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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.comBlogger30125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-81597531946866871942017-02-21T10:19:00.000-05:002017-04-13T07:46:50.204-04:00The Chicken Coop<br />
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Welcome to our Poultry Palace! We finally moved our girls into the new & improved chicken coop the last week of November. While we still have a few things to finish up on, we are extremely happy with how well the coop turned out in both functionality and design.<br />
<img alt="DSC00062" class=" wp-image-290 aligncenter" data-attachment-id="290" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-description="" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"4","credit":"","camera":"DSC-RX100","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1481965813","copyright":"","focal_length":"23.55","iso":"125","shutter_speed":"0.01","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="DSC00062" data-large-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00062.jpg?w=516&h=344?w=616" data-medium-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00062.jpg?w=516&h=344?w=300" data-orig-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00062.jpg?w=516&h=344" data-orig-size="5472,3648" data-permalink="https://backtobasicsgalblog.wordpress.com/dsc00062/" height="344" sizes="(max-width: 516px) 100vw, 516px" src="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00062.jpg?w=516&h=344" srcset="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00062.jpg?w=516&h=344 516w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00062.jpg?w=1032&h=688 1032w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00062.jpg?w=150&h=100 150w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00062.jpg?w=300&h=200 300w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00062.jpg?w=768&h=512 768w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00062.jpg?w=1024&h=683 1024w" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: inherit; height: auto; line-height: 1; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" width="516" /></div>
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A few of the features that I wanted to change from our previous chicken coops was nest box placement, inside egg collection, improved coop lighting and ventilation, feed, supply and bedding storage, poop boards under the roosting areas for containment and easier cleaning, a hospital area, better predator protection, an enclosed run for inclement weather, insulation for climate control for the cold of winter and the heat of summer, adding polycarbonate flooring for easy cleaning and poly wall covering to cover the insulation and brighten the interior of the coop, and the addition of operational windows for natural lighting and fresh air. I wanted a coop and run I did not have to bend down in to clean or to get the eggs. Last but not least, I wanted the new coop to be cute as well as functional.</div>
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As you can see, I had quite a list to address in a new coop for the girls! Here is what we ended up building and designing.</div>
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<img alt="DSC00135" class="alignnone size-full wp-image-303" data-attachment-id="303" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-description="" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"1.8","credit":"","camera":"DSC-RX100","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1482917937","copyright":"","focal_length":"10.4","iso":"125","shutter_speed":"0.01","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="DSC00135" data-large-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00135.jpg?w=616?w=616" data-medium-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00135.jpg?w=616?w=300" data-orig-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00135.jpg?w=616" data-orig-size="5472,3648" data-permalink="https://backtobasicsgalblog.wordpress.com/2017/04/04/poultry-palace-our-new-chicken-coop/dsc00135/" sizes="(max-width: 616px) 100vw, 616px" src="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00135.jpg?w=616" srcset="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00135.jpg?w=616 616w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00135.jpg?w=1232 1232w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00135.jpg?w=150 150w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00135.jpg?w=300 300w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00135.jpg?w=768 768w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00135.jpg?w=1024 1024w" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; font-family: inherit; height: auto; line-height: 1; margin: 0px; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" /></div>
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We placed the storage area that is just inside the front door. Here I have easy access to the nest boxes, plenty of storage for feed, treats, supplements, and I love the window that looks into the coop area so I can check on the girls without having to enter the coop itself. We have additional attic storage over the coop area, over the front door, and in the run area, we added overhead storage for straw and wood chips.</div>
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<img alt="DSC00077" class=" wp-image-304 aligncenter" data-attachment-id="304" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-description="" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"1.8","credit":"","camera":"DSC-RX100","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1481976508","copyright":"","focal_length":"10.4","iso":"125","shutter_speed":"0.0125","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="DSC00077" data-large-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc000771.jpg?w=549&h=366?w=616" data-medium-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc000771.jpg?w=549&h=366?w=300" data-orig-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc000771.jpg?w=549&h=366" data-orig-size="5472,3648" data-permalink="https://backtobasicsgalblog.wordpress.com/2017/04/04/poultry-palace-our-new-chicken-coop/dsc00077/" height="366" sizes="(max-width: 549px) 100vw, 549px" src="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc000771.jpg?w=549&h=366" srcset="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc000771.jpg?w=549&h=366 549w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc000771.jpg?w=1098&h=732 1098w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc000771.jpg?w=150&h=100 150w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc000771.jpg?w=300&h=200 300w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc000771.jpg?w=768&h=512 768w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc000771.jpg?w=1024&h=683 1024w" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: inherit; height: auto; line-height: 1; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" width="549" />In the photo above you can see the door that accesses the coop area from inside my storage area and through the window you can see the roost area. There is also another pedestrian door on the side of the coop for ease of cleaning.</div>
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<img alt="DSC00058" class=" wp-image-305 aligncenter" data-attachment-id="305" data-comments-opened="1" data-image-description="" data-image-meta="{"aperture":"1.8","credit":"","camera":"DSC-RX100","caption":"","created_timestamp":"1481965653","copyright":"","focal_length":"10.4","iso":"125","shutter_speed":"0.02","title":"","orientation":"1"}" data-image-title="DSC00058" data-large-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00058.jpg?w=531&h=354?w=616" data-medium-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00058.jpg?w=531&h=354?w=300" data-orig-file="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00058.jpg?w=531&h=354" data-orig-size="5472,3648" data-permalink="https://backtobasicsgalblog.wordpress.com/2017/04/04/poultry-palace-our-new-chicken-coop/dsc00058/" height="354" sizes="(max-width: 531px) 100vw, 531px" src="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00058.jpg?w=531&h=354" srcset="https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00058.jpg?w=531&h=354 531w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00058.jpg?w=1062&h=708 1062w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00058.jpg?w=150&h=100 150w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00058.jpg?w=300&h=200 300w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00058.jpg?w=768&h=512 768w, https://backtobasicsgalblog.files.wordpress.com/2017/04/dsc00058.jpg?w=1024&h=683 1024w" style="-webkit-font-smoothing: antialiased; border: 0px; box-sizing: border-box; display: block; font-family: inherit; height: auto; line-height: 1; margin: 0px auto; max-width: 100%; padding: 0px;" width="531" />Here you can see a portion inside the run area. We enclosed the run with heavy duty 1″ hardware cloth and all of the doors have secure locks. We have 3′ of hardware cloth and 4′ of fencing buried along the exterior of the run and coop to prevent any predators access from digging. We added solar lighting and predador nite guard light around the coop to deter predators.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Add caption</td></tr>
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Our new chicken coop is 8′ wide by 14′ long by 10′ high. The interior storage area is 8′ by 4′, the interior roosting area is 8′ by 10′ and the enclosed run area is 8′ by 24′ long.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz9wiIHUz3Xki4rj3aRqKhrd5eP4Hx4sIpi9Umg5B5LxUbnYWAT_BlhEZkvLLOdVGv37lLXt99HhWgabOUy0zSTrTxhDIhR2JTAdvhTL2vOqeGkZPjVlGmMfABpD99-vNeKQRksci4pC0g/s1600/DSC00139.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiz9wiIHUz3Xki4rj3aRqKhrd5eP4Hx4sIpi9Umg5B5LxUbnYWAT_BlhEZkvLLOdVGv37lLXt99HhWgabOUy0zSTrTxhDIhR2JTAdvhTL2vOqeGkZPjVlGmMfABpD99-vNeKQRksci4pC0g/s400/DSC00139.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Plenty of overhead storage in the attic,</td></tr>
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We raised the coop and run up with packed sand to ensure the area was kept dry year round. Whenever weather permits, the girls have access to free range from the run area.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoyoJepMH3XgoP-l6bT_Bva_lPA-2I3245Qm0f0Siht4cS4KGTH4ACXAMkvtBdqP5JwrWdoM2w_d_6WlddtJDjqWwBKnacqOxApOd9D2tnbcX-2OZgFU2T2doiBcNEULfFZ1aRkm9Sxfz4/s1600/DSC00184.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoyoJepMH3XgoP-l6bT_Bva_lPA-2I3245Qm0f0Siht4cS4KGTH4ACXAMkvtBdqP5JwrWdoM2w_d_6WlddtJDjqWwBKnacqOxApOd9D2tnbcX-2OZgFU2T2doiBcNEULfFZ1aRkm9Sxfz4/s320/DSC00184.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">More overhead storage in the run area.</td></tr>
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Our new coop and run addressed all of the “issues” I had with the first two coops – It is truly a Poultry Palace!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCTMCBuzogG02F7YM09zoWI6eszXQ1aIZqBmwa9JFHYHcGXRebKZ2FtUWyelSBggWb-8-ULKF2Fpb8hBYuqhuBvkg6ybwFZz3F4tFd8ktkeS2nQJPwGjQ4Q9IHpRF2VG4EfoxJfoL__fLw/s1600/DSC00155.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiCTMCBuzogG02F7YM09zoWI6eszXQ1aIZqBmwa9JFHYHcGXRebKZ2FtUWyelSBggWb-8-ULKF2Fpb8hBYuqhuBvkg6ybwFZz3F4tFd8ktkeS2nQJPwGjQ4Q9IHpRF2VG4EfoxJfoL__fLw/s320/DSC00155.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I’d love to know your thoughts and answer any questions you may have on our new coop. I’d love to see photos of your coops as well!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-18955917790446227762017-02-02T04:28:00.000-05:002017-04-13T07:28:20.768-04:00Building & Designing the Chicken CoopAfter having 2 different chicken coops, we knew if we were going to raise more chickens there had to be more efficient ways to clean the coop, store chicken related items, keep straw and bedding, predator proofing, feeding the hens and limiting their exposure to wild birds and the possible diseases they carry while keeping a healthy, productive, happy and active flock of hens. <br />
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Over a period of six months or so, we started a list of all of the things that we felt needed to be improved upon. We wrote down what we disliked about our current coop set-up and included ways we thought we could "fix" the issues we were having. We looked at literally hundreds of chicken coops online, in books, on Youtube, and at local farms. <br />
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From our observations and notes, we came up with over sixty things we wanted to correct, address, improve upon, eliminate, or add to our new hen house! <br />
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<span style="text-align: center;"> We had quite a list of features we wanted to incorporate which included: </span></div>
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<li>the new coop had to be tall enough for us to stand up in, </li>
<li>located in a well drained area with both sun and shade </li>
<li>easy to clean,</li>
<li>accessible for the yard tractor and trailer </li>
<li>an exercise or play area for the hens</li>
<li>a dust bath area</li>
<li>egg collection out of the wind, rain and snow, </li>
<li>an enclosed run area with protection from the elements and predators, </li>
<li>ample storage for feed and supplies, </li>
<li>an area for a "hospital" in case of an injured hen, a lot of natural light, plenty of ventilation, </li>
<li>it had to be more predator proof </li>
<li>include a lot of storage areas for treats, first aid, feed, straw, wood chips, extra dishes, cleaning supplies, </li>
<li>the walls bright and easy to clean and wipe down (poly walls)</li>
<li>the floors waterproof and easy to clean (lined with polycarbonate) </li>
<li>Draft free and insulated for the hens comfort in winter and summer</li>
<li>raised roost area with poo board for easier cleaning</li>
<li>an area to mix feed or medications </li>
<li>exterior lighting</li>
<li>security features</li>
<li>and of course, we wanted it to be "cute".</li>
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Armed with a plan and a design in mind, our next steps were to find the new site for the coop and due to the limited time we have, we had a couple of bids given to have the coop built. We quickly realized we would have to make the time to build it ourselves so we started pricing materials out.</div>
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We decided that it may be easier just to customize a garden shed. We thought buying a kit would actually take us less time to build since everything would be pre-cut. We looked at a lot of sheds and shed kits. We found at Costco on sale we thought we could make work. Here is the 8' x 14' garden shed we customized:</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhzKBao6woYnNm1H093s2GTEoskD4MxAJtuyVWpaJKbbj5hXHujOkwaTtzwayFx3EkQYxuiKvgYn1jxjStKyuM9WkHdy_XrP6QAaD97IISf7oLasGma-JG7jNr15cEbXgF4Bj5DH8z9oQ/s1600/8x14+storage+shed.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="268" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzhzKBao6woYnNm1H093s2GTEoskD4MxAJtuyVWpaJKbbj5hXHujOkwaTtzwayFx3EkQYxuiKvgYn1jxjStKyuM9WkHdy_XrP6QAaD97IISf7oLasGma-JG7jNr15cEbXgF4Bj5DH8z9oQ/s320/8x14+storage+shed.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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On the exterior we added a 2 foot overhang on the front, added a 36" pedestrian door with a window, at the rear, we added an 8' x 28' run. We used steel roofing and added 3 additional and operational windows. We covered every window with hardware cloth on the exterior. </div>
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Here's how it turned out on the exterior:</div>
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As you can see, our new coop hardly resembles the original coop we purchased. As soon as I am able, I will be posting a walk through on the new coop. </div>
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If you built a new coop or are planning on building a new coop, we'd love to hear what things you incorporated or want to incorporate into your new coop. We'd love to have you send us photo's of your coop for a future post on coops! </div>
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Soon, we will have the interior photos up for you to see. </div>
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As always, thanks for stopping by! </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-60779485144338195602016-03-22T12:17:00.001-04:002016-03-22T12:17:24.074-04:00Homemade Dried Onion Soup Mix<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="270" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/Yd40D9EImsA" width="480"></iframe>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-67985859267152082302015-10-31T00:10:00.002-04:002015-11-02T05:59:12.715-05:00My Chicken's Emergency Health & Natural Remedy Quick Resource Guide <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I had my first chickens as a kid in 1972; they were Leghorns - A rooster named Ernie and 2 hens, Ethel and Lucy. While that seems like a lifetime ago, I still remember mixing their feed from grains we grew or bought at the mill, and my grandmother giving me advice on their feeding and care. My coop was nothing more than a wooden box with a hinge, a door and a wood branch for a perch. We used straw for bedding.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZX7rPrnHjhdC0shbuTXlM5DKVd5wJWJG1po3Lf_q3ydABXpXluWQL3hIccHUcY_IRvWTxTgxPQ43VzupSYlZqlYqJinz6cdwGuY2Be4IXcS6sklCXctYa47qq9TBjW9Rx0Il87yOqDIl/s1600/IMG_3049.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhhZX7rPrnHjhdC0shbuTXlM5DKVd5wJWJG1po3Lf_q3ydABXpXluWQL3hIccHUcY_IRvWTxTgxPQ43VzupSYlZqlYqJinz6cdwGuY2Be4IXcS6sklCXctYa47qq9TBjW9Rx0Il87yOqDIl/s320/IMG_3049.JPG" width="320" /></a>The care and feeding of poultry even in in the 1970's was quite different than it is today. Today's poultry enjoys better care, more balanced diets, better housing, even more choices for healthier bedding. We have many more ready made options for treating sick hens, a better understanding of their dietary needs, medical issues and treatments.<br />
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Today you can find all kinds of pre-made treatments for poultry and fowl at places like farm stores, grain mills, online and at local pet shops. Some recommendations I found curious. One such recommendation I read online for treating bumblefoot, the recommended product, I used on my horses for wound care. The label clearly states the product is <i>"not for use on horses intended as food"</i> so why would that product be recommended for chickens? Why would I want to put it on my hens? Afterall, I eat the eggs they produce. Like just about anything anymore, I prefer to use as many "natural" or "homeopathic" products whenever possible. This is especially true for animals that provide food for my family. <br />
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I spent hours reading labels of recommended products for different ailments and emergencies, looking up ingredients, possible side effects, and origins of products, after a while, everything just becomes jumbled - for me anyway. I decided that I needed to have a quick resource guide with some kind of clear direction for emergencies and/or sick hens. The last thing I want to do is scan books and websites to look for the information when there is an emergency to deal with. Talk about added stress!<br />
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After doing a lot of research, I narrowed the guide to include emergencies, illnesses and diseases I felt were the most common or likely to happen when raising chickens for the quick reference emergency health guide. I typed it up, printed it off and laminated it to keep in my emergency first aid coop kit. I am sure as time goes by, changes and corrections will be made to it but I think it's a good start. <br />
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I will be posting my Emergency First Aid Coop Kit I put together to help with any emergency situation or illness that could arise with the chickens.<br />
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I'd be happy to share this with you but I cannot figure out how I can add a PDF file for you to be able to print it off. You'll need to send me an email at backtobasicsgal@gmail.com if you'd like a copy until I can figure it out - Please bare with me! Please let me know what you think and if you have any suggestions, I'd love to hear them.<br />
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As always, thank you for all of your support and for stopping by! God Bless.<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-61728188189488520022015-10-14T11:41:00.000-04:002015-10-14T13:22:43.471-04:00How to Make Chicken Brownies!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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What on earth are "Chicken Brownies"? I've been asked on numerous occasions so I am use to the funny looks one gets when talking about their flock. Unless you have chickens, this post will leave you wondering I am sure!</div>
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I make these treats for the girls on occasion in the fall and winter months. The brownies are easy to make and the ingredients are varied because they are made out of leftovers, grain products, and such. You can be creative in your choices.</div>
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<b>Here's how I make them:</b></div>
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I usually make the base out of leftover spaghetti or pasta to cover the bottom of an 8 x 8 pan. I then add powdered eggshells* about a Tablespoon sprinkled over the noodles and about a 1/4 cup of flax, and unsalted sunflower seeds, over the pasta base. </div>
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I then add whatever leftovers I want to use up - If I have spaghetti meat sauce, I'll add that, if I have leftover oatmeal or cereal, I'll add that, leftover veggies or fruit or grains, whatever I think they will eat, I add it - if they need to be chopped, I run them in the food processor to chop them smaller....</div>
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On occasion in the winter months, I add freeze-dried mealworms for added protein.<br />
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<i>Please Note: If you use grains such as oatmeal, millet, grits, etc, you may not have to bake these. I simply add hot water and spread them in the pan for a "no-bake" brownie.</i></div>
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After I have all of the "extras" added, I take 2 eggs and scramble them like I was making scrambled eggs. These get poured over the ingredients I am using after they have all been added to the pan and I cook the mixture until the egg is cooked through at 375 degrees for about 20 - 30 minutes depending on the ingredients. I let the chicken brownies cool down till they are warm to the touch inside as well as on the outside and when just warm, feed them to the girls. </div>
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(Make sure they are cooled inside or the girls could burn themselves!)</div>
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This is a great way to use up leftovers or cracked eggs and at the same time, provide your hens with an extra treat.</div>
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*Simply save your hens egg shells, rinse them out, dry in the oven for about 20 minutes at 150 degrees and powder them in your blender or food processor - it's a great way to provide calcium for your hens and garden - without cost!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-31028381448307892582015-10-11T08:08:00.001-04:002015-10-11T08:08:20.005-04:00A Michigan Tradition...We always look forward to the end of September because that is the start of apple season and the cider mills open. We love to pick our apples, grab a gallon of cider or two, a dozen of the warm cinnamon sugar donuts and sit under a tree to relax, people watch and enjoy consuming these delicious fall time treats.<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv42tQjNZ1zWpIrdRiWk3a-ZoZsEFPdZNIcK8YrhQMO4nmrJ1-VqYc2dVK0yKNTUkSZcSztzpqrYtNmePmDNCAfRUYmprlTGlvOdttU4cCp2umGuqkKslmdEcl4Jat541WCLWfVnWMzLy5/s1600/DSCN3215.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjv42tQjNZ1zWpIrdRiWk3a-ZoZsEFPdZNIcK8YrhQMO4nmrJ1-VqYc2dVK0yKNTUkSZcSztzpqrYtNmePmDNCAfRUYmprlTGlvOdttU4cCp2umGuqkKslmdEcl4Jat541WCLWfVnWMzLy5/s200/DSCN3215.JPG" width="200" /></a><br />
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Most cider mills have pick-your-own apples, a viewing area of the apple cider making process and the doughnuts being made. <br />
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Some cider mills have U-pick apples and pumpkin patches, corn or hay mazes, live entertainment by local bands, crafters selling their wares, they sell local honey, jams, jellies and butters, and a few have petting zoos to lure folks to their mill. <br />
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We choose which cider mill to visit on the quality, processing method and taste of their cider.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWp6UgEq8V93h1AI7KhJJBCsV-Vo2SYwMsX9s6wiiXPeb2tGrNZFfZ3d_W2B7RGH6dYiwxnp9H4kcu2Pgg5VLBzoBTiiFMInRaHY1q9o1KGgFmzOGU0m7Zz41QU_WlmoULh-EGS6YbgrAV/s1600/DSCN3207.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjWp6UgEq8V93h1AI7KhJJBCsV-Vo2SYwMsX9s6wiiXPeb2tGrNZFfZ3d_W2B7RGH6dYiwxnp9H4kcu2Pgg5VLBzoBTiiFMInRaHY1q9o1KGgFmzOGU0m7Zz41QU_WlmoULh-EGS6YbgrAV/s200/DSCN3207.JPG" width="200" /></a> In recent times, we have began to notice more and more cider mills have begun to pasteurize their cider. I think it may be due to laws that prohibit "Dropped" apples or apples that have fallen to the ground from being used in the making of fresh cider but may be used if the cider is pasteurized so a lot of mills have begun to pasteurize their cider. We prefer unpasteurized, natural pressed cider to cider that has been pasteurized. We both think it tastes better. <br />
I think its healthier unprocessed. I like to make apple cider vinegar so when I don't have time to make my own from scratch, I buy an extra gallon and make my ACV from their cider. (This year will be one of those years!)<br />
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I'm not sure what other states enjoy this fall pastime but if you ever get a chance to visit a cider mill, you'll be hooked on fresh pressed apple cider and warm cinnamon sugar doughnuts - YUM!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-46706432012540560982015-10-07T12:26:00.001-04:002015-10-07T13:48:53.668-04:00Making Fire Cider - Herbal Folk Remedy<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fire Cider Herbal Medicine & More!</td></tr>
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Every year when we harvest our horseradish root, I know that the winter cold and flu season is just around the corner and that means it is time to make Fire Cider!<br />
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I am not sure of the origins, but I was blessed with this recipe back in my early teen years from a friend of mine that gave me some for a cold I had. It worked so well for me, I make it every year. I find the hot, tart, tangy, kinda warming, taste to be addictive almost. It definitely helps me fight back colds and flu as I rarely get sick. <br />
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The nice thing about it is that not only is it a medicine, but it also makes for wonderful salad dressings, I drizzle some over chicken and fish, and it adds a little zip to veggies. :-) It adds a "zip" that really takes things up a notch. It's really good stuff that is versatile in its use as well.<br />
I love dual purpose things!<br />
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If you don't have the time or just want to buy a bottle, I found it for sale <a href="https://www.zingermans.com/Product.aspx?ProductID=V-FCV&crf=BASE&gclid=CJbJ4bndsMgCFZKAaQodHWoF1Q" target="_blank">here online</a>. <br />
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The recipe is simple:<br />
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<b><u>Fire Cider</u></b></div>
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1 Quart Mason Jar with plastic lid</div>
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1 - large onion (I like the Spanish Onions)</div>
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1 - 5" piece of Horseradish Root finely diced</div>
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1 - 4" piece of peeled & finely diced Ginger Root</div>
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6 - peeled and finely diced Cloves of Garlic </div>
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1/2 to 1 teaspoon dried Capsaicin or Cayenne Pepper (From Louisiana is best)</div>
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1 bottle of Organic Apple Cider Vinegar with The Mother </div>
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Place all finely diced ingredients into the mason jar, add the cayenne pepper to taste, pour the apple cider vinegar over the ingredients, put the lid on and shake to mix. Let this sit on your counter for the next 4 weeks, shaking it everyday. <br />
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Once the mixture has set for the 4 weeks, I strain it through a double layer of cheese cloth twice to remove any debris. I want the final product to be free of any solids.<br />
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Honey can be added after straining but this is optional.<br />
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1/4 cup to 1/2 cup Honey to be added after above ingredients have time to meld for 4 weeks.<br />
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I take a tablespoon every day in the morning after breakfast during cold and flu season.<br />
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<b><i>Please Note: This information is provided for educational purposes only. I am not giving medical advice, medical treatment or medical care to or for anyone. Before using or taking anything, one should consult with their own health care professional. I make no warranty, claim or guarantee as to the effectiveness of any treatment described or found herein. </i></b><br />
<b><i> </i></b>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-18914597351853821732015-10-05T11:33:00.000-04:002015-10-06T10:35:54.953-04:00What Are The Actual Costs For A Dozen Chicken Eggs?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMhuayblaeS6NDFMwsR9JRAJ7wNZ22_0Ep5LI2mhyytcrjQVyrTOue8ZkW6o99SGhtKHrDRXxabyqtYRJUaBawd8zAmNwTHNx4fsI2-aQpAN2P_XGSWhUu1aGkMZ73jLDft5jSp1Co6sm/s1600/IMG_2805.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKMhuayblaeS6NDFMwsR9JRAJ7wNZ22_0Ep5LI2mhyytcrjQVyrTOue8ZkW6o99SGhtKHrDRXxabyqtYRJUaBawd8zAmNwTHNx4fsI2-aQpAN2P_XGSWhUu1aGkMZ73jLDft5jSp1Co6sm/s320/IMG_2805.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
Let's face it, most of us don't have chickens to make money from selling the eggs. If that were the case, chicken eggs would have to cost a lot more than what our local market will pay or there would not be anyone selling farm fresh chicken eggs! Most homesteaders that have and raise chickens do so for many reasons. <br />
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<b><u>Some of those reasons may be:</u></b><br />
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<li>We want to know more about where our food comes from.</li>
<li>We want to know what and how that food source is taken care of.</li>
<li>We want to know what our food source is consuming because ultimately the things the animals eat will end up in the end product from our livestock.</li>
<li>We want to know that "Free-Range" means they are actually out on grass eating bugs, scratching for seeds and are doing things that chickens do naturally.</li>
<li>We want to raise and replenish our livestock naturally.</li>
<li>We want to be able to have our own source for protein.</li>
<li>Chickens and their eggs are cheaper sources of meat protein.</li>
<li>Chickens require less land to raise them on.</li>
<li>More communities allow hens in residential neighborhoods\acreage isn't required. </li>
<li>The housing needs of chickens are fairly minimal.</li>
<li>We do not like to hear how chickens are treated in commercial environments.</li>
<li>We want our children to know where an egg actually comes from.</li>
<li>We like our food to be as fresh as possible.</li>
<li>We love having chicken TV outside our windows for non-stop, free entertainment.</li>
<li>We want our garden soil enriched with chicken poo.</li>
<li>We want our garden soil naturally excavated, fertilized and turned at the end of the season.</li>
<li>We want natural bug control.</li>
<li>They sell eggs to off set the cost of having a flock of chickens.</li>
<li>They want to provide family members with farm fresh eggs.</li>
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<b>The reasons are many! </b><br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbjtgAhcitAQfMKTYefJHdD-Kt6lsgvVIPbDD8t8ezg29OvjieKinPGUf_7ZcKTSTE7dKIvpAJeNyGXq5nLR7_BtJ4Wr5Yv4UCTvYhedDIINOBN-Wjjni69i4S4DUEt9NmjoDO68j5yvN/s1600/IMG_0933.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGbjtgAhcitAQfMKTYefJHdD-Kt6lsgvVIPbDD8t8ezg29OvjieKinPGUf_7ZcKTSTE7dKIvpAJeNyGXq5nLR7_BtJ4Wr5Yv4UCTvYhedDIINOBN-Wjjni69i4S4DUEt9NmjoDO68j5yvN/s320/IMG_0933.JPG" width="320" /></a></b></div>
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Most of us are "accidental" egg sellers. We end up selling eggs because we have more eggs being produced than our family can consume. </div>
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In order to calculate the actual costs involved in producing a dozen eggs, we have to breakdown more than just feed costs. Below is how I figured out what the true costs of producing a dozen eggs:</div>
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Coop Costs w/labor $1,500 divided by life expectancy 15 years/$100/yr by 365 = $.28/day</div>
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Cost for a Layer Hen $25.00 Laying Time 2 Years $12.50/yr/365 = $0.32/day</div>
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Straw and Pine Shavings for Coop/Nest box Cleaning Weekly $15/mth $0.50/day</div>
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Fencing & Fence Posts $85.00 Life Expectancy 15 yr $12.33/yr x 365 = $0.04/day</div>
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Electricity (lights/water/ heater) 6 months/$8.00/mth by 30 days = $0.26/day</div>
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Solar Predator Protection System & Hawk Netting on Run $185 5yr Life Expectancy $0.10/day</div>
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Layer Feed Daily Cost $0.73 per day to feed 12 Hens </div>
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Real Estate Taxes (broken down by acreage, then by acre and by 1/4 acre = $2.50/day)</div>
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Farm Liability Insurance $0.24/day</div>
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Egg Cartons and Required Labeling Cost $0.32/each </div>
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Automobile Gasoline/Expenses to pick up feed month $3.00/mth = $0.10/day</div>
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All of these expenses add up to $5.39/day divided by 12 = $0.45 per egg x 12 = $5.40/dozen</div>
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As you can see, there are no wages collected for cleaning the coop, feeding the chickens, collecting the eggs, refrigerating the eggs, keeping paperwork on the eggs, feeding the chickens, getting up to let them out, being home to lock them up, for medical supplies, for DE, feed storage, mouse control costs, treats or medical treatment......</div>
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Obviously your costs and expenses would be different than my costs and expenses. I would not be able to get anywhere close to $5.40/dozen in my area but then again, I do not have chickens to sell eggs. I have chickens for our family's consumption and for my entertainment & enjoyment. </div>
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I wanted to know what it costs to bring a farm fresh egg to our table. At a cost of $0.45 an egg, I'd say that is a heck of a deal just to know my girls are well cared for, eat healthy, are in a clean environment & are just plain ol' chickens allowed to be and act like chickens! </div>
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Have you figured out what it costs you to provide your family with delicious, nutritious Farm Fresh Eggs? I'd love to know!<br />
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I posted why I sat down and spent my time calculating costs on BackyardChickens.com - Here is a link to that post -<a href="http://www.backyardchickens.com/t/1025088/what-does-a-dozen-eggs-really-cost-to-produce" target="_blank"> Click Here!</a></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-34387570168585968042015-10-04T09:18:00.000-04:002015-10-04T09:46:05.461-04:00Harvesting & Growing Horseradish<div style="text-align: center;">
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<b><i>It's that time of year that I harvest some of my Horseradish to make both culinary and medicinal delights for the winter months. We have transplanted our plant stock that I have been growing for over 25 years to our new homestead this last week. I thought now would be a great time to write a little about this wonderful, diverse and highly underrated perennial. </i></b></div>
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Here is a little background information on growing and using Horseradish I thought may be of interest to you. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjwCdp16iHo75K7NPxEV-s8xxpLldmqja11vPAVjaWEIV3sD_Z3XQlc0eGSYMIj5Tf7Vsg7da_iruAAwDvNHXqP4z4QZ3F8mJncb4gdNdBXzfafDFqUgeHgSAV24PeXGoP8X9gRmb-EEmx/s1600/DSCN4144.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjjwCdp16iHo75K7NPxEV-s8xxpLldmqja11vPAVjaWEIV3sD_Z3XQlc0eGSYMIj5Tf7Vsg7da_iruAAwDvNHXqP4z4QZ3F8mJncb4gdNdBXzfafDFqUgeHgSAV24PeXGoP8X9gRmb-EEmx/s320/DSCN4144.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">In Spring, the tender, edible leaves emerge from their Winter resting period.</td></tr>
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<b><u>Growing Horseradish:</u></b></div>
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Horseradish is a perennial that is best propagated by root cuttings. Horseradish is hardy to zone 5 and in other areas, it may be grown as an annual. Horseradish root stock must be planted in amended soil with compost. Horseradish prefers afternoon sunshine with a little shade. Horseradish also benefits from frequent watering - the plant prefers a moist soil but not wet or soggy soils. Horseradish can be planted in full sun which helps horseradish to survive but horseradish will do well with afternoon shade especially in areas that are hot, and or dry. Once you get Horseradish established, it is pretty much one of those plants that you don't need to fuss over. They are quite hardy I have found.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZPiFIiYRnyX2A4pRlxAZ860yHXeEqiOyzqTQzRRpKNAPjtMb83tfTCXTSsWFvMZG0kpt_RgvDHVcuiUZmVapvLzLISEm1nju0qryq_mVqk7IameJJXtcezf_OvFAzvMnjS6hyphenhyphenkg8GLaWA/s1600/IMG_2769.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZPiFIiYRnyX2A4pRlxAZ860yHXeEqiOyzqTQzRRpKNAPjtMb83tfTCXTSsWFvMZG0kpt_RgvDHVcuiUZmVapvLzLISEm1nju0qryq_mVqk7IameJJXtcezf_OvFAzvMnjS6hyphenhyphenkg8GLaWA/s320/IMG_2769.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">One of my Horseradish Plants Just Before Harvesting</td></tr>
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<b><u>Harvesting Horseradish:</u></b></div>
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The best time to harvest Horseradish is after the first hard frost and the leaves are dying back. If the ground has frozen, you can overwinter horseradish. In the spring before the plant begins to actively grow, you can harvest it at that time too if you wish.</div>
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<u><b>Storing Horseradish:</b></u></div>
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Horseradish roots should be stored in a cool, dark location so the root does not spoil. Whole root stock may be stored up to 3 months if kept in a ventilated plastic bag inside of a refrigerator. They can be stored in a root cellar or buried in moist sand. Horseradish may be frozen and used for culinary purposes later. </div>
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<b style="text-decoration: underline;">Culinary Uses:</b> </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGHboaBHAX3HKKOj83ksLzSFDLH-LC3mQlDWLZgkCZLB0uAXZB9Hu4gM6tWpX_DUhCf9X-De0k7goxvDN_6SSs2jg-2fGDfh2__sfH4Yr9CWhcqvPzAnw4lYlUgjdFT0difCJ9vwKuD0_J/s1600/DSCN4147.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGHboaBHAX3HKKOj83ksLzSFDLH-LC3mQlDWLZgkCZLB0uAXZB9Hu4gM6tWpX_DUhCf9X-De0k7goxvDN_6SSs2jg-2fGDfh2__sfH4Yr9CWhcqvPzAnw4lYlUgjdFT0difCJ9vwKuD0_J/s320/DSCN4147.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">This Root I harvested in early Spring 2015.</td></tr>
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Horseradish Root is used to make condiments, as a spice and for seasoning. Horseradish contains potassium, phosphorus, calcium and magnesium, are fat-free and rich in vitamins A & C. Horseradish loses nutritional value when cooked so it is best used raw. The most common uses for raw Horseradish are for cocktail sauces, dips, dressings, numerous condiments like horseradish mustard, horseradish mayonnaise, or added into cheese spreads. </div>
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Horseradish loses its pungent punch when heated. Using fresh is always preferred but prepared, store bought is at times necessary and acceptable to use in many recipes. The ratio of prepared, store bought Horseradish to using fresh grated Horseradish is 4 prepared to 1 fresh. </div>
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Other herbs that pair beautifully with Horseradish are bay, chives, garlic and mint. </div>
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In the book, <u><a href="http://www.amazon.com/Uncommon-Fruits-Vegetables-Commonsense-Guide/dp/0060916699/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1443957366&sr=8-1&keywords=Uncommon+Fruits+and+Vegetables" target="_blank">Uncommon Fruits and Vegetables, a Common Sense Guide</a></u> by E. Schreiber, suggests to "throw out the rules and add a little horseradish to everything!" </div>
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When I add Horseradish, I make the addition to "taste" and not so much by measurement. I truly enjoy the addition of Horseradish Cream to liven up a sandwich - it adds punch to an otherwise dull roast beef or grilled cheese sandwich. Here's the recipe:</div>
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<u><b>Horseradish Cream</b></u></div>
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1/4 cup creme fraiche or sour cream </div>
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1/4 cup plain yogurt or mayonnaise </div>
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1/2 TBSP Horseradish (to taste)</div>
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1/2 TBSP Fresh Chopped Dill </div>
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Salt and Pepper to Taste </div>
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1/2 Tsp Lemon Juice (optional)</div>
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Measure and mix all ingredients in bowl. Store covered in refrigerator for up to 3 days. Can be used as a dip for veggies and/or chips.</div>
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<u style="font-weight: bold;">Medicinal Uses:</u></div>
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Long before Horseradish became popular as a ingredient in the kitchen, it was used for medicinal purposes from sore throats to digestive tract issues, for the treatment of asthma, arthritis, toothaches and cancer. Horseradish is known for its diuretic and circulatory properties. </div>
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Native American Indians used Horseradish for toothaches and menstrual cramps. The ground root was applied to the skin and applied to the skin for circulation. Tonics were made to treat congestion, sore throats, hoarseness and as an expectorant for colds. </div>
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Today the medical field utilizes an enzyme present in Horseradish, referred to as HRP, as a tool for detecting antibodies. Research is being conducted to explore possibilities that compounds found in Horseradish can be used for the prevention of cancer. </div>
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One must be cautioned that large doses of Horseradish can cause irritation to the stomach lining and may cause vomiting if you over do it.</div>
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Wasabi, which is sometimes called Japanese Horseradish, is another cultivated plant that enjoys the culinary addition of "heat" though many argue Wasabi has a more pungent hot flavor, others folks argue that Horseradish provides more heat. What many don't know is that Horseradish is often dyed green and used as a substitute for Wasabi! </div>
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The Horseradish Plant not only provides beautiful foliage to a landscape, it provides a wonderful medicinal food source for folks to enjoy. </div>
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Fall is the best time to plant Horseradish plants. Look for a root in the organic section of your local grocer or at the farmers market that has a bit of green on the crown. Plant the root with the crown up it in a moist but not wet area and wait till next fall to harvest some of this wonderful plant.<br />
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(You guessed it, I am getting ready to make some things with Horseradish!)</div>
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<b style="text-align: center;">DISCLAIMER: Please note that I am not a doctor nor am I recommending any herbs or plants for medical or health </b><b style="text-align: center;">purposes. The information contained herein is given as educational purposes only and should not be considered as or a recommendation of any particular medical or health treatment. Always check with your health professional before using any herb or plant as a treatment or health treatment.</b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-54598854110085111302015-09-28T12:18:00.000-04:002015-09-28T21:41:08.042-04:00<h2 style="text-align: center;">
Our Storage Solution for Organizing and </h2>
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Storing Herbs & Spices</h2>
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At our last home, like most folks, I stored my herbs and spices in a cupboard by the stove. The problems I had with doing that was:</div>
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1. Difficult to find the spice or herb I needed.</div>
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2. The cabinet was too small and "overfilled".</div>
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3. Constantly had move jars and re-arrange.</div>
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4. The cabinet was too close to the stove. </div>
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(Herbs and spices should be stored in a cool, dry and dark area.)</div>
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5. The cabinet was difficult to keep organized.</div>
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I purchased a lot of items I thought would help improve my dilemma like those stepped spice storage shelfs. While they worked for the small jars, they did not fit the large jars so I made my own "stepped" spice rack for the cupboard that really did nothing more than lift the containers up but still forced me remove the jars and stepped plastic shelves to get to the spice jars behind them!<br />
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That absolutely drove me crazy. I was so limited on storage and cabinet space, I did not have much choice. When we decided to build the new homestead, I made a detailed list of things the new house had to accommodate in a more "user friendly" manner. Spice storage was on that list!</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB54WtJ5N3AEelb8IJARJEEBX4oUn21_UNHhnYy-KfpSmPJT3-7h4vxRzFNKufSru8s3kPWe-Pumkk6A1NghxTFijx_DGwuvgA7N51CE-lnWkDB0RcIAEYF5lD7dFSXDjy9AE858E7y7KV/s1600/IMG_2758.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjB54WtJ5N3AEelb8IJARJEEBX4oUn21_UNHhnYy-KfpSmPJT3-7h4vxRzFNKufSru8s3kPWe-Pumkk6A1NghxTFijx_DGwuvgA7N51CE-lnWkDB0RcIAEYF5lD7dFSXDjy9AE858E7y7KV/s320/IMG_2758.JPG" width="240" /></a></div>
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<b>Here is my solution to my Spice & Herb Storage Issue: </b><br />
<b>We built and added this spice storage rack inside one of my new pantry doors - </b><br />
<b>What an improvement! </b></div>
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<b>I organized the herbs and spices by color instead of alphabetically. </b></div>
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<b>I just find it easier to find them this way.</b></div>
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<b>Spices and herbs I rarely use, I keep on the bottom tiers.</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0Mq201PWb7N2ikT9h1A699mnTu3urX3MHH5XJvb-whIAMem27DOYn7Zy61B6O1oal8zL1GX1XSKjojtZF1NI0gD1i2PenUeOts7bdmkhzkj6ue9Wkn2jS-XNz3zjABf4zFZFodHqapgs/s1600/IMG_2760.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhd0Mq201PWb7N2ikT9h1A699mnTu3urX3MHH5XJvb-whIAMem27DOYn7Zy61B6O1oal8zL1GX1XSKjojtZF1NI0gD1i2PenUeOts7bdmkhzkj6ue9Wkn2jS-XNz3zjABf4zFZFodHqapgs/s320/IMG_2760.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b>Here is a close up of the spice shelf that we attached to a stain grade piece of </b></div>
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<b>plywood which is glued to the plywood and then screwed from behind & then</b></div>
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<b>screwed securely into the pantry door. </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKoa6NTLGTknWUT0hySygsZ2nfZMbbuVurWArlGiag1Y8RTPU1nzfaVOZtjp01GGeSA6f4iMpn802VemhZknIev0LwZcZEtuifF-GppWsFOIyV-lFLF3g5f6c7W-_3Y3n8LLr3ZwL_Yunl/s1600/IMG_2759.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKoa6NTLGTknWUT0hySygsZ2nfZMbbuVurWArlGiag1Y8RTPU1nzfaVOZtjp01GGeSA6f4iMpn802VemhZknIev0LwZcZEtuifF-GppWsFOIyV-lFLF3g5f6c7W-_3Y3n8LLr3ZwL_Yunl/s320/IMG_2759.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<b> For the spice jars, I wanted everything to match, so I purchased these </b></div>
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<b>wonderful Weck Jars to store my spices and herbs in. They fit beautifully without</b></div>
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<b>worry they could fall out.</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>On our pantry door, we measured the space inside the door handle </b></div>
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<b>and from where I wanted the top and bottom of the spice rack and cut the plywood to those </b><br />
<b>dimensions.</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>We bought the spice shelves from IKEA </b></div>
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<b>(Here is the link to them: <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40070185/" target="_blank">IKEA Spice Shelf</a> )</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>We put the spice shelves together, wood glued and screwed them to the plywood, </b></div>
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<b>stained the plywood and spice shelves and after they were dry,</b></div>
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<b>we screwed them to the inside of the pantry door.</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Having my herbs and spices finally organized and easily accessible has really</b></div>
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<b>made meal making so much more enjoyable - I actually know what I am low on and I</b></div>
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<b>know which ones need to be replaced. </b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b>Organizing the spices have really increased the time </b><br />
<b>spent on getting dinner on the table!</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>Do you have this same kind of issue with your spice storage? </b></div>
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<b>If so, this may be a solution that could work for you!</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b>As Always,</b></div>
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<b>Thank you for your support &</b></div>
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<b>for</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Stopping By!</b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Lori</span></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><span style="font-family: Georgia, Times New Roman, serif;">Back to Basics Gal</span></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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<b><br /></b></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-12635601609427812015-09-28T10:14:00.003-04:002015-09-28T10:18:15.902-04:00CONTEST ALERT FOR $1000 WORTH OF FREE AMMO!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtuLyt-N5HH-qZ-C0RRAEjGvoDlEpff0cMBAztVEP_PWRspJsqhR-pHjktA0y4tzc4W9DRXubwgo7Y-jv1iZUWPwum4mfms7CH13D9k1WxC6zO4i4XODBwg2rMPksfvzRbjp7BwAwbVd5/s1600/IMG_2757.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwtuLyt-N5HH-qZ-C0RRAEjGvoDlEpff0cMBAztVEP_PWRspJsqhR-pHjktA0y4tzc4W9DRXubwgo7Y-jv1iZUWPwum4mfms7CH13D9k1WxC6zO4i4XODBwg2rMPksfvzRbjp7BwAwbVd5/s320/IMG_2757.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
US CONCEALED CARRY ASSOCIATION </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
IS HAVING A DRAWING FOR</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
5 LUCKY FOLKS TO GET </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
$1,000 WORTH OF FREE AMMO!</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
HERE IS THE LINK TO THE CONTEST ENTRY FORM:</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<a href="https://www.usconcealedcarry.com/FreeAmmoGiveaway/5000rds/index.asp?id=Aug15_LG&sid=PersonalLiberty_2" target="_blank"><b>US CCA AMMO ENTRY FORM</b></a></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
GOOD LUCK!</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-17068895504214293792015-09-26T11:27:00.005-04:002015-09-27T12:45:55.223-04:00Food Preservation 2015 Book Giveaway!<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
</div>
<h2 style="text-align: center;">
DIRECTIONS ON HOW TO ENTER</h2>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>the Food Preservation 2015 END OF SUMMER Book Giveaway!</b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSZwrDnnjhLHdUdWJGPhWAnvJ9BtqTY00mjZfVbJ15wLXXYI_BoMYXGnK_xMcZUoR7fWxYLMSCEeiHD4271QlxX6EieVieyg3BxKOmTrKPKgT7NPD5voNtOEM7p_AyZ4OWB8JfWgAx4sN/s1600/IMG_2744.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSSZwrDnnjhLHdUdWJGPhWAnvJ9BtqTY00mjZfVbJ15wLXXYI_BoMYXGnK_xMcZUoR7fWxYLMSCEeiHD4271QlxX6EieVieyg3BxKOmTrKPKgT7NPD5voNtOEM7p_AyZ4OWB8JfWgAx4sN/s320/IMG_2744.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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It's a little late in the season but I guess it's better late than never as the old saying goes. We are still trying to get settled so things like the blog and Youtube have been few and far between. I would love to be able to give each and every sub a prize but alas, that is not a possibility! I am trying to make this as simple as possible to keep track of folks who want to enter so below I am listing what I need you to do to have your name drawn....<br />
<br />
<br />
1. You must be a subscriber to my YouTube Channel.<br />
2. The drawing is only open to residents of the USA. (Sorry but shipping out of country is not in my meager budget at this time!)<br />
3. Please,<b> ONE</b> <b>entry per person</b> so more folks will have a chance. (Choose the one book you would want the most); They are all great books!<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Book #1 - PUT EM' UP FRUIT </b></div>
<b></b><br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1Gcg4AqqfmiG7VEMxQNOorsXrwhUrvyOgZieYEPuatG85HRrY6A6P6C82wF3UnUTjEVAl1H-brnCk0I2atUhCPzl5GCrjnFwnrYgVqFjC00g1JZqmVN4Ev38m_PJih33MGM0GeIPxnv6/s1600/IMG_2741.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd1Gcg4AqqfmiG7VEMxQNOorsXrwhUrvyOgZieYEPuatG85HRrY6A6P6C82wF3UnUTjEVAl1H-brnCk0I2atUhCPzl5GCrjnFwnrYgVqFjC00g1JZqmVN4Ev38m_PJih33MGM0GeIPxnv6/s320/IMG_2741.JPG" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b>
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</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b> Book #2 - CAN IT! </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iDRbUuTjhBlhAHsOzTlRYz-hPqxOclKASp1eDVTfjPMo1v_3ZSZ7s7wJgSYWWCfTxCmgf1y7Oj2z63XDMwwhRZG3rqhTLBTWHWvj0L4Gp9n8Xl9k4wrWRryORBBCt_TLHqPaVDtFRl2b/s1600/IMG_2740.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9iDRbUuTjhBlhAHsOzTlRYz-hPqxOclKASp1eDVTfjPMo1v_3ZSZ7s7wJgSYWWCfTxCmgf1y7Oj2z63XDMwwhRZG3rqhTLBTWHWvj0L4Gp9n8Xl9k4wrWRryORBBCt_TLHqPaVDtFRl2b/s320/IMG_2740.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
</b><br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Book #3 - GROW. COOK. PRESERVE.</b></div>
<b></b><br />
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<b><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9meAP581q7IX3rwPNNnEpV-Z3zYXvpnm1HbS4ImtYRsziXB_xjOs7bJkjbvN_nOUfebFfhKBfybU301oEz-jf_Ct3PZY6HwmwVwvhRr5qlo2SPJVsr6BVUv3wr7lhF2rlQorb8cfgVoO/s1600/IMG_2742.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQ9meAP581q7IX3rwPNNnEpV-Z3zYXvpnm1HbS4ImtYRsziXB_xjOs7bJkjbvN_nOUfebFfhKBfybU301oEz-jf_Ct3PZY6HwmwVwvhRr5qlo2SPJVsr6BVUv3wr7lhF2rlQorb8cfgVoO/s320/IMG_2742.JPG" width="320" /></a></b></div>
<b>
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<b> Book #4 - The Art of Preserving </b></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFdlnhEHQj3pDpgCdF4uz7HwdD4BBmiEGBQnZtv9zcx6ch0-z-4LOYfy7RRN0YLz-UFFQApVlbWKDtR9UdRo7qQbBSAQ-MNe-4sjudWR146QYICo2aiF3xBj1CeglRW6iI4LzreD7k-Lr/s1600/IMG_2743.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjKFdlnhEHQj3pDpgCdF4uz7HwdD4BBmiEGBQnZtv9zcx6ch0-z-4LOYfy7RRN0YLz-UFFQApVlbWKDtR9UdRo7qQbBSAQ-MNe-4sjudWR146QYICo2aiF3xBj1CeglRW6iI4LzreD7k-Lr/s320/IMG_2743.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
</b><br />
4. Entries will be accepted starting today, September 26th, 2015 and <b>up until October 21st, 2015 at midnight.</b> Sorry, entries received after that date will not be entered. <br />
5. You must enter here on my blog, <b>Back to Basics & Homespun News</b>, Simply include your <b>YouTube Name</b> and the <b>number</b> (1 through 4 above) for the one book you would like to be put in the drawing for - Remember, one entry only per person! Duplicate entries will not be honored.<br />
6. The winner(s) will be drawn sometime during the week of Halloween (October 25th through October 31st, 2015) - This should allow you enough time to see the contest and get your entry in.<br />
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(This timeframe will also allow me enough time to check the entries and get them ready for the drawing!)</div>
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<br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><u>IF YOUR NAME IS DRAWN:</u></b></div>
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I WILL ANNOUNCE IT ON THE YOUTUBE DRAWING VIDEO. </div>
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AT THAT TIME, I WILL ASK YOU TO PROVIDE ME WITH YOUR MAILING ADDRESS, (no post office boxes please, I don't think tracking will work with PO Boxes) and your EMAIL ADDRESS.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
(PLEASE, <b><u>DO NOT</u> PUT THAT INFORMATION ON YOUR ENTRY!)</b><br />
<b><br /></b>
<b><u>PLEASE NOTE:</u> <i>Your privacy is important to me. The information you provide </i></b><br />
<b><i>will only be used to send you the book you won and your email used to send you </i></b><br />
<b><i>information pertaining to this drawing. </i></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>If I DO NOT RECEIVE THE INFORMATION FROM THE WINNER WITHIN </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>3 DAYS of THE DRAWING VIDEO, THE PRIZE WILL BE FORFEITED &</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>ANOTHER DRAWING WILL BE TAKEN. </b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
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I hate sounding so HARSH but holding a drawing is a lot of work and I want the steps clearly stated so everyone has an opportunity to enter & everyone is clear on the rules.</div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Thank you so much for your support. It is appreciated more than you could possibly know!</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Best of Luck to All.</b></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>As Always, Thanks so Much for Stopping By!</b></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-87499859647723843152015-09-05T17:31:00.001-04:002015-09-07T05:31:42.195-04:00Are You Eating Real Cinnamon?<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
While trying to find some <b>Ceylon Cinnamon</b> sticks online, I happened upon some health related information I thought needed to be shared. Here is what I found:</div>
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<div style="text-align: center;">
<b>Who knew there is only one "true" or "real" cinnamon? </b></div>
<br />
I had been buying <b>Ceylon Cinnamon</b> simply because I preferred the more delicate taste to that of the <i>Saigon Cinnamon</i> I had purchased. I noticed there was a slightly higher price for <b>Ceylon Cinnamon </b>which I thought was because it must have been more expensive to harvest, maybe it was more difficult to harvest or something along those lines. There is a difference in the taste between cinnamons being sold on the market. I found the Saigon Cinnamon leaves an aftertaste and is a little bitter tasting. I did not know any information about the health risks between the different "cinnamons" on the market.<br />
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All types of cinnamon share certain characteristics such as they are antimicrobial, inhibit the growth of fungi and yeast, and help regulate blood sugars. Where the huge difference is from a health standpoint is the amount of Coumarin they have.<br />
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"True" or "Real" Cinnamon is called <b>Ceylon Cinnamon</b> which is grown in Sri Lanka and is sourced from the plant <i>Cinnamomum Zeylanicum</i>. <b>Ceylon Cinnamon</b> has a sweet, very delicate, milder smell, offers a brighter, almost citrusy taste. It does not have a bitter after taste.<br />
<i>Saigon</i> and <i>Cassia Cinnamon</i> offer a stronger, pungent, hotter taste and a stronger, bolder scent than <b>Ceylon Cinnamon.</b><br />
<br />
The most common type of spice we find here in the United States and in Asia being sold as cinnamon is either <i>Cassia</i>, which is also known as <i>Chinese Cinnamon</i> and <i>Saigon Cinnamon</i>. <i>Cassia</i> comes from a plant called <i>Cinnamomum Cassia </i>or <i>Cinnamon Aromaticum</i>, a totally different plant than true cinnamon comes from. Likewise, <i>Saigon Cinnamon</i> comes from an evergreen tree in the genius <i>Cinnamomum</i> which is indigenous to Asia. Both of these types of "cinnamon" have a high amount of Coumarin which has strong blood-thinning properties and can cause liver and kidney damage over prolonged use.<br />
<br />
A published study by the Journal of Agricultural and Food Chemistry tested cinnamon commercially available in the United States which found "Substantial Amounts" of the naturally occurring organic compound Coumarin which can cause liver damage if consumed in excess. Coumarin is found naturally in many edible plants like strawberries, apricots, cherries, and black currents, Coumarin was banned as a food additive in the United States in 1954. This same study found only trace amounts of Coumarin in <b>Ceylon Cinnamon</b>.<br />
<br />
European health agencies have taken steps to warn their population of the dangers of consuming excessive amounts of Cassia Cinnamon due to its Coumarin content.<br />
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According to the German Federal Institute for Risk Assessment, 1 Kg of <i>Cassia Cinnamon</i> Powder contains 2.1 to 4.4 g of coumarin. Based upon the weight, the report concluded that one teaspoon of Cassia Cinnamon contains anywhere from 5.8 to 12.1 mg of coumarin which is above the tolerable daily intake level - the report cautions against high daily intakes of foods containing coumarin and specifically states that <b>Ceylon Cinnamon</b> contains "hardly any" coumarin.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFdhA8Vn189vCI5vZLxAPS9HUrqmWiQ-X90lriNp-OsSnvjylq3waxDeIm5FRetS2Y7f-ag3ZyW4QtNgP9BY9FXzPZyQqZYuRn1ukMBlylGbXAxbV3O89w-QHp-1cqhJOsulRFKyHUzsG/s1600/IMG_2614.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="259" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvFdhA8Vn189vCI5vZLxAPS9HUrqmWiQ-X90lriNp-OsSnvjylq3waxDeIm5FRetS2Y7f-ag3ZyW4QtNgP9BY9FXzPZyQqZYuRn1ukMBlylGbXAxbV3O89w-QHp-1cqhJOsulRFKyHUzsG/s320/IMG_2614.JPG" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ceylon Cinnamon on left</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<b>Ceylon Cinnamon</b> is highly valued as a culinary and medicinal spice and is also more expensive than other cinnamon being sold such as <i>Cassia/Chinese Cinnamon</i> and <i>Saigon Cinnamon.</i> <b>Ceylon Cinnamon</b> sticks are lighter, tannish in color, have numerous layers in the sticks, are easily broken up and easily ground into powder. <i>Cassia</i> and <i>Saigon Cinnamon </i>sticks are reddish brown, have thicker and fewer layers, and are very difficult to grind up even with a blender or chopper. <br />
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You can find in some grocery stores, at some health food stores and of course, online. I purchase my <b>Ceylon Cinnamon</b> in sticks and grind them as needed.<br />
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I hope you found this information useful. As Always, Thanks for stopping by!<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-66269250909635679262013-08-07T06:05:00.000-04:002013-08-07T06:14:38.902-04:00My Laundry List... Every year, one of my sisters hosts the other 7 sisters for a week end that we refer to as "Sisters Weekend". Everyone comes in town to spend 3 days filled with food, gifts, fun and laughter. It has become a tradition to bring some kind of gift, usually homemade, for the other girls. <br />
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As a couple of examples, one of my sisters enjoys sewing; she enjoys making quilts so she will make things like neat fabric bowls, or beautiful quilted pot holders. Another sister seeks out something unusual yet useful. She is very thoughtful with her gifts and goes over the top in finding the perfect wrapping for the gift. Another sister loves ceramics so she spends the winter months making every one a special item like a snowman tower for Christmas or a Platter for Easter - it is always something thoughtful as well. You get the idea. Anyway, I find it a challenge to figure out something creative and fun to give yet useful while not spending a fortune. <br />
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This last year, my sisters received what I called a "Laundry Stain Basket". Below is a picture of one of those baskets before I had filled the containers. I never thought to take a photograph of the finished baskets but this will give you an idea of what they looked like anyway.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvlwviFQxcyCfFC8eNkjmnXSP1UFjvnAN7Y1P_E6LBHLXlxo_mL2rc_Nr_q8uPFjlZJfLULQJBPLoC9v4pjW9IjryeQxo3I3ro0ORuYU9_D_w4LSbf5hWz1gc-62Yp911Czk5KouTfLD5/s1600/baskets+4+sisters+weekend+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjDvlwviFQxcyCfFC8eNkjmnXSP1UFjvnAN7Y1P_E6LBHLXlxo_mL2rc_Nr_q8uPFjlZJfLULQJBPLoC9v4pjW9IjryeQxo3I3ro0ORuYU9_D_w4LSbf5hWz1gc-62Yp911Czk5KouTfLD5/s320/baskets+4+sisters+weekend+003.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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I included a bar of Felznaptha Soap, a bar of Zote Laundry Soap, a bottle of Peroxide, and a couple of spray bottles. I filled some containers with Washing Soda, Baking Soda, a small bottle of white vinegar and Borax. I included a couple of funnels, a couple of soft bristle brushes, a sponge, a scrubbie, a measure cup, the recipes for homemade laundry soap and I made a Natural Stain Chart and laminated it for them. I found the cute miniature style laundry baskets at the dollar store as well as a couple of containers I used. They looked really cool.</div>
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Everyone seemed to like the basket filled with what I felt were useful items that would be useful to them. </div>
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If you would like a copy of the stain guide, just PM me on YouTube and I will send you a copy. </div>
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(I could not find any way to include it here!)</div>
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As always, thank you for stopping by!</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-39112736423511253332013-06-11T00:02:00.001-04:002013-06-11T10:25:17.624-04:00<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Avoiding Boredom with Backyard Chickens...</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi53eVTf2mipfA7fs52Xte-PzTtnSDCtxBd0NKBIXdDP1EUHWW6sRy2i1QGmpPOZ2KPJEONcT8DHuWFs54uY59EzOhWTTn18cXvRJlA0e_yhMRkODoDXV2of81LcW9Djt9Dl7v45IELj0Kd/s1600/DSCN0435.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi53eVTf2mipfA7fs52Xte-PzTtnSDCtxBd0NKBIXdDP1EUHWW6sRy2i1QGmpPOZ2KPJEONcT8DHuWFs54uY59EzOhWTTn18cXvRJlA0e_yhMRkODoDXV2of81LcW9Djt9Dl7v45IELj0Kd/s200/DSCN0435.JPG" width="200" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Alfalfa Feeder (AKA Suit Holder)</td></tr>
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Today the rain just would not stop! It was pouring down rain - thundering, lightening, and the yard was filled with puddles. I hated leaving the girls cooped up, but I do during inclement weather. <br />
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I take a few treats out to them through out the day to keep them busy like cabbage, some watermelon, cherries, apple slices, strawberries, some veggies, some earthworms, a few meal worms or a few greens. They get plenty to eat - I worry about boredom. I am concerned if they get bored, they will start pecking at each other and fighting - I am trying to avoid that issue. I have made a few "Chicken Toys" for the girls to keep them occupied - they actually work I think! Anyway, I change them out so they won't get used to them. (The ones I have filled with scratch grains, I change what grains I put in it for them - its ever-changing!)<br />
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Lately, I have read some people give their chickens a bale of alfalfa to pick at and it keeps them busy. I liked the idea but I use straw over the sand to make cleaning easier. I like the straw for the compost pile - I did not want to encourage eating poo-covered bedding. I decided I would just buy a small hay feeder and hang it inside the pen - problem solved. It would also give them something to peck at without having to get it off the water-soaked ground.<br />
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Since the girls were penned up today, I went to the feed store today to get the alfalfa and holder. I bought a bale of alfalfa but the hay feeder was just too much money I thought for a couple of pieces of wire.<br />
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After leaving the feed store, I went to Tractor Supply. There I found a large suit feeder; I think it is actually for feeding squirrels - it was less than $5.00 - I could make that work.<br />
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I got home, filled it with alfalfa and hung it inside the pen. I video taped the chickens reactions. As always, anytime something is added that is new, the girls talk about it first, then the big girl approaches, checks it out, and once she is comfortable, the others come up to check it out. <br />
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Adding the suit feeder as a hay feeder kept them busy for quite awhile this afternoon. I will keep it as part of their feeding regimen they liked it so well. I will also be able to fill it with other goodies and treats. This idea is a keeper!<br />
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Note: I ended up screwing it to the divider of the pen and attaching it with a metal bracket so it is securely hung. The chickens managed to pull it down so I had to re-secure it!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-35135179221379828222013-06-08T08:56:00.000-04:002013-06-08T08:56:01.356-04:00Old Time Golden Syrup (A Good Honey Substitute!)<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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This recipe is pretty simple to make but it does require about 45 minutes to make, a good gram scale, an accurate candy thermometer and a heavy-bottom stainless steel pan. Note: You cannot make substitutions with this recipe!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPoINNFv0_gQMpQuCjahTdyf5TLzRqqw6ze_8d2ajdfF_BRFhuOJ63GBNuwvL8fSn8didrvgBd8tFHFBIMSHBwtIor-da66uL2cXhapODIRLTFEYvKft5nUm633gvvq_OhA_UdMBA6EZtY/s1600/2013-06-07+01.40.14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgPoINNFv0_gQMpQuCjahTdyf5TLzRqqw6ze_8d2ajdfF_BRFhuOJ63GBNuwvL8fSn8didrvgBd8tFHFBIMSHBwtIor-da66uL2cXhapODIRLTFEYvKft5nUm633gvvq_OhA_UdMBA6EZtY/s200/2013-06-07+01.40.14.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<strong><u>For this recipe, you will need:</u></strong><br />
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<strong>800 grams of white granulated sugar 290 grams of filtered water</strong><br />
<strong>2 or 3 organic lemons (You need 6 Tablespoons of squeezed lemon juice) Wash skins well. </strong><br />
<strong>Quarter the lemons and Squeeze through a sieve to get 6 tablespoons of juice.) </strong><br />
<strong>2 tablespoons of white vinegar</strong><br />
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<strong>You'll also need 1/4 teaspoon of Baking Soda mixed with 2 tablespoons of water. Set this aside until the end!</strong><br />
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Place pan with candy thermometer on the stove and add water and sugar only to the pan. Bring water and sugar to a boil stirring constantly until dissolved. Once dissolved, turn heat down to medium high heat and add lemon juice, quartered lemons, and the vinegar. Stir occasionally so it doesn't burn. The mixture subtly starts turning a beautiful honey color as it reaches temperature. Keep cooking until the mixture reaches EXACTLY 226 degree Fahrenheit or 108 degree Celsius. (The mixture will be extremely HOT, be careful!) Once to temperature, take off heat and stir in the 1/4 teaspoon of baking soda mixed with 2 tablespoons of water; make sure you incorporate it well. Bubbles will be on the surface of the mixture but once it cools, they will dissipate. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvC1AE68ao8SQgoCt1iW5hV2Rz-VBzWTK2bM3gsxINNKF2Zxi37aGlGeiX9yNISvWq_7xWC8SpudEaiwZbYUYwPFkgirf4N2JlGeV9NTdmt1m8iQ-ZYPxgM4iAoy8Sa9WID-hTN5Pdv2w8/s1600/2013-06-07+02.26.43.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvC1AE68ao8SQgoCt1iW5hV2Rz-VBzWTK2bM3gsxINNKF2Zxi37aGlGeiX9yNISvWq_7xWC8SpudEaiwZbYUYwPFkgirf4N2JlGeV9NTdmt1m8iQ-ZYPxgM4iAoy8Sa9WID-hTN5Pdv2w8/s200/2013-06-07+02.26.43.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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Once cooled, place in jars and keep in refrigerator. This syrup keeps refrigerated for about 2 months.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWcyIR7fd5GSjjGanx_frDx9fUfR0mGk0AXxwHE0dBFJCoYMogYjL-agkAgYNNFDiawpBYUAaMK9aBaqyRgiTCfWpd1NvDl_8SPDAmqjzhXFPqUT-yZJnr0MkwOGlBGpopBK4lmfA99um/s1600/2013-06-07+02.35.56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="150" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUWcyIR7fd5GSjjGanx_frDx9fUfR0mGk0AXxwHE0dBFJCoYMogYjL-agkAgYNNFDiawpBYUAaMK9aBaqyRgiTCfWpd1NvDl_8SPDAmqjzhXFPqUT-yZJnr0MkwOGlBGpopBK4lmfA99um/s200/2013-06-07+02.35.56.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
I'd love to hear how you use your Golden Syrup. I will be posting here how I use mine as a substitute for honey in different recipes. <br />
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Thanks for stopping by!<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-85705559244424912562013-06-07T11:22:00.002-04:002013-06-07T11:22:20.712-04:00How to Make Depression Era Malted Milk Powder<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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I wanted to add a few additional notes on how to make Malted Milk Powder and its uses. In order to clear up any confusion on what kind of barley to use. You need to use "whole barley"; you need to make sure the barley has not been processed and is still in its "husk" - it would be able to be sprouted and planted; I usually call it "whole barley" or "seed barley" when trying to locate it. (It looks similar to wheat berries or wheat seed you use to sprout wheat grass.)<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwWJ05xdAKSHMZMPH4yTbKJJ76bqiVP1nCZfDl2e1kPsa9edhKkiXuF0VhV0LQy4c4Hw6oxzneISYuW204kwJooAdISjCQgJ9qtkesRbUzdEZ_QzKXdgCRzE-OqzbDPhtm4OjL3OL8-FUH/s1600/DSCN0350.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjwWJ05xdAKSHMZMPH4yTbKJJ76bqiVP1nCZfDl2e1kPsa9edhKkiXuF0VhV0LQy4c4Hw6oxzneISYuW204kwJooAdISjCQgJ9qtkesRbUzdEZ_QzKXdgCRzE-OqzbDPhtm4OjL3OL8-FUH/s320/DSCN0350.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here is a photograph of the barley seed soaking (in background with coffee filter on jar) and the whole seed to the right of the photograph.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYMZmGPHoyvSrvF0ATwt9W08lOXr7iFF118LpM2GRj6rd8m_U0rXWwDYWNOfGKhLYo_oC4oEakJooTYS7fYkQeDTjt2E3sKcoFUk7ko-ZAUvqWbrWJgA46VDCxdkgxDEMzsqF-nPzJEX1/s1600/DSCN0360.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUYMZmGPHoyvSrvF0ATwt9W08lOXr7iFF118LpM2GRj6rd8m_U0rXWwDYWNOfGKhLYo_oC4oEakJooTYS7fYkQeDTjt2E3sKcoFUk7ko-ZAUvqWbrWJgA46VDCxdkgxDEMzsqF-nPzJEX1/s320/DSCN0360.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtHjFJTRZWly2OKTSfIPEcApsKY_crl_-7tmkilhBa7sYyvENxs5S7V_TVH62yj52_PPIjdrBk_ZYDUtKbsEohpYcvyss6qE5Bm-Q6fTKxVTF4_-lO02oK9z_DPF9NUvCUrvJvkCRXRi0/s1600/DSCN0361.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhvtHjFJTRZWly2OKTSfIPEcApsKY_crl_-7tmkilhBa7sYyvENxs5S7V_TVH62yj52_PPIjdrBk_ZYDUtKbsEohpYcvyss6qE5Bm-Q6fTKxVTF4_-lO02oK9z_DPF9NUvCUrvJvkCRXRi0/s320/DSCN0361.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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Here you can see in the above photographs the seed after a "rinse" being put back into the jar and the other 2 photographs show the "barley seeds" and how they actually release bubbles while they are soaking. They are very active and smell really good while they soak. (Remember to keep them covered with a paper towel or a coffee filter to keep bugs and dust out of them.)<br />
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I soak anywhere from 1 to 2 cups of barley seeds at a time in a quart mason jar. You need to rinse them while soaking in the morning and then again in the evening. I always use my reverse osmosis water which is about the same as filtered water. (I would not use city water with the fluoride & chlorine additives.) They need to soak for 2 days; on the 3rd day, rinse them again and place in the dehydrator at about 115 - 120 degrees or in an oven at the lowest temperature possible - be sure to stir them around and do not let them burn. You just want to dry them out to make them into a "flour" or "powder".<br />
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Once you take them out of the dehydrator or oven, (my dehydrator dried them overnight), I place mine in my Vita Mixer to turn into "flour". You can try using a spice grinder, flour mill, food processor or even a blender. The barley seed is not a very hard grain.</div>
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Once you "flour" the barley seed, I put about half of the barley, or about 6 tablespoons of "flour" or "powder" into a bowl.</div>
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I put the rest of the "powder" in a marked mason jar without adding anything to use later. </div>
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To the bowl I then add about 1/4 cup of granulated sugar* (you can use organic, raw or cane sugar) to the "flour" and then I add 2 cups of powdered milk. </div>
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(* Sugar is to taste. You can add less or you can add more.)</div>
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I like my malted milk made with low-fat milk - I use a couple of tablespoons to a glass. You can mix the malted milk powder into water if you prefer, add it to ice cream with a little milk for a malted shake, add it to a smoothie or even add it into your yogurt - it is very versatile! </div>
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<strong><u>Homemade Pancakes made from your homemade mix (recipe follows)</u></strong><br />
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<td class="r1">1 c. pancake mix (see below)</td>
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<td class="r1">1 large egg</td>
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<td class="r1">1 c. milk</td>
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<td class="r1">1 tablespoon of butter</td>
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* Optional - 1 tsp Cinnamon <br />
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<strong><u>
Directions:</u></strong><br />
<br />
<div class="rec-right">
1. In a large pan, melt the butter so that it covers the bottom of the entire pan.<br />2. Once the pan is heated, put about a 1/3 c. of the
batter into the pan and let it cook until you see bubbles on the surface.
<br />
Once you see bubbles, the pancake is ready to flip over; allow the pancake to cook on the other side until it is
golden brown. Serve hot with maple syrup!<br />
<br />
<u><strong>HOMEMADE MALTED PANCAKE MIX</strong></u> (Makes a nice homemade gift too!)<br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
Mix the following in a large mixing bowl until thoroughly mixed together:<br />
<br />
4 cups flour<br />
1/2 cup Malted Barley Powder Drink Mix (Homemade or Carnation Malted Milk)<br />
3 Tbsp Baking Powder<br />
2 Tsp Baking Soda<br />
2 Tbsp Granulated Sugar<br />
1 Tsp Salt<br />
<br />
Store the Malted Pancake Mix in an airtight container.<br />
<br />
I hope you enjoyed this & it helps to clear up any confusion! Please comment, subscribe & visit often! :-)<br />
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-53731492996554291902013-05-05T15:18:00.001-04:002013-05-05T21:51:26.513-04:00Austerlorps & Ida Browns - My Choice of Chickens This year when it came down to stocking the chicken coop, I wanted to make sure we had chickens that met certain criteria. We wanted the chickens for egg laying. We were not looking for meat birds and until our house is built and the new coop is built, we only have space for a few chickens.<br />
<br />
In January of this year, I began researching the breeds of chickens that were easily available around where we live that were advertised. I found a lot of people had Leghorns, Barred Rocks, Rhode Island Reds, Buff Orpingtons and Black Jerseys plus a few Sex-Links. <br />
<br />
I wanted to know what breeds of chickens are best suited for cold climates - We aren't as cold as Alaska but Michigan does get cold! A lot of people locally put heat lamps in their coops. Personally, I do not want to worry about the chickens not being able to adjust if we had a power outage. In the area we are in, we have gone without power for as long as 6 1/2 days. I do not want to worry about having sick or frozen chickens! (More about those thoughts later.) The more I read about the breeds, the bigger my list became of the necessary traits and features the chickens we picked needed to have. <br />
<br />
<b><u>Here was my List:</u></b><br />
<ol>
<li>Cold Hardy - A Must 2. Brown Eggs 3. Medium to Large Eggs </li>
</ol>
4. No terribly "flighty" breeds 5. "Quieter" Breed of Chicken <br />
<br />
6. Not easily spotted by flying predators (We have to worry about over-head kills here! White chickens in my opinion are way to visible.)<br />
<br />
7. Good Layer 8. Does well confined (These chickens will not be free ranged)<br />
<br />
<br />
After reading and talking with a lot of area chicken keepers, I ended driving about an hour north to a farm and picked up some <b>Black Australorps and a couple of Ida Brown Chickens</b> - Both are really good layers of brown eggs, averaging 1 egg a day during their egg-laying years. Periodically I will post on our progress. So far, so good!<br />
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Black Australorps & Ida Browns</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com11tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-85678915839733893812013-05-04T06:56:00.001-04:002013-05-05T14:18:42.211-04:00Subscriber Give-Away !<object width="420" height="315"><param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/GmjsppOysls?version=3&hl=en_US"></param><param name="allowFullScreen" value="true"></param><param name="allowscriptaccess" value="always"></param><embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/GmjsppOysls?version=3&hl=en_US" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" width="420" height="315" allowscriptaccess="always" allowfullscreen="true"></embed></object>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com46tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-34839032325331248002013-04-30T01:09:00.001-04:002013-06-07T10:03:52.864-04:00How to Make Homemade Country-Style Mustard A few years ago, my sister, who is a Master Gardner, and I went to Michigan State for Garden Day which is a full day filled with classes on gardening, workshops, touring the gardens, and enjoying the day. On this particular Garden Day, one of the workshops was on growing different mustards and making mustard. Needless to say, I was hooked - Homemade is so much better than the stuff in the yellow bottle!<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSi9W_XsIVTQkgmny6-oDB1dyabYE6jFsaOwo9UKnMxhe3GODDcU9g2fjaySuiwnRCakN9oYqtlyDVt7EHydr1hnW1Q6JPZ10nzlLE8gIS3atJvNFoIkyT6nPJQxoLR8L4DK4lS909qlWh/s1600/000_0336.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgSi9W_XsIVTQkgmny6-oDB1dyabYE6jFsaOwo9UKnMxhe3GODDcU9g2fjaySuiwnRCakN9oYqtlyDVt7EHydr1hnW1Q6JPZ10nzlLE8gIS3atJvNFoIkyT6nPJQxoLR8L4DK4lS909qlWh/s320/000_0336.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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<br />
I found that part of the pleasure of making your own mustard is you can make it to suit your likes. You can make it the texture and taste that you prefer. You can even make yourself "designer" flavors if you'd like. Making mustard is so easy - It is fun to experiment with different liquids like red or white wines, champagne, sherry, beer, and even grape juice! Maybe you'd like to add some fruit puree of cranberries, apricot, or maybe a little applesauce and sweetener to the mix. <br />
<br />
If you really want to get adventurous, try some liquors - simply mix about a tablespoon of mustard powder and mix it with the liquid of your choice. You can try honey or brown sugar for a sweeter mustard. The choices are numerous. Just remember to wait about an hour before tasting and then try them again after another hour. Mustard takes a while to "develop" its flavor. Some will taste great, others, not so much. I have made some really great mustard as well as some really gross mustard - It is a lot of fun mixing and concocting different mustard profiles! <br />
<br />
You can choose to make a courser style mustard or a more refined mustard by grinding the mustard seeds in a mortar and pestle or a spice grinder or use only mustard powder for a smooth mustard - the choice is yours. Add herbs like tarragon, rosemary, or sage - get creative! Simply start with a basic recipe and then start to experiment to find the kinds of mustard concoctions you enjoy. Homemade mustards also make nice unusual gifts!<br />
<br />
Here I am making a "basic" recipe for <strong><u>Country-Style Mustard</u></strong><br />
<br />
This recipe will make about a cup of mustard. This mustard is a pungent, grainy, all-purpose mustard that is great recipe to begin with.<br />
<br />
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>2 Tablespoons coarsely ground brown mustard seeds</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>2 Tablespoons coarsely ground yellow mustard seeds </strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>1/4 cup yellow or brown mustard powder </strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>(Regular or Hot Mustard Powder - depending on your taste)</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>1/4 cup cold water (I always use filtered water)</strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>1 1/2 to 2 Tablespoons** Apple Cider Vinegar (You may substitute with white vinegar or white wine) **Note if you prefer a milder mustard, use wine, not vinegar. </strong></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong></strong><br /></div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
<strong>1 teaspoon kosher salt</strong></div>
<br />
Grind the mustard seeds to the texture you prefer. (I like my mustard grainy and thicker so my seeds are coarsely ground.) <br />
<br />
Mix the cold water into the mustard seeds, dry mustard powder. Allow mixture to set for about 10 minutes. <br />
<br />
Add vinegar or wine and salt and blend well. Store covered for at least 4 hours before serving but it is much better if you let it set overnight before serving. If you would like a more "mellow" mustard, let the mustard sit on the counter, (unrefrigerated). The longer it sits, the more mellow or mild the flavor gets. <br />
<br />
If you like, you can add turmeric for color if you prefer a more "commercial" color for your mustard. <br />
<br />
Making your own Mustard will allow you an opportunity to make some truly amazing flavor profiles. <br />
<br />
I'd love to hear about them! Enjoy.<br />
<br />
NOTE: The 3 types of mustard seeds are the black mustard seed (<i>Brassica nigra</i>), the white mustard seed (<i>Brassica alba</i>), and the
brown mustard seed (<i>Brassica juncea</i>). The Black mustard seeds give the most
pungent taste, while white mustard seeds, (which are actually more yellow in color),
are the most mild. The "white" mustard seeds and are the ones used to make American yellow mustard. The brown
mustard seeds, which are actually more dark yellow in color, have a strong pungent taste. This is the type of mustard seed used to make Dijon mustard. Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-10525530592937741562013-04-25T13:16:00.001-04:002013-04-30T09:22:53.144-04:00Making a Worm Composter that Works! (& Cheaper than Buying Online)I don't know about you but forking out over a $100.00 for a worm composter seemed like too much money to me. I did some research, watched a few videos, read a few blogs, bought & read a book and looked at a few worm compost houses for sale that ranged from $99.00 to $160.00 plus shipping. Those are some pretty expense worm condos!! Yikes - Mine cost me about $33.00 to make and about 2 hours including me stopping at the hardware store getting the materials.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Here is what I spent making my worm condo and the list of materials you'll need to make one:</u></strong><br />
<strong><u></u></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8pcWJ2zZH7SCGcDhwu6meE-MfFVZK7MSkRi_y4pSnz7H7jWg8wP88LJSPoytMkXRg1ToOuN1u_6d5km9KC95BXgjy6wRYcOFO_QQfZbFfTKyJYJ6e45_xm4cM4Zt8tmcziRNpNd03j54U/s1600/Worm+Bin+023.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8pcWJ2zZH7SCGcDhwu6meE-MfFVZK7MSkRi_y4pSnz7H7jWg8wP88LJSPoytMkXRg1ToOuN1u_6d5km9KC95BXgjy6wRYcOFO_QQfZbFfTKyJYJ6e45_xm4cM4Zt8tmcziRNpNd03j54U/s1600/Worm+Bin+023.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<br />
3 Rubber Maid Bins with Lids (<strong>don't buy the cheap plastic bins, they will crack</strong>.) Worms like darkness so don't buy the opaque or clear bins - Buy the dark blue, black or green bins. <br />
<br />
Cost of Bins/Lids about $22.00 - I bought mine at Home Depot.<br />
<br />
1 - 4" Round Soffit Vent<br />
<br />
4 - 2" Round Soffit Vent<br />
<br />
These can be found online at Home Depot or check your local hardware/roofing/contractor supply stores. (All 5 of them cost me about $9.00)<br />
<br />
1- water dispenser faucet - You can find these at water softening supply stores, Grangers and online. (I went to the Salvation Army Store and found one. It only cost me $2.00)<br />
<br />
Silicone Caulk - I had a tube already but figure about $3.00<br />
<br />
1 pair panty hose or fine mesh material (I used pair of panty hose - I thought nylon will last longer.)<br />
<br />
2 plastic cottage cheese containers - cleaned out of course. Free<br />
<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimdRK26s7WVbLN5UsT_AtpdkAZF3VF_CWkwWOWb8Q9reLYsFKDAthWI9CvUm9fXL-WrkKvVYc43oGiM708nx4WOC3vHCbnT4o5TFKXD-LAfkl-aedZ7Va5fCCZh9AlSmJxeYpJj4sNl5Pm/s1600/WorM+Bin+II+003.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimdRK26s7WVbLN5UsT_AtpdkAZF3VF_CWkwWOWb8Q9reLYsFKDAthWI9CvUm9fXL-WrkKvVYc43oGiM708nx4WOC3vHCbnT4o5TFKXD-LAfkl-aedZ7Va5fCCZh9AlSmJxeYpJj4sNl5Pm/s1600/WorM+Bin+II+003.JPG" width="240" /></a><strong><u>Tools Needed:</u></strong><br />
<strong></strong><br />
Drill with 1/4" drill bit <br />
and a *tiny drill bit <br />
<br />
1" Drill Bit (Check the size you need once you get your water dispenser faucet.)<br />
<br />
Razor Knife<br />
Scissors<br />
Magic Marker or Pencil<br />
Caulk gun <br />
rubber gloves<br />
<br />
(*I don't have a size but it is very small for air holes. You do not want worms to be able to get through them. It was the smallest one in my set - I think it's about 1/16th drill bit.)<br />
<br />
<br />
Once you have your materials, you will be amazed at how easy this is to make. <br />
<br />
<strong><u>Let's get started:</u></strong><br />
<br />
1. We will refer to this as <strong>BIN #1</strong> - Measure the water dispenser end after you remove the gasket and screw ring. Just hold the drill bit up to it to determine the size hole you will need. NOTE: It should be a 1" but it is always better to measure and be safe than sorry!<br />
<br />
2. Take <strong>Bin #1</strong> and set it onto one of the bin lids. Measure the placement of the faucet as close to the bottom of the bin as you can making sure it is not on the curve. It can be up a 1/2" or so from the bottom. Drill the hole, insert the faucet, put the gasket on and screw the nut tightly against the inside of the bin. The faucet/drain is now installed.<br />
<br />
The purpose of the faucet is to drain the "worm tea" as it settles into the bottom bin. It is easier than having to take the bins apart and drain the water so the worms don't drown and the system does not stink! <br />
<br />
<strong><u>SET BIN #1 and ONE LID ASIDE.</u></strong><br />
<br />
3. Take <strong>BIN #2</strong> - Start by drilling <strong>tiny water drainage holes</strong> (about 1/16th hole size) in the bottom of <strong>only 1</strong> of the bins. I drilled about 25 tiny drainage holes total in the bottom of the bin spaced about an inch (1" inch) apart. Use a tiny drill, about 1/16th drill bit for these holes. <br />
<br />
NOTE: We will also be adding 2 of the 2" soffit vents into this bin on either side. <br />
<br />
<strong><u>4. On one of the remaining lids:</u></strong> Take the 4" soffit vent and center it onto one of the lids. Mark it with a marker or pencil. Carefully, using the razor knife, cut out the circle along the inside of your template. Take a piece of nylon and stretch it over the bottom of the 4" vent - wrap the panty hose over the vent and snap the vent into the hole with the bulk of the panty hose outward. Trim off the excess panty hose from around the top of the vent. This photograph is showing the bottom of the vent. The purpose of the nylon is it will prevent worms escaping and it allows for air to circulate so the worms can get oxygen breathe. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAv7IqNY_9pZTUoJ-fRLz8bTA1DQ2zRKOf9gqWpa57VY5hDiaNbGJWVFSBpaY9KIm8X1fkB84R1mT7vle8PUMFV_YjsEy8fmBPm7sXZH6P4H5CdSmLLtixR513ewu-aXYCmj5_JkKy5it/s1600/Worm+Bin+029.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAv7IqNY_9pZTUoJ-fRLz8bTA1DQ2zRKOf9gqWpa57VY5hDiaNbGJWVFSBpaY9KIm8X1fkB84R1mT7vle8PUMFV_YjsEy8fmBPm7sXZH6P4H5CdSmLLtixR513ewu-aXYCmj5_JkKy5it/s1600/Worm+Bin+029.JPG" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is the top view after the excess nylon was trimmed. <br />
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<br />
5. Now we take <strong>Bins #2</strong> that we already drilled the 1/16th holes into the bottom of and add 1 of the 2" smaller round soffit vents on each side of the bin about 1/2 way up the middle of the long side of the bin. Remember to do the same thing with the nylon as you did with the lid vent. You will need to measure, mark, cut out with razor knife, add nylon around vent, cut nylon after snapping into place. <br />
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6. Do this same thing to the remaining <strong>Bin #3</strong>. Add 2 side vents with nylon cover and in this bin, use the drill and put <strong>1/4" holes into the bottom of the bin.</strong> </div>
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The larger, 1/4" holes in the bottom of this bin are for the worms to "escape" into the new bin after the second bin is full of casings and compost. These holes are larger. These holes are for the worms to migrate up into this bin. The other bin, <strong>Bin #2</strong> had the small holes for water drainage. </div>
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<strong>** Silicone Caulk Around the Vents and let dry before placing bins inside each other. Read your caulks directions to see the time frame. </strong></div>
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7. Place empty cottage cheese containers (or similar size containers) upside down in Bin #1. Set on top of one of the normal lids. (Not the one with the 4" Vent!)</div>
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8. Place Bin #2 into Bin #1. Add lid with vent on top.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUri6FIIsUpJvpUe8K0EiJm77hPwWGrtyFIAE8Wkt46jWJiXRv19V-SG-CYWRXZtSBVFEHn3l9jwZSLVOGH-2KQOUipCNEJQLHlmkTsPj7TYcEtVDMIck9yNLWQhuyLlvdySXs-Nog6Te/s1600/Worm+Bin+032.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdUri6FIIsUpJvpUe8K0EiJm77hPwWGrtyFIAE8Wkt46jWJiXRv19V-SG-CYWRXZtSBVFEHn3l9jwZSLVOGH-2KQOUipCNEJQLHlmkTsPj7TYcEtVDMIck9yNLWQhuyLlvdySXs-Nog6Te/s320/Worm+Bin+032.JPG" width="240" /></a>9. Set Bin #3 with un-vented lid on top of Bin #1 & 2 - You are now ready to install your worm bedding in preparation for your Red Wiggler Compost Worms into Bin #2. As the garbage you feed your red wigglers is converted over to worm castings and compost, it will fill the bin up and you will need to entice them to move into their new home, Bin #3 through the 1/4" holes you put in the bottom of bin #3. You simply add the bedding (shredded, moistened newspaper shred, coir, and/or peat mixed with a little bit of sand and begin feeding in the new worm condo dirt - Bin #3. The worms will smell the food and move up into their new home. (It's really cool watching them break down the food in no-time! I will post more on raising and caring for Red Wigglers shortly.)<br />
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I hope these directions are written so you can easily make a worm composter for yourself. I will be posting another blog and a video on preparing the bedding and adding red worms shortly! I hope you found this useful. <br />
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Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions. Be sure to comment, subscribe to my blog and YouTube Channel - visit me on YouTube - Thanks for Stopping By!<br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com2Michigan, USA44.3148443 -85.60236429999997732.8235518 -106.25666129999998 55.8061368 -64.948067299999977tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-19618520024366385872013-04-21T12:14:00.003-04:002013-04-30T09:34:00.095-04:00How to Meet the Calcium Needs for Chickens (and Compost Worms!)Chicken and Worms Require Calcium in their diets. Here is how I provide them Calcium on the cheap! ( I know, but I could not resist!) <br />
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Did you know a chicken egg’s eggshell is a whopping 94 percent calcium carbonate! - A chicken, when suffering from a calcium deficiency will show signs first in their egg production - i.e. soft shells, malformed shells and even missing shells. Not a good thing.<br />
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Most folks supplement their chickens diet by buying and feeding limestone, oyster shells or buying expensive feed with calcium supplements added.<br />
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I choose to re-cycle egg shells to supply my chickens and compost worms their calcium. I save my egg shells and I ask family and friends to save their egg shells.<br />
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About once a month, I take the egg shells and bake them on a cookie sheet at 200 degrees and I bake them for about 20 minutes. I let them cool a bit, place them into my food processor, give them a few twirls until they break down and look like wheat bran. (You never want the chickens to know egg shells taste good or you could have trouble with them eating their eggs. Grinding or breaking them into very tiny pieces does the trick.)<br />
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While recycling my girls shells (and a few of their distant cousins!), I get to save a little money and at the same time, I am keeping my girls healthy. It's a win-win!<br />
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Even compost worms require calcium in their diet! How on earth do worms get calcium into their diet and better yet, how much do they require? I have read quite a bit on what to feed my compost worms and from what I understand, a worm dispels any abundance of calcium by "Calciferous glands that release calcium carbonate to rid the earthworm’s body of excess calcium" <br />
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Click<a href="http://www.sas.upenn.edu/~rlenet/Earthworms.html" target="_blank"> here</a> for a really neat information sheet on worms from Penn State. I am sure you'll find it very interesting!<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-38310481764311473872013-02-09T00:51:00.000-05:002013-02-09T00:55:07.438-05:00Homemade Vanilla Extract - The Good Stuff!<br />
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<span style="font-family: 'TTFF53C0A0t00'; font-size: 18.000000pt;">Making Pure Vanilla Extract
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<span style="font-family: 'TTFF53C0A0t00'; font-size: 18.000000pt;">Where does Vanilla come from?</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'TTFF53E750t00'; font-size: 10.000000pt;">Vanilla pods are the seed pods of an orchid plant. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: 'TTFF53E750t00'; font-size: 10.000000pt;">Before the plant
flowers, the pods are picked and cured until they become dark brown. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'TTFF53E750t00'; font-size: 10.000000pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: TTFF53E750t00; font-size: x-small;">This can take up to six
months. Vanilla beans are sweet and perfumery with little "seeds" inside. Some folks call it the "caviar". They have a mild, kinda woodsy, unique flavor which gives vanilla extract a complexity and depth of flavor. Who doesn't love Vanilla?</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: TTFF53E750t00; font-size: x-small;"><b><u>Ingredients:</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: TTFF53E750t00; font-size: 10pt;"><span style="font-size: 10pt;">1 quart mason jar with lid</span></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;">1 cup 80 Proof Vodka (You can also use bourbon or rum - get creative!)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;">Vanilla Beans - 3 large vanilla beans minimum (The more beans used, the better the vanilla. 3 is the absolute minimum for 1 cup of extract.)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 10pt;">Split the beans with a sharp knife, scrape soft vanilla into the mason jar and then add the beans. </span><span style="font-size: 10pt;">Pour the Vodka over the vanilla beans and give it a good shake.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: TTFF53E750t00; font-size: 10pt;">Store in a cool place for 3-6 months to allow the extraction to take place - remember to shake the extract once a week.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: TTFF53E750t00; font-size: 10pt;">You will be able to start using your extract in approximately 4-6 months - the longer the better the extract becomes.</span><br />
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<span style="font-family: 'TTFF53E750t00'; font-size: 10.000000pt;">Your vanilla will last for years – just keep topping it off with your base liquor as you use it. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'TTFF53E750t00'; font-size: 10.000000pt;"><br /></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: 'TTFF53E750t00'; font-size: 10.000000pt;">Stir or shake it </span><span style="font-family: TTFF53E750t00; font-size: 10pt;">occasionally.</span></div>
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<span style="font-family: TTFF53E750t00; font-size: 10pt;"><b><u>Storing Vanilla Bean Pods</u></b></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: TTFF53E750t00; font-size: 10pt;">Storing extra vanilla beans is easy. You just need to keep them in an airtight container at room temperature. If
stored in this manner, they should keep at least two years. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: TTFF53E750t00;"><br /></span><span style="font-family: TTFF53E750t00; font-size: 10pt;">Do not store them in the refrigerator, as they
tend to mold. </span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-38751196934651039222012-10-01T13:42:00.001-04:002013-02-07T14:29:52.609-05:00Making Easy Homemade Apple Cider Vinegar <div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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It's that time of year again! While the apple crops were ruined by the frost this year in Michigan, you can still find local apples but they are at a premium. I purchased some Honey Crisps and Granny Smith Apples from a local orchard that shipped some apples in from the west side of the state. I wanted to make sure they were not waxed apples.<br />
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This is the time of year to make apple butter, apple pies, apple crisp and stock up on homemade apple cider vinegar. I thought you'd like to see how to make the apple cider vinegar. You can use whatever amount of apple scraps to make the vinegar. The most important ingredients for successful results are patients, clean apples, sterilized utensils and jars. <br />
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1. Wash the apples very well. Note: If you purchase apples at the store, many times they have a wax coating. You will need to remove the wax coating from the apples - If at all possible, buy organic, non-waxed apples. You can also use crab apples. Experiment with different varieties and find what suits your tastes best. <br />
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2. Peel and core the apples saving the skins and cores. (Use the apple slices for a pie, apple butter, apple cake or apple crisp.) I use between 8 - 12 medium sized apples.<br />
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3. After you peel and core the apples, you need to get a large bowl, crock or jar. (Check to make sure the glaze does not contain lead glazes.) Put the peels and cores into the vessel. I use a large glass jar I use for fermenting veggies. MAKE SURE EVERYTHING IS STERILIZED. <br />
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4. Cover peels and cores with water (measure by quarts) and cover them by an inch or so of water. For every quart of water used to cover the apple scraps, you'll need 1/4 cup of sugar.<br />
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5. After measuring the sugar, mix it into the apple scraps and water until dissolved.<br />
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6. Place a plate or bowl over the apple scraps to keep submerged under the water.<br />
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I use a small white glass plate that fits perfectly inside my 5 gallon fermenting jar to keep the scraps submerged.<br />
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(I have found it is easier for me to use the 5 gallon glass jar - it is easier to sterilize and I can peek at the progress!)<br />
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7. After submerging the apple scraps below the water surface, you need to put the mixture in a dark, cool space (65 - 75 degrees) to be left undisturbed while it ferments. If you use a glass jar, be sure to keep it wrapped with a towel so that light doesn't prohibit the fermentation process. (UV light will destroy the process!) Don't cover the top, it has to breathe.<br />
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8. Cover the top of the vessel with a piece of cheese cloth so it can breathe and gas. It will also keep bugs from getting into your mixture. Secure on the vessel with a rubber band.<br />
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9. Now you wait a week! The mixture will start to bubble as it begins to ferment as it forms yeast. This usually begins within 3 -4 days. At 7 days, check your mixture. If there is any black mold that has grown, remove it with a plastic spoon (do not use metal). If you have mold forming, the mixture was not kept cool enough.<br />
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10. Strain the scraps in a colander lined with cheese cloth. Sterilize some Mason Jars (canning jars). After straining the scraps, pour the strained liquid into the sterilized canning jars leaving 1" head space and cover the top with a piece of cheese cloth and secure with either the rubber band or the screw band. ( I prefer using the rubber band because the screw bands sometime rust.)<br />
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11. Store the jars in your pantry or anywhere where it is still dark and cool for another 6 weeks. A film will start forming on the top of the liquid - This is the "Mother". There will be sediment on the bottom of the jar. You can stir it up and more "Mother" will form on the top. Saving some of the "Mother" will speed up the process the next time you make vinegar.<br />
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12. At 6 weeks, the yeast should have eaten all of the sugar which leaves you with shelf-stable vinegar! Remove the cheesecloth and replace with a sterilized lid and screw cover. Apple Cider Vinegar lasts indefinitely if kept stored in a cool dark place.<br />
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Apple Cider Vinegar that contains the "Mother" has numerous health benefits. While most apple cider vinegar in grocery stores do not contain the "Mother" - It is pasteurized and filtered which removes the health benefits. (You can find unpasteurized vinegar with "Mother" at health food stores for about $6.00 a quart or more.) Read about the amazing health benefits by <a href="http://www.ehow.com/about_5401529_braggs-apple-cider-vinegar-benefits.html" target="_blank">clicking here.</a><br />
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CLICK HERE - <a href="http://youtu.be/XrfWWA6KW7s" target="_blank">My Youtube Video on Making Vinegar</a><br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-3222861900511899608.post-44915365573143840092012-09-23T10:00:00.001-04:002012-09-23T12:25:05.540-04:00Kiwi Preserves<table cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Kiwi Preserves</td></tr>
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While out shopping, I found a great deal on Kiwi Fruit - a box containing about 16 extra large Kiwi for less than $5.00 - They were the about the size of tennis balls! <br />
I had remembered seeing a couple of recipes for Kiwi while looking through Ball's Complete Book of Home Preserving and thought I'd try one out.<br />
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I chose the Kiwi Preserves - It sounded interesting and I already had all the other ingredients; pineapple juice, lime juice, sugar and pectin.<br />
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The recipe calls for 4 Kiwi (peeled and thinly sliced)<br />
3 cups sugar<br />
3/4 cups unsweetened pineapple juice<br />
1/4 cup lime juice<br />
1 pouch liquid pectin<br />
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Add all ingredients <i>except the pectin </i>into a stainless steel pan. Bring to a rolling boil that cannot be stirred down, stirring constantly. Stir in pectin and boil hard for 1 minute. Remove from heat and skim off foam.<br />
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Ladle preserves into prepared jars leaving 1/4" head space. Remove air bubbles, wipe rim, add lid and screw cap, finger tight. Put into a hot water bath and process 10 minutes. Remove from heat, let stand 5 minutes with lid on after processing, remove from hot water bath canner and let sit 6 to 12 hours to cool. Clean and label jars; store in cool, dark place. <br />
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Of course I could not wait to taste it! The Kiwi Preserves have a tart-tangy flair yet it is sweet - reminded me of the old sweet tart candy - mouth-puckering good! I had so many Kiwi, I made a double-batch that produced 8 and 3/4 1/2 pint jars.<br />
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I have a few more Kiwi left so I may make the Kiwi Chutney next! <br />
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Happy Canning! <br />
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<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/02279648297991441604noreply@blogger.com0