By the time you read this, the outcome of the Dallas Cowboys vs. Washington Redskins game will be history and the story will be told… but for now all eyes are on Tony Romo, the starting quarterback for the Dallas Cowboys, who cracked a rib and punctured a lung during a recent game with the 49ers.
Despite his injuries Romo kept going and pulled off a victory for his team, the Cowboys. Sometimes the win is just about showing up. But who knows how many Cowboy fans took home the lesson of finishing the game, going the extra mile and overcoming obstacles.
When you watched Romo on BigDog Satellite he was playing football. He wasn’t wondering what people were thinking or how much money he’d make. He gave all he had, because that’s who he is… and in the process he inspired his fans to run their own games faster and farther than they ever thought possible.
BIGDOG Satellite will bring you the game with all the thrill and excitement.. but inside the game is a story worth telling. Tony Romo will play football when his ribs heal and in doing what he loves, he’ll inspire us all to go the extra mile.
By the time you read this, Monday’s outcome will be history. The game will be won and the winner called. I can’t predict which quarterback will throw the winning ball, but I can predict the winner. The winners will be the same as in the game of life. They show up, they overcome obstacles and they play to the best of their ability.
There won’t be any wimps playing for the Dallas Cowboys. Players like Romo show up and give their all. They overcome and they never let their team down. The winners will be the fans and followers, watching and cheering and becoming better people than they were before they saw that ball fly across the Texas sky.
Life’s short, don’t sit on the sidelines. Life gives you back what you put in… be the star of your own show and get out there and give it all you’ve got.
When Tony Romo gets that medical release he’ll be anxiously engaged in what he loves, football. In the meantime he’ll be thinking of his fans and his teammates, because that’s who he is. Time passes and turns to history where the story will be told… and for now all eyes are on Tony Romo.
When your story is told all eyes will be on you. Are you playing your best game? Do you get up every time you’re knocked down? Do you cover your team’s back as well as you do your own? Life is tough, but it doesn’t choose the winners and the losers. We choose our own game, play our own field and write our own stories. If you’re ‘in the game’, be in it to win.
Thursday, September 29, 2011
If You’re Looking for Normal
If you spend more than a few hours at the Texas State Fair you’ll be tempted to try fried Strawberry Waffles, Fried Margaritas, Fried Butter, Fried Bubblegum and Fried Beer, all are appe-teasers… at the 2011 Texas State Fair. I was watching my Big Dog Satellite and thinking "oh for some smell TV or Taste TV"… I might have to go to the Fair.
If your taste buds are sensitive to things you would not normally call food or combinations of otherwise normal food that would not be socialized on a plate, then you’ll be interested in some of the ‘nearly traditional’ foods found at the State Faire.
Keep your eyes open for fresh strawberries and bananas on a kabob stick, because it’s beautiful colors will dazzle in the Texas sun. Even if you tend toward the outrageous you won’t want to miss this one drizzled with Milk and White Chocolate. They’re almost too pretty to eat.
Hidden, like Where’s Waldo, in one of the food aisles you’ll find a Chicken Taco… a gently breaded chicken breast is wrapped and then refried in a flour tortilla. Served hot with your choice of cream gravy or jalapeño ranch dressing. Viva el taco!
If you’ve kept up with the fair menu then you may be considering bring lunch for the kids, because fried beer or gravy filled biscuits don’t mix with the under 6 crowd. Never fear, for pint size visitors there’ll be a Kid’s Menu featuring kid-size helpings of chicken tenders, burgers and cheeseburgers, mini corny dogs, grilled cheese sandwiches, and hot dogs. All served with French fries and a juice box or small soda. Amazing.
If your taste buds are sensitive to things you would not normally call food or combinations of otherwise normal food that would not be socialized on a plate, then you’ll be interested in some of the ‘nearly traditional’ foods found at the State Faire.
Keep your eyes open for fresh strawberries and bananas on a kabob stick, because it’s beautiful colors will dazzle in the Texas sun. Even if you tend toward the outrageous you won’t want to miss this one drizzled with Milk and White Chocolate. They’re almost too pretty to eat.
Hidden, like Where’s Waldo, in one of the food aisles you’ll find a Chicken Taco… a gently breaded chicken breast is wrapped and then refried in a flour tortilla. Served hot with your choice of cream gravy or jalapeño ranch dressing. Viva el taco!
If you’ve kept up with the fair menu then you may be considering bring lunch for the kids, because fried beer or gravy filled biscuits don’t mix with the under 6 crowd. Never fear, for pint size visitors there’ll be a Kid’s Menu featuring kid-size helpings of chicken tenders, burgers and cheeseburgers, mini corny dogs, grilled cheese sandwiches, and hot dogs. All served with French fries and a juice box or small soda. Amazing.
Sports is Filled With Heroes
Baseball has it’s own breed of heroes. Some suffer untold challenges, some come through trials in triumph and some give and some take. But history confirms that heroes are forged in the fire of adversity and baseball certainly has it’s heroes.
Hurricane Katrina struck the gulf Coast on Aug. 29, 2005. It packed 145 mph winds and left more than a million people without power, 1700 were killed and thousands left the city to become refugees.
Tom Walter was the coach at the University of New Orleans and Katrina left his house under 12 feet of water. He was not alone in the chaos, but he was a coach and he had a baseball team to care for.
For months, Walter spent his efforts supervising his team’s temporary relocation to the campus of New Mexico State. He vowed to assist anyone wanting to transfer to another college, a choice many coaches wouldn’t have made. But even with that sacrifice and demonstration of leadership history could have easily forgotten Tom Walter.
Far fewer would have done what Walter did after that. He donated a kidney to Kevin Jordan, one of his players. Kevin was a 19 year old freshman and Walter couldn’t bare to see him languish on dialysis while his life and opportunities passed by. The decision was made.
Baseball is filled with heroes and it’s not the first time it has shown us what real men are made of. The story of Tom Walter and Kevin Jordan resonated from breakfast table to breakfast table across America, but nowhere was it appreciated more than it was in Dallas.
In 2007 the retired Cowboys cornerback Everson Walls donated a kidney to ex-teammate Ron Springs. Walls and Springs had been friends since sports threw them together nearly 30 years before. So when Springs needed a transplant it was a decision Walls could live with.
The transplant raised the inevitable question of whether this violated a longstanding association rule by providing an “extra benefit” to an athlete. A ‘benefit’ was defined as an arrangement not made available to other students. An extra benefit was indeed conferred and it was extraordinary, beyond any rule.
Ron Springs recovered fully from his transplant, but died a few months later while having minor surgery. One hero goes on while another leaves and the story of why one is taken will not be answered in this life. Walter said, “We answer to a higher calling on this one.”
Sports fans have shared the story of these heroes over beers, boating and breakfast and with their children for years. The long-term effect of the sharing of these stories is yet to be seen. As these inspirational stories multiply across the land, they are planted as seeds in the next generation and will eventually come to bloom.
Real heroes are borne not from success and prosperity. They are forged in struggles, tough decisions and in the worst of times. Maybe in you or your child there is a Hero waiting.
While you drive to the Texas State Fair, tell the children the story of Walter and Kevin and Wall and Springs… plant and water the seeds of a new generation of heroes.
Hurricane Katrina struck the gulf Coast on Aug. 29, 2005. It packed 145 mph winds and left more than a million people without power, 1700 were killed and thousands left the city to become refugees.
Tom Walter was the coach at the University of New Orleans and Katrina left his house under 12 feet of water. He was not alone in the chaos, but he was a coach and he had a baseball team to care for.
For months, Walter spent his efforts supervising his team’s temporary relocation to the campus of New Mexico State. He vowed to assist anyone wanting to transfer to another college, a choice many coaches wouldn’t have made. But even with that sacrifice and demonstration of leadership history could have easily forgotten Tom Walter.
Far fewer would have done what Walter did after that. He donated a kidney to Kevin Jordan, one of his players. Kevin was a 19 year old freshman and Walter couldn’t bare to see him languish on dialysis while his life and opportunities passed by. The decision was made.
Baseball is filled with heroes and it’s not the first time it has shown us what real men are made of. The story of Tom Walter and Kevin Jordan resonated from breakfast table to breakfast table across America, but nowhere was it appreciated more than it was in Dallas.
In 2007 the retired Cowboys cornerback Everson Walls donated a kidney to ex-teammate Ron Springs. Walls and Springs had been friends since sports threw them together nearly 30 years before. So when Springs needed a transplant it was a decision Walls could live with.
The transplant raised the inevitable question of whether this violated a longstanding association rule by providing an “extra benefit” to an athlete. A ‘benefit’ was defined as an arrangement not made available to other students. An extra benefit was indeed conferred and it was extraordinary, beyond any rule.
Ron Springs recovered fully from his transplant, but died a few months later while having minor surgery. One hero goes on while another leaves and the story of why one is taken will not be answered in this life. Walter said, “We answer to a higher calling on this one.”
Sports fans have shared the story of these heroes over beers, boating and breakfast and with their children for years. The long-term effect of the sharing of these stories is yet to be seen. As these inspirational stories multiply across the land, they are planted as seeds in the next generation and will eventually come to bloom.
Real heroes are borne not from success and prosperity. They are forged in struggles, tough decisions and in the worst of times. Maybe in you or your child there is a Hero waiting.
While you drive to the Texas State Fair, tell the children the story of Walter and Kevin and Wall and Springs… plant and water the seeds of a new generation of heroes.
Stay Safe During The Fair … Peace of Mind Is Priceless
With three million people attending the Texas State Fair my thoughts turn to Preparing to be safe. It’s simple, inexpensive and could save your life.
Safety is rarely the result of luck. It’s a combination of making the right decision while others are in chaos and having the confidence to make the best choice of many. There is added value, as those who are prepared can help others and not be a drain on resources.
Preparedness can appear to be a stroke of luck, but as with any success, it’s a process. The suggestions below will serve you well every day and I hope become part of your life. Some things you’ll do before you leave home and a few when you get to the fair. They are all free, easy and will make your day more worry free. Prepare everyday to keep you and your family safe.
After all that has happened this summer, I suppose the entire Texas sky could unexpectedly fall. So, PLAN AHEAD, even before you leave home.
Tune into your Satellite TV the night before, for weather and pay attention to other unusual news items. Be mindful as you dress for the Fair and wear clothing with zippered pockets to carry a phone, credit cards and cash.
Before you leave your house, plan an alternate route to take home in case of an unexpected event and always have ½ tank of gas.
BE AWARE of your surroundings.
Watch the weather, the exits, disruptions, and the news.
Have a Bug Out Bag (BOB)in your car. This is a backpack with water, snacks, first aid kit, comfortable shoes and a flashlight… as you pack your BOB, think of other items you’d want if chaos reined.
Once you get to the fair…
Check-out the exits on Fair maps as you enter, set-up times to connect, even if only by phone.
If your group is separating, establish a meeting place and an alternate. Have cell numbers in favorites, check-out the exits when you enter a new location, and have the “don’t talk to strangers” talk with children one more time.
If the worst happens and the sky falls, 7000 cars exiting the Fair grounds will turn highways giant parking lots for miles. You’ll have two options; drive your car and be patient or start walking. If you’re planning to drive, check your gas, put your Bug Out Bag (BOB) in the car, take alternate routes if possible and call someone and tell them where you are and where you’re going.
Under the right (or wrong) conditions you might leave your car and walk. Chances are you’ll make better progress on foot, but chose this option only if it’s daylight, the streets are safe and you have somewhere to go.
Then go and enjoy the Fair, knowing that if the Texas sky falls, you will know where your family is and have the ability to keep them safe.
These precautions are basic, but will serve you well for an event, trivial or traumatic. Even on a clear summer day if you are only driving to a soccer game know your route, have your BOB and know where your family is. Peace of mind is priceless.
Safety is rarely the result of luck. It’s a combination of making the right decision while others are in chaos and having the confidence to make the best choice of many. There is added value, as those who are prepared can help others and not be a drain on resources.
Preparedness can appear to be a stroke of luck, but as with any success, it’s a process. The suggestions below will serve you well every day and I hope become part of your life. Some things you’ll do before you leave home and a few when you get to the fair. They are all free, easy and will make your day more worry free. Prepare everyday to keep you and your family safe.
After all that has happened this summer, I suppose the entire Texas sky could unexpectedly fall. So, PLAN AHEAD, even before you leave home.
Tune into your Satellite TV the night before, for weather and pay attention to other unusual news items. Be mindful as you dress for the Fair and wear clothing with zippered pockets to carry a phone, credit cards and cash.
Before you leave your house, plan an alternate route to take home in case of an unexpected event and always have ½ tank of gas.
BE AWARE of your surroundings.
Watch the weather, the exits, disruptions, and the news.
Have a Bug Out Bag (BOB)in your car. This is a backpack with water, snacks, first aid kit, comfortable shoes and a flashlight… as you pack your BOB, think of other items you’d want if chaos reined.
Once you get to the fair…
Check-out the exits on Fair maps as you enter, set-up times to connect, even if only by phone.
If your group is separating, establish a meeting place and an alternate. Have cell numbers in favorites, check-out the exits when you enter a new location, and have the “don’t talk to strangers” talk with children one more time.
If the worst happens and the sky falls, 7000 cars exiting the Fair grounds will turn highways giant parking lots for miles. You’ll have two options; drive your car and be patient or start walking. If you’re planning to drive, check your gas, put your Bug Out Bag (BOB) in the car, take alternate routes if possible and call someone and tell them where you are and where you’re going.
Under the right (or wrong) conditions you might leave your car and walk. Chances are you’ll make better progress on foot, but chose this option only if it’s daylight, the streets are safe and you have somewhere to go.
Then go and enjoy the Fair, knowing that if the Texas sky falls, you will know where your family is and have the ability to keep them safe.
These precautions are basic, but will serve you well for an event, trivial or traumatic. Even on a clear summer day if you are only driving to a soccer game know your route, have your BOB and know where your family is. Peace of mind is priceless.
Saturday, August 6, 2011
The Rule of Three says...
The rule of three says that you can live .. 3 minutes without air|3 hours without heat | 3 days without water|3 weeks without food
It's one theory where I hope I'm not in on the testing.. but it does make water pretty darn important. For that reason and lots more I'm putting my stamp of approval on the Paratroopers Water Purifier.
I love this product. Our well is 650 feet deep an the nearest source being miles from us, even if it was useable water, its a long way to travel for water, so for my family it's a concern... As I think about needing that water for drinking and cooking, I support Solutions in Science as they bring us Solutions to our needs.
Here is some basic information.
Without a doubt special ops paratroopers endure some of the harshest conditions on earth. And when they need clean water, elite soldiers are choosing the Paratroopers Water Purifier -- the smallest, lightest, and most durable water purifier on earth!
It’s so small and lightweight you can easily carry it in your pocket or purse, backpack or glove box. What’s more, it’s just as effective at purifying water as larger, more expensive units!
The Paratroopers Water Purifier removes 100% of harmful water-borne bacteria, including E.coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholerae, and Legionella pneumophila... and completely removes suspended contaminants like dust, algae, and organic particles.
Crystal clear water!
Here's what to expect
Significantly reduced concentration of heavy metal ions so your filtered water tastes fresh, crisp, and clean.
Surprisingly fast filtration! Filters one third of a liter of water per minute. Just three minutes fills a full liter bottle.
Small size... HUGE filtering capacity. Filter up to 2,000 liters of water before replacing the filter.
Comes in a heavy-duty camouflage pouch with drawstring to protect against accidental damage.
Say Goodbye to Bacteria... Even E.Coli
Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, yet can purify even the dirtiest lake, river, and rain water, removing 100% of harmful bacteria -- even E.coli bacteria!
Skeptical?
That’s why Solutions for Science sent the Paratroopers Water Purifier to an independent lab to be tested against one of the best selling filters in America (you'd recognize the name instantly) to see how well they removed E.coli from contaminated water.
The Paratrooper passed the test with flying colors. The independent lab confirmed that 100% of E.coli bacteria was removed. In spite of it’s compact size, the Paratrooper matched the effectiveness of the full-size water purifier. (exact same results - and for much less money)
The Perfect Portable Water Purifier
The Paratroopers Water Purifier is ideal for...
Camping and backpacking - Quickly fill empty bottles at any stream, river, or lake.
Outdoor work - you could have enough clean water to drink all day long.
Emergency water filtration - put one in your car and on in your Bug-out Bag... a few days without water and you are pretty dysfunctional .. a few days with disease and you could be dead.
It's one theory where I hope I'm not in on the testing.. but it does make water pretty darn important. For that reason and lots more I'm putting my stamp of approval on the Paratroopers Water Purifier.
I love this product. Our well is 650 feet deep an the nearest source being miles from us, even if it was useable water, its a long way to travel for water, so for my family it's a concern... As I think about needing that water for drinking and cooking, I support Solutions in Science as they bring us Solutions to our needs.
Here is some basic information.
Without a doubt special ops paratroopers endure some of the harshest conditions on earth. And when they need clean water, elite soldiers are choosing the Paratroopers Water Purifier -- the smallest, lightest, and most durable water purifier on earth!
It’s so small and lightweight you can easily carry it in your pocket or purse, backpack or glove box. What’s more, it’s just as effective at purifying water as larger, more expensive units!
The Paratroopers Water Purifier removes 100% of harmful water-borne bacteria, including E.coli, Staphylococcus aureus, Salmonella typhi, Vibrio cholerae, and Legionella pneumophila... and completely removes suspended contaminants like dust, algae, and organic particles.
Crystal clear water!
Here's what to expect
Significantly reduced concentration of heavy metal ions so your filtered water tastes fresh, crisp, and clean.
Surprisingly fast filtration! Filters one third of a liter of water per minute. Just three minutes fills a full liter bottle.
Small size... HUGE filtering capacity. Filter up to 2,000 liters of water before replacing the filter.
Comes in a heavy-duty camouflage pouch with drawstring to protect against accidental damage.
Say Goodbye to Bacteria... Even E.Coli
Small enough to fit in the palm of your hand, yet can purify even the dirtiest lake, river, and rain water, removing 100% of harmful bacteria -- even E.coli bacteria!
Skeptical?
That’s why Solutions for Science sent the Paratroopers Water Purifier to an independent lab to be tested against one of the best selling filters in America (you'd recognize the name instantly) to see how well they removed E.coli from contaminated water.
The Paratrooper passed the test with flying colors. The independent lab confirmed that 100% of E.coli bacteria was removed. In spite of it’s compact size, the Paratrooper matched the effectiveness of the full-size water purifier. (exact same results - and for much less money)
The Perfect Portable Water Purifier
The Paratroopers Water Purifier is ideal for...
Camping and backpacking - Quickly fill empty bottles at any stream, river, or lake.
Outdoor work - you could have enough clean water to drink all day long.
Emergency water filtration - put one in your car and on in your Bug-out Bag... a few days without water and you are pretty dysfunctional .. a few days with disease and you could be dead.
Make Your Own Cleaners
I've used some of these, others I've borrowed and collected.. try and enjoy… but watch the warnings (at the end)
Frugal Green Household Cleaners
DUSTING: Re-use dryer sheets for dusting instead of the Pledge or Swifter cloths
FABRIC SOFTENER: Add vinegar to the rinse cycle
MICROWAVE CLEANER: Mix 2T baking soda or lemon juice and 1 cup water in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave five minutes or until boiling and condensation builds up inside the microwave. Wipe down.
CHROME CLEANER: Toothpaste is great for cleaning chrome
DISHWASHER RINSE: 1 1/2 white vinegar added to the rinse compartment of your dishwasher
THE FOLLOWING ARE SAFE AND NON-TOXIC:
WOODEN FLOOR CLEANER: 1/2 cup white vinegar 1/2 cup vegetable oil. Mix well
ALL-PURPOSE CLEANER: 1 tsp. borax 1/2 Tsp. washing soda 2 Tbl. lemon juice. Combine In a spray bottle with 1 cup of hot water and shake.
FURNITURE POLISH: Mix 1 cup vegetable or olive oil 1/2 cup lemon juice In a spray bottle . Shake well and apply a small amount to a cloth.
VINEGAR GLASS CLEANERS (choose your favorite)
1) 1/2 cup vinegar 1 gallon warm water
2) 1 gallon water 1/2 cup white vinegar 1/2 teaspoon liquid dish detergent Combine in a spray bottle. Shake to blend.
3) 1 cup rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol 1 cup water 1 tablespoon white vinegar Combine in a spray bottle. Shake to blend.
AMMONIA GLASS CLEANER
1) In a gallon jug mix: 1 tsp dishwashing detergent, 1 pint rubbing alcohol, 1/2 cup ammonia. Fill the gallon with water.
2) in a spray bottle: 1/2 cup ammonia, 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol 1/2 cup water. Shake to blend.
GENERIC TILEX: (mix and use in a spray bottle) 1 part bleach 9 parts water 1 part Dawn Dish Soap (or brand with surfactants and NO ammonia)
CARPET DEODORIZER: Fill a jar with baking soda. Add essential oil (your choice of fragrance and amount), one drop at a time. Stir so it doesn't clump. Sprinkle on carpet and leave for 10-20 minutes before vacuuming.
ALL PURPOSE CLEANERS (choose again)
Convenient in a spray bottle
1) 3 tsp liquid soap & one gallon water
2) 1/4 cup vinegar & one gallon water
3) 1/4 cup lemon juice & one gallon water
4) 1/4 cup Borax & one gallon water
DISINFECTANTS (choose again)
1) 1/4 cup Borax plus 1/2 gallon water
2) 1 part bleach plus 9 parts water
DRAIN CLEANER: 1/4 cup baking soda
1/2 cup vinegar Pour baking soda, then vinegar down the drain. Close drain until bubbling stops. Pour boiling water. If the clog remains, use a plunger or snake. If all else fails, take the elbow off the pipe.
MILDEW & LIME DEPOSIT REMOVER: 1/2 cup white vinegar Warm water 1/2 cup Borax Dissolve borax in water, add vinegar. Make a fresh batch for each use.
ANT KILLER! … (NOT child safe!! Use any poison with caution!!!) Combine in equal parts Powdered Sugar and Borax and sprinkle in places where ants crawl. (I mix with water to make a thick liquid and dip a paper towel in it. Then put it in a glass jar with nail holes in the lid. This way the ants can climb in and out but your kiddo can't.)
Before You Begin…
* Mix in well-ventilated areas
* Label containers
* Store in a safe place
* Don't reuse containers from other cleaners
* NEVER mix bleach and ammonia. NEVER!
* Don't store in food containers
* Test a small area before using any cleaner
REMEMBER: NEVER mix Bleach and Ammonia…
Frugal Green Household Cleaners
DUSTING: Re-use dryer sheets for dusting instead of the Pledge or Swifter cloths
FABRIC SOFTENER: Add vinegar to the rinse cycle
MICROWAVE CLEANER: Mix 2T baking soda or lemon juice and 1 cup water in a microwave-safe bowl. Microwave five minutes or until boiling and condensation builds up inside the microwave. Wipe down.
CHROME CLEANER: Toothpaste is great for cleaning chrome
DISHWASHER RINSE: 1 1/2 white vinegar added to the rinse compartment of your dishwasher
THE FOLLOWING ARE SAFE AND NON-TOXIC:
WOODEN FLOOR CLEANER: 1/2 cup white vinegar 1/2 cup vegetable oil. Mix well
ALL-PURPOSE CLEANER: 1 tsp. borax 1/2 Tsp. washing soda 2 Tbl. lemon juice. Combine In a spray bottle with 1 cup of hot water and shake.
FURNITURE POLISH: Mix 1 cup vegetable or olive oil 1/2 cup lemon juice In a spray bottle . Shake well and apply a small amount to a cloth.
VINEGAR GLASS CLEANERS (choose your favorite)
1) 1/2 cup vinegar 1 gallon warm water
2) 1 gallon water 1/2 cup white vinegar 1/2 teaspoon liquid dish detergent Combine in a spray bottle. Shake to blend.
3) 1 cup rubbing (isopropyl) alcohol 1 cup water 1 tablespoon white vinegar Combine in a spray bottle. Shake to blend.
AMMONIA GLASS CLEANER
1) In a gallon jug mix: 1 tsp dishwashing detergent, 1 pint rubbing alcohol, 1/2 cup ammonia. Fill the gallon with water.
2) in a spray bottle: 1/2 cup ammonia, 1/2 cup rubbing alcohol 1/2 cup water. Shake to blend.
GENERIC TILEX: (mix and use in a spray bottle) 1 part bleach 9 parts water 1 part Dawn Dish Soap (or brand with surfactants and NO ammonia)
CARPET DEODORIZER: Fill a jar with baking soda. Add essential oil (your choice of fragrance and amount), one drop at a time. Stir so it doesn't clump. Sprinkle on carpet and leave for 10-20 minutes before vacuuming.
ALL PURPOSE CLEANERS (choose again)
Convenient in a spray bottle
1) 3 tsp liquid soap & one gallon water
2) 1/4 cup vinegar & one gallon water
3) 1/4 cup lemon juice & one gallon water
4) 1/4 cup Borax & one gallon water
DISINFECTANTS (choose again)
1) 1/4 cup Borax plus 1/2 gallon water
2) 1 part bleach plus 9 parts water
DRAIN CLEANER: 1/4 cup baking soda
1/2 cup vinegar Pour baking soda, then vinegar down the drain. Close drain until bubbling stops. Pour boiling water. If the clog remains, use a plunger or snake. If all else fails, take the elbow off the pipe.
MILDEW & LIME DEPOSIT REMOVER: 1/2 cup white vinegar Warm water 1/2 cup Borax Dissolve borax in water, add vinegar. Make a fresh batch for each use.
ANT KILLER! … (NOT child safe!! Use any poison with caution!!!) Combine in equal parts Powdered Sugar and Borax and sprinkle in places where ants crawl. (I mix with water to make a thick liquid and dip a paper towel in it. Then put it in a glass jar with nail holes in the lid. This way the ants can climb in and out but your kiddo can't.)
Before You Begin…
* Mix in well-ventilated areas
* Label containers
* Store in a safe place
* Don't reuse containers from other cleaners
* NEVER mix bleach and ammonia. NEVER!
* Don't store in food containers
* Test a small area before using any cleaner
REMEMBER: NEVER mix Bleach and Ammonia…
Friday, August 5, 2011
How Does Your Garden Grow? (After The Chaos)
Are you planning on your garden one day supplying a portion of your food? If so, you know that to bring in a good crop you need plant food and fertilizer and when you're counting on vegetables for the table it’s not a time to experiment.
If we ever need our gardens to produce we will want knowledge on our side. I love my garden, it’s a great source of pleasure and nourishing crops, but as part of a survival plan there’s much to learn.
I’ve done some research on fertilizers and soil amendments you may not have thought of, but first I have a few suggestions. First: have a few bags of your favorite fertilizer and insecticides as a back-up, and a few books specifically written for survival gardening. Then print this article and others like it and keep them in a binder.
OK.. now for a few Gardening hints you may not have thought about.
NPK stands for Nitrogen/Phosphorous/Potassium. These are the big three that plants need to grow. I'll include those letters where applicable for more experienced gardeners.
We live in Idaho and usually this is a dry time of year. We have several large dogs and often have large brown spots on our lawn. This year is different. We have had an extraordinary amount of rain. This year our lawn has big deep-green spots. We wondered what happened until we read the following.
Human Urine:
Human urine contains nitrogen, phosphates, and potassium (NPK 12/1/3). It is sterile when it comes out of the body. By itself it is far too concentrated to use directly on plants. It can be used directly in a compost pile or diluted with eight parts water and used on your plants. You may need to dilute even more, but heavy rain was perfect for our lawn. You don’t want to lose a row of plants so test the mixture on a single plant to insure that the mixture is not too strong.
Use immediately or store it in a sealed container as it will allow bacterial growth if left exposed. Only urine from healthy individuals who are NOT on medication should be used. Once diluted and in the soil, bacterial growth is no longer an issue.
For those who are grossed out by this or question the idea of using urine as a plant food, consider that most well-known plant foods contain urea.
Bone meal:
Bone meal contains phosphates and nitrogen (heavier on phosphates than nitrogen (NPK 4/12/0). Bone meal can be easily made at home. Use bones ONLY from animals you know were healthy.
First boil for about an hour to remove any fat or meat, think: Beef/chicken soup. Dry the bones in an open fire or oven. Once completely dry crush them to a powder, or as close as you can. If they’re very dry they will crush easily.
A second method is to boil the bones for an extended period of time (maybe 24 hours), then you can simply crush them down to a mush. Allow the mush to dry if you want a powder or use them as a mush.
Dig the bone meal into your soil. It is a long acting, slow release fertilizer. Very useful used at the bottom of potato trenches or dug into the soil near fruit trees/bushes. use bone meal at about five pounds per fifty square feet when first preparing the garden, slightly less the following season.
Blood Meal:
Blood meal is a perfect nitrogen source and may contain some trace phosphates and/or potassium (NPK 12/0/0) depending on source. Blood meal has the alternate names of dried blood and powdered blood. Commercially available types are typically made from cattle blood although other animal blood works as well. Again only use blood from animals you know were healthy.
Blood meal is made by dehydration, preferably to a powder. If you don’t have the patience for the drying time, it can be used while still relatively clumpy. This can be done in a solar dehydrator or, if you live in a non-humid area by leaving a container out with a thin layer of blood. The quickest way is to put a thin layer of blood in a heat-safe container, next to a cooking or heat source. Keep the blood inaccessible to insects. Caution: this causes a nasty smell indoors and pans may need extensive cleaning.
Blood meal is a quick acting source of nitrogen and can be used in powder form or mixed in with water.
Blood meal is good for your compost and, if sprinkled around the perimeter of a garden, may keep some of the four-footed garden critters away. Caution: Do not apply blood meal to seedlings and in warm, most climates use less than recommended. Application rate is 5-10lbs per 100sq ft. One application lasts up to 4 months.
Wood Ashes:
Wood ashes are a good source of potassium when dug into the soil (NPK 0/1/3). You have to be careful with Wood Ash as it turns the soil alkaline. In an area of acidic soil a moderate treatment of wood ashes shouldn't be a problem. If you live in an area with more alkaline soil, you'll want to find a different potassium source.
Be sure any ashes you use are from trees that did not receive heavy pesticide or other problematic chemicals. Wood ash application rates will range, depending on the ash used and the soil. Start small and slowly increase the amount.
In the coming weeks, well talk about other fertilizers, composting and heritage seeds and how to store them.. stay tuned.
If we ever need our gardens to produce we will want knowledge on our side. I love my garden, it’s a great source of pleasure and nourishing crops, but as part of a survival plan there’s much to learn.
I’ve done some research on fertilizers and soil amendments you may not have thought of, but first I have a few suggestions. First: have a few bags of your favorite fertilizer and insecticides as a back-up, and a few books specifically written for survival gardening. Then print this article and others like it and keep them in a binder.
OK.. now for a few Gardening hints you may not have thought about.
NPK stands for Nitrogen/Phosphorous/Potassium. These are the big three that plants need to grow. I'll include those letters where applicable for more experienced gardeners.
We live in Idaho and usually this is a dry time of year. We have several large dogs and often have large brown spots on our lawn. This year is different. We have had an extraordinary amount of rain. This year our lawn has big deep-green spots. We wondered what happened until we read the following.
Human Urine:
Human urine contains nitrogen, phosphates, and potassium (NPK 12/1/3). It is sterile when it comes out of the body. By itself it is far too concentrated to use directly on plants. It can be used directly in a compost pile or diluted with eight parts water and used on your plants. You may need to dilute even more, but heavy rain was perfect for our lawn. You don’t want to lose a row of plants so test the mixture on a single plant to insure that the mixture is not too strong.
Use immediately or store it in a sealed container as it will allow bacterial growth if left exposed. Only urine from healthy individuals who are NOT on medication should be used. Once diluted and in the soil, bacterial growth is no longer an issue.
For those who are grossed out by this or question the idea of using urine as a plant food, consider that most well-known plant foods contain urea.
Bone meal:
Bone meal contains phosphates and nitrogen (heavier on phosphates than nitrogen (NPK 4/12/0). Bone meal can be easily made at home. Use bones ONLY from animals you know were healthy.
First boil for about an hour to remove any fat or meat, think: Beef/chicken soup. Dry the bones in an open fire or oven. Once completely dry crush them to a powder, or as close as you can. If they’re very dry they will crush easily.
A second method is to boil the bones for an extended period of time (maybe 24 hours), then you can simply crush them down to a mush. Allow the mush to dry if you want a powder or use them as a mush.
Dig the bone meal into your soil. It is a long acting, slow release fertilizer. Very useful used at the bottom of potato trenches or dug into the soil near fruit trees/bushes. use bone meal at about five pounds per fifty square feet when first preparing the garden, slightly less the following season.
Blood Meal:
Blood meal is a perfect nitrogen source and may contain some trace phosphates and/or potassium (NPK 12/0/0) depending on source. Blood meal has the alternate names of dried blood and powdered blood. Commercially available types are typically made from cattle blood although other animal blood works as well. Again only use blood from animals you know were healthy.
Blood meal is made by dehydration, preferably to a powder. If you don’t have the patience for the drying time, it can be used while still relatively clumpy. This can be done in a solar dehydrator or, if you live in a non-humid area by leaving a container out with a thin layer of blood. The quickest way is to put a thin layer of blood in a heat-safe container, next to a cooking or heat source. Keep the blood inaccessible to insects. Caution: this causes a nasty smell indoors and pans may need extensive cleaning.
Blood meal is a quick acting source of nitrogen and can be used in powder form or mixed in with water.
Blood meal is good for your compost and, if sprinkled around the perimeter of a garden, may keep some of the four-footed garden critters away. Caution: Do not apply blood meal to seedlings and in warm, most climates use less than recommended. Application rate is 5-10lbs per 100sq ft. One application lasts up to 4 months.
Wood Ashes:
Wood ashes are a good source of potassium when dug into the soil (NPK 0/1/3). You have to be careful with Wood Ash as it turns the soil alkaline. In an area of acidic soil a moderate treatment of wood ashes shouldn't be a problem. If you live in an area with more alkaline soil, you'll want to find a different potassium source.
Be sure any ashes you use are from trees that did not receive heavy pesticide or other problematic chemicals. Wood ash application rates will range, depending on the ash used and the soil. Start small and slowly increase the amount.
In the coming weeks, well talk about other fertilizers, composting and heritage seeds and how to store them.. stay tuned.
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