child support and custody. I'm not sure when he's going to have to return her, but he's supposed to have to do so. We'll see what happens.It was sad, he brought her into court to testify

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-90941332943636929382008-02-09T19:31:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:25:39.620-04:00

A friend has some questions on a 6 year old with a negative attitude and whiny disposition who doesn't want to go to bed at night. Been there, done that. And while it's rather normal for this age group, it's not a behavior that will get them where they need to be in this life.Well, I have had to change kids' schedules around. But to do that I also had to change mine around. I too am a night owl

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-61667951310269898382008-02-05T00:27:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:24:41.453-04:00

I'm working on several new projects.I have been wanting to start an internet business for a couple of years now. I've racked my brain as to how I can do this and until lately, NOTHING has presented itself as the solution to my quest.Lately, things seem to be coming together on this point. I'm working for a friend whom owns an internet business, doing her data entry. So I'm learning a lot about

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-22119513402852803152008-01-28T19:57:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:23:54.553-04:00

My son brought me a pair of his flannel pj's. Seems that both of the legs are ripped from hem to waistband. I've fixed this pair of pj's a couple of time. So now they're MINE.The tears weren't "evenly" in the middle, but close enough. I went ahead and cut the pants apart, down the front through the crotch area and up the back, giving me 2 separate "legs".I then opened the pant legs up by

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-15345583307359916942008-01-26T20:19:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:23:14.129-04:00

I don't even know how I got to this website. A link from a link from a link. But this reminded me of my days in Misawa, Japan.When I was stationed in Misawa in the mid-70's, plastic "T-shirt" bags had yet to be invented. When you went to the store off-base and bought anything - no matter how big or small, it was wrapped in paper. Not just any paper, but Origami type paper. And the ladies wrapping

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-18523559151295598812008-01-17T16:10:00.000-05:002008-01-17T16:30:33.859-05:00

First, thank you to all whom offered prayers in our behalf. I really appreciate it!Nalani went in Tue to talk to the judge. They do things differently in a big city than in the back-home counties around here. Poor kid had to go into this huge court room and talk to one of the D.A.s assigned to the traffic court.The possible "punishment" for failure to yield with an accident is 3 points on your

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-12196465128140908912008-01-12T22:30:00.000-05:002008-01-12T23:32:50.676-05:00

Normally I'm a law-abiding person. I have to be. If I EVER do ANYTHING wrong I get caught. I mean I ALWAYS get caught. So it's easier just to do what I know I should do. And to prove my point about getting caught if I do something I shouldn't:In Dec. I was at my local Wallyworld getting whatever it was that I needed. I left the store and headed to my workplace. It was a Saturday evening-at dusk.

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-24575463159574896742008-01-05T23:23:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:22:17.658-04:00

I hope everyone had a very Merry Christmas and a happy New Year.Christmas Eve, I spent the evening and until 7:30 am getting the rest of the knitting done. I had gotten my two kids stuff done, but still had the other fingerless glove to get done for my daughter's boyfriend. I had trouble with the first one I did for him. For some reason, my tension was WAY off and I ended up frogging it back to

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-45162245561382044682007-12-24T02:05:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:21:37.697-04:00

I just spent 2 days trying to knit the old pattern that I posted in Oct.I tried it on dpns and ended up frogging it - several times.Then I got to the last stitch on my circular needles (I use my circulars for flat knitting. I have better control with them), pulled the loop through and before cinching it down, decided to try on the glove to see how it fit. To say it didn't would be an

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-73612081983238135462007-12-20T22:09:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:21:11.501-04:00

Earlier this week Sarah ask me how I made my feminine supplies. I forgot that I was going to do a blog on that. Thank you Sarah for reminding me.I'm at that season of life where I need feminine protection infrequently, but I do sometimes need protection from wetting when I sneeze. sigh Ain't having had kids great. The little left-behind damage done to a woman's body. More stuff your mama never

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-54206892213417936982007-12-16T22:38:00.001-05:002007-12-16T23:04:21.377-05:00

So you're in the kitchen and open your cabinet to get out the ingredients to bake and find that the kids have used up the last of something and neglected to tell you. What to do, what to do?Here are some handy substitutions. Actually, many of these are useful for everyday cooking. You know what the ingredients are! For instance, most baking powders have Alum in it. Do you know what "alum" is.

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-52996135976032940442007-12-11T22:13:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:20:40.203-04:00

I have yet to try this, but it looks really good. You won't taste the beans or the vinegar in it and the beans with the milk and grains makes this a complete protein.Part A1 3/4 cups whole wheat flour (save out about 1/4 cup. If flour is very absorbent, you won't need the full 1 3/4 cups, but if it's already absorbed a lot of humidity, you may need a bit more than the 1 3/4 cups. By saving some

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-45928538397436211952007-12-06T23:59:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:20:09.575-04:00

Does everyone know this quick breakfast, lunch or dinner trick? This takes less than 1 1/2 minutes in the microwave, less than 5 under the broiler or less than 20 in the oven. I taught my 2 1/2 year old daughter to make these for herself on a tortilla - without the sauce. I was pregnant and in labor from 17 weeks onward and on bed-rest. So I'd lay on the couch and watch her, telling her what to

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-2338745971472289502007-12-04T20:53:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:19:35.216-04:00

Buttermilk Biscuit MixSome years ago I devised this mix and enjoyed it very much. This is a master mix, meaning that you make up a large amount of the mix and then use portions of it to make other things.10 cups flour (white, 1/2 and 1/2, whole wheat; OR 8 cups white flour, 1 cups each bran and wheat germ)1/2 cup baking powder (3/4 cup if using whole wheat)3 Tbs sugar4 Tsp (1 Tbs +1 tsp) salt3

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-59534792726878124562007-12-04T01:44:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:18:52.548-04:00

My dear daughter fixed lunch for us today. I was busy cleaning a fridge I got off of Freecycle.Seems someone got it from a remodeler friend. I think she thought is hadn't been cleaned and decided she didn't want it. But it had, it was just stained. I tried some commercial cleaner I had on hand and it didn't get any cleaner. So I got out a Mr. Clean sponge. Now I really do try to use my

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-56268706322737746852007-12-03T00:29:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:49:46.080-04:00

Ok, I love clean jokes and I love to laugh. We laughed over this one until we were in tears. Or perhaps things have just been so tense over trying to get the car back up here and insurance taken care of. (No, this old car was not insured for collision. We have a $500 deductible and the trade-in value is only $478. So there was no reason to insure it for that. They would have just declared it

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-8094004106332307532007-12-02T00:35:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:18:17.464-04:00

I thought I had everything together to do a daily post again. Then life happens.My oldest had a car accident. She's ok, the car is not and the Jaguar she hit is even worse. And they claim it's my daughter's fault. Perhaps it is, but a Jag can go from zero to sixty in only a couple of seconds. The lady didn't even try to brake or swerve and when her husband came to get her, he started to shout and

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-12180475473904387962007-11-24T01:06:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:17:47.551-04:00

So what's the answer?Insulation!But it's so expensive!Not necessarily.I was reading some of the blogs that I like to read and was captivated by the link to several articles on insulating your windows. And since I'm poorer than the proverbial church mouse, free is my favorite word.As in free bubble wrap to insulate your windows. Bubble wrap on windows? Insulating windows is such a pain to do. And

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-35454828216675837352007-11-10T20:25:00.001-05:002009-06-12T11:16:49.847-04:00

Well, it's finally happened. My 18dd spread her wings and took off. In the only working car. By herself. Just for a couple of nights. At the house of her boyfriend's parents. In ATLANTA.She planned it out with me ahead of time, but wasn't sure if she was going to return late Fri. evening or early Sat morning.I IMed her late Fri to find out if she was going go ahead and drive back late, but she

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-35779207745829984102007-11-09T23:02:00.002-05:002009-06-12T11:14:24.282-04:00

Just gotta love getting sick. NOT.I caught a cold a couple of weeks ago and it's still lingering on. Mostly in the guise of some serious coughing. I'm not running a temperature, so it's viral - no good to take antibiotics for it. I just have to let it run it's course.In the meantime, I've not done any blogging. I thought I'd better check back in with everyone.It's finally gotten cold here in the

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-17559849192853226012007-11-02T00:09:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:12:06.418-04:00

My laugh file is subbing for me while I get over my cold.Thing you don't hear any more. Be sure and refill the ice trays, we are going to have company after while.Watch for the mailman, I want to get this letter in the mail today.Quit slamming that screen door!Stay in or stay out! If you keep running in and out,I'm gonna set your fields on fire!!Be sure to pull the windows down when you leave,

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-8947800733305116592007-10-29T16:18:00.002-04:002009-06-12T11:11:26.755-04:00

I didn't realize that when I cut and pasted this recipe, it overfilled the area allowed and that the instructions weren't readable. Sorry. I usually check and try to be very careful with my posts. But I don't usually go to the page itself to check it. If ever you find another non-readable page, please let me know so I can go correct it.I've had a request for my biscuit recipe. The Mom's angel

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-79094118265604988872007-10-25T15:09:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:10:48.946-04:00

I haven't actually made this cistern myself. I live in North Ga, and even though the state is in a "drought", we've had plenty of rain where I live. However, this is one of those ideas that I've kept in my mind - you never know when you'll need something like this.Most houses have rain gutters with a downspout. The downspouts drain the water away from the house - unless you reroute the water to

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-44821957494912150092007-10-25T00:56:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:09:40.524-04:00

Ok, my 18dd suggested I change the name of this post. I'd forgotten that "magic" has other connotations - pot (and I ain't talkin' 'bout what 'cha cook in!)I thought I'd include my everlasting chicken recipe. I use this recipe to make several meals from one fryer size (3-4 pounds) chicken. You can make 1 large pot of soup, 1 large pot of either chicken and rice or chicken and dumplings or a

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-28030851877282707192007-10-23T15:53:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:10:12.112-04:00

Okay. I have mixed feelings about this. On the one hand, I can now send the child to the store without me. On the other hand....MY BABY! What if she wrecks? What if she gets lost? Ok, so she won't get lost that easily - she's grown up around these parts. But, uhmmmm, she's not such a good driver yet. She forgets really important things like her blinker. She has a bit of trouble parking. Could all

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-5600004677333462882007-10-21T00:31:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:09:09.724-04:00

Ok, it's getting cold here in North Ga. The temp was 51 at 9:30pm. I'm not going to running the heater until I can't put it off any longer. We need to put on more clothes to keep warm. So what does that have to do with a shrug and what the heck is a "shrug" anyway?A shrug is sort of like the sleeves of a shirt/sweater, without the body of it. It goes from one wrist, over the shoulders and down to

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-66406788344684250172007-10-20T22:55:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:08:49.243-04:00

I had a college roommate whose family came to visit and made this delicious concoction for dinner. It is SO good. I don't make it much any more, my kids won't eat this either. I think this is another meal I'm going to go ahead and make for me, then freeze.Beef and chili burritos:1 lb ground beef, browned and drained1 onion dice and cooked with the meat - if using store-bought chili1-2 cloves of

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-87853757139443710252007-10-20T16:50:00.002-04:002009-06-12T11:08:22.891-04:00

Several times a week I make vegetarian meals. At one point in time, I ate vegetarian all the time and this is the first "recipe" that I learned to make. It's pretty easy to make. I will admit that I don't measure anything with this, I just always "eyeballed" it. So the measurements are an approximation, but they really should be close. Adjust as you need to for your family and their likes (mine

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-88748923658496419352007-10-20T01:54:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:07:52.112-04:00

A number of years ago, my then 10dd made us all some rice bags. She's 18 now and those bags have lasted this long and seen a lot of use.Here's what she did:Cut some cotton or poly/cotton fabric to a 10"x 10" square (or make a 10" x20" rectangle)She put the wrong sides together and sewed almost all the way around the bag, left an opening to turn the bag and be able to fill it.She then filled it

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-75969098507950755682007-10-20T01:47:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:07:13.994-04:00

Cold weather is acomin' and my one had gets really cold. So last winter, I made myself a Fingerless glove for my right hand. It worked out really well. I also made a pair for the kids to give to their dad (my ex.- yeah, I know, but the kids...) He's a carpenter and they were worried about him being cold while working. Anyway, here's the pattern I used with my modifications at the end. I really

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-87533751842613289792007-10-12T22:08:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:06:51.183-04:00

I'm feeling like I'm a little short on ideas today. I guess I'm having writer's block.Do any of you have something you'd like me to address? Any thing you'd like my take on?I'm sure I can find something to ramble on about, but I was wondering if any of you had something you'd like to see or learn about.

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-55093746114992832632007-10-12T15:16:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:06:12.639-04:00

Ok, I also promised Lib I'd post a recipe for tortillas. I usually make flour tortillas, but I recently bought some Masa Harina to make corn tortillas. I've yet to try it but when I do, I'll let you guys know how it worked out.Also, please note. I've been cooking alone since I was 9 years old. I'm now 54. I don't do a lot of measuring of spices in my recipes. I just know how much of something we

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-21687794926629892712007-10-10T15:20:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:05:35.234-04:00

Sorry Lib to take so long to get this posted. Things have been crazy the last couple of weeks.Pita Bread/French Bread1 quart (4 cups) warm water1 Tablespoon yeast1 Tablespoon salt4 pounds of flour (this is usually white flour, but it should work just as well with whole wheat. Throw in 2 Tbs of vital gluten for good measure with the whole wheat and it will be more pliable.)Place 3 lbs of flour,

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-58148391102805524132007-10-08T01:58:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:05:03.026-04:00

I lived in Tallahassee, FL for many years and one of my favorite places to eat was a place called "Buffalo Wings and Rings". They had the best hot wings, curly fries and a fun atmosphere to eat them in.I now live in North GA, and even if I lived in FL, I couldn't afford to eat out. But there's a way I can still have the hot wings. Make them myself. What a novel idea. How the heck do they make

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8711697460132553397.post-49694870574697431622007-10-08T00:12:00.001-04:002009-06-12T11:04:30.552-04:00

Ok, I've been doing all kinds of napkins for my family and as part of a swap. And I'm throwing out the last set of instructions. Those instructions are good for the OCD types, but for someone with ADHD, FORGET IT! I got too antsy with all the burning of my fingers and tedious folding and sewing. Then I did some without doing the mitered corner and then some more without ironing. Both faster

Darlenehttp://www.blogger.com/profile/03414690312305496399noreply@blogger.com3