October 2008 Independence Summary
Planting, Harvesting & Preserving – To date:
Canned
Strawberry Jam - 7 Jelly Jars
Grape Jelly - 7 Jelly Jars
Orange Juice Jelly - 7 Jelly Jars
Banana Jam - 7 Jelly Jars
Dill Pickles- 8 Quarts
Sauerkraut- 10 Quarts
Steak Sauce- 3 pints
Tomatoes- 5 Quarts Tomato Sauce
4 Quarts Spiced Tomato Sauce
4 Quarts Tomato Quarters
Carrot Pepper Salsa- 5 Pints
Green Tomato Hodge Podge- 3 pints, 1 Quart
Pickled Green Tomatoes- 1 pint, 1 Quart
Applesauce- 6 Pints
Apple Butter- 8 Jelly Jars
Frozen
Strawberries- 6 Quarts
Blueberries- 2 Pints
Green Beans- 3 pints
Carrots- 7 pints
Dried-
Dried Veggie Seasoning- 1 pint
Beef Jerky- 1 pint
Tomatoes- 5 Jelly Jars
Candy- Loupe - (Dried Candied Cantaloupe)
Green Peppers
Preparedness & Planning –
Reading information on how to prepare for and reduce risk of Pandemic Flu
Changed Water in our 55 Gallon Emergency Water Container
Researching Alternative Cooking methods
Managing household & reserves –
Rotating Stockpiled Foods- Eating the replenishing.
Cleaned and prepared Furnace for Winter
Keeping it Local –
Eating food from our Garden
Buying from Local Farmers and Farmers Markets
Learned New Skill or Tried Something New –
Canning Class- End of Season Harvest
My first ever, homemade from scratch Apple Pie!!
Making Applesauce and Apple Butter
Misc. & Handcrafting -
Researching and reading articles and books on survival, homesteading and back to basic skills.
Incorporating new skills, practices and methods into day to day life.
Friday, October 31, 2008
Thursday, October 30, 2008
Bidding Farewell to Zeke
Sidney police bid farewell to K-9 officerZeke dies of cancer
By Darrin Michael
The term "valor" is best defined as showing boldness or determination when facing great danger, especially in battle.
With that said, a Sidney K-9 officer who recently passed away showed nothing less during his tenure with the Sidney Police Department.
On Sunday, Zeke, a K-9 officer with the department passed away after a brief battle with cancer. He was 11 years old.
In late August, Zeke was diagnosed with Acute Lymphocytic Leukemia (ALL). His trainer, Lt. Michael Rosengarten, had taken him to Sidney veterinarian Richard N. Flinn for treatment. Unfortunately, nothing other than offering comfort could be done for the dog.
"Dr. Flinn and his staff were very helpful with Zeke's treatment," said Rosengarten. "Unfortunately, we knew that the cancer would continue to progress and would eventually get the best of him in a short period of time."
Rosengarten was Zeke's trainer since the German Shepherd arrived in May of 1999 from Von Der Haus Gill, in Wapakoneta, who had imported him from Germany.
"We trained together for six straight weeks at the kennel prior to receiving certification as a Police K-9 unit in August of '99," Rosengarten said.
And with that, Zeke officially became a member of the department.
His first criminal apprehension was of a subject that fled from a stolen car in the Chestnut Avenue area of Sidney.
One of Zeke's more memorable calls; however, was a robbery at a business in Piqua.
"The assailants had fled on foot from a pizza shop and Piqua Police had set up containment in the area and apprehended one of the assailants prior to our arrival," said Rosengarten.
"Zeke and I arrived and began a track from the last place the other assailant had been seen, several blocks from the pizza place."
Zeke was able to quickly track and find the other subject who had been hiding in some bushes along side of a house. The subject was then taken into custody.
Rosengarten added he and Zeke then went to the Piqua Police Department and found neither subject had any of the stolen property in their possession.
"I suggested we go back to the pizza shop and start a track since the both subjects had discarded the stolen property in their attempt to escape," said Rosengarten.
Zeke was able to track both suspects' path, locate the stolen property and even found the weapon used to commit the robbery. Amazingly, this was after the robbery had occurred a few hours earlier.
Aside from tracking down criminals for the department, Zeke loved to participate in public demonstrations like Safety Town and also enjoyed helping out with the D.A.R.E. tent at the Shelby County Fair each year.
"He was a very social dog and enjoyed meeting anyone who showed an interest in him," said Rosengarten.
Zeke wasn't just a member of the police force, however.
"My wife, Kim, and my two sons, Riley and Rhett, have helped with the care of Zeke over the years, especially during the final two months when he was diagnosed with leukemia," Rosengarten said.
"We have been very blessed to have had him as part of our family and he will be greatly missed."
For the other officers of the Sidney Police Department, loosing one of their own is something which is never easy.
"Zeke was a brother officer," said Sidney Police Chief Steve Wearly. "He will be greatly missed by everyone in the department."
Wearly added the department is currently in the process of putting a memorial plaque together for Zeke.
"It's something we do for all K-9 officers who have served in the department," he said. "And honoring Zeke will be no different."
FEMA- Are you Ready?
Are You Ready?
http://www.fema.gov/areyouready/index.shtm
An In-depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness
Are You Ready? An In-depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness (IS-22) is FEMA’s most comprehensive source on individual, family, and community preparedness. The guide has been revised, updated, and enhanced in August 2004 to provide the public with the most current and up-to-date disaster preparedness information available.
Are You Ready? provides a step-by-step approach to disaster preparedness by walking the reader through how to get informed about local emergency plans, how to identify hazards that affect their local area, and how to develop and maintain an emergency communications plan and disaster supplies kit. Other topics covered include evacuation, emergency public shelters, animals in disaster, and information specific to people with disabilities.
Are You Ready? also provides in-depth information on specific hazards including what to do before, during, and after each hazard type. The following hazards are covered: Floods, Tornadoes, Hurricanes, Thunderstorms and Lightning, Winter Storms and Extreme Cold, Extreme Heat, Earthquakes, Volcanoes, Landslide and Debris Flows (Mudslide), Tsunamis, Fires, Wildfires, Hazardous Materials Incidents, Household Chemical Emergencies, Nuclear Power Plant, and Terrorism (including Explosion, Biological, Chemical, Nuclear, and Radiological hazards).
Are You Ready?, also available in Spanish, can be used in a variety of ways including as a read-through or reference guide. The guide can also be used as a study manual guide with credit awarded for successful completion and a 75 percent score on a final exam. Questions about the exam should be directed to the FEMA Independent Study Program by calling 1-800-238-3358 or by going to training.fema.gov/is.
Also available is the Are You Ready? Facilitator Guide (IS-22FG). The Facilitator Guide is a tool for those interested in delivering Are You Ready? content in a small group or classroom setting. The Facilitator Guide is an easy to use manual that has instruction modules for adults, older children, and younger children. A resource CD is packaged with the Facilitator Guide that contains customizable presentation materials, sample training plans, and other disaster preparedness education resources.
Copies of Are You Ready? and the Facilitator Guide are available through the FEMA publications warehouse (1.800.480.2520). For large quantities, your organization may reprint the publication. Please visit our reprint page for more information.
For more publications on disaster preparedness, visit the Community and Family Preparedness webpage.
FEMA RELEASES "Getting Ready For Disaster" DVD
With the upcoming hurricane season on the horizon, killer tornado's and wildfires in the Midwest and south and California floods breaking levies, FEMA announces the release of a new citizen preparedness DVD titled, "Getting Ready For Disaster- One Family's Experience". The DVD guides viewers through important steps of disaster preparedness and is a welcome addition to FEMA's preparedness materials.
Introduction (Windows Media 6.3MB)
Get Informed (Windows Media 4.7MB)
Make a Plan (Windows Media 7.0MB)
Disaster Supplies Kit (Windows Media 5.6MB)
People with Disabilities (Windows Media 3.8MB)
Food and Water (Windows Media 5.8MB)
Helping Children Cope (Windows Media 5.8MB)
Get Involved (Windows Media 7.0MB)
A transcript of the videos has been provided for those that are unable to view these files.
Are You Ready? An In-depth Guide to Citizen Preparedness
Are You Ready Full Document (PDF 21MB)
Wednesday, October 29, 2008
Do you love Blog Giveaway's?
Do you love Blog Giveaway's?
The site is having a Giveaway Carnival. There are over 1205 giveaways to enter!!!
Visit http://www.donttryit.com/bloggy_giveaways/
The site is having a Giveaway Carnival. There are over 1205 giveaways to enter!!!
Visit http://www.donttryit.com/bloggy_giveaways/
Tuesday, October 28, 2008
32 Ways to Save
32 ways to save when Grocery Shopping
~ Trim your food bill by as much as 19 percent simply by shopping at a couple of different stores.
~Don't "crisis cook" : Shopping after work for the day's dinner gets expensive. Plan a weekly menu before shopping and watch your grocery bill shrink.
~Don't waste money on prepared foods. Instead, prepare meals ahead of time and freeze them, or double a recipe when cooking, and freeze the second for a hectic day coming up.
~Don't be fooled by familiar products, such as cereal, that have decreased package sizes while keeping prices constant, the food industry's latest response to rising costs.
~Take the farmer's market approach: Buy produce that's fresh, inexpensive and in season. With less middlemen involved, you get good buys and your family gets the freshest food.
~The highest markup items on the shelves are at about chest level. Reach up or kneel down to select the cheaper house or generic brands.
~A grocery store's main aisles, like the paths to milk and bread, are usually strewn with high-priced land mines. Avoiding those pricey areas will really help.
~Try to shop when you're alone. Those little helpers can quickly boost your bill.
~Shop early in the day. You get through the store faster with your list and spend less.
~Avoid shopping for food when you're hungry; you'll buy more.
~Don't grocery shop when you're tired, you'll buy more sweets, more high-carbohydrates. When you're angry you go for crunch food, the junk food.
~Buy on the markdowns and save as much as 20 percent.
~Read your newspaper's weekly food section for local grocery sales and menu ideas.
~Clip coupons. You'll also find coupons in women's and general-interest magazines. Only clip what you will use!
~Find coupon swap-boxes, generally found at (surprise!) supermarkets, but also at some public libraries.
~Take advantage of in-store coupon displays and the machines that spew them.
~Log on to your supermarket's online home page for coupons.
~Call the toll-free numbers on your favorite products' labels and tell the customer-service rep how much you enjoy them. Some reps will offer cents-off (or even free) coupons for the product itself.
~Nab a newsie. Does your newspaper vendor just dump the inserts in unsold papers at the end of the day? If so, would he mind tossing a few your way?
~Check out the wealth of national-brands coupon-offering services on the Web. They can save you money -- even the ones that charge nominal fees.
~Seek out supermarkets that will double -- some super stores even triple -- the face value of manufacturers' coupons.
~Try for triple plays. That's when you use a manufacturer's coupon and a store's own coupon.
~Some retailers guarantee that if the item doesn't ring up at the correct price, you get it for free or at a discount. Pay attention to the details.
~Avoid purchasing nongrocery items, such as painkillers, contact lens solution, etc., at a grocery store. You usually pay more.
~Always get a rain check if a sale item is gone.
~Know when your store marks down goods that expire, like meat and bread. The deal: Use them that night or freeze them.
~Check your store for a small section where they discount products that aren't as popular as the manufacturer had hoped. This area can be a gold mine for bargains.
~Shop with a calculator. That way, you can figure whether the unit price for a case lot is really cheaper than buying one of the same item.
~Request price matching. Find a store in your area that will honor all competitors' ads. You'll save money, time and gas.
~Beware of "discount store syndrome." Just because you're in a bargain store doesn't mean you're getting the best price on every item.
~Check your receipts. No matter how careful you or the store staff might be, mistakes happen.
~Always send in for the rebate on a purchase whether it's $2 or $50. It all adds up.
~Put your savings to work. Whether it's a trip, a car or a savings account, have some specific goals for the money you're not spending on food.
www.Bankrate.com
~ Trim your food bill by as much as 19 percent simply by shopping at a couple of different stores.
~Don't "crisis cook" : Shopping after work for the day's dinner gets expensive. Plan a weekly menu before shopping and watch your grocery bill shrink.
~Don't waste money on prepared foods. Instead, prepare meals ahead of time and freeze them, or double a recipe when cooking, and freeze the second for a hectic day coming up.
~Don't be fooled by familiar products, such as cereal, that have decreased package sizes while keeping prices constant, the food industry's latest response to rising costs.
~Take the farmer's market approach: Buy produce that's fresh, inexpensive and in season. With less middlemen involved, you get good buys and your family gets the freshest food.
~The highest markup items on the shelves are at about chest level. Reach up or kneel down to select the cheaper house or generic brands.
~A grocery store's main aisles, like the paths to milk and bread, are usually strewn with high-priced land mines. Avoiding those pricey areas will really help.
~Try to shop when you're alone. Those little helpers can quickly boost your bill.
~Shop early in the day. You get through the store faster with your list and spend less.
~Avoid shopping for food when you're hungry; you'll buy more.
~Don't grocery shop when you're tired, you'll buy more sweets, more high-carbohydrates. When you're angry you go for crunch food, the junk food.
~Buy on the markdowns and save as much as 20 percent.
~Read your newspaper's weekly food section for local grocery sales and menu ideas.
~Clip coupons. You'll also find coupons in women's and general-interest magazines. Only clip what you will use!
~Find coupon swap-boxes, generally found at (surprise!) supermarkets, but also at some public libraries.
~Take advantage of in-store coupon displays and the machines that spew them.
~Log on to your supermarket's online home page for coupons.
~Call the toll-free numbers on your favorite products' labels and tell the customer-service rep how much you enjoy them. Some reps will offer cents-off (or even free) coupons for the product itself.
~Nab a newsie. Does your newspaper vendor just dump the inserts in unsold papers at the end of the day? If so, would he mind tossing a few your way?
~Check out the wealth of national-brands coupon-offering services on the Web. They can save you money -- even the ones that charge nominal fees.
~Seek out supermarkets that will double -- some super stores even triple -- the face value of manufacturers' coupons.
~Try for triple plays. That's when you use a manufacturer's coupon and a store's own coupon.
~Some retailers guarantee that if the item doesn't ring up at the correct price, you get it for free or at a discount. Pay attention to the details.
~Avoid purchasing nongrocery items, such as painkillers, contact lens solution, etc., at a grocery store. You usually pay more.
~Always get a rain check if a sale item is gone.
~Know when your store marks down goods that expire, like meat and bread. The deal: Use them that night or freeze them.
~Check your store for a small section where they discount products that aren't as popular as the manufacturer had hoped. This area can be a gold mine for bargains.
~Shop with a calculator. That way, you can figure whether the unit price for a case lot is really cheaper than buying one of the same item.
~Request price matching. Find a store in your area that will honor all competitors' ads. You'll save money, time and gas.
~Beware of "discount store syndrome." Just because you're in a bargain store doesn't mean you're getting the best price on every item.
~Check your receipts. No matter how careful you or the store staff might be, mistakes happen.
~Always send in for the rebate on a purchase whether it's $2 or $50. It all adds up.
~Put your savings to work. Whether it's a trip, a car or a savings account, have some specific goals for the money you're not spending on food.
www.Bankrate.com
Monday, October 27, 2008
We won!!
We won!!I think I have mentioned before, My Sister in Law works for Spring Hill Nursery. Spring Hill is working on a update project for their catalogs. Spring Hill offers Step by Step Gardens, which is all you need to make a pretty garden but the pictures are all illustrated in the catalog. They want to update the catalog by having pictures of actual planted gardens.
So they took entries from people who would be willing to participate. We won over several other entries. I am so excited!!
Spring Hill will do all the prep work, planting and even pruning and maintenance for the first two years while they take pictures of the planting and growing Gardens. So we get some pretty landscaping and our House will be in a Spring Hill Catalog.
How cool is that?!?!
If you would like more information on Spring Hill or the Step By Step Gardens, Please click the Spring Hill picture link in the sidebar to be taken to their site.
Sunday, October 26, 2008
Zeke
Just wanted to let you all know that my Brother in Law's K-9 Partner Zeke was put to rest today.
Keep the Rosengarten's in your prayers during this difficult time.
Keep the Rosengarten's in your prayers during this difficult time.
Frugal Grocery Tip
Look down while shopping at the Grocery Store.
In many grocery stores the best bargains are closer to the floor.
The pricier items are often at eye level.
Saturday, October 25, 2008
Product Review
Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Anti-Aging UV Moisturizer SPF 15 1.7oz
Last week I noticed that I needed moisturizer for my face. I was also looking for a change in my makeup routine as I am getting ready to return to the work force. I wanted something quick, easy and lasting. That is when I came across this great product from Olay.
Total Effects 7-in-1 Anti-Aging UV Moisturizer plus Touch of Foundation
I love the 7 in 1 benefits and the touch of foundation is just the perfect amount. It evens out my skin tone without the mask-y look of foundation. I have noticed a general improvement in my skin since using the product too. Even Hubs noticed! He told me my skin looked pretty.
Here is more information on the Product:
Total Effects 7-in-1 Anti-Aging UV Moisturizer plus Touch of Foundation
Why is Total Effects plus Touch of Foundation right for you?For those looking to smooth away the appearance of wrinkles and uneven skin tone without looking too made-up.
Total Effects 7 Anti-Aging Therapies:
~Line Minimization: Reduces the appearance of fine wrinkles
~Nourishing Moisturization: For a radiant, healthy glow
~Subtle Lifting: Hydrates for firmer skin appearance
~Brightening: Improves skin surface dullness
~Gentle Exfoliation: Smoothes and evens skin texture
~Pore Refinement: Minimizes the appearance of pores
~Free Radical Defense: Helps prevent damage to skin's surface
The result?
Visibly younger-looking, even-toned skin you may not want to cover with makeup.
How does it work?
This daily facial moisturizer combines the benefits of 7 anti-aging therapies PLUS a touch of sheer foundation to delicately even out skin's tone.
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Try it!! I hope you like it as much as I do!
Olay Total Effects 7-in-1 Anti-Aging UV Moisturizer SPF 15 1.7oz
What's for Dinner- Easy Shepherd's Pie
Easy Shepherd's Pie
1 lb. ground beef
2 cups hot mashed potatoes
4 oz. (1/2 of 8-oz. pkg.) Cream Cheese, cubed
1 cup Shredded Cheddar Cheese, divided
2 cloves garlic, minced
4 cups frozen mixed vegetables, thawed
1 cup beef gravy
Make It
PREHEAT oven to 375ºF. Brown meat in large skillet. Meanwhile, mix potatoes, cream cheese, 1/2 cup of the shredded cheese and the garlic until well blended.
DRAIN meat. Return to skillet; stir in vegetables and gravy. Spoon into 9-inch square baking dish; cover with potato mixture and remaining 1/2 cup shredded cheese.
BAKE 20 min. or until heated through.
Friday, October 24, 2008
Material Provision Priorities
When it comes to you and your families survival, some things are important to have.
Following is list of provisions in a Priority List:
Priority 1:
*Basic Food Plans for one year with recipes.
*Water Purifier. Water for 2 weeks. 14 gallons per person.
*Garden seeds for 1 season.
*Manual grain mill.
*Basic medical supplies and medicines.
*Minimal sanitation needs.
*Clothing to last a year.
* Bedding to keep you warm with out additional heat.
*Methods to cook and heat with fuel for one year.
*Basic Survival Library.
Priority 2:
*Portable Storage for minimal needs for 72 hours. Emergency Evacuation Kit.
Priority 3:
Storage and other items necessary for a more normal life style. equipment, tools, supplies including a self suffient homestead or survial retreat.
From: Crisis Preparedness Handbook by Jack A. Sparelli
Following is list of provisions in a Priority List:
Priority 1:
*Basic Food Plans for one year with recipes.
*Water Purifier. Water for 2 weeks. 14 gallons per person.
*Garden seeds for 1 season.
*Manual grain mill.
*Basic medical supplies and medicines.
*Minimal sanitation needs.
*Clothing to last a year.
* Bedding to keep you warm with out additional heat.
*Methods to cook and heat with fuel for one year.
*Basic Survival Library.
Priority 2:
*Portable Storage for minimal needs for 72 hours. Emergency Evacuation Kit.
Priority 3:
Storage and other items necessary for a more normal life style. equipment, tools, supplies including a self suffient homestead or survial retreat.
From: Crisis Preparedness Handbook by Jack A. Sparelli
Thursday, October 23, 2008
What's for Dinner?- Prairie-Land Pot Roast
Prep Time:20 min
Total Time:2 hr 40 min
Makes:8 servings
What You Need
1 boneless beef shoulder pot roast roast (2 lb.)
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 bottle (8 oz.) CATALINA Dressing, divided
2 large onions, sliced
2 lb. Yukon gold or all-purpose potatoes, peeled, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 lb. carrots, peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces
water
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
Make It
SEASON meat with salt and pepper. Brown in large heavy pot or Dutch oven on high heat in 1/4 cup dressing, turning to brown both sides. Add onions; cook until browned, stirring occasionally.
Total Time:2 hr 40 min
Makes:8 servings
What You Need
1 boneless beef shoulder pot roast roast (2 lb.)
1/2 tsp. salt
1/4 tsp. pepper
1 bottle (8 oz.) CATALINA Dressing, divided
2 large onions, sliced
2 lb. Yukon gold or all-purpose potatoes, peeled, cut into 2-inch pieces
1 lb. carrots, peeled, cut into 1-inch pieces
water
2 Tbsp. chopped fresh parsley
Make It
SEASON meat with salt and pepper. Brown in large heavy pot or Dutch oven on high heat in 1/4 cup dressing, turning to brown both sides. Add onions; cook until browned, stirring occasionally.
ADD remaining dressing, potatoes, carrots and enough water to come 3/4 the way up side of meat (about 1-1/2 to 2 cups). Bring to boil; cover. Simmer on low heat 2 hours or until meat and vegetables are tender.
REMOVE meat from pan; cut across the grain into thin slices. Serve meat and vegetables topped with pan gravy. Sprinkle with parsley.
How to Thicken Pan Gravy
If a thicker pan gravy is desired, mix 1/4 cup water with 2 to 3 Tbsp. flour. Remove meat and vegetables from pan to platter; cover to keep warm. Bring reserved liquid in pan to boil on medium-high heat. Gradually whisk in flour mixture; cook until thickened to desired consistency.
Wednesday, October 22, 2008
Brand Name vs. Generic: Part 3
Part 3 Brand vs. Generic
article by www.walletpop.com
Brand Name Baby Wipes
Brand: Huggies Natural Care Wipes
Price: $3.99
Size: 80 wipes
Review: Huggies Wipes are embossed with cutesy teddy bear shapes and are somewhat thicker than generic wipes. Unfortunately, they're also flimsier, and tear easily when you're taking them out of the dispenser, or when you're wiping enthusiastically.
Generic Baby Wipes
Brand: Safeway Mom to Mom
Price: $2.99 (or $5.99 for a three-pack)
Size: 80 wipes
Review: Mom to Mom wipes are textured with a simple dot pattern and, though they look flimsier than Huggies, are actually a lot sturdier; and seem to have a milder scent.
Verdict: In my side-by-side testing, I was able to use fewer Mom-to-Mom wipes to get the job done. They were easier to remove from the package and had a less pronounced scent. Since they are far cheaper and sturdier than Huggies, I'll only buy Mom-to-Mom in the future.
Brand Name Black Tea
Brand: Choice Organic Irish Breakfast Tea
Price: $3.89
Size: 16 tea bags/1.1 ounces total
Review: Choice tea is an excellent Irish Breakfast tea with a sharp but smooth flavor. The tea bags are usually good for a second steeping if you've brewed your first cup quickly.
Generic Black Tea
Brand: Trader Joe's Fair Trade Organic Black Tea
Price: $2.59
Size: 20 tea bags/1.4 ounces total
Review: Trader Joe's is very comparable to Choice brand; though it's slightly less richly flavored and, when brewed at the same time, took longer to reach desired strength.
Verdict: These teas are very close in flavor and Choice brand is significantly more expensive, but Trader Joe's tea bags are individually wrapped in plastic, meaning every box sends 20 plastic wrappers into the trash. The entire contents of the Choice brand box can be composted or recycled.
Brand Name Cranberry Cocktail
Brand: Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice Cocktail
Price: $3.29
Size: 32 oz.
Review: Tastes just like the juice you've always known since you were a kid.
Generic Cranberry Juice Cocktail
Brand: Target's Market Pantry Cranberry Juice Cocktail
Price: $2.99
Size: 32 oz.
Review: A little more watered down and a little more sugary-tasting than the Ocean Spray.
Verdict: The taste wasn't that different, so for the money I saved, would actually go with the Target brand over Ocean Spray.
Brand Name Apricot Scrub
Price: $3.99
Size: 6 oz.
Review: The No. 1 Most Popular facial scrub on Drugstore.com, and an Allure Magazine beauty pick. I have been using this stuff for years, but I think they've recently changed the forumla. It now has a very unappealing scent, like an apricot gone bad. I still like how it scrubs my face, though.
Generic Apricot Scrub
Brand: CVS Brand Apricot Scrub
Price: $2.99
Size: 6 oz.
Review: A little less grainy than the St. Ives, but it has a much more appealing scent. It cleans my face pretty well.
Verdict: I would actually lean toward the CVS brand since it smells so much better. I might use St. Ives every once in a while because it scrubs harder but CVS might be my new go-to scrub.
Brand Name Cashews
Brand: Planters Whole Cashews
Price: $10.99
Size: 21 oz.
Review: Delicious, but salty, with a satisfying al dente crunch. Many in the can were in halves, not whole.
Generic Whole Cashews
Brand: Kirkland (Costco) Whole Fancy Cashews
Price: $12.99
Size: 40 oz.
Review: Nuts are very large, meaty and satisfying. Not too salty. Seemed very fresh.
Verdict: It's a close race, but I prefer the Kirkland nuts, especially for the price. They are bigger (almost none were in halves), meatier, and have a soft-yet-firm texture that makes them seem just out of the shell. My family favored the Planters, which are saltier, crunchier and, they argued, more flavorful.
Brand Name Dishwashing Detergent
Brand: Cascade
Price: $4.39
Size: 45 oz.
Review: Cascade really does seem to provide the extra "grease-fighting power" and "shine shield" that its label promises. Detergent is thick and smooth and easy to pour.
Generic Dishwashing Detergent
Brand: Kirkland (Costco) Liquid Gel
Price: $7.99
Size: Two 125 oz. bottles (250 oz)
Review: Cleans well, but gel can separate and be watery at first, then later get clumpy and harden around the top of bottle so it doesn't close properly.
Verdict: I'll keep buying Kirkland on price alone. Cascade seems to get the dishes a bit cleaner and the liquid has a better consistency, but Kirkland does the job too and is much cheaper.
Brand Name Paper Towels
Brand: Bounty Paper Towels
Price: $0.99 per roll
Size: 69 sheets
Review: The paper towels felt thick and fluffy. After spilling a little bit of water and laying a paper towel on the spill, it picked up most of it but water remained in some spots.
Generic Paper Towels
Brand: Wegmans Paper Towels
Price: $0.89 per roll
Size: 60 sheets
Review: The paper towels were not as soft as Bounty but had the exact same results.
Verdict: Since they are equally effective and the price works out to be almost the same, your choice basically comes down to whether you want floral print or plain.
Brand Name Orange Juice
Brand: Tropicana No Pulp
Price: $2.99
Size: 1/2 gallon
Review: Tasted like it was just squeezed, had a pleasing look, perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
Generic Orange Juice
Brand: Wegmans No Pulp
Price: $2.59
Size: 1/2 gallon
Review: Tasted great, but slightly less sweet compared to Tropicana. The color was a little lighter, too.
Verdict: They both taste almost the same (neither are from concentrate), but the Tropicana OJ is just barely sweeter than the generic brand. If extra sweetness is worth 40 cents to you, go with the Tropicana, otherwise stick with the store brand.
If you have tried a Generic Brand after reading the article, Give us your review!
article by www.walletpop.com
Brand Name Baby Wipes
Brand: Huggies Natural Care Wipes
Price: $3.99
Size: 80 wipes
Review: Huggies Wipes are embossed with cutesy teddy bear shapes and are somewhat thicker than generic wipes. Unfortunately, they're also flimsier, and tear easily when you're taking them out of the dispenser, or when you're wiping enthusiastically.
Generic Baby Wipes
Brand: Safeway Mom to Mom
Price: $2.99 (or $5.99 for a three-pack)
Size: 80 wipes
Review: Mom to Mom wipes are textured with a simple dot pattern and, though they look flimsier than Huggies, are actually a lot sturdier; and seem to have a milder scent.
Verdict: In my side-by-side testing, I was able to use fewer Mom-to-Mom wipes to get the job done. They were easier to remove from the package and had a less pronounced scent. Since they are far cheaper and sturdier than Huggies, I'll only buy Mom-to-Mom in the future.
Brand Name Black Tea
Brand: Choice Organic Irish Breakfast Tea
Price: $3.89
Size: 16 tea bags/1.1 ounces total
Review: Choice tea is an excellent Irish Breakfast tea with a sharp but smooth flavor. The tea bags are usually good for a second steeping if you've brewed your first cup quickly.
Generic Black Tea
Brand: Trader Joe's Fair Trade Organic Black Tea
Price: $2.59
Size: 20 tea bags/1.4 ounces total
Review: Trader Joe's is very comparable to Choice brand; though it's slightly less richly flavored and, when brewed at the same time, took longer to reach desired strength.
Verdict: These teas are very close in flavor and Choice brand is significantly more expensive, but Trader Joe's tea bags are individually wrapped in plastic, meaning every box sends 20 plastic wrappers into the trash. The entire contents of the Choice brand box can be composted or recycled.
Brand Name Cranberry Cocktail
Brand: Ocean Spray Cranberry Juice Cocktail
Price: $3.29
Size: 32 oz.
Review: Tastes just like the juice you've always known since you were a kid.
Generic Cranberry Juice Cocktail
Brand: Target's Market Pantry Cranberry Juice Cocktail
Price: $2.99
Size: 32 oz.
Review: A little more watered down and a little more sugary-tasting than the Ocean Spray.
Verdict: The taste wasn't that different, so for the money I saved, would actually go with the Target brand over Ocean Spray.
Brand Name Apricot Scrub
Price: $3.99
Size: 6 oz.
Review: The No. 1 Most Popular facial scrub on Drugstore.com, and an Allure Magazine beauty pick. I have been using this stuff for years, but I think they've recently changed the forumla. It now has a very unappealing scent, like an apricot gone bad. I still like how it scrubs my face, though.
Generic Apricot Scrub
Brand: CVS Brand Apricot Scrub
Price: $2.99
Size: 6 oz.
Review: A little less grainy than the St. Ives, but it has a much more appealing scent. It cleans my face pretty well.
Verdict: I would actually lean toward the CVS brand since it smells so much better. I might use St. Ives every once in a while because it scrubs harder but CVS might be my new go-to scrub.
Brand Name Cashews
Brand: Planters Whole Cashews
Price: $10.99
Size: 21 oz.
Review: Delicious, but salty, with a satisfying al dente crunch. Many in the can were in halves, not whole.
Generic Whole Cashews
Brand: Kirkland (Costco) Whole Fancy Cashews
Price: $12.99
Size: 40 oz.
Review: Nuts are very large, meaty and satisfying. Not too salty. Seemed very fresh.
Verdict: It's a close race, but I prefer the Kirkland nuts, especially for the price. They are bigger (almost none were in halves), meatier, and have a soft-yet-firm texture that makes them seem just out of the shell. My family favored the Planters, which are saltier, crunchier and, they argued, more flavorful.
Brand Name Dishwashing Detergent
Brand: Cascade
Price: $4.39
Size: 45 oz.
Review: Cascade really does seem to provide the extra "grease-fighting power" and "shine shield" that its label promises. Detergent is thick and smooth and easy to pour.
Generic Dishwashing Detergent
Brand: Kirkland (Costco) Liquid Gel
Price: $7.99
Size: Two 125 oz. bottles (250 oz)
Review: Cleans well, but gel can separate and be watery at first, then later get clumpy and harden around the top of bottle so it doesn't close properly.
Verdict: I'll keep buying Kirkland on price alone. Cascade seems to get the dishes a bit cleaner and the liquid has a better consistency, but Kirkland does the job too and is much cheaper.
Brand Name Paper Towels
Brand: Bounty Paper Towels
Price: $0.99 per roll
Size: 69 sheets
Review: The paper towels felt thick and fluffy. After spilling a little bit of water and laying a paper towel on the spill, it picked up most of it but water remained in some spots.
Generic Paper Towels
Brand: Wegmans Paper Towels
Price: $0.89 per roll
Size: 60 sheets
Review: The paper towels were not as soft as Bounty but had the exact same results.
Verdict: Since they are equally effective and the price works out to be almost the same, your choice basically comes down to whether you want floral print or plain.
Brand Name Orange Juice
Brand: Tropicana No Pulp
Price: $2.99
Size: 1/2 gallon
Review: Tasted like it was just squeezed, had a pleasing look, perfect balance of sweetness and tartness.
Generic Orange Juice
Brand: Wegmans No Pulp
Price: $2.59
Size: 1/2 gallon
Review: Tasted great, but slightly less sweet compared to Tropicana. The color was a little lighter, too.
Verdict: They both taste almost the same (neither are from concentrate), but the Tropicana OJ is just barely sweeter than the generic brand. If extra sweetness is worth 40 cents to you, go with the Tropicana, otherwise stick with the store brand.
If you have tried a Generic Brand after reading the article, Give us your review!
Monday, October 20, 2008
I want one.......
An idea whose time has come…….againMrs. Pegg’s HANDY LINE
The clothes line has been around since your great-grandmother's time. With the advent of the automatic clothes dryer, the clothes line slowly fell out of fashion. But the clothes dryer came with a price - it's hard on fabrics, shortening the life of your clothes.
Your clothes dryer consumes a lot of energy, like your air conditioner. At today's sky high energy prices, it can cost as much to operate your dryer as it cost to buy it.
Check out Mrs. Pegg’s HANDY LINE: http://www.mrspeggshandyline.com/
~Pre-assembled - simply take it out of the box and set up for use. No installation required.
~Available in two sizes large and small
~Lightweight - large line weighs only 5.9 Lbs, small 5.7 Lbs.
~Folds flat for storage and can be hung on the back of your closet door.
~Can be moved with a full load of washing.
~45 Lineal Ft of line space (large), 35 Lineal Ft (small).
~Large line holds 4 king size sheets (with 2 spare lines) and the small line holds 4 double sheets.
~Quick locking mechanism for fast and easy folding.
~Legs splay beyond top frame for extra stability.
~Leg caps for floor protection.
~Capable of handling heavy washloads and hangers.
~Quilts and blankets may be tented over the top of the HANDY LINE.
~Sweaters can be laid flat on top of line.
~Made from robust and non-corrosive materials - can be left outside permanently and will not rust. No maintenance required.
~Lower line level makes it easy for those who have difficulty reaching a conventional line.
This would be the perfect solution for hanging clothing to dry during the winter months when I can't hang them outside.
I want one.....................
Until then, I will use these:
Sunday, October 19, 2008
What's for Dinner- Harvest Pumpkin Spice Bars
Harvest Pumpkin-Spice Bars
Bars
4 eggs
2 cups granulated sugar
1 cup vegetable oil
1 can (15 oz) pumpkin (not pumpkin pie mix)
2 cups all-purpose flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
2 teaspoons ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon ground ginger
1/4 teaspoon ground cloves
1 cup raisins, if desired
Cream Cheese Frosting
1 package (3 oz) cream cheese, softened
1/3 cup butter or margarine, softened
1 teaspoon vanilla
2 cups powdered sugar
1/2 cup chopped walnuts, if desired
1. Heat oven to 350°F. Lightly grease bottom and sides of 15x10x1-inch pan with shortening. In large bowl, beat eggs, granulated sugar, oil and pumpkin until smooth. Stir in flour, baking powder, cinnamon, baking soda, salt, ginger and cloves. Stir in raisins. Spread in pan.
2. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until light brown. Cool completely in pan on cooling rack, about 2 hours.
3. In medium bowl, beat cream cheese, butter and vanilla with electric mixer on low speed until smooth. Gradually beat in powdered sugar, 1 cup at a time, on low speed until smooth and spreadable. Spread frosting over bars. Sprinkle with walnuts. For bars, cut into 7 rows by 7 rows. Store in refrigerator.
Saturday, October 18, 2008
Applesauce and Apple Butter
Guess what I did today?
I made 6 pints of Applesauce
8 Jelly Jars of Apple Butter
What I am Watching- You've got Mail
You've got Mail is one of my favorite movies. I could watch it over and over again. In fact I do! Something about the Fall makes me want to watch it. Maybe it is the line in the Movie..... "I love fall in New York. It makes me want to buy school supplies." I feel that way every fall!So on a beautiful fall day, I curled up on the couch with a cup of tea and pressed play. I love how New York is like a character in the movie. I love the chemistry between Meg Ryan and Tom Hanks. I love her Store. I love the ending, It makes me cry EVERY time I watch it. Ok..... I love everything about this movie!
What is your favorite Movie?
Friday, October 17, 2008
Refashioning adult shirts into girls' dresses.
This is so cool.
Makes me wish I had a little girl to sew for!
Simple Green Frugal Co-op: Refashioning adult shirts into girls' dresses.
Makes me wish I had a little girl to sew for!
Simple Green Frugal Co-op: Refashioning adult shirts into girls' dresses.
Stretch your Leftovers
Any way you slice or dice it, there are lots of ways to turn your leftovers into culinary delights. Try these creative ways to cut the waste in your kitchen!
Bread: The heels of loaf bread can be easily used to make croutons, be toasted for French onion soup. Use the leftover buns for garlic bread to serve with another night’s meal.
Meat: You’ve got a half a steak left over from dinner; by itself, it won’t make a meat. Instead, chop it up and use it in a steak and egg omelet for breakfast or as a soup/stew starter for another night’s dinner. Or put it in a plastic container, top it with frozen mixed veggies and freeze for a lunch you can reheat at work.
Vegetables: Don’t toss your left over veggies! Either put freeze in a Ziploc, or keep a container in the freezer for veggie orphans. When the container has enough assorted vegetables, make a veggie and rice soup, or use the vegetables for stir-fry.
Milk: Not enough left for a glass in the bottom of the jug? Don’t pour it down the sink. Put it in a zip-seal bag and freeze it for sauces and cream soups. When you’re ready to use it, melt it right in your pan from a frozen state—no need to thaw.
Eggs: Even if you don’t use all your eggs before the expiration date, they stay fresh for quite a while. Crack them in groups of three, beat and freeze in a plastic bag to use later. Most cake and brownie recipes require three eggs so you can thaw the eggs in the plastic bag under cold running water in a matter of minutes. Or, thaw and scramble for breakfast.
Bread: The heels of loaf bread can be easily used to make croutons, be toasted for French onion soup. Use the leftover buns for garlic bread to serve with another night’s meal.
Meat: You’ve got a half a steak left over from dinner; by itself, it won’t make a meat. Instead, chop it up and use it in a steak and egg omelet for breakfast or as a soup/stew starter for another night’s dinner. Or put it in a plastic container, top it with frozen mixed veggies and freeze for a lunch you can reheat at work.
Vegetables: Don’t toss your left over veggies! Either put freeze in a Ziploc, or keep a container in the freezer for veggie orphans. When the container has enough assorted vegetables, make a veggie and rice soup, or use the vegetables for stir-fry.
Milk: Not enough left for a glass in the bottom of the jug? Don’t pour it down the sink. Put it in a zip-seal bag and freeze it for sauces and cream soups. When you’re ready to use it, melt it right in your pan from a frozen state—no need to thaw.
Eggs: Even if you don’t use all your eggs before the expiration date, they stay fresh for quite a while. Crack them in groups of three, beat and freeze in a plastic bag to use later. Most cake and brownie recipes require three eggs so you can thaw the eggs in the plastic bag under cold running water in a matter of minutes. Or, thaw and scramble for breakfast.
Thursday, October 16, 2008
Win this Quilt
Now through October 17th
Have a chance to win this gorgeous yellow quilt! Make sure to check out the hosts blog to read how to get extra entries.
http://pigtailsandsnails.blogspot.com/
Wednesday, October 15, 2008
My First Pie
Apples straight from the OrchardThanks Sara!!
My pretty pie crusts I made from scratch
My first Homemade, Handmade Apple Pie.
Next up...... Applesauce!!!
Free Magazine
I signed up to get a free issue of Countryside Magazine: The Magazine of Modern Homesteading.
I got my issue yesterday. I can't wait to sit down and read it!
Get your free issue at http://www.countrysidemag.com/
Tuesday, October 14, 2008
Another Job
More good news....... I got a job with this company:
http://utcares.com/main/default.asp
I will be working as a At Home Customer Service Agent. I will train in their Call Center for 3 months and then I will be working from Home. The good news is, it is full time hours. On the down side, the shift is 10 pm to 6 am. But I will deal with that. Just means a change in sleeping habits.
I will work for Home Instead until I start with UTC in 3 to 4 weeks. As much as I like the idea of working with the elderly, Home Instead can't guarantee me full time hours. And full time hours is what we need right now.
http://utcares.com/main/default.asp
I will be working as a At Home Customer Service Agent. I will train in their Call Center for 3 months and then I will be working from Home. The good news is, it is full time hours. On the down side, the shift is 10 pm to 6 am. But I will deal with that. Just means a change in sleeping habits.
I will work for Home Instead until I start with UTC in 3 to 4 weeks. As much as I like the idea of working with the elderly, Home Instead can't guarantee me full time hours. And full time hours is what we need right now.
Preparedness Skills
Preparedness and Sustainability means and being able to provide for your own needs as much as possible. The more skills and knowledge you have about a wide variety of situations and problems, the better you are to be able to cope with whatever crisis or situation confronts you.
Following is a list of skills you should educate yourself on to be prepared:
*Grow a Garden, cultivate and orchard, plant field crops.
*Raise rabbits, chickens, goats and other animals.
*Process and preserve food by dehydrating, canning, pickling, smoking and curing.
*Make your own butter, cheese and yogurt.
*Plan and prepare meals using the same foods and methods of preparation and cooking as you
would use during a crisis. Cooking on a wood stove or open flame is a lot different than cooking on a household stove.
*Sew, mend, or remodel your clothing. Learn to quilt, knit, crochet, weave, spin and dye wool.
*Make your own soaps and candles.
*Make your own, gifts, toys, and household furniture and decorations.
*Learn how to repair and maintain your Home. Carpentry, painting, plumbing, electrical,
masonry and woodworking.
* Learn metal working skills/ Welding, casting, and blacksmithing.
*Learn basic auto mechanics. Do your own repairs, tuneups and maintenance.
*Take beginning and and advanced first and and life support classes.
* Learn and practice, wilderness and primitive survival skills. Foraging wild plants, snaring wild game, starting a fire, cooking without pots, finding water, making shelters, map reading and navigation. knot tying.
*Participate in outdoor sports to learn survival skills. Camping, backpacking, hunting , fishing, trapping, tracking skiing, canoeing. Learn to field dress and butcher game.
* Learn about weapons and practice marksmanship.
* Learn and Practice unarmed self defense.
How many of these skills do you have? What are you working on?
Following is a list of skills you should educate yourself on to be prepared:
*Grow a Garden, cultivate and orchard, plant field crops.
*Raise rabbits, chickens, goats and other animals.
*Process and preserve food by dehydrating, canning, pickling, smoking and curing.
*Make your own butter, cheese and yogurt.
*Plan and prepare meals using the same foods and methods of preparation and cooking as you
would use during a crisis. Cooking on a wood stove or open flame is a lot different than cooking on a household stove.
*Sew, mend, or remodel your clothing. Learn to quilt, knit, crochet, weave, spin and dye wool.
*Make your own soaps and candles.
*Make your own, gifts, toys, and household furniture and decorations.
*Learn how to repair and maintain your Home. Carpentry, painting, plumbing, electrical,
masonry and woodworking.
* Learn metal working skills/ Welding, casting, and blacksmithing.
*Learn basic auto mechanics. Do your own repairs, tuneups and maintenance.
*Take beginning and and advanced first and and life support classes.
* Learn and practice, wilderness and primitive survival skills. Foraging wild plants, snaring wild game, starting a fire, cooking without pots, finding water, making shelters, map reading and navigation. knot tying.
*Participate in outdoor sports to learn survival skills. Camping, backpacking, hunting , fishing, trapping, tracking skiing, canoeing. Learn to field dress and butcher game.
* Learn about weapons and practice marksmanship.
* Learn and Practice unarmed self defense.
How many of these skills do you have? What are you working on?
Monday, October 13, 2008
I got a Job!
I was hired as a Non Medical Caregiver for Home Instead Senior Care. I am very excited. I love working with the elderly. I can't wait for my first client.If you would like more information on the the Company or their services, Please visit: http://www.homeinstead.com/home.aspx
Preserving Food
Check out this site from Oregon State University, it’s one of the best resources online for food preservation on the web. This site has facts to guide you through freezing, drying, canning, smoking, and pickling the fresh goods from your garden.
Another good site you can check out is PreserveFood.com.
Another good site you can check out is PreserveFood.com.
Sunday, October 12, 2008
Free Fun
Unless you’ve been living under a rock for the last few weeks, you’ve heard about this whole “economic crisis” thing.
There are many ways to entertain yourself and your family while saving money in the process. Here are some of my ideas:
-Find your library card and rent free DVDs and Books.
-Check out the matinee (before noon) shows that are always cheaper than evening time slots.
Better yet, Have a Movie night at home!
-For free or cheap entertainment (shows, musicals, art exhibits, movies, etc.) visit local college campuses where entertainment options are often open to the public, but offered at student prices.
-Let Mother Nature be your entertainment guide. Visit your local Parks. Go hiking, picnicking, bird watching, fishing, kayaking or camping … for free!
How do you entertain yourself on a budget?
There are many ways to entertain yourself and your family while saving money in the process. Here are some of my ideas:
-Find your library card and rent free DVDs and Books.
-Check out the matinee (before noon) shows that are always cheaper than evening time slots.
Better yet, Have a Movie night at home!
-For free or cheap entertainment (shows, musicals, art exhibits, movies, etc.) visit local college campuses where entertainment options are often open to the public, but offered at student prices.
-Let Mother Nature be your entertainment guide. Visit your local Parks. Go hiking, picnicking, bird watching, fishing, kayaking or camping … for free!
How do you entertain yourself on a budget?
Saturday, October 11, 2008
Meet Hubs
I got this list from Susie at http://rabbitruncottage.blogspot.com
I thought it would be fun for you to learn more about Hubs:
1. He's sitting in front of the TV; what is on the screen?
The Military Channel, The Discovery Channel, The History Channel or Sci Fi Channel
2. You're out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad?
Thousand Island
3. What's one food he doesn't like?
Sweet Potatoes. Vegetables in general and he has got a weird thing about food texture too.....
4. You go out to the bar. What does he order?
Iced Tea or maybe the occasional Beer
5. Where did he go to high school?
Vandalia Butler
6. What size shoe does he wear?
12
7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be?
Guns, Guns and more Guns and any thing to do with Guns
8. What is his favorite type of sandwich?
Bologna, American Cheese and Tomato Slice
9. What would this person eat every day if he could?
Chips and Salsa
10. What is his favorite cereal?
Life Cereal topped with Honey
11. What would he never wear?
I don't think he would ever wear any type of costume
12. What is his favorite sports team?
The Detroit Tigers
13. Who will he vote for?
The Republican
14. Who is his best friend?
Bob
* It is my sneaking suspicion that he likes Bob more than he likes me!
15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do?
Worry so much about thinks I cannot control
16. How many states has he lived in?
Ohio and Texas
17. What is his heritage?
Irish and German
18. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what kind of cake?
Yellow Cake with Chocolate Icing. Has to be served COLD. Straight from the Frig.
19. Did he play sports in high school?
Baseball and Wrestling
20. What could he spend hours doing?
Playing with Guns, Shooting Guns. Looking at Guns, Talking about Guns. Guns, Guns and more Guns.
Talking to Bob
I thought it would be fun for you to learn more about Hubs:
1. He's sitting in front of the TV; what is on the screen?
The Military Channel, The Discovery Channel, The History Channel or Sci Fi Channel
2. You're out to eat; what kind of dressing does he get on his salad?
Thousand Island
3. What's one food he doesn't like?
Sweet Potatoes. Vegetables in general and he has got a weird thing about food texture too.....
4. You go out to the bar. What does he order?
Iced Tea or maybe the occasional Beer
5. Where did he go to high school?
Vandalia Butler
6. What size shoe does he wear?
12
7. If he was to collect anything, what would it be?
Guns, Guns and more Guns and any thing to do with Guns
8. What is his favorite type of sandwich?
Bologna, American Cheese and Tomato Slice
9. What would this person eat every day if he could?
Chips and Salsa
10. What is his favorite cereal?
Life Cereal topped with Honey
11. What would he never wear?
I don't think he would ever wear any type of costume
12. What is his favorite sports team?
The Detroit Tigers
13. Who will he vote for?
The Republican
14. Who is his best friend?
Bob
* It is my sneaking suspicion that he likes Bob more than he likes me!
15. What is something you do that he wishes you wouldn't do?
Worry so much about thinks I cannot control
16. How many states has he lived in?
Ohio and Texas
17. What is his heritage?
Irish and German
18. You bake him a cake for his birthday; what kind of cake?
Yellow Cake with Chocolate Icing. Has to be served COLD. Straight from the Frig.
19. Did he play sports in high school?
Baseball and Wrestling
20. What could he spend hours doing?
Playing with Guns, Shooting Guns. Looking at Guns, Talking about Guns. Guns, Guns and more Guns.
Talking to Bob
What's for Dinner- Homemade Waffles
Homemade Waffles
1-1/4 cups milk
6 tablespoons melted margarine (3/4 of a stick)
2 medium eggs
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons baking powder (1 tablespoon)
1-3/4 cup whole wheat flour
Pour the milk, margarine and eggs into the bowl. If you are melting the margarine in the microwave, you can melt it in the bowl first, and then add the milk and eggs. Mix well with a whisk or a fork, or electric beaters.
Add the salt, baking powder and flour. Beat the batter with a whisk or electric beaters until it is smooth.
Preheat your waffle iron according to the instructions. Oil it with a pastry brush if necessary. Use a measuring cup to measure 1/2-cup of batter into each waffle section. Close the waffle iron and allow the waffles to bake for about 2 minutes, or according to the instructions in the manual.
This recipe makes 6 waffles.
1-1/4 cups milk
6 tablespoons melted margarine (3/4 of a stick)
2 medium eggs
1/4 teaspoon salt
3 teaspoons baking powder (1 tablespoon)
1-3/4 cup whole wheat flour
Pour the milk, margarine and eggs into the bowl. If you are melting the margarine in the microwave, you can melt it in the bowl first, and then add the milk and eggs. Mix well with a whisk or a fork, or electric beaters.
Add the salt, baking powder and flour. Beat the batter with a whisk or electric beaters until it is smooth.
Preheat your waffle iron according to the instructions. Oil it with a pastry brush if necessary. Use a measuring cup to measure 1/2-cup of batter into each waffle section. Close the waffle iron and allow the waffles to bake for about 2 minutes, or according to the instructions in the manual.
This recipe makes 6 waffles.
Friday, October 10, 2008
Quick Tips for Saving Energy in your Home
Quick Tips for Saving Energy in your Home
• Regularly cleaning or replacing your filter will help your furnace run at full efficiency and supply better air flow.
• Keep the heat in by caulking, sealing and weather-stripping around your doors and windows to prevent heat from escaping to the outside. This makes your home more energy efficient and can create a savings on your energy bill.
• Close fireplace dampers when they are not in use. Having your fireplace cleaned and checked out by a professional every year keeps it operating safely and efficiently.
Doors and fireplaces account for 11% and 14% of your home’s heat loss respectively.
• Reduce energy costs and increase comfort with a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat can maximize your energy savings without the hassle of manually adjusting your thermostat. Large energy savings are possible when thermostat settings are set back during the sleep hours and times when no one is home.
• Set the thermostat at an energy efficient setting (between 68 and 72 degrees F or lower). Remember that for each degree the thermostat setting can is lowered, you could see a 3% energy savings on the heating portion of your bill.
• Reverse the direction of your ceiling fan. By changing the direction to clockwise in the winter, the fan will push rising warm air back into the room.
Only 20% of homes built before 1980 were well insulated.
• Consider adding insulation in your attic. You can increase the comfort of your home while reducing your heating and cooling needs by up to 30% by investing just a few hundred dollars in proper insulation and weatherization products.
• Open your draperies and let the sun in. The sun's rays will warm your home. Conversely, after dark close your draperies to hold heat inside your home.
• Close doors and/or heating vents to unused rooms.
• Be sure heating registers and vents are not blocked by draperies or furniture. These vents should also be cleaned regularly with a broom or vacuum.
• If your home has single-pane windows, as almost half of U.S. homes do, consider replacing them. New double-pane windows with high-performance glass can reduce heat loss. Storm windows can reduce your heat loss through windows by 25% to 50%.
Windows can account for 10% to 15% of your heating bill.
• Repair leaky hot water faucets immediately. A hot water faucet leaking one drop per second wastes 160 gallons per month - or 16 hot baths!
What are you doing to save energy in your home?
• Regularly cleaning or replacing your filter will help your furnace run at full efficiency and supply better air flow.
• Keep the heat in by caulking, sealing and weather-stripping around your doors and windows to prevent heat from escaping to the outside. This makes your home more energy efficient and can create a savings on your energy bill.
• Close fireplace dampers when they are not in use. Having your fireplace cleaned and checked out by a professional every year keeps it operating safely and efficiently.
Doors and fireplaces account for 11% and 14% of your home’s heat loss respectively.
• Reduce energy costs and increase comfort with a programmable thermostat. A programmable thermostat can maximize your energy savings without the hassle of manually adjusting your thermostat. Large energy savings are possible when thermostat settings are set back during the sleep hours and times when no one is home.
• Set the thermostat at an energy efficient setting (between 68 and 72 degrees F or lower). Remember that for each degree the thermostat setting can is lowered, you could see a 3% energy savings on the heating portion of your bill.
• Reverse the direction of your ceiling fan. By changing the direction to clockwise in the winter, the fan will push rising warm air back into the room.
Only 20% of homes built before 1980 were well insulated.
• Consider adding insulation in your attic. You can increase the comfort of your home while reducing your heating and cooling needs by up to 30% by investing just a few hundred dollars in proper insulation and weatherization products.
• Open your draperies and let the sun in. The sun's rays will warm your home. Conversely, after dark close your draperies to hold heat inside your home.
• Close doors and/or heating vents to unused rooms.
• Be sure heating registers and vents are not blocked by draperies or furniture. These vents should also be cleaned regularly with a broom or vacuum.
• If your home has single-pane windows, as almost half of U.S. homes do, consider replacing them. New double-pane windows with high-performance glass can reduce heat loss. Storm windows can reduce your heat loss through windows by 25% to 50%.
Windows can account for 10% to 15% of your heating bill.
• Repair leaky hot water faucets immediately. A hot water faucet leaking one drop per second wastes 160 gallons per month - or 16 hot baths!
What are you doing to save energy in your home?
Thursday, October 9, 2008
Milk Products you can make with Powdered Milk
Milk Products you can make with Powdered Milk
Sour Milk: To sour reconstituted milk, just add a little vinegar to it, and stir it up. For instance, if a recipe calls for 1-cup of sour milk or buttermilk, then measure a tablespoon of vinegar into a measuring cup. Add reconstituted milk to reach the 1-cup mark. Stir the milk gently. In a moment or two, it will sour. This can replace soured milk or buttermilk in baking recipes.
Buttermilk: To make your own buttermilk, you have to start off with 1/2-cup of fresh, store-bought buttermilk and a quart (4-cups) of reconstituted milk. Combine the fresh buttermilk and reconstituted milk in a pitcher or jar. Mix it really well. Allow it to stand at room temperature overnight, or for about 8 hours. The milk will have thickened up and cultured into regular buttermilk. Refrigerate or chill and use anywhere fresh buttermilk is called for.
Evaporated Milk: To make evaporated skim milk you only need dry milk powder and water. Measure 1-1/3 cups water into a jar or bowl. Add 1 cup of instant dry milk powder. Stir or shake to combine. This is the equivalent of a 12-ounce can of evaporated skim milk. To make evaporated whole milk, you will need to add some fat to replace the milk fat in whole milk. Do this by preparing evaporated skim milk and then adding 2-tablespoons of vegetable oil to the milk. Stir it up vigorously to emulsify the fat with the milk. It will separate on standing, so mix it really well right before using it. This is best used in cooking and baking. A spritz of nonstick spray will help the emulsification process.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: On the stove, bring to a boil 1/2-cup of water, 1-cup of sugar and 3-tablespoons of margarine or shortening (butter flavored shortening is good). Add a dash of salt. Stir the mixture every now and then. When it comes to a full rolling boil, remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly. Add a cup of instant dry milk powder. Use a whisk to stir it smooth. A fork or a spoon will not get the mixture smooth, you really need a whisk, or egg beaters. There, you are done. This is the equivalent of a can of sweetened condensed milk. This will keep unrefrigerated for a day or two because of the sugar. I have never kept it longer than that without refrigeration. In the fridge it will keep for 2 weeks. For longer storage than that, I freeze it.
Quick Whipped Topping: This recipe is best made if you have electricity. Put 1/2-cup of water into a large bowl and place it in your freezer. When it has ice crystals forming around the edges, remove it from the freezer. Add 1/2-cup instant dry milk powder. Whip the mixture with electric beaters until it is light and fluffy. This will take a couple of minutes. Add 2-tablespoons sugar, 1-teaspoon of lemon juice, and 1/2-teaspoon of vanilla. Beat until thick enough to spoon like whipped topping. Use immediately.
http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/
Sour Milk: To sour reconstituted milk, just add a little vinegar to it, and stir it up. For instance, if a recipe calls for 1-cup of sour milk or buttermilk, then measure a tablespoon of vinegar into a measuring cup. Add reconstituted milk to reach the 1-cup mark. Stir the milk gently. In a moment or two, it will sour. This can replace soured milk or buttermilk in baking recipes.
Buttermilk: To make your own buttermilk, you have to start off with 1/2-cup of fresh, store-bought buttermilk and a quart (4-cups) of reconstituted milk. Combine the fresh buttermilk and reconstituted milk in a pitcher or jar. Mix it really well. Allow it to stand at room temperature overnight, or for about 8 hours. The milk will have thickened up and cultured into regular buttermilk. Refrigerate or chill and use anywhere fresh buttermilk is called for.
Evaporated Milk: To make evaporated skim milk you only need dry milk powder and water. Measure 1-1/3 cups water into a jar or bowl. Add 1 cup of instant dry milk powder. Stir or shake to combine. This is the equivalent of a 12-ounce can of evaporated skim milk. To make evaporated whole milk, you will need to add some fat to replace the milk fat in whole milk. Do this by preparing evaporated skim milk and then adding 2-tablespoons of vegetable oil to the milk. Stir it up vigorously to emulsify the fat with the milk. It will separate on standing, so mix it really well right before using it. This is best used in cooking and baking. A spritz of nonstick spray will help the emulsification process.
Sweetened Condensed Milk: On the stove, bring to a boil 1/2-cup of water, 1-cup of sugar and 3-tablespoons of margarine or shortening (butter flavored shortening is good). Add a dash of salt. Stir the mixture every now and then. When it comes to a full rolling boil, remove it from the heat. Allow it to cool slightly. Add a cup of instant dry milk powder. Use a whisk to stir it smooth. A fork or a spoon will not get the mixture smooth, you really need a whisk, or egg beaters. There, you are done. This is the equivalent of a can of sweetened condensed milk. This will keep unrefrigerated for a day or two because of the sugar. I have never kept it longer than that without refrigeration. In the fridge it will keep for 2 weeks. For longer storage than that, I freeze it.
Quick Whipped Topping: This recipe is best made if you have electricity. Put 1/2-cup of water into a large bowl and place it in your freezer. When it has ice crystals forming around the edges, remove it from the freezer. Add 1/2-cup instant dry milk powder. Whip the mixture with electric beaters until it is light and fluffy. This will take a couple of minutes. Add 2-tablespoons sugar, 1-teaspoon of lemon juice, and 1/2-teaspoon of vanilla. Beat until thick enough to spoon like whipped topping. Use immediately.
http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/
Wednesday, October 8, 2008
My Glasses
Ok......... I admit it. I need to wear my glasses.
I got them last year and have fought it tooth and nail.
I can't see .........so I gotta wear them right?!?!?!
But what do you think......How do I look in my glasses?!?!?!
Grandma's Angels
These are my Grandma's Porcelain Angels. Each Angels depicts a theme of every month of the year. Some even have a gemstone the represents that month.I remember these angels being displayed in her home. As a little girl, when I would come to visit I would spend hours looking at them. Sometimes I would even dare to take one down and hold it. Then when we moved in with her after she had a heart attack, I would always volunteer to dust them. I would clean them with care. Looking at their tiny little details, gemstones and gold trimmings.
I am the proud keeper of Grandma's Angels. She left them to me in her will.......... I guess she noticed all the the staring.
Tuesday, October 7, 2008
Garden at 134 Days
With this Week's Harvest I put up:4 Quarts of Tomatoes
5 Pints of Carrot Pepper Salsa
1 Quart and 3 Pints of Green Tomato Hodge Podge
1 Quart and 1 Pint of Pickled Green Tomatoes
Monday, October 6, 2008
What I am reading
The Englisher by Beverly LewisIf you are interested in this or any of the other books featured in the What I am reading posts, Please see the sidebar for my Amazon.com Favorites. You can purchase a copy of the book there!
Weather Signs
Before Doppler Radar and modern weather forecasting tools, people watched for signs around them to forecast the weather. Here are some that I found in my Foxfire Books:
It will be a bad winter if:
Animal Signs
~squirrels start gathering nuts early
~beaver lodges have more logs
~fur or hair on animals is thicker than normal
~crows gather early
~screech owls sound like women crying
~Birds huddle on the ground
Insect signs
~Hornets and yellow jackets build their nest heavier and closer to the ground
~there are a lot of spiders, frost worms and black bugs in the fall
~crickets are in the chimney
~the woolly worm the black band is wide on his back
Plant signs
~blackberry blooms are especially heavy
~grapes, cockleburrs and apples mature early
~carrots grow deeper
~hickory nuts have a heavy shell
Weather signs
~a late frost means a bad winter
~if the first snow stays on the ground for three days, another snow will come to top it
~a long hot summer means a long cold winter, the hotter the summer the colder the winter
~if frost comes before November 23 it will be a bad winter
Moon Signs
The number of days old the moon is at the frost snow tells how many snows will be that winter
It will rain if:
~cows are lying down in the pasture
~if there is a ring around the moon
~if the sun sets in clouds
~if birds fly low
~if earthworms come to the surface of the ground
Other Weather sayings
If it rains before 7 am it will quit before 11 am
If it rains on Easter Sunday, it will rain every Sunday for seven weeks
The first 12 days after Christmas will indicate what each month in the next year will be like
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Are you seeing any weather signs were you are?
It will be a bad winter if:
Animal Signs
~squirrels start gathering nuts early
~beaver lodges have more logs
~fur or hair on animals is thicker than normal
~crows gather early
~screech owls sound like women crying
~Birds huddle on the ground
Insect signs
~Hornets and yellow jackets build their nest heavier and closer to the ground
~there are a lot of spiders, frost worms and black bugs in the fall
~crickets are in the chimney
~the woolly worm the black band is wide on his back
Plant signs
~blackberry blooms are especially heavy
~grapes, cockleburrs and apples mature early
~carrots grow deeper
~hickory nuts have a heavy shell
Weather signs
~a late frost means a bad winter
~if the first snow stays on the ground for three days, another snow will come to top it
~a long hot summer means a long cold winter, the hotter the summer the colder the winter
~if frost comes before November 23 it will be a bad winter
Moon Signs
The number of days old the moon is at the frost snow tells how many snows will be that winter
It will rain if:
~cows are lying down in the pasture
~if there is a ring around the moon
~if the sun sets in clouds
~if birds fly low
~if earthworms come to the surface of the ground
Other Weather sayings
If it rains before 7 am it will quit before 11 am
If it rains on Easter Sunday, it will rain every Sunday for seven weeks
The first 12 days after Christmas will indicate what each month in the next year will be like
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Are you seeing any weather signs were you are?
Sunday, October 5, 2008
A Years Supply of Food
This is something we are working on. We have no where near a years supply but it it something we are planning and working on.
~~~~~~~~~~
Just how big is a Years Supply of food?
The following is the minimum for each adult:
This will keep you fed, but leave you hungry.
400 lbs. Grains (17.5oz / day)
60 lbs. Beans (2.6oz / day)
10 quarts Cooking oil (0.87oz / day)
60 lbs. Honey (2.63oz / day)
8 lbs. Salt (0.35oz / day)
16 lbs Powdered milk (0.70oz / day)
14 gallons of drinking water (for 2 weeks)
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dividing 400 lbs by 365 days, equals out to just over 1 lb of grain, per person, per day. That is approximately 2 cups of unground grain to cover your breakfast lunch and dinner.
Dividing 60 lbs by 365, this works out to 0.16 lbs of beans per day, or 2.6 oz—approximately 3/4 cup. The other foods listed would also need to be used in limited amounts.
Or use this handy dandy food calculator that I found:
http://lds.about.com/library/bl/faq/blcalculator.htm
~~~~~~~~~~
Just how big is a Years Supply of food?
The following is the minimum for each adult:
This will keep you fed, but leave you hungry.
400 lbs. Grains (17.5oz / day)
60 lbs. Beans (2.6oz / day)
10 quarts Cooking oil (0.87oz / day)
60 lbs. Honey (2.63oz / day)
8 lbs. Salt (0.35oz / day)
16 lbs Powdered milk (0.70oz / day)
14 gallons of drinking water (for 2 weeks)
~~~~~~~~~~~~
Dividing 400 lbs by 365 days, equals out to just over 1 lb of grain, per person, per day. That is approximately 2 cups of unground grain to cover your breakfast lunch and dinner.
Dividing 60 lbs by 365, this works out to 0.16 lbs of beans per day, or 2.6 oz—approximately 3/4 cup. The other foods listed would also need to be used in limited amounts.
Or use this handy dandy food calculator that I found:
http://lds.about.com/library/bl/faq/blcalculator.htm
Where does your food come from?
Do you know where your food comes from?
Learn about a variety of foods and how they were produced in the 1880's. Help grind wheat into flour, learn about meat preservation through smoking and salting, sample some fresh bread, try your hand at making butter, drying fruit, and helping save some seeds from the garden.
Enjoy a whole weekend dedicated to food.
Saturday 11-01-2008 1:00PM - 5:00PM
Sunday 11-02-2008 1:00PM - 5:00PM
Carriage Hill MetroPark
7800 E. Shull Road
Dayton, Ohio 45424
(937) 278-2609
Learn about a variety of foods and how they were produced in the 1880's. Help grind wheat into flour, learn about meat preservation through smoking and salting, sample some fresh bread, try your hand at making butter, drying fruit, and helping save some seeds from the garden.
Enjoy a whole weekend dedicated to food.
Saturday 11-01-2008 1:00PM - 5:00PM
Sunday 11-02-2008 1:00PM - 5:00PM
Carriage Hill MetroPark
7800 E. Shull Road
Dayton, Ohio 45424
(937) 278-2609
Friday, October 3, 2008
Make your own Dishwashing Soap
Dishwashing Soap
Recipe 1
2 cups soap flakes
1 gallon tap water
25 drops essential oil (optional) (eg. lemon, lime, grapefruit)
Combine first two ingredients in a pot on the stove and bring to a boil. Simmer until the soap flakes have dissolved, cool, then transfer to a squirt bottle. Add essential oil last.
Recipe 2
Mix and put in squirt bottle:
½ cup liquid castile soap
1-2 cups water
23 drops essential oil (try 20 drops lime and 10 drops sweet orange; vary scents with lemon,
Recipe 1
2 cups soap flakes
1 gallon tap water
25 drops essential oil (optional) (eg. lemon, lime, grapefruit)
Combine first two ingredients in a pot on the stove and bring to a boil. Simmer until the soap flakes have dissolved, cool, then transfer to a squirt bottle. Add essential oil last.
Recipe 2
Mix and put in squirt bottle:
½ cup liquid castile soap
1-2 cups water
23 drops essential oil (try 20 drops lime and 10 drops sweet orange; vary scents with lemon,
Thursday, October 2, 2008
Brand Name vs. Generic: Part 2
Part 2: Brand Name vs. Generic
Article by http://www.walletpop.com/
Brand Name Malted Milk Balls
Brand: Whoppers
Price: 3 bags at $.89 each, $2.67
Size: 1.75 ounce
Review: Invites you to let it melt in your mouth the way a malted milk ball should.
Generic Malted Milk Balls
Generic: Kroger Chocolate Malted Milk Balls
Price: $1.50
Size: 6 ounce bag
Review: The generics are big and clunky, with a thick, shiny, waxy chocolate coating and a mildly mushy malt center.
Verdict: The real Whoppers are better. They are more delicate: the malt center is crisp, the outer chocolate is thin and fine.
Brand Name Cheese Curls
Brand: Cheetos Crunchy
Price: $2.49
Size: 5 oz.
Review: Nice crunch, but you taste more salt than cheese.
Generic Cheese Curls
Generic: Kroger Crunchy Cheese Curls
Price: $1.69
Size: 7 oz.
Review: Cheesier and more satisfying
Verdict: The Kroger brand is actually better. It feels more dense. They still turn your fingers orange. It's everything I want in a cheese curl.
Brand Name Shortbread
Brand: Walker's Shortbread
Price: $3.99
Size: 5.3 oz
Review: Buttery and delicious, but kind of pricey.
Generic Shortbread
Brand: Walgreen's Shortbread Fingers
Price: $2.99 or 2 for $5
Size: 5.3 oz
Review: Made by Walker's too, but not that much cheaper.
Verdict: I bought the Walgreen's shortbread thinking that cheap shortbread is better than no shortbread at all, but I was suspecting disaster. Then I tasted it. It was just as buttery as I hoped. No stinginess with ingredients. As it turns out, Walgreen's buys the shortbread from Walker's -- one of the very few instances of a name brand making its own competition. Then again, it’s not that much cheaper.
Brand Name Yogurt
Brand: Stoneyfield Lowfat Raspberry Yogurt
Price: $.99
Size: 6 oz.
Review: Creamy, delicious, but container is too small.
Generic Yogurt
Generic: White Rose Raspberry Lowfat
Price: $.69
Size: 8 oz.
Review: Amazingly creamy and delicious for a store brand yogurt. Bigger size, but more sugar and calories.
Verdict: Generic yogurt used to be poor quality. The last time I tried it, it was gelatinous, almost slimy. This time I was amazed at how creamy the White Rose yogurt was. The downside is that White Rose has nearly twice as much sugar and calories as Stonyfield.
Brand Name Frosted Flakes
Brand: Kellogg's Frosted Flakes
Price: $4.49
Size: 17 oz.
Review: A bowl of these had large, crisp flakes with sweet frosting evenly distributed and slightly glossy.
Generic Frosted Flakes
Brand: Pathmark Frosted Flakes
Price: $2.99
Size: 17 oz.
Review: While the flakes were a little smaller, darker and not shiny, there was virtually no taste difference.
Verdict: The significant savings makes it more than worth the price -- and the generic goes on sale as much or more so than the name brand, making it sometimes an extra special value.
Brand Name Diapers
Brand: Pampers Baby Dry, Size 4
Price: $44.99
Size: 176 case
Review: There's a reason Pampers are the industry standard -- they fit, they absorb and they don't smell. In a large case from 1800diapers.com or a warehouse store, they are cost-effective.
Generic Diapers
Brand: Lulla-Bee (Pathmark brand diapers)
Price: $22.99
Size: Case of 92 diapers
Review: For one penny difference per diaper, there's no reason to go for diapers that are bulky, bunch up and don't absorb odor. They are truly stinky.
Tell us about your favorite store brand or generic product!
Article by http://www.walletpop.com/
Brand Name Malted Milk Balls
Brand: Whoppers
Price: 3 bags at $.89 each, $2.67
Size: 1.75 ounce
Review: Invites you to let it melt in your mouth the way a malted milk ball should.
Generic Malted Milk Balls
Generic: Kroger Chocolate Malted Milk Balls
Price: $1.50
Size: 6 ounce bag
Review: The generics are big and clunky, with a thick, shiny, waxy chocolate coating and a mildly mushy malt center.
Verdict: The real Whoppers are better. They are more delicate: the malt center is crisp, the outer chocolate is thin and fine.
Brand Name Cheese Curls
Brand: Cheetos Crunchy
Price: $2.49
Size: 5 oz.
Review: Nice crunch, but you taste more salt than cheese.
Generic Cheese Curls
Generic: Kroger Crunchy Cheese Curls
Price: $1.69
Size: 7 oz.
Review: Cheesier and more satisfying
Verdict: The Kroger brand is actually better. It feels more dense. They still turn your fingers orange. It's everything I want in a cheese curl.
Brand Name Shortbread
Brand: Walker's Shortbread
Price: $3.99
Size: 5.3 oz
Review: Buttery and delicious, but kind of pricey.
Generic Shortbread
Brand: Walgreen's Shortbread Fingers
Price: $2.99 or 2 for $5
Size: 5.3 oz
Review: Made by Walker's too, but not that much cheaper.
Verdict: I bought the Walgreen's shortbread thinking that cheap shortbread is better than no shortbread at all, but I was suspecting disaster. Then I tasted it. It was just as buttery as I hoped. No stinginess with ingredients. As it turns out, Walgreen's buys the shortbread from Walker's -- one of the very few instances of a name brand making its own competition. Then again, it’s not that much cheaper.
Brand Name Yogurt
Brand: Stoneyfield Lowfat Raspberry Yogurt
Price: $.99
Size: 6 oz.
Review: Creamy, delicious, but container is too small.
Generic Yogurt
Generic: White Rose Raspberry Lowfat
Price: $.69
Size: 8 oz.
Review: Amazingly creamy and delicious for a store brand yogurt. Bigger size, but more sugar and calories.
Verdict: Generic yogurt used to be poor quality. The last time I tried it, it was gelatinous, almost slimy. This time I was amazed at how creamy the White Rose yogurt was. The downside is that White Rose has nearly twice as much sugar and calories as Stonyfield.
Brand Name Frosted Flakes
Brand: Kellogg's Frosted Flakes
Price: $4.49
Size: 17 oz.
Review: A bowl of these had large, crisp flakes with sweet frosting evenly distributed and slightly glossy.
Generic Frosted Flakes
Brand: Pathmark Frosted Flakes
Price: $2.99
Size: 17 oz.
Review: While the flakes were a little smaller, darker and not shiny, there was virtually no taste difference.
Verdict: The significant savings makes it more than worth the price -- and the generic goes on sale as much or more so than the name brand, making it sometimes an extra special value.
Brand Name Diapers
Brand: Pampers Baby Dry, Size 4
Price: $44.99
Size: 176 case
Review: There's a reason Pampers are the industry standard -- they fit, they absorb and they don't smell. In a large case from 1800diapers.com or a warehouse store, they are cost-effective.
Generic Diapers
Brand: Lulla-Bee (Pathmark brand diapers)
Price: $22.99
Size: Case of 92 diapers
Review: For one penny difference per diaper, there's no reason to go for diapers that are bulky, bunch up and don't absorb odor. They are truly stinky.
Tell us about your favorite store brand or generic product!
Wednesday, October 1, 2008
What's for Dinner- Caramel Apple Bars
I made these for a housewarming party the other night. They are YUMMY!! I got several requests for the recipe!
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Caramel Apple Bars
Prep Time: 20 min
Start to Finish: 50 min
Makes: 36 bars
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/4 cup shortening
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups quick-cooking oats
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
4 1/2 cups coarsely chopped peeled tart apples (3 medium)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 bag (14 ounces) caramels
1. Heat oven to 400ºF. Mix brown sugar, butter and shortening in large bowl. Stir in 1 3/4 cups flour, the oats, salt and baking soda. Reserve 2 cups oat mixture; press remaining oat mixture in ungreased rectangular pan, 13x9x2 inches.
2. Toss apples and 3 tablespoons flour; spread over mixture in pan. Heat caramels over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted; pour evenly over apples. Sprinkle with reserved oat mixture; press lightly.
3. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until topping is golden brown and apples are tender. For 36 bars, cut into 6 rows by 6 rows while warm. Store covered in refrigerator.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
Caramel Apple Bars
Prep Time: 20 min
Start to Finish: 50 min
Makes: 36 bars
1 cup packed brown sugar
1/2 cup butter or margarine, softened
1/4 cup shortening
1 3/4 cups all-purpose flour
1 1/2 cups quick-cooking oats
1 teaspoon salt
1/2 teaspoon baking soda
4 1/2 cups coarsely chopped peeled tart apples (3 medium)
3 tablespoons all-purpose flour
1 bag (14 ounces) caramels
1. Heat oven to 400ºF. Mix brown sugar, butter and shortening in large bowl. Stir in 1 3/4 cups flour, the oats, salt and baking soda. Reserve 2 cups oat mixture; press remaining oat mixture in ungreased rectangular pan, 13x9x2 inches.
2. Toss apples and 3 tablespoons flour; spread over mixture in pan. Heat caramels over low heat, stirring occasionally, until melted; pour evenly over apples. Sprinkle with reserved oat mixture; press lightly.
3. Bake 25 to 30 minutes or until topping is golden brown and apples are tender. For 36 bars, cut into 6 rows by 6 rows while warm. Store covered in refrigerator.
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