By Erin Huffstetler, About.com
Need a soaker hose for your garden? Skip the trip to the garden center, and make your own. It's fast, easy and almost free.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 5 minutes
Here's How:
1. Locate an old garden hose that you're no longer using (like that leaky one that you've never gotten around to fixing).
2. Drill holes along the length of the hose.
3. Screw a hose cap onto one end of the hose.
4. Place the hose in the area that you want to water.
5. Then, attach the ... Get the rest of the instructions at About.com
Share This Website
Monday, March 30, 2009
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Rust Removal
Q. I have a problem with rust spots on my clothes from the dryer. I have tried CLR and various other things with no luck at all. If you know what will take it out I would sure appreciate the help! Thanks
• Try a product called "Wink" (brown plastic bottle) it is expensive, but will last a long time! - Ray
• I have found a product that will remove rust spots. It is called The Works, I think it is mainly used for toilets, but I have removed rust from clothes,furniture and a lot of things. Thought you might want to try it.
• I purchased a second-hand shirt for my son, several years ago. He needed a white shirt for a class play. The shirt had metal snaps and they had left rust spots on the shirt. I tried everything you suggested but they didn't work. Then I tried "cream of tartar". I filled a large pot with water and 1/2 a box of cream of tartar, added the shirt and brought the whole thing to a boil. Boiled it on the stove for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Worked like a charm. Whitened the shirt as well. The kids still tease me about my "Shirt soup".
• Iron rust stains can be removed from washable delicate cottons and linens by moistening the stain with water, squeeze lemon juice directly onto the stain and hold it in the steam from a boiling teakettle for a few minutes. Rinse with water and repeat as many times as necessary. Another method is to boil the article in a solution of 4 tsp. of cream of tartar to a pint of water. Boil until the stain is removed, then rinse in plenty of water. - Harriet
• If you will put the item you are treating with salt and lemon juice out in the Sun while you are letting it sit, it works better. Sue
• This is usually used to remove rust stains from sinks etc.. and is sold in hardware/home stores. I don't know if it works on cloth or not, but you can read the label for information. It works great on the sink.
• Try "Iron Out" sold in hardware stores like true value. Walmart also carries it follow the directions carefully. Great for nurse's uniforms or white clothes that have yellowed. Hope this helps! Jean
• I'm wondering if she has checked her dryer's barrel for nicks that have then gone on to rust. There is a product you can buy at most any hardware store that can paint the rust spots, sealing them. Comes in one or two different colors, that I remember, and can be used on different appliances to cover scratches. It's a good idea to paint any and all knicks so this won't happen in the future. Hope this helps! Take care. - Cheryl
• To the person with rust stains on her clothing, I have always had good luck with a product called Whink Rust Stain Remover. Just follow instructions on the bottle. B. Parrish
• Try a product called "Whink" (brown plastic bottle) it is expensive, but will last a long time! - Ray
• I'm just now getting around to reading the past two weeks of Frugallife.com's e-zine. Happened to see the request for something that works on rust. There's a product I bought in Houston, Texas that I will never be without. Everyone who comes to visit us is first requested to pick up a bottle of this magic potion. We have not been able to locate it in Colorado. The product is called The Original Quaker House Rust & Stain Remover (www.chem-tex.com/Quaker-House-Rust-Stain-Remover.html): for fabrics, toilet bowls, metals, urine stains, sinks, and carpets. I keep it by my sink because it will eliminate coffee stains or any other food stains on my white ceramic sink, immediately. For a true rust stain, I have the same result. Within seconds, the stain is gone. I've also taken a whole bottle to a toilet bowl that someone was trying to clean from years of hard water. Amazing...cleaned it within seconds, whereas the owner had scrubbed for hours with a variety of cleaners. All that is written on the bottle is that it's by Quaker Cleaners in Houston, Texas. No Website is listed or address. Hope that helps. Marcia Horn Noyes
• I have been gone for a few weeks but read the problem with the spots on clothing. I also had the same problem about 4 years ago. I was told that after years of use of the dryer sheets it eats away on the drum in the dryer. I had to replace the dryer and have not used a dryer sheet since. I have heard this same problem 3 times since it happened to me. I think now I just pay attention to it a little more.
• I paint a rusty spot in my washing machine tub with Wite-Out every few weeks. Exa
Get More Cleaning Recipes
• Try a product called "Wink" (brown plastic bottle) it is expensive, but will last a long time! - Ray
• I have found a product that will remove rust spots. It is called The Works, I think it is mainly used for toilets, but I have removed rust from clothes,furniture and a lot of things. Thought you might want to try it.
• I purchased a second-hand shirt for my son, several years ago. He needed a white shirt for a class play. The shirt had metal snaps and they had left rust spots on the shirt. I tried everything you suggested but they didn't work. Then I tried "cream of tartar". I filled a large pot with water and 1/2 a box of cream of tartar, added the shirt and brought the whole thing to a boil. Boiled it on the stove for about 30 minutes, stirring occasionally. Worked like a charm. Whitened the shirt as well. The kids still tease me about my "Shirt soup".
• Iron rust stains can be removed from washable delicate cottons and linens by moistening the stain with water, squeeze lemon juice directly onto the stain and hold it in the steam from a boiling teakettle for a few minutes. Rinse with water and repeat as many times as necessary. Another method is to boil the article in a solution of 4 tsp. of cream of tartar to a pint of water. Boil until the stain is removed, then rinse in plenty of water. - Harriet
• If you will put the item you are treating with salt and lemon juice out in the Sun while you are letting it sit, it works better. Sue
• This is usually used to remove rust stains from sinks etc.. and is sold in hardware/home stores. I don't know if it works on cloth or not, but you can read the label for information. It works great on the sink.
• Try "Iron Out" sold in hardware stores like true value. Walmart also carries it follow the directions carefully. Great for nurse's uniforms or white clothes that have yellowed. Hope this helps! Jean
• I'm wondering if she has checked her dryer's barrel for nicks that have then gone on to rust. There is a product you can buy at most any hardware store that can paint the rust spots, sealing them. Comes in one or two different colors, that I remember, and can be used on different appliances to cover scratches. It's a good idea to paint any and all knicks so this won't happen in the future. Hope this helps! Take care. - Cheryl
• To the person with rust stains on her clothing, I have always had good luck with a product called Whink Rust Stain Remover. Just follow instructions on the bottle. B. Parrish
• Try a product called "Whink" (brown plastic bottle) it is expensive, but will last a long time! - Ray
• I'm just now getting around to reading the past two weeks of Frugallife.com's e-zine. Happened to see the request for something that works on rust. There's a product I bought in Houston, Texas that I will never be without. Everyone who comes to visit us is first requested to pick up a bottle of this magic potion. We have not been able to locate it in Colorado. The product is called The Original Quaker House Rust & Stain Remover (www.chem-tex.com/Quaker-House-Rust-Stain-Remover.html): for fabrics, toilet bowls, metals, urine stains, sinks, and carpets. I keep it by my sink because it will eliminate coffee stains or any other food stains on my white ceramic sink, immediately. For a true rust stain, I have the same result. Within seconds, the stain is gone. I've also taken a whole bottle to a toilet bowl that someone was trying to clean from years of hard water. Amazing...cleaned it within seconds, whereas the owner had scrubbed for hours with a variety of cleaners. All that is written on the bottle is that it's by Quaker Cleaners in Houston, Texas. No Website is listed or address. Hope that helps. Marcia Horn Noyes
• I have been gone for a few weeks but read the problem with the spots on clothing. I also had the same problem about 4 years ago. I was told that after years of use of the dryer sheets it eats away on the drum in the dryer. I had to replace the dryer and have not used a dryer sheet since. I have heard this same problem 3 times since it happened to me. I think now I just pay attention to it a little more.
• I paint a rusty spot in my washing machine tub with Wite-Out every few weeks. Exa
Get More Cleaning Recipes
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Buttermilk Substitute
I have a recipe that requires buttermilk. Since I don't drink milk and I am a vegetarian, I decided to see if I could find a substitute. Sure enough, in a bread making book I found the suggestion to add a tablespoon of vinegar to a cup of milk (I used apple cider vinegar).
However, remember I said I don't like milk and don't want to drink it. Instead I used Tofu Moo a powdered milk substitute instead.
I found it improved the flavor and now I will be using the vinegar and Tofu Moo combination anytime a recipe requires buttermilk.
However, remember I said I don't like milk and don't want to drink it. Instead I used Tofu Moo a powdered milk substitute instead.
I found it improved the flavor and now I will be using the vinegar and Tofu Moo combination anytime a recipe requires buttermilk.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Living Large On Poverty Income
How about a story of how one family happily lives off the land, making $6,500 a year, and some how-to advice so you can do it also.
Kevin and Donna Phillip-Johnson were a typical middle-class American family making about $42,000 dollars a year. After years of working hard to make ends meet, they decided to make a dream come true of living a better life. And they did.
With the recession looming large before us, there's no better time to consider an earnest downgrade to a simple lifestyle. Find out how they did it.
Kevin and Donna Phillip-Johnson were a typical middle-class American family making about $42,000 dollars a year. After years of working hard to make ends meet, they decided to make a dream come true of living a better life. And they did.
With the recession looming large before us, there's no better time to consider an earnest downgrade to a simple lifestyle. Find out how they did it.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Two Words For A Frugal Flier: Patience. Wednesday
By Joshua Freed and Harry R. Weber
Want to fly cheap? Time to break some bad habits.
Like buying the first cheap ticket you see or waiting until the last minute to book a fare.
As the economic slump continues and both business and leisure travel declines, fares are getting cheaper as airlines try to fill seats. A roundtrip ticket between San Francisco and Boston for instance, was selling on Feb. 4 for $238, down from $400 on Nov. 1. Even with such bargains, however, travelers need to know a few tricks to get the very best prices.
First, don't hurry.
Matthew D. Weyer sometimes spends hours researching fares online. Knowing what a ticket usually sells for allows him to spot cheap fares almost immediately.
Weyer sets up e-mail alerts for prices on the route he's shopping for at fare-watching sites like Kayak.com or Farecast.com. He finds out if discount carrier Southwest Airlines Co. flies a route. He also checks the ticket on booking sites like Travelocity or Orbitz.
Weyer recently shopped for a flight from Greenville, N.C., to Chicago, a ticket he said commonly runs around $410 round-trip. He was tempted at $280. He eventually paid $180 on ...
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Quiz: Serious Clutter Problem?
The Mayo Clinic defines hoarding (also called compulsive hoarding and compulsive hoarding syndrome) as the excessive collection of items that seem to have limited or no value, such as newspapers or trash, along with the inability to discard them.
Meanwhile, ADHD has traditionally been associated with children, but it is now known that the symptoms continue into adulthood for 60 percent of children with ADHD. According to the Mayo Clinic, clutter-related symptoms of ADHD include difficulty following through on instructions and often failing to finish chores or other tasks, problems organizing tasks or activities, the dislike of tasks that require sustained mental effort, and frequently lost needed items.
The non-profit Clutterless Recovery Groups has a quiz to help determine how seriously cluttering may be disrupting your life. Take the quiz.
Meanwhile, ADHD has traditionally been associated with children, but it is now known that the symptoms continue into adulthood for 60 percent of children with ADHD. According to the Mayo Clinic, clutter-related symptoms of ADHD include difficulty following through on instructions and often failing to finish chores or other tasks, problems organizing tasks or activities, the dislike of tasks that require sustained mental effort, and frequently lost needed items.
The non-profit Clutterless Recovery Groups has a quiz to help determine how seriously cluttering may be disrupting your life. Take the quiz.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Tipsy Garden Pots
This creative project is fast, cheap ... and beautiful!Comments by Dottie Baltz, Pennellville, New York, to Birds and Blooms Magazine:
When my husband, Gary, first saw a leaning tower of clay pots in someone's yard, he was impressed. I did a little research on-line and found some information on them, along with limited instructions on how to make these "tipsy pots".
Monday, March 23, 2009
Frugal Families Do Own Chores
By Ashley M. Heher / Associated Press
Beth Rogers is taking the family's finances into her own hands -- literally.
The 35-year-old from Fayetteville, Ark., ditched her weekly housekeeping service and now mops her own floors. She and her husband, Stanley, work in the yard after canceling their lawn care contract. She cooks at home instead of the family eating out, and she told her husband to iron his own shirts rather than send them to the cleaners. Total savings? About $10,000 a year.
"It made me feel embarrassed, because I realized the things we were hiring out was just me being lazy, or things I could do for myself," said Rogers, a stay-at-home mom who made the changes after business began to slow at her husband's car wash company.
Across the country, people are taking on chores that only a year ago were ...
Read the entire article
Beth Rogers is taking the family's finances into her own hands -- literally.
The 35-year-old from Fayetteville, Ark., ditched her weekly housekeeping service and now mops her own floors. She and her husband, Stanley, work in the yard after canceling their lawn care contract. She cooks at home instead of the family eating out, and she told her husband to iron his own shirts rather than send them to the cleaners. Total savings? About $10,000 a year.
"It made me feel embarrassed, because I realized the things we were hiring out was just me being lazy, or things I could do for myself," said Rogers, a stay-at-home mom who made the changes after business began to slow at her husband's car wash company.
Across the country, people are taking on chores that only a year ago were ...
Read the entire article
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Tex-Mex Pizza
Serves 6
Prepared whole-wheat pizza crusts work wonders.
Ingredient tip: Spicy green tomatillos are often found near the hot peppers in produce sections.
1 prepared whole-wheat pizza crust, about 14 inches in diameter
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup good-quality salsa
1-1/2 cups (about 2 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
3 small tomatillos (about 3 ounces), papery skin removed, thinly sliced
1 large roasted red pepper, seeded and cut into strips
1/4-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1. Place rack in middle of oven and preheat to 425°. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Set pizza crust on foil. Brush with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Spread black beans evenly over crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Cover beans with salsa. Distribute cheese over salsa. Arrange tomatillo slices and roasted red pepper strips on top of cheese. Lightly brush remaining tablespoon olive oil on vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to taste.
2. Bake until cheese is bubbly and edges are crisp, 13-15 minutes, rotating once or twice. Remove from oven and sprinkle with cilantro. Let pizza rest a few minutes before slicing.
PER SERVING: 330 cal, 25% fat cal, 9g fat, 3g sat fat, 10mg chol, 11g protein, 48g carb, 9g fiber, 485mg sodium
More great recipes at Delicious Living Magazine.
Prepared whole-wheat pizza crusts work wonders.
Ingredient tip: Spicy green tomatillos are often found near the hot peppers in produce sections.
1 prepared whole-wheat pizza crust, about 14 inches in diameter
2 tablespoons olive oil, divided
1 15-ounce can black beans, rinsed and drained
1 cup good-quality salsa
1-1/2 cups (about 2 ounces) shredded cheddar cheese
3 small tomatillos (about 3 ounces), papery skin removed, thinly sliced
1 large roasted red pepper, seeded and cut into strips
1/4-1/2 teaspoon crushed red pepper flakes
1/4 cup chopped fresh cilantro
1. Place rack in middle of oven and preheat to 425°. Line a large baking sheet with aluminum foil. Set pizza crust on foil. Brush with 1 tablespoon olive oil. Spread black beans evenly over crust, leaving a 1/2-inch border. Cover beans with salsa. Distribute cheese over salsa. Arrange tomatillo slices and roasted red pepper strips on top of cheese. Lightly brush remaining tablespoon olive oil on vegetables. Season with salt, pepper, and crushed red pepper to taste.
2. Bake until cheese is bubbly and edges are crisp, 13-15 minutes, rotating once or twice. Remove from oven and sprinkle with cilantro. Let pizza rest a few minutes before slicing.
PER SERVING: 330 cal, 25% fat cal, 9g fat, 3g sat fat, 10mg chol, 11g protein, 48g carb, 9g fiber, 485mg sodium
More great recipes at Delicious Living Magazine.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
Wanting It Now
by Donna L. Watkins
So many people have told me how lucky I am to be able to travel so much. I am definitely a blessed woman, but not at all lucky. I've made sacrifices to get to do what's important to me. We all do that, don't we? Some sacrifice for a big screen television or a new car.
© 2009 Donna L. Watkins - Crested Guans - La Selva, Costa Rica
Some of us don't have enough patience in some areas of life. I certainly have little in many areas, but it's human nature to want it now, whether it's stuff or some form of healing for health or relationships. Deferred gratification is not a popular topic, and long-range goals don't get any easier than they've been for the generations before us.
Often, we don't believe in ourselves or love ourselves enough to live within the framework of our dreams. I've certainly had a challenge doing that ... even with my recent three weeks in Costa Rica. If it weren't for health issues, I probably would not have gone this year or last year. I can always come up with more practical things to do ... and life escapes your grasp pretty fast, so don't stay in that rut too long.
For far too many, dreams are forgotten. People give up their dreams because we've been ingrained with instant gratification, not only from the media, but with the speed of advancement in technology, the cultural climate demands instant access and continual upgrades/newer versions of what we already have.
There are dreams that you can't make happen today, you've got to plan for them and work towards them, and yes, you'll have to sacrifice for them. If your mentality is not trained towards delayed gratification, you simply think it's not possible. Patience is not a virtue I possess, but I've learned to wait out the necessary time frames to do things I truly desire to make happen.
For some, if you can't have it now, then it's not worth having. That's okay, as long as your heart doesn't pine away wanting something more than the now you have. Many trade in their future dreams for what they can have now. Better cars, bigger houses, the newest gadgets and toys, a bigger and best resolution television screen, eating out, and the list goes on and on. And if you're charging any of this on credit cards, your dreams are being fed to the banking system of interest payments.
So, how do we get into another way of living? One that thinks and plans for the future and not just simply today. One that will light your passion and desires within to be able to stay focused long enough to make your dreams come true. Those dreams will keep swirling in your head, and as you age, they'll become more like nightmares because you begin to realize you're probably not going to make them happen.
However, regardless of your age, you can still move towards your dreams. They're still not going to come about NOW, but in five or ten years from now, every day will have a date on the calendar just like today ... and at that point in time, it will be today, and it will be now. So, with a little bit of patience not every today has to be lived without your dreams coming true.
If your dreams require somebody else to change or be something they are not, then that's not a dream, that's simply control and codependency. You can only live your own life. God didn't give us any deeds of ownership of somebody else's life, not even our own children's. Just because we birthed them, doesn't mean we own them. They were created to be who God wants them to be, not who we want them to be. We all have enough managing our own life - get off the control command center of everybody else's.
If your life revolves around needing people to change, you might want to consider a workbook called, Conquering Co-Dependency: A Christ-Centered 12-Step Process. My husband has used this workbook in many of the groups he's facilitated. There are a lot of churches using it, so call around and get plugged in if you'd prefer a group setting.
If your dreams are packed away due to financial issues, they're very much possible. If you have income, you may be able to live well on less than what you're making, so you can put away for your dreams and future. You can learn a lot about living frugally so you can save for your dreams. The Frugal Life community has over 16,000 members in the forum. Search the website, search the forum, visit the blog. When you believe in your dreams, you'll dig deep to find ways to make them happen.
We did it, so I am speaking from experience. Our dream was not only to be able to travel more, we wanted to be able to support more Christian organizations involved in projects and programs that we were passionate about. We decided to get out of debt and not have even a mortgage payment since the amount of interest we paid to the bank was more than enough to cover travel and contributions.
We had just built a new home and had made $11,000 the year before. It didn't look possible on paper, but it was nothing less than a miracle that in seven years we had the home and all credit paid off. Focus will make things happen when you take God's hand. Read the related articles below for details on our journey.
We learned a lot and have become more of who we enjoy being by being out of debt. And God did amazing things when we just took the step towards Him by setting up a strict budget and living within it. Our dreams were more important than our day-to-day desires and wants.
Because one of my dreams many years before that was to stay at home with my child, I began an at-home business with Nature's Sunshine because I believed in natural health principles since they had changed my life around when the doctors could not. I also liked the possibility of earning award trips and in 27 years with them, we've traveled around the world.
Dreams do come true, but like anything else you have to work at it. Sitting a few recipe cards on the kitchen counter in the morning will not turn into a gourmet 5-course dinner ready to serve when you walk in the house in the evening. I'm still thinking that method will work for some of my dreams, and regardless of how many you make come true, God doesn't stop giving them to you, so it's always a choice to keep stepping up to the challenge.
The Bible tells us the poor will always be with us. My thoughts on that are that God knows that some people will never believe in themselves to pull themselves up to where they desire to be. Probably because nobody believed in them while they were growing up. Our roots have the ability to keep us planted without hope, but you do have the choice to Uproot Yourself and Move On.
Maybe you need a dream. You've surely had some, but you abandoned them so long ago, you don't even remember what they were about. Get alone with God one day at a park or on a nature trail or if you live on the coast sit by the sea. Take a notebook and be prepared for God to pour out your very heart and soul into that journal, if you will simply ask Him what His dreams are for you.
Most people know what their dream is, but they don't consider it a "sensible" thing. Surely something we would enjoy so much could not be what we're here for. It seems it would be so selfish. Isn't life supposed to be challenging and a bit rough and tough? Dreams make life look too easy and make-believe, like a fairy tale story that is only meant to entertain the mind when things are low and heavy and we accept the invitation to our own pity party.
Not so! God puts those dreams within us to stir us up to move towards them so He can create something more out of and through them then we could ever imagine. Doesn't it make simple sense that if we're living in our dreams, we'll be more alive and on fire to share the hope of Christ within us? No wonder the devil tells us to give up and stuff them away.
Dreams tend to be filed in the elusive someday mentality file ... but some days never come unless they're planned for. Develop a bit of time each week to think about and plan a pathway towards your dreams. It's not going to happen now, especially if finances are involved, and especially if you've allowed yourself to get into a lot of debt. We can all blame the economy, but if you look around your home, you'll see what you exchanged for your dreams lying scattered about or crammed into drawers and closets or boxes in the attic.
How often have you purchased something that you already had ... just to have one a little bit different or better? Much of what is purchased are simply "upgrades" on what's already owned, and what's already owned is already in excess (clothes, shoes, books, music and movies, gadgets, even food). Use the library. We get books, videos, DVDs and music free. We don't have a need to own it all. Matter of fact selling a lot of what we did own was one way of paying off some debt.
Gather up some ideas from the related articles. Catch a glimpse of what you want your life to be like. One of the books I've enjoyed along the way to keep me motivated was The Practical Dreamer's Handbook: Finding the Time, Money, and Energy to Live Your Dreams.
Inspiration is needed to make dreams come true. Everybody around you will discourage you and the media will tell you how bleak and hopeless the world is ... but when you live within your dream, there is only peace and joy in all things. Go ahead ... picture a place where you can go and discuss this with God. Schedule it now.
Related Articles:
Having It All
Security - Is It In the Stuff?
There Is A Way Out
Lighten The Load
Copyright and Reprint Information
The photo(s) and article are copyrighted. You may use them if you include the following credit and active link back to this website:
© 2009 Donna L. Watkins - This article was reprinted with permission from TheNatureInUs.com.
The link URL is: http://www.TheNatureInUs.com
So many people have told me how lucky I am to be able to travel so much. I am definitely a blessed woman, but not at all lucky. I've made sacrifices to get to do what's important to me. We all do that, don't we? Some sacrifice for a big screen television or a new car.
© 2009 Donna L. Watkins - Crested Guans - La Selva, Costa Rica
Some of us don't have enough patience in some areas of life. I certainly have little in many areas, but it's human nature to want it now, whether it's stuff or some form of healing for health or relationships. Deferred gratification is not a popular topic, and long-range goals don't get any easier than they've been for the generations before us.Often, we don't believe in ourselves or love ourselves enough to live within the framework of our dreams. I've certainly had a challenge doing that ... even with my recent three weeks in Costa Rica. If it weren't for health issues, I probably would not have gone this year or last year. I can always come up with more practical things to do ... and life escapes your grasp pretty fast, so don't stay in that rut too long.
For far too many, dreams are forgotten. People give up their dreams because we've been ingrained with instant gratification, not only from the media, but with the speed of advancement in technology, the cultural climate demands instant access and continual upgrades/newer versions of what we already have.
There are dreams that you can't make happen today, you've got to plan for them and work towards them, and yes, you'll have to sacrifice for them. If your mentality is not trained towards delayed gratification, you simply think it's not possible. Patience is not a virtue I possess, but I've learned to wait out the necessary time frames to do things I truly desire to make happen.
For some, if you can't have it now, then it's not worth having. That's okay, as long as your heart doesn't pine away wanting something more than the now you have. Many trade in their future dreams for what they can have now. Better cars, bigger houses, the newest gadgets and toys, a bigger and best resolution television screen, eating out, and the list goes on and on. And if you're charging any of this on credit cards, your dreams are being fed to the banking system of interest payments.
So, how do we get into another way of living? One that thinks and plans for the future and not just simply today. One that will light your passion and desires within to be able to stay focused long enough to make your dreams come true. Those dreams will keep swirling in your head, and as you age, they'll become more like nightmares because you begin to realize you're probably not going to make them happen.
However, regardless of your age, you can still move towards your dreams. They're still not going to come about NOW, but in five or ten years from now, every day will have a date on the calendar just like today ... and at that point in time, it will be today, and it will be now. So, with a little bit of patience not every today has to be lived without your dreams coming true.
If your dreams require somebody else to change or be something they are not, then that's not a dream, that's simply control and codependency. You can only live your own life. God didn't give us any deeds of ownership of somebody else's life, not even our own children's. Just because we birthed them, doesn't mean we own them. They were created to be who God wants them to be, not who we want them to be. We all have enough managing our own life - get off the control command center of everybody else's.
If your life revolves around needing people to change, you might want to consider a workbook called, Conquering Co-Dependency: A Christ-Centered 12-Step Process. My husband has used this workbook in many of the groups he's facilitated. There are a lot of churches using it, so call around and get plugged in if you'd prefer a group setting.
If your dreams are packed away due to financial issues, they're very much possible. If you have income, you may be able to live well on less than what you're making, so you can put away for your dreams and future. You can learn a lot about living frugally so you can save for your dreams. The Frugal Life community has over 16,000 members in the forum. Search the website, search the forum, visit the blog. When you believe in your dreams, you'll dig deep to find ways to make them happen.
We did it, so I am speaking from experience. Our dream was not only to be able to travel more, we wanted to be able to support more Christian organizations involved in projects and programs that we were passionate about. We decided to get out of debt and not have even a mortgage payment since the amount of interest we paid to the bank was more than enough to cover travel and contributions.
We had just built a new home and had made $11,000 the year before. It didn't look possible on paper, but it was nothing less than a miracle that in seven years we had the home and all credit paid off. Focus will make things happen when you take God's hand. Read the related articles below for details on our journey.
We learned a lot and have become more of who we enjoy being by being out of debt. And God did amazing things when we just took the step towards Him by setting up a strict budget and living within it. Our dreams were more important than our day-to-day desires and wants.
Because one of my dreams many years before that was to stay at home with my child, I began an at-home business with Nature's Sunshine because I believed in natural health principles since they had changed my life around when the doctors could not. I also liked the possibility of earning award trips and in 27 years with them, we've traveled around the world.
Dreams do come true, but like anything else you have to work at it. Sitting a few recipe cards on the kitchen counter in the morning will not turn into a gourmet 5-course dinner ready to serve when you walk in the house in the evening. I'm still thinking that method will work for some of my dreams, and regardless of how many you make come true, God doesn't stop giving them to you, so it's always a choice to keep stepping up to the challenge.
The Bible tells us the poor will always be with us. My thoughts on that are that God knows that some people will never believe in themselves to pull themselves up to where they desire to be. Probably because nobody believed in them while they were growing up. Our roots have the ability to keep us planted without hope, but you do have the choice to Uproot Yourself and Move On.
Maybe you need a dream. You've surely had some, but you abandoned them so long ago, you don't even remember what they were about. Get alone with God one day at a park or on a nature trail or if you live on the coast sit by the sea. Take a notebook and be prepared for God to pour out your very heart and soul into that journal, if you will simply ask Him what His dreams are for you.
Most people know what their dream is, but they don't consider it a "sensible" thing. Surely something we would enjoy so much could not be what we're here for. It seems it would be so selfish. Isn't life supposed to be challenging and a bit rough and tough? Dreams make life look too easy and make-believe, like a fairy tale story that is only meant to entertain the mind when things are low and heavy and we accept the invitation to our own pity party.
Not so! God puts those dreams within us to stir us up to move towards them so He can create something more out of and through them then we could ever imagine. Doesn't it make simple sense that if we're living in our dreams, we'll be more alive and on fire to share the hope of Christ within us? No wonder the devil tells us to give up and stuff them away.
Dreams tend to be filed in the elusive someday mentality file ... but some days never come unless they're planned for. Develop a bit of time each week to think about and plan a pathway towards your dreams. It's not going to happen now, especially if finances are involved, and especially if you've allowed yourself to get into a lot of debt. We can all blame the economy, but if you look around your home, you'll see what you exchanged for your dreams lying scattered about or crammed into drawers and closets or boxes in the attic.
How often have you purchased something that you already had ... just to have one a little bit different or better? Much of what is purchased are simply "upgrades" on what's already owned, and what's already owned is already in excess (clothes, shoes, books, music and movies, gadgets, even food). Use the library. We get books, videos, DVDs and music free. We don't have a need to own it all. Matter of fact selling a lot of what we did own was one way of paying off some debt.
Gather up some ideas from the related articles. Catch a glimpse of what you want your life to be like. One of the books I've enjoyed along the way to keep me motivated was The Practical Dreamer's Handbook: Finding the Time, Money, and Energy to Live Your Dreams.
Inspiration is needed to make dreams come true. Everybody around you will discourage you and the media will tell you how bleak and hopeless the world is ... but when you live within your dream, there is only peace and joy in all things. Go ahead ... picture a place where you can go and discuss this with God. Schedule it now.
Related Articles:
Having It All
Security - Is It In the Stuff?
There Is A Way Out
Lighten The Load
Copyright and Reprint Information
The photo(s) and article are copyrighted. You may use them if you include the following credit and active link back to this website:
© 2009 Donna L. Watkins - This article was reprinted with permission from TheNatureInUs.com.
The link URL is: http://www.TheNatureInUs.com
Friday, March 20, 2009
Beans Without The Gas
I suspect there are a lot of people out there who don't eat beans because of gas. Excess gas can cause discomfort and sometimes actual pain as well as embarrassing flatulence. Judy at Savvy Vegetarian thinks that some new vegetarians give up for that very reason. People who are new to vegetarianism may well be suddenly eating a greater amount of beans and perhaps our bodies need a bit of time to adapt.
Once you understand the cause of gas, it's fairly easy to remedy. Beans contain a sugar called oligosaccharide and we lack the enzyme required to break the sugar down. When the sugar arrives in your lower intestinal tract intact, it ferments, creating a buildup of gas. The gas isn't absorbed into the intestine, so the body expels it, creating red faces all around.
The answer to this problem is pretty simple. Cook your own beans rather than using canned, and soak them thoroughly first to allow the sugar to leach out. To avoid having it re-absorbed into the beans, it's a good idea to change the soaking water a few times. Cooking the beans slowly also makes a difference. Adding the spice asafoetida, or Kombu which is a kelp or baking soda are all said to help break down the sugar. Rinse the beans after you have cooked them as well. Read more hints.
Once you understand the cause of gas, it's fairly easy to remedy. Beans contain a sugar called oligosaccharide and we lack the enzyme required to break the sugar down. When the sugar arrives in your lower intestinal tract intact, it ferments, creating a buildup of gas. The gas isn't absorbed into the intestine, so the body expels it, creating red faces all around.
The answer to this problem is pretty simple. Cook your own beans rather than using canned, and soak them thoroughly first to allow the sugar to leach out. To avoid having it re-absorbed into the beans, it's a good idea to change the soaking water a few times. Cooking the beans slowly also makes a difference. Adding the spice asafoetida, or Kombu which is a kelp or baking soda are all said to help break down the sugar. Rinse the beans after you have cooked them as well. Read more hints.
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Financial Survival Strategies During a Layoff
By Jason Alderman
If you've ever been laid off from a job, you know how paralyzing it can be to worry about what to do next. Because you may not find a new position right away — especially in this economy — here are several steps you should take immediately to protect yourself financially:
Investigate severance benefits
Although your employer isn't obligated to provide severance benefits unless they're part of an employment agreement, it doesn't hurt to ask. It's wise to know your company's severance policies in advance as a basis for negotiations.
Severance benefits may include:
Severance pay, usually based on your annual pay and years of service.
Temporary use of company resources, such as office space or equipment.
Outplacement counseling, which may include assistance with resume writing, interview skills development and job searches.
Extended health care coverage or help paying COBRA insurance premiums.
Apply for unemployment benefits
Depending on your length of employment and other factors, you may qualify for unemployment insurance payments. There's usually a waiting period based on when you file, not when you lose your job, so apply immediately. Visit the Department of Labor's CareerOneStop website for more details (www.careeronestop.org).
Cut spending
Unless you've amassed sizable emergency savings, you may run short on cash and have difficulty paying bills before finding a new job. Analyze your budget carefully and track all expenses, looking for non-essentials to trim (unnecessary vehicles, eating out, cable TV, new clothes, etc.)
Manage your bills
Ordinarily, making extra mortgage, loan and credit card payments is a great financial strategy, but if you're facing unemployment, it may make sense to scale back payments to boost your available savings to pay bills. (However, always make at least minimum payments on time or risk damaging your credit score.)
Seek additional income
Consider money-making ventures like renting out a spare room, selling unneeded items or taking a part-time job. However, be aware that part-time job income could impact your unemployment benefits, so check the rules carefully.
Protect your 401(k)
You have several options for your 401(k) balance after a layoff:
If allowed, leave it in your former employer's plan (although, if it's less than $5,000, you may be required to close the account).
Roll it over into a new employer's plan, if it has one.
Roll it over into a regular or Roth IRA (with a Roth, you'll pay income tax on the amount when filing this year's taxes; however, you won't be taxed on subsequent earnings at retirement).
Take a lump-sum cash payout
Although the last option may sound tempting, especially if you're short on cash, it's almost never a good idea. Not only will you significantly reduce your retirement savings, but you'll face severe tax consequences: You'll owe federal (and possibly state) income tax on the amount, plus a 10 percent early withdrawal penalty unless you're over age 55 or disabled.
Also note that outstanding loans against your 401(k) must be repaid, usually within 30 days, or you'll face paying taxes and an early distribution penalty if you're under age 59. To learn more about the financial consequences of 401(k) distributions, you should probably consult a financial professional.
Jason Alderman directs Visa's financial education programs. To participate in a free, online Financial Literacy and Education Summit go to. Visa's Education Programs Site
If you've ever been laid off from a job, you know how paralyzing it can be to worry about what to do next. Because you may not find a new position right away — especially in this economy — here are several steps you should take immediately to protect yourself financially:
Investigate severance benefits
Although your employer isn't obligated to provide severance benefits unless they're part of an employment agreement, it doesn't hurt to ask. It's wise to know your company's severance policies in advance as a basis for negotiations.
Severance benefits may include:
Severance pay, usually based on your annual pay and years of service.
Temporary use of company resources, such as office space or equipment.
Outplacement counseling, which may include assistance with resume writing, interview skills development and job searches.
Extended health care coverage or help paying COBRA insurance premiums.
Apply for unemployment benefits
Depending on your length of employment and other factors, you may qualify for unemployment insurance payments. There's usually a waiting period based on when you file, not when you lose your job, so apply immediately. Visit the Department of Labor's CareerOneStop website for more details (www.careeronestop.org).
Cut spending
Unless you've amassed sizable emergency savings, you may run short on cash and have difficulty paying bills before finding a new job. Analyze your budget carefully and track all expenses, looking for non-essentials to trim (unnecessary vehicles, eating out, cable TV, new clothes, etc.)
Manage your bills
Ordinarily, making extra mortgage, loan and credit card payments is a great financial strategy, but if you're facing unemployment, it may make sense to scale back payments to boost your available savings to pay bills. (However, always make at least minimum payments on time or risk damaging your credit score.)
Seek additional income
Consider money-making ventures like renting out a spare room, selling unneeded items or taking a part-time job. However, be aware that part-time job income could impact your unemployment benefits, so check the rules carefully.
Protect your 401(k)
You have several options for your 401(k) balance after a layoff:
If allowed, leave it in your former employer's plan (although, if it's less than $5,000, you may be required to close the account).
Roll it over into a new employer's plan, if it has one.
Roll it over into a regular or Roth IRA (with a Roth, you'll pay income tax on the amount when filing this year's taxes; however, you won't be taxed on subsequent earnings at retirement).
Take a lump-sum cash payout
Although the last option may sound tempting, especially if you're short on cash, it's almost never a good idea. Not only will you significantly reduce your retirement savings, but you'll face severe tax consequences: You'll owe federal (and possibly state) income tax on the amount, plus a 10 percent early withdrawal penalty unless you're over age 55 or disabled.
Also note that outstanding loans against your 401(k) must be repaid, usually within 30 days, or you'll face paying taxes and an early distribution penalty if you're under age 59. To learn more about the financial consequences of 401(k) distributions, you should probably consult a financial professional.
Jason Alderman directs Visa's financial education programs. To participate in a free, online Financial Literacy and Education Summit go to. Visa's Education Programs Site
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Saving For Specific Items
All we wanted was a way to save money for a dream vacation — a dedicated savings account that we would tap into right before we were leaving town. We had newly-formed 529 College Savings Plans for our children, with a little money from our paychecks being automatically deducted every month. And the savings adding up so quickly, why not do the same for this big event coming up? Get in the habit of putting a little aside. Pretty soon it’s like the money is never there to spend in the first place. Surely there was a financial services company out there that specialized in saving up for something specific? A vacation? An anniversary gift? A flat-screen TV? Holiday gifts?
So we searched for something like a 529 Plan that would enable an individual or families to set specific savings goals and let them make distributions for particular items and events on a recurring basis. But what we envisioned did not exist. In fact, there was nothing even close. So we set out to create an innovative, on-line resource that would help ...Read the entire article
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Fix Your Repairs For FREE
Fixya provides Free tech support and technical help for gadgets, electronic equipment and consumer products. Fixya's technical experts advise on fixing problems and provide instructions on proper usage of products either by chat or message posting. Fixya stores manuals and troubleshooting guides for over half a million products. Fixya's tech support community will provide a quick solution for your "how to" problem.
Read the entire article
Read the entire article
Monday, March 16, 2009
More Time To Prepare For DTV
By voting to delay the nation’s switch to all-digital television from Feb. 17 to June 12, Congress gave viewers 16 extra weeks to prepare for the shift. The date change gives viewers more time to access government coupons that subsidize the cost of converter boxes necessary to allow analog sets to work.
The bill did, however, allow broadcasters to go all-digital starting Feb. 17, and already many have.
Without the transition delay, millions of people, mostly low-income and older viewers, could have lost programming. Earlier this year, the TV converter box coupon program ran out of money for the $40 vouchers, and the waiting list now ...Read the entire article
Friday, March 13, 2009
House Calls Make a Comeback - Online
A service launching in January will make doctors available anytime with a few strokes of the computer keyboard. The technology, from American Well, a Boston-based company, offers physician consultations via the Internet.
Read the entire article
Thursday, March 12, 2009
Good News for Joe the Saver
By Sheila C. Bayer
Over the past several months, the federal government has taken unprecedented steps to stabilize and protect our financial markets and the broader economy. While these actions were absolutely necessary, many Americans have been left scratching their heads about what these changes mean. Obscure acronyms and complex financial terms for many of these programs have only added to the confusion. But when you cut through all the clutter, there is good news out there for bank customers. Recent legislation signed into law provides more protection for everyone’s money.
Structuring your accounts properly is the key to maximizing deposit insurance protection.
With this year’s 75th anniversary of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, I embarked on an aggressive campaign to remind all Americans about the important role that deposit insurance plays in ...
Read the entire article
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
What Do You Know About Your Doctor?
by Tom Koziol
2008© All Rights Reserved
I am the Executive Secretary for a non-profit with a focus on senior citizens and senior caregivers. One of the biggest worries seniors have is the quality of their medical provider, i.e. are they credentialed and complaints, if any, against them.
Truth is, this one area generated a lot of email. Here is just one we received:
• “A site that would be good for all seniors and their caregivers would be one that would lead you to a review of the doctors or the site that list if they are in good standing or whatever the medical profession has to help consumers know if they are going to a good doctor or not. With seniors needing to go to more and more doctors with more and more specialties, it sure would help.”
This prompted me to see what was already on the Internet aimed at her points. I googled “doctor’s+credentials” (just like that) and this is a bit of what I found.
It seems the site most mentioned by articles, blogs, etc. was the American Board of Medical Specialists and allow up to 5 free searches a day.
The American Medical Association has two sites:
http://www.webapps.ama-assn.org/doctorfinder/home.html?apsamahg.htm
http://www.webapps.ama-assn.org/doctorfinder/html/patient.html
Their second site is geared for patients.
Other resources are in your county or state. For example, if you live in California, you would go to the website of the State Department of Consumer Affairs. Other states have State Boards of Registration. All states, but not all counties, have a Medical Society. Your local librarian may have a book called the Annual Book of Licensed Doctors.
I also found sites wanting payment for searches. If you want to use them, please do. However, I won’t mention them here.
By the way, the above sites are universal and not limited to only gerontology specialists. I hope this helps anyone looking for a doctor and his/her credentials in the United States.
Senior2Senior.org is your senior citizen, caregiver connection. We are a non-profit devoted to making your life easier, regardless of your temperament, age or condition.
2008© All Rights Reserved
I am the Executive Secretary for a non-profit with a focus on senior citizens and senior caregivers. One of the biggest worries seniors have is the quality of their medical provider, i.e. are they credentialed and complaints, if any, against them.
Truth is, this one area generated a lot of email. Here is just one we received:
• “A site that would be good for all seniors and their caregivers would be one that would lead you to a review of the doctors or the site that list if they are in good standing or whatever the medical profession has to help consumers know if they are going to a good doctor or not. With seniors needing to go to more and more doctors with more and more specialties, it sure would help.”
This prompted me to see what was already on the Internet aimed at her points. I googled “doctor’s+credentials” (just like that) and this is a bit of what I found.
It seems the site most mentioned by articles, blogs, etc. was the American Board of Medical Specialists and allow up to 5 free searches a day.
The American Medical Association has two sites:
http://www.webapps.ama-assn.org/doctorfinder/home.html?apsamahg.htm
http://www.webapps.ama-assn.org/doctorfinder/html/patient.html
Their second site is geared for patients.
Other resources are in your county or state. For example, if you live in California, you would go to the website of the State Department of Consumer Affairs. Other states have State Boards of Registration. All states, but not all counties, have a Medical Society. Your local librarian may have a book called the Annual Book of Licensed Doctors.
I also found sites wanting payment for searches. If you want to use them, please do. However, I won’t mention them here.
By the way, the above sites are universal and not limited to only gerontology specialists. I hope this helps anyone looking for a doctor and his/her credentials in the United States.
Senior2Senior.org is your senior citizen, caregiver connection. We are a non-profit devoted to making your life easier, regardless of your temperament, age or condition.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
Disinfectant Wipes Spread Superbugs
First came word that popular antibacterial hand soaps are not only unnecessary (old fashioned soap and water is the best way to keep germs from spreading) but the chemicals in them can harm your health and environment. Now a new study says instead of killing potentially dangerous infections, disinfectant wipes may actually spread drug-resistant and sometimes deadly bacteria.
The research, recently presented at the American Society of Microbiology's General Meeting in Boston, zeroed in on bacteria that included the dreaded "superbugs" -- methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. MRSA infections range from so-called "flesh eating" disfiguring skin infections to life-threatening and difficult to treat infections of the bloodstream, lungs and surgical wounds. The majority of cases are associated with hospitals, nursing homes or other health care facilities –- exactly the places where wipes are frequently used to try to prevent infections.
While the new study covered bacteria in hospitals, the information is also pertinent to the use of wipes in the home. You can't assume that by wiping down a cutting board, sink and counter top with a so-called disinfectant wipe that you have killed all potentially dangerous bacteria especially that associated with raw eggs and meat.
The best line of defense against infection? Wash your hands and surfaces with hot water and soap. Natural soaps and detergents with no added antibacterial agents zap the numbers of potentially troublesome bacteria adequately and quickly.
Read the entire article.
The research, recently presented at the American Society of Microbiology's General Meeting in Boston, zeroed in on bacteria that included the dreaded "superbugs" -- methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus, or MRSA. MRSA infections range from so-called "flesh eating" disfiguring skin infections to life-threatening and difficult to treat infections of the bloodstream, lungs and surgical wounds. The majority of cases are associated with hospitals, nursing homes or other health care facilities –- exactly the places where wipes are frequently used to try to prevent infections.
While the new study covered bacteria in hospitals, the information is also pertinent to the use of wipes in the home. You can't assume that by wiping down a cutting board, sink and counter top with a so-called disinfectant wipe that you have killed all potentially dangerous bacteria especially that associated with raw eggs and meat.
The best line of defense against infection? Wash your hands and surfaces with hot water and soap. Natural soaps and detergents with no added antibacterial agents zap the numbers of potentially troublesome bacteria adequately and quickly.
Read the entire article.
Monday, March 9, 2009
Animals For Easter Gifts
From Cheryl Falkenburry, Animal Behavior Coach
With Easter fast approaching, we see images of cuddly rabbits and cute chicks hopping around on green grass littered with colorful eggs. Children see these adorable creatures and beg their parents for one of their very own. Before you dash off and purchase a live animal for your child’s Easter basket, really consider your decision.
Are you prepared to care for this animal for an entire lifetime? Rabbits can live 10 – 15 years when properly cared for. Pet chickens live around 10 years and stop laying eggs around 3 - 4 years. Children, no matter how many promises they may make, are not able to care for animals on their own. They loose interest quickly. Animals also cost money for proper housing, food, and veterinarian care. Perhaps a chocolate bunny or a marshmallow chick or duck would be a better idea.
People often don’t realize what is involved with caring for an animal. I talk a lot about training dogs and cats, but other animals that are kept for companions need to be trained and cared for as well. Rabbits can make wonderful companions when cared for properly, but most people don’t realize what is involved. Just throwing a rabbit in a small cage and bringing her food and water every day is not enough. Rabbits need proper nutrition like fresh greens, fruits, and timothy hay; a large clean enclosure; plenty of time to romp outside of their enclosure; and lots and lots of love and training.
Yes, training. Rabbits can be housebroken in order for them to have supervised time outside of their enclosure. They can be taught proper manners of how to get your attention (a hard nibble is not appropriate, a soft nibble is, in case you are wondering how rabbits try to get your attention). Time must be spent teaching a rabbit to be handled by a human so you can safely check the rabbit’s teeth and trim nails. Some rabbits may never learn to be held by humans — it’s just too scary. Can you imagine a big giant coming down and swooping your entire body off the ground? Scary stuff if you ask me.
Animals also go through different stages of life that cause changes in behavior -- just like humans. Many people will call me and say their animal has suddenly become possessed. The first thing I do is inquire the age of the animal which reveals clues to the reason for the behavior change.
When adolescence occurs depends on the type and size of the animal. For rabbits it can occur as early as five months (sometimes earlier) for the dwarf breeds and as late as a year for other breeds. Rabbits need to be spayed and neutered usually somewhere around 5 to 6 months (although some are altered earlier). An altered rabbit is much easier to train and will remain healthier than an unaltered one. Unaltered rabbits cannot live together no matter what sex they are. The aggression problems will be numerous not to mention the number of rabbits that will be produced with opposite sexed pairs. There are enough homeless rabbits in the world, so a responsible family will always spay and neuter.
And what about a cute cuddly little chick? Fortunately, new laws have decreased the number of chicks that are being dyed Easter colors and sold at Easter time, but the giving of chicks still occurs. Chicks given as presents at Easter often die within the first week because they do not receive the proper care. Chicks require a heat source, a clean enclosure, and quality food and water every day. Hand-rearing a chick takes a minimum of 10 minutes a couple of times each day in order for the chick to bond to the human family.
They must be vaccinated against a variety of diseases. Many people do keep chickens as pets, yes pets, but as with any animal it takes time and care. Housebreaking is difficult but not impossible. Chickens can be trained to do a number of tasks. (Most positive training methods used today started with studying chickens!) However, a pet chicken is not something to jump into lightly.
Any animal is a major commitment and responsibility, not a novelty. Research what is needed to care properly for an animal before having one join your family. If you do decide you have the time, money, patience, and commitment to care for an animal, please consider adopting one from a shelter or local rescue. There are many wonderful animals, including rabbits, looking for a wonderful forever home.
If you have young children or aren’t ready for an animal to join your family, consider a nice little stuffed (fake fur) animal for your child’s Easter basket this year. Chocolate is a sweet idea too!
Cheryl Falkenburry, Animal Behavior Coach, helps make sense of mind-boggling animal behavior. Visit her website for other behavior tips. Set up a private session to work directly on your pet's problem.
With Easter fast approaching, we see images of cuddly rabbits and cute chicks hopping around on green grass littered with colorful eggs. Children see these adorable creatures and beg their parents for one of their very own. Before you dash off and purchase a live animal for your child’s Easter basket, really consider your decision.
Are you prepared to care for this animal for an entire lifetime? Rabbits can live 10 – 15 years when properly cared for. Pet chickens live around 10 years and stop laying eggs around 3 - 4 years. Children, no matter how many promises they may make, are not able to care for animals on their own. They loose interest quickly. Animals also cost money for proper housing, food, and veterinarian care. Perhaps a chocolate bunny or a marshmallow chick or duck would be a better idea.
People often don’t realize what is involved with caring for an animal. I talk a lot about training dogs and cats, but other animals that are kept for companions need to be trained and cared for as well. Rabbits can make wonderful companions when cared for properly, but most people don’t realize what is involved. Just throwing a rabbit in a small cage and bringing her food and water every day is not enough. Rabbits need proper nutrition like fresh greens, fruits, and timothy hay; a large clean enclosure; plenty of time to romp outside of their enclosure; and lots and lots of love and training.
Yes, training. Rabbits can be housebroken in order for them to have supervised time outside of their enclosure. They can be taught proper manners of how to get your attention (a hard nibble is not appropriate, a soft nibble is, in case you are wondering how rabbits try to get your attention). Time must be spent teaching a rabbit to be handled by a human so you can safely check the rabbit’s teeth and trim nails. Some rabbits may never learn to be held by humans — it’s just too scary. Can you imagine a big giant coming down and swooping your entire body off the ground? Scary stuff if you ask me.
Animals also go through different stages of life that cause changes in behavior -- just like humans. Many people will call me and say their animal has suddenly become possessed. The first thing I do is inquire the age of the animal which reveals clues to the reason for the behavior change.
When adolescence occurs depends on the type and size of the animal. For rabbits it can occur as early as five months (sometimes earlier) for the dwarf breeds and as late as a year for other breeds. Rabbits need to be spayed and neutered usually somewhere around 5 to 6 months (although some are altered earlier). An altered rabbit is much easier to train and will remain healthier than an unaltered one. Unaltered rabbits cannot live together no matter what sex they are. The aggression problems will be numerous not to mention the number of rabbits that will be produced with opposite sexed pairs. There are enough homeless rabbits in the world, so a responsible family will always spay and neuter.
And what about a cute cuddly little chick? Fortunately, new laws have decreased the number of chicks that are being dyed Easter colors and sold at Easter time, but the giving of chicks still occurs. Chicks given as presents at Easter often die within the first week because they do not receive the proper care. Chicks require a heat source, a clean enclosure, and quality food and water every day. Hand-rearing a chick takes a minimum of 10 minutes a couple of times each day in order for the chick to bond to the human family.
They must be vaccinated against a variety of diseases. Many people do keep chickens as pets, yes pets, but as with any animal it takes time and care. Housebreaking is difficult but not impossible. Chickens can be trained to do a number of tasks. (Most positive training methods used today started with studying chickens!) However, a pet chicken is not something to jump into lightly.
Any animal is a major commitment and responsibility, not a novelty. Research what is needed to care properly for an animal before having one join your family. If you do decide you have the time, money, patience, and commitment to care for an animal, please consider adopting one from a shelter or local rescue. There are many wonderful animals, including rabbits, looking for a wonderful forever home.
If you have young children or aren’t ready for an animal to join your family, consider a nice little stuffed (fake fur) animal for your child’s Easter basket this year. Chocolate is a sweet idea too!
Cheryl Falkenburry, Animal Behavior Coach, helps make sense of mind-boggling animal behavior. Visit her website for other behavior tips. Set up a private session to work directly on your pet's problem.
Sunday, March 8, 2009
Removing Stains In Clothing With Coke
Q. Somewhere I heard about coca cola being great for washing stains out of clothes, but I wasn't able to get any more info on that. Has anyone heard of using coke?
• To remove grease from clothes: Empty a can of Coke into a load of greasy clothes, add detergent, and run through a regular cycle. The Coca-Cola will help loosen grease stains.
• NO! Don't use Coca Cola to remove stains; you'll only create more. What does work like magic is club soda. Sponge club soda on a stain over and over and watch the stain disappear, even beet or red raspberry stains, but you need to do it right away when the stain occurs.
• When we lived in Texas and Oklahoma I went to the laundry mat and found that the people washing the oil rig clothes used Coke small Bottles or cans primarily to cut the oil in the clothes. It apparently works because there were Coke machines only in the laundry mats.
• My friend uses a two liter bottle of coke in addition to her detergent for her husbands work uniforms, he works in crude oil. She says this removes all the stains and odors. I imagine you could adjust the amount for the size and amount of dirt. She won't use anything else! (obviously she has grease and oil stains)
• Coca-cola is a great grease cutter, but not a cleaner. If you have one of those stubborn grease stains, that hasn't washed out, a little coke in the stain can really help, but it's not a cleaner -- you'll need detergent with it.
Get More Cleaning RecipesSaturday, March 7, 2009
Free Family Fun
Choose one tree in your yard to be your family tree. If you don't have trees, choose a tree at a park, school, library or other place that you visit often. Make a family tree scrapbook to record the things you do and learn as you get to know your tree each year. If you don't know what kind of tree it is, take a clipping of some leaves and identify your tree at this interactive website. Be sure to include those leaves in your scrapbook.
Take photos or make drawings of your tree in various seasons. Make a list of the animals and birds that need your type of tree for their own family's habitat. What parts of the tree are used for food and who eats it? Trees are very important to our earth and knowing more about why they are so valuable, makes us appreciate them more.
Each year you can choose another type of tree and learn a lot about the natural world while having fun family time together.
Another option if you have space in your yard and enjoy gardening is to add trees to your landscape for energy conservation and pure enjoyment of watching a tree grow. You could go through the same process as above keeping a scrapbook for each tree you plant.
Take photos or make drawings of your tree in various seasons. Make a list of the animals and birds that need your type of tree for their own family's habitat. What parts of the tree are used for food and who eats it? Trees are very important to our earth and knowing more about why they are so valuable, makes us appreciate them more.
Each year you can choose another type of tree and learn a lot about the natural world while having fun family time together.
Another option if you have space in your yard and enjoy gardening is to add trees to your landscape for energy conservation and pure enjoyment of watching a tree grow. You could go through the same process as above keeping a scrapbook for each tree you plant.
Friday, March 6, 2009
Victory Gardens Return
Victory gardens are popping up all over. Last seen during World War II, these gardens now represent our fight to regain control of our lives and our health. They are the first battlefields against the increasing corporate tyranny, a battle that may end with us throwing off the philosophy of every man for himself and a realization that we are all together in this thing called life.
The Department of Agriculture along with agribusiness corporations distributed booklets providing information about basic gardening techniques. In 1943, 20 million gardens were producing 8 million tons of food. Victory gardens were planted in backyards, apartment building roofs, vacant lots, backyards, and pretty much every available patch of dirt and container throughout the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. Neighbors pooled their resources, planted different kinds of foods and formed cooperatives, doing whatever had to be done.
Today we are again involved in fighting a battle, but this time the battle involves how to stay healthy and live genuine lives in a world where everything is increasing stacked against us.
Today’s commercially grown produce comes from soils depleted of the minerals and nutrients so necessary to keep us healthy in our polluted and stressful environment. Plants grown in depleted soils are less healthy and able to resist attack by pests, so the use of pesticides is more prevalent than ever.
Much of our big agribusiness produce is now being grown in foreign countries not subject to highly controlled use of pesticide. Today’s big food corporations choose the cheapest, most effective pesticides, not the ones that are least toxic to humans and other life forms.
We are stressed out and overworked trying to get the money to buy all the stuff that corporations have decided we must have. Our closets and homes are filled, but our bank accounts are empty. We are so busy that we seldom see our family as a whole or do activities in which the whole family participates. It’s time to say ‘no’ to the big corporate food sellers and big oil. It’s time to reach inside ourselves again and rediscover that kernel of resourcefulness. It is still there.
A victory garden is a manifestation of new thinking, new vision and an explosion of new understanding. We not only live in this world but we help create it. We can choose to participate in unity and renewal. Read the entire article.
The Department of Agriculture along with agribusiness corporations distributed booklets providing information about basic gardening techniques. In 1943, 20 million gardens were producing 8 million tons of food. Victory gardens were planted in backyards, apartment building roofs, vacant lots, backyards, and pretty much every available patch of dirt and container throughout the U.S., Canada, and the U.K. Neighbors pooled their resources, planted different kinds of foods and formed cooperatives, doing whatever had to be done.
Today we are again involved in fighting a battle, but this time the battle involves how to stay healthy and live genuine lives in a world where everything is increasing stacked against us.
Today’s commercially grown produce comes from soils depleted of the minerals and nutrients so necessary to keep us healthy in our polluted and stressful environment. Plants grown in depleted soils are less healthy and able to resist attack by pests, so the use of pesticides is more prevalent than ever.
Much of our big agribusiness produce is now being grown in foreign countries not subject to highly controlled use of pesticide. Today’s big food corporations choose the cheapest, most effective pesticides, not the ones that are least toxic to humans and other life forms.
We are stressed out and overworked trying to get the money to buy all the stuff that corporations have decided we must have. Our closets and homes are filled, but our bank accounts are empty. We are so busy that we seldom see our family as a whole or do activities in which the whole family participates. It’s time to say ‘no’ to the big corporate food sellers and big oil. It’s time to reach inside ourselves again and rediscover that kernel of resourcefulness. It is still there.
A victory garden is a manifestation of new thinking, new vision and an explosion of new understanding. We not only live in this world but we help create it. We can choose to participate in unity and renewal. Read the entire article.
Thursday, March 5, 2009
Fresh Compost In Under 21 Days
This video gives detailed instructions on building an inexpensive compost tumbler which, according to the creator, can produce rich compost in 14-21 days! Cost was $8 plus two hours of labor. View the video.
Wednesday, March 4, 2009
Safer Antibiotic Still Works
© 2008 Creation Moments.
In Genesis 1:28 God tells man to subdue the Earth. That command implies that God has placed, within the creation, many tools that man can learn to use for his benefit.
After sin entered the world and sickness and death became a reality, God’s remarkable foreknowledge then became evident. One of the first antibiotics ever discovered by man has been in use for thousands of years.
Modern researchers are just beginning to appreciate the wonder of this natural antibiotic that kills some 650 different strains of disease organisms, and is virtually non-toxic. Best of all, disease organisms don't become resistant to it.
What is this miracle antibiotic? The metal silver.
The ancient Greeks and Romans used silver containers to keep liquids fresh. American settlers often placed a silver dollar in milk to delay souring. Most of the world's airlines today use silver filters on board to prevent dysentery.
After testing 23 different methods for purifying water, NASA selected silver water filters for use on board the Space Shuttle. Japanese researchers have found that silver is even able to detoxify some poisons.
Isn't it striking that even the inanimate world is filled with things that are so carefully designed to fit into the overall picture of reality painted by Scripture? And who says the Bible isn't a book of science?!
Visit Creation Moments for more Bible science articles.
Read more about Silver Shield, one of my favorite items in my supplement program.
Be sure to read the patent information that lists all the positive reports of the diseases and types of microbes that this product worked for in research before approval.
AquaSol Technology makes Silver Shield safe and more effective. Read scientific information.
In Genesis 1:28 God tells man to subdue the Earth. That command implies that God has placed, within the creation, many tools that man can learn to use for his benefit.
After sin entered the world and sickness and death became a reality, God’s remarkable foreknowledge then became evident. One of the first antibiotics ever discovered by man has been in use for thousands of years.
Modern researchers are just beginning to appreciate the wonder of this natural antibiotic that kills some 650 different strains of disease organisms, and is virtually non-toxic. Best of all, disease organisms don't become resistant to it.
What is this miracle antibiotic? The metal silver.
The ancient Greeks and Romans used silver containers to keep liquids fresh. American settlers often placed a silver dollar in milk to delay souring. Most of the world's airlines today use silver filters on board to prevent dysentery.
After testing 23 different methods for purifying water, NASA selected silver water filters for use on board the Space Shuttle. Japanese researchers have found that silver is even able to detoxify some poisons.
Isn't it striking that even the inanimate world is filled with things that are so carefully designed to fit into the overall picture of reality painted by Scripture? And who says the Bible isn't a book of science?!
Visit Creation Moments for more Bible science articles.
Read more about Silver Shield, one of my favorite items in my supplement program.
Be sure to read the patent information that lists all the positive reports of the diseases and types of microbes that this product worked for in research before approval.
AquaSol Technology makes Silver Shield safe and more effective. Read scientific information.
Tuesday, March 3, 2009
Great Essential Oils Blog
Here's a recipe from the latest issue of Essential Oil Recipes and More. This email newsletter that arrives twice a month is published by Christina Tarman Bethke and the blog website has a lot of great information for natural health followers.
Dry Cough Recipe
Drink Method:
Mix 2 drops of Eucalyptus Essential Oil and 2 drops of Lemon Essential Oil with 2 tablespoons honey. Take 1 teaspoon of this and dilute in a wine glass of warm water. Sip it slowly.
Massage Method:
Mix 3 drops Eucalyptus with 2 drops of Thyme. Diluted in 1 teaspoon massage oil and massage over back and chest in lung area.
Steam Inhalation:
Use 3 drops of Lavender in steaming water. Inhale deeply through mouth.
View blog for more essential oil information.
Dry Cough Recipe
Drink Method:
Mix 2 drops of Eucalyptus Essential Oil and 2 drops of Lemon Essential Oil with 2 tablespoons honey. Take 1 teaspoon of this and dilute in a wine glass of warm water. Sip it slowly.
Massage Method:
Mix 3 drops Eucalyptus with 2 drops of Thyme. Diluted in 1 teaspoon massage oil and massage over back and chest in lung area.
Steam Inhalation:
Use 3 drops of Lavender in steaming water. Inhale deeply through mouth.
View blog for more essential oil information.
Monday, March 2, 2009
Stop Bills While Vacationing
Vacation is a chance to get away from it all, but while you're gone, the bills keep rolling in. Or do they?
You probably know to put a hold on your newspaper and mail, but temporary service suspensions, which are offered for everything from your landline and wireless phones to your high-speed Internet and cable, allow you to shut down your service (and those monthly bills) while you're away. Setting it up is as simple as calling your providers and asking for a "vacation service," or, alternately, a "temporary suspension."
Read the entire article
You probably know to put a hold on your newspaper and mail, but temporary service suspensions, which are offered for everything from your landline and wireless phones to your high-speed Internet and cable, allow you to shut down your service (and those monthly bills) while you're away. Setting it up is as simple as calling your providers and asking for a "vacation service," or, alternately, a "temporary suspension."
Read the entire article
Sunday, March 1, 2009
Reducing Vet Bills
Taking your pet to the vet is as daunting as making a trip to the emergency room. Your mind buzzes with thoughts of the lack of control (too bad animals can't talk) and the cost.
I was so surprised and upset to hear the following story from a friend that had taken her cat for several vet visits and paid for several prescriptions besides the office visits and procedures, so frugal thoughts took over.
This email is from the friend in Canada:
I was previously charged $15.69 for 10 ml of Lactulose at the Vet. Yesterday, they were going to give me 100 ml since I have to keep her on it, and charge me $156.90 for it.
I said, "Wait a minute ... That sounds like a lot! I would like to check and see if I can buy it at Shopper's (pharmacy), and I'll let you know if I need a prescription." So I called the pharmacy and sure enough, I can buy a litre bottle (1000 ml) for $25.
Let me do the math for you: $25 for 1000 ml (instead of $156.90 for 100 ml)
So the comparison for the same amount of Lactulose is: $25.00 at pharmacy or $1569.00 from vet
After reading this I asked another friend about this since she visits the vet frequently since she provides foster care for rescues at her local shelter. She said this was definitely an option since her vet at times has told her to get the necessary drugs from the pharmacy because it would be cheaper there.
So, we find that there may be another way to keep our pets healthy within a limited budget.
If you've had experience doing this, please let us all know about it by posting a comment below. Read comments at original article.
I was so surprised and upset to hear the following story from a friend that had taken her cat for several vet visits and paid for several prescriptions besides the office visits and procedures, so frugal thoughts took over.
This email is from the friend in Canada:
I was previously charged $15.69 for 10 ml of Lactulose at the Vet. Yesterday, they were going to give me 100 ml since I have to keep her on it, and charge me $156.90 for it.
I said, "Wait a minute ... That sounds like a lot! I would like to check and see if I can buy it at Shopper's (pharmacy), and I'll let you know if I need a prescription." So I called the pharmacy and sure enough, I can buy a litre bottle (1000 ml) for $25.
Let me do the math for you: $25 for 1000 ml (instead of $156.90 for 100 ml)
So the comparison for the same amount of Lactulose is: $25.00 at pharmacy or $1569.00 from vet
After reading this I asked another friend about this since she visits the vet frequently since she provides foster care for rescues at her local shelter. She said this was definitely an option since her vet at times has told her to get the necessary drugs from the pharmacy because it would be cheaper there.
So, we find that there may be another way to keep our pets healthy within a limited budget.
If you've had experience doing this, please let us all know about it by posting a comment below. Read comments at original article.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
