Flu Prep and Info
Hello everyone--I just wanted to share some info on the current situation that is getting so much media attention-some hype...some under hype...just depends on who you listen to. The way I look at most things if a person has the facts (as best as available) and can prepare...the less likely it will affect you or at least lessen the panic of the situation. So I ask that you prayerfully consider the info that I am sharing and make your own decision on what is right for you and your family.
First of all lets get a better understanding of what this is and why we should care about this....It is officially A / H1N1 swine flu..........This is genetically correct. It is 2 parts Swine. 1 part human. 1 part avian. It has been confirmed now to have substantial human to human transmission. This is a new version. This is important because???? Well---the main reason is people don't have immunities to it. Now whats important to keep in mind is that a virus mutates and changes. This can be good or it can be bad. It can mutate into a mild version and disappear for the most part---Whew...it's gone! OR it can mutate and become stronger and even worse become resistant. Last year 2007-2008 flu season we saw oseltamivir resistance among influenza A(H1N1)human viruses increased significantly for the first time worldwide with higher numbers predicted for the 2008-2009 flu season. (JAMA article Vol. 301 No. 10, March 11, 2009)
**Key difference here---there is a seasonal flu H1N1-human(Seasonal flu usually begins to show up in October and lasts through April) and a pandemic flu(Pandemic flu is an outbreak of the influenza virus that spreads very rapidly to many people worldwide and causes high rates of serious illness and death. For this to occur, a new virus is needed that humans have never been exposed to and is easily transmissible from person to person). In the case of A/H1N1 swine flu we are now dealing with an out of season-new virus. A/H1N1 swine has jumped from pigs to humans and is now spreading from human to human reproducing and spreading---what is left to be seen is if it is self-sustaining.....hence the possible pandemic concerns. What is important to take into consideration now is the History of Pandemic Flu. Take the Pandemic Flu of 1918-1919 into account. This pandemic began in the late spring-early summer of 1918--it came in 3 phases. The first was relatively mild (spring/summer 1918)...The second Phase Fall of 1918 was much worse...followed by a third phase in the spring of 1919. The important thing to realize at this point is we don't know where this is going yet. We can all pray that this thing fizzles out and it is nothing more than an exercise in preparedness. The other thing that you can do now is to prepare for the Fall. Knowing now and making a few preparations could make all the difference later. Don't rely on the media to inform you--do research on your own. There are numerous avenues to research Pandemic Flu preparations. Here are a few:
www.pandemicflu.gov
www.redcross.org/news/ds/panflu
www.cdc.gov/flu/pandemic
http://www.who.int/en/
There is also a really great website to find information and facts:
www.flutrackers.com
That is where I found this list of preparation items:
WATER
1 Gallon Per Person Per Day minimum. This amount allows for drinking and food prep. Allow extra 2+ gallons for personal hygiene, washing dishes and clothes.
FOOD
Canned Food Items: 20 cans assorted per small family (4 people); double for large family
o Soup
o Chili
o Pasta
Canned Vegetables: 30 cans assorted per small family (4 people); double for large family
o Corn
o Green Beans
o Tomatoes
o Mixed Vegetables
Dried / Canned Fruit/Peanuts/Nuts; 5 lbs dried or 6 – 12 cans small family, 12-16 large family
Canned Meat: 20 cans per small family < 4, double for larger family >4 persons
Dry Milk: large box or several small cans if no small children or frequent milk drinkers and used for cooking only, increase if family needs require.
Pasta: 5 pounds dry weight
Salt, spices, condiments as preferred
Sugar or alternative sweetener, 5 lbs. or equivalent per small family, increase in large family or if frequently used
Coffee Tea, chocolate, drink mixes, etc. as preferred
Canned or single serve puddings and similar desert items, hard candy, or similar comfort foods and “treats” if funds allow or Cancel
Oatmeal, other hot or cold cereals per preference
Flour; 5 lb bag, increase if used frequently in cooking/baking; yeast if bread baking
Peanut Butter/ Jelly: Large jar each small family, double or triple depending on family size and preference
Crackers, Plain (for sandwiches and snacks) 1 large
box per person
Spaghetti or pasta sauce; 4-8 jars or cans
Baby formula and food, if needed
PERSONAL HEALTHCARE
Thermometer (one per person if possible)
Usual Prescription medicines: 1 month minimum supply (3+ months preferred-contact physician immediately, if needed)
Cough Medicine: 1 bottle per person containing suppressant and expectorant (combined or separate):
o Cough Syrup DM or low dose of opioid cough syrup
Cold/Flu Symptom relief medicine of personal preference, 1 course per person
Anti-diarrhea (Pepto-Bismol or Imodium): 1 Large Bottle or box
Benadryl (Diphenhydramine): 100 Tablet bottle (especially important if any family member has history of allergies)
Acetaminophen 500 mg.tablets: 100 tab Bottle (Note: can alternate with ibuprofen every 3 hours to control fever &/or pain)
Ibuprofen 200mg tablets/capsules: 500 count bottle
Baking Soda: 1 Box
Alternative treatments/supplements as desired
Vitamin Supplement (1-a-Day Multi Containing the following): 1 Medium/Large Bottle:
o Zinc,
o Vitamin A
o Vitamin C
o Selenium
o Magnesium
o Calcium.
o Vitamin B-12
o GLA
Children/Infant: All above in formulas specific for children Suggestions: Dose based upon weight of child, not age; Weigh child and write down dosing requirements (how much & how often) in advance to prevent mistakes under stressful situations.
70% alcohol: 1/4 liter (1 pint)
Hydrogen peroxide (dark bottle): 2 small or 1 pint bottles
Petroleum jelly (Vaseline): 1 large jar or tube
Antibiotic cream or ointment: 1 tube
Aloe (aloevera) gel: good for burns, minor wounds, cooling, moisturizing
sterile gauze pads: 1 package
Gauze bandage rolls: 2 each
Cotton (clean): 1 small package
Adhesive tape (adhesive plaster): 1-inch wide; 2 rolls
Adhesive bandages (Bandaids): 2 boxes asorted sizes
Ace bandage(s) - one roll
Scissors (clean/not rusty): 1 pair blunt and 1 pair sharp tip
Tweezers
PERSONAL SUPPLIES
Personal Hygiene
Soap Bars: 2 bars per person
Shampoo: 1 Large Bottle
Razor blades or disposable razors: per family usage
Toothpaste: 1 large tube
Hand sanitizer: small carry bottle per person, extra to replace; large bottle for refills, several medium bottles for use in bathrooms and kitchen
Antibacterial Hand Soap; dispenser at each sink in home, extra to replace
Baby wipes (not just for babies, reduces water usage): 1 case (6 packages)
Diapers and baby care items as needed
Deodorant
Sanitary Items -2 months supply for first month for each adult female,then 1 month supply for each additonal month preparation
Masks, gloves and goggles
HOME CLEANING/HOUSEHOLD SUPPLIES
Bleach: 2 Large Gallon Bottles
Vinegar: 2 Large Gallon Bottles
Plastic Gloves
Plastic Bags
Garbage Bags: 30+gallon 1 box
Clean cloths
Toilet Paper: 15 Rolls per small family, up to 30 for large family > 4 people
Paper Towels; 6-12 rolls
Paper Supplies:
o plates
o cups
o plastic
o disposable silverware
Flashlights: One per person minimum, consider LED lights to reduce battery usage. Additional LED headlamps extremely useful.
Batteries: 3-4 sets per battery powered item
Battery powered Radio:
o Radio/TV Combo
o Weather Warning
o Short Wave
Can Opener (Manual): Two
Matches: 1 large box 100 packs or 6 boxes wooden matches
MISCELLANEOUS
Stove:
o Dual Fuel Cooking Stove
o Propane Cooking Stove
Fuel for stove
Air Pump (manual)
Water Filter
Alternative heating method for cold climates
Here is a handy format list that can be used:
http://www.flutrackers.com/forum/att...0&d=1162062278
This helps calculate for a family.
Before I go let me assure you I am not saying "THE SKY IS FALLING_THE SKY IS FALLING" All I am trying to do is put some valuable information readily at your fingertips. If you do any or all these things that the websites above suggests...the worst outcome of it is you will have prepared you and your families for any number of possible uncertainties that we face in this world we live in.
Blessings>faithfarm
Joke
First Farmer: Did the tornado damage your barn last night?
Second Farmer: Don't Know. Haven't seen it yet.
Farm Humor
Top 10 Benefits of Being a Farm Wife
10. Getting to hear your husband say, "Don't jerk the chain!"
9. Canning vegetables late into the night after devoting daylight hours to
marketable crops.
8. Living in a 90-year-old farmhouse with bad plumbing.
7. Learning that Hollering at machinery always helps.
6. Learning that 4 a.m. feedings apply to Goat kids too.
5. Being too busy for summer vacations.
4. Daily shopping trips (to Farm/Feed store).
3. Being referred to as "The Wife."
2. Knowing your husband loves you even though he yelled at you all day.
1. Being asked "Is dinner ready?" after working all day in the field.
discernment
Good Morning! I would like to share with you some of my thoughts this morning about everything going on in this world and how one is supposed to deal with it all. Do I have the answers to these questions-no-not really--I'm praying about it. It seems to me that among the people that I know that there are three main catagories of thought/action. The first is one of a watcher. One who pays attention to all things going on-legislations/politics/world events. The second is one who knows these things are going on but avoids news and information as much as possible. The third is one who can't see or understand or just won't. I would say I teeter in between the first and second catagory---sometimes I watch and sometimes I avoid. I think that it is important to know where we are and what is going on around us. Are we not supposed to discern the times we live in? If one is not careful though, in this world of information overload, it can be hard to keep your peace and perspective on things. That goes for both directions of thought. I know there are days that I feel like tackling the world asking everyone I know, "Do you know this is happening?" and there are days that I only want the peace and comfort and solitude of what God has Blessed us with. The truth is that one thing affects the other though. Our children, our land, our "freedoms" are all things that are being decided on everyday by other people. I don't want to wake up one day and be told that I can't teach my children, or I can't have livestock, or that the Bible is "no longer allowed". Sadly these are all things that are not impossible in the world we live in. These things are not changed overnight...there done slowly..bit by bit. And whats even worse it is done alot of times under the pretense that it is for our own good and one can justify reasons for such change at that time. But we have to look at the whole picture and how it will affect everything as a whole. I'm sure most of us can think of decisions that have been made that seemed innocent at the time that we now fully understand the concequences of. I think there is a balance in all things...its finding that balance that is important. Remember God has not given us the spirit of fear, but of power and love and of a sound mind. Blessings>faithfarm
Notice for Oklahoma Homeschoolers-Important
This email was forwarded to me today--Please read.
[Ochecalert] OCHEC Legislative Alerts SB472 and SB308 Introduced
Tuesday, January 13, 2009 12:03 PM
To:
ochecalert@lists.ochec.com, ochecupdate@lists.ochec.com
Below is information for immediate action! The following is an alert that will be sent by HSLDA shortly. OCHEC is also working against these bills and asks that you contact our legislators as soon as possible. To view a copy of these bills, go to:
http://webserver1.lsb.state.ok.us/2009-10SB/SB472_int.rtf
http://webserver1.lsb.state.ok.us/2009-10SB/SB308_int.rtf
Rick Williamson
OCHEC Media and Legislative Liaison
January 13, 2009
Title: Oklahoma- Action Needed- Home education freedom threatened by two bad bills!
Dear HSLDA members and friends:
Even before the Oklahoma 2009 Legislative Session has officially started two bills have come to our attention and we need your help. These bills, Senate Bill 308 and Senate Bill 472, threaten the foundation of home education freedom that parents have in Oklahoma. Both bills are scheduled to be officially introduced on February 2nd.
Senate Bill 472 would require every parent or guardian who is providing “other means of education” (i.e. home education) to their child to notify their local school district of this fact. If this bill is passed, every parent would have to submit a notice of their intent before the first day of each school year or within 10 days from beginning their home education program.
Senate Bill 472 would also require parents to submit a report of each of their children’s academic progress at the end of each semester. Every parent would be required to submit two reports a year to their local public school officials for each child to demonstrate how that child was doing in their home education program.
Senate Bill 308 and Senate Bill 472 would allow local police or certain public school officials to take temporary custody of any child who was taught at home. Under both SB 308 and SB 472 whenever a child is away from their home without an adult present, a police officer or school official could pick them up and temporarily detain them. Currently under Oklahoma law children who are taught at home cannot be picked up and detained, they are exempt.
We need your calls and emails to both sponsors of these bills to persuade them to remove their bills. We would also like you to contact the Senate Education Committee to let them know that you oppose these bills as well. We have provided a suggested message to give but your own personal message about this bill will be the most effective way to let the legislature understand that these bills are not needed and would damage the freedom of “other means of education” that Oklahoma has recognized for over 100 years.
REQUESTED ACTION:
1. Please call and email Senator Mary Easley, the sponsor of Senate Bill 472, and give her this message in your own words:
"Please remove Senate Bill 472 from consideration by the legislature immediately. Under the Oklahoma constitution a parent may provide for “other means of education” to their children. Study after study has shown that children taught at home on average do above average academically. This bill is an unacceptable infringement of parents’ rights to direct their child’s education.”
When calling Senator Easley’s office understand that they will probably be receiving a lot of calls. Please be courteous but firm in your opposition to Senate Bill 472. Please let her office know if you live in her district and are one of her constituents (District 18). Senator Easley is also on the Senate Education Committee.
Senator Mary Easley
Capitol Address: District Address:
2300 North Lincoln Blvd., Room 429 106 S. Cherokee Lane
Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Grand Lake Towne, OK 74349
Phone: (405) 521-5590
E-mail: easley@oksenate.gov
2. Please call and email Senator Jim Wilson, the sponsor of Senate Bill 308, and give him this message in your own words:
"Please remove Senate Bill 308 from consideration by the legislature immediately. Under the Oklahoma constitution a parent may provide for “other means of education” to their children. This bill is an unacceptable infringement of parents’ rights to direct their child’s education and determine what is in their best interest. Children who are not in violation of the law should be exempt from being picked up by local officials simply because they are taught at home.”
When calling Senator Wilson’s office understand that they will probably be receiving a lot of calls. Please be courteous but firm in your opposition to Senate Bill 308. Please let his office know if you live in his district and are one of his constituents (District 3).
Senator Jim Wilson
Capitol Address: District Address:
2300 North Lincoln Blvd., Room 533C 708 W. Shawnee
Oklahoma City, OK 73105 Tahlequah, OK 74464
Phone: (405) 521-5574
E-mail: wilson@oksenate.gov
3. Please call and email the Senate Education Committee members listed below and give the following message in your own words:
"Please oppose Senate Bill 472 and Senate Bill 308. Under the Oklahoma constitution a parent may provide for “other means of education” to their children. Study after study has shown that children taught at home on average do above average academically. These bills are an unacceptable infringement of parents’ rights to direct their child’s education.
Senate Bill 472 will create unnecessary paperwork for public school officials and parents, wasting time and money.
Both Senate Bills 308 and 472 would violate the child’s fundamental 4th Amendment rights. Many children 16 and older who are taught at home attend educational activities outside of the home with the consent and under the direction of their parent.”
If you find that your State Senator is on the Senate Education Committee please let him or her know that you are a constituent. You can find a list of the Senate organized by district here: http://www.oksenate.gov/Senators/directorybydistrict.htm .
Senate Education Committee Members
Senator John W. Ford (R)- Chair
Phone: (405) 521-5634
Email: fordj@oksenate.gov
Senator Clark Jolley (R)- Vice Chair
Phone: (405) 521-5622
Email: jolley@oksenate.gov
Senator Cliff Branan (R)
Phone: (405) 521-5543
Email: branan@oksenate.gov
Senator Bill Brown (R)
Phone: (405) 521-5602
Email: brownb@oksenate.gov
Senator Kenneth Corn (D)
Phone: (405) 521-5576
Email: cochran@oksenate.gov
Senator Mary Easley (D)
Phone: (405) 521-5590
E-mail: easley@oksenate.gov
Senator Judy Eason McIntyre (D)
Phone: (405) 521-5598
Email: easonmcintyre@oksenate.gov
Senator Jay Paul Gumm (D)
Phone: (405) 521-5586 and local (580) 924-4717
Email: gumm@oksenate.gov
Senator Jim Halligan (R)
Phone: (405) 521-5572
Email: halligan@oksenate.gov
Senator Richard C. Lerblance (D)
Phone: (405) 521-5604 and local (918) 297-2501
Email: lerblance@oksenate.gov
Senator Mike Mazzei (R)
Phone: (405) 521-5675
Email: mazzei@oksenate.gov
Senator Susan Paddack (D)
Phone: (405) 521-5541
Email: paddack@oksenate.gov
Senator Jim Reynolds (R)
Phone: (405) 521-5522
Email: reynolds@oksenate.gov
Senator John Sparks (D)
Phone: (405) 521-5553
Email: sparks@oksenate.gov
Senator Gary Stanislawski (R)
Phone: (405) 521-5624
Email: stanislawski@oksenate.gov
4. Pray that these bills are defeated and plan on attending the Oklahoma Home Educators’ Capitol Day on February 10th. This will provide you with a great opportunity to impact these bills, to get to meet your legislator(s) and to create a positive impression for home education. For more information on the upcoming Capitol Day go to: http://www.ochec.com/Categories.aspx?Category=5c4ab515-3abc-448b-9362-ae17f4ab7091 .
BACKGROUND
Some of you may remember that in the 2007 legislative session Senator Jim Wilson introduced a bill that was virtually identical to current Senate Bill 472. That bill, Senate Bill 375, was successfully defeated by the prayers and hard work of families all across Oklahoma. By those efforts again we pray that we will again be able to defeat these attempts to restrict the freedom of home education in Oklahoma.
If you are not yet a member of HSLDA and would like to help us fight for greater parental rights and homeschool freedom in Oklahoma please visit http://www.hslda.org/join/apply.asp .
If you would like to be put on our e-mail list to receive vital e-lerts you may sign up at https://secure.hslda.org/hslda/elert/account.asp?Process=Subscribe .
Thank you for your part in fighting for freedom in Oklahoma! Feel free to send this to others who are supportive of home education freedom.
Sincerely,
Thomas Schmidt
HSLDA Staff Attorney
One more reason to be prepared
If you don't have enough reasons to prepare for the unexpected here is one more-lol---
Powerful Solar Storm could Shut down US for Months
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,478024,00.html
Magnetic Field Hole
http://www.foxnews.com/story/0,2933,468268,00.html
For the off-grid solar people: Best information I can find is that a solar storm like this one should only have a minimum affect on PV systems---I have not been able to find alot on this topic but most things point to minimum or no damage to Solar panels with the worst case scenario being degradation of 20-25% over a period of years--atleast in theory. If anyone has any info on this please share>Blessings>faithfarm
Responding in trials and tribulation
Good Morning Friends! I have had something on my heart for a while now and I want to share it with you. With everything going on in todays world--and boy howdy is there alot of things happening--it is often hard to keep perspective on things. I've heard the word peace being used in just about every context....Keeping your peace...world peace....peace corps...peace treaty...on and on. I think most of us know that it will only be obtained in an appointed time in the future and it wont be by the work of man's hands. It's just not the way this world is set up. But I do believe that we are to have peace in ourselves, in our hearts...I do think that is an obtainable thing through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior. Is it something that I have obtained fully?? No. It is something that I am striving to do. I often wonder how I will react in a time of huge crisis...I pray that I will be able to have peace and be a light. It is so easy to get caught up in the moment and lose perspective on things. But I think it so important to remember that peace in all times. Ok let me back up a moment.........For most of my life I have not been taught that as Christians we would have to walk through trials and tribulations. Not to go into doctine teaching but no where was I taught how to walk through tribulations or that as a Christian I would have to walk through these things. (Keep in mind that I am not talking about The Great Tribulation just tribulation in general) It was only after I truely found the Lord for myself and began to really study the Word that I began to have some understanding of this.
1 Peter 1:6 In this you greatly rejoice, though now for a little while you may have had to suffer grief in all kinds of trials. 7These have come so that your faith—of greater worth than gold, which perishes even though refined by fire—may be proved genuine and may result in praise, glory and honor when Jesus Christ is revealed.
John 16:33
These things I have spoken to you, that in Me you may have peace. In the world you will have tribulation; but be of good cheer, I have overcome the world.”
Romans 12:11-13
11 not lagging in diligence, fervent in spirit, serving the Lord; 12 rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer; 13 distributing to the needs of the saints, given to hospitality.
Patient in tribulation.....How many people do you know that are patient during tribulation? That's really saying something......Can I be patient during tribulation? Have peace and not lack diligence in a time of hardship? I pray that I can be. But honestly in the past I have not been. When life throws me an unexpected curve ball, the fleshy side of me wants it over and over quick. I think I am improving but far from patient. I really believe that the future holds alot of change and in those things there will be trials and tribulations for all of us. But I do know that God will give me strength. Will I fall short? Probably....but I will continue to strive for it. I will continue to grow my roots and build a stronger foundation in the Lord. So in that time I pray I can be a comfort to others.
2 Corinthians 1
3 Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, 4 who comforts us in all our tribulation, that we may be able to comfort those who are in any trouble, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God. 5 For as the sufferings of Christ abound in us, so our consolation also abounds through Christ.
Here are some scriptures I have found that have helped me understand this, I hope it is helpful to someone:
Matthew 13:21
yet he has no root in himself, but endures only for a while. For when tribulation or persecution arises because of the word, immediately he stumbles.
Acts 14:22
strengthening the souls of the disciples, exhorting them to continue in the faith, and saying, “We must through many tribulations enter the kingdom of God.”
Romans 5:3
And not only that, but we also glory in tribulations, knowing that tribulation produces perseverance;
Romans 8:35
Who shall separate us from the love of Christ? Shall tribulation, or distress, or persecution, or famine, or nakedness, or peril, or sword?
Romans 12:12
rejoicing in hope, patient in tribulation, continuing steadfastly in prayer;
1 Thessalonians 3:4
For, in fact, we told you before when we were with you that we would suffer tribulation, just as it happened, and you know.
John 14:27
Peace I leave with you, My peace I give to you; not as the world gives do I give to you. Let not your heart be troubled, neither let it be afraid.
James 1
12 Blessed is the man who endures temptation; for when he has been approved, he will receive the crown of life which the Lord has promised to those who love Him. 13 Let no one say when he is tempted, “I am tempted by God”; for God cannot be tempted by evil, nor does He Himself tempt anyone.
19 So then,[a] my beloved brethren, let every man be swift to hear, slow to speak, slow to wrath; 20 for the wrath of man does not produce the righteousness of God.
Joshua 1:5
No man shall be able to stand before you all the days of your life; as I was with Moses, so I will be with you. I will not leave you nor forsake you.
Isaiah 43:2
When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; And through the rivers, they shall not overflow you. When you walk through the fire, you shall not be burned, Nor shall the flame scorch you.
1 Thessalonians 4 The Comfort of Christ’s Coming
13 But I do not want you to be ignorant, brethren, concerning those who have fallen asleep, lest you sorrow as others who have no hope. 14 For if we believe that Jesus died and rose again, even so God will bring with Him those who sleep in Jesus.[b]
15 For this we say to you by the word of the Lord, that we who are alive and remain until the coming of the Lord will by no means precede those who are asleep. 16 For the Lord Himself will descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of an archangel, and with the trumpet of God. And the dead in Christ will rise first. 17 Then we who are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds to meet the Lord in the air. And thus we shall always be with the Lord. 18 Therefore comfort one another with these words.
Blessings>faithfarm
Thankful
Its Monday morning and time for things to get back to some kind of routine here after the holidays. It's been a nice break and we have all enjoyed it. Its cold here this morning and they are saying we could have some ice coming our way today. What happened to snow? Seems like it is always freezing rain and sleet lately. I would like to see one pretty snow before winter gives way to spring.
We had baby rabbits born this weekend--things are getting a bit crowded in there right now--tis the season-lol. The goat kids should be arriving next month--hopefully the new barn will be ready just in time! It looks to be an exciting spring full of new arrivals. The pigs are bred now and should be birthing at the end of April. That's real exciting for me as I have never seen new baby pigs. I have spent the weekend reflecting on everything that we have done in the last few years and I am totally amazed at how much we have learned and grown. There is really something to be said for starting from scratch. Take this current barn we are building...only a few years ago it would have been a huge project that would have seemed almost impossible to do--and now it is something that we all enjoy and is actually fun. Oh how things have changed in our lives--and all for the good. I am so thankful to God for all his Mercy and Kindness. Enjoy your day friends-each and every one is a gift. Blessings>faithfarm
2009 Direction
This weekend we plan for our 2009 direction and rest. Well at least thats the plan-LOL. One thing that I have noticed about this lifestyle is there is always something that needs your time and attention. Taking rest days have to be intentional. They don't always happen the way you plan but if you don't 'take' the time you won't get it. The body needs rest and so does the Soul. I've read alot about setting goals-some for and some against----the way I look at it, it is more of setting a direction for the new year. Finding area's that need improvement, making plans for new things, reflecting on the accomplishments and failures of the past year, learning and growing. I find it most helpful and it keeps us focused. It's a time prayer and thankfulness. It's also a time to discover what is priority in each others minds for 2009. It is easy to say we need to do this or that as we go along but to find out what is most important in each others minds is the key. Take for example DH and I.....What is top priority in his mind is a larger farm truck and hay storage barn....in mine is a solar freezer and increased storage of household items and animal feed. These above all the other are whats important in our homestead thoughts. So out of the dozen or so goals for 2009 these things need to be at the top. Then there are the simple to accomplish things. These are the things like adding fruit bushes/trees, improving a milking stand, a needed tool.....easy to do items that improve your quality of life or meet a need. As fast as time goes by here on the farm it is important to take this time and reevaluate each others desires and homesteading goals as to keep your focus together and to build a lifestyle that everyone enjoys and finds peace in. Just my thoughts on the subject>Blessings>faithfarm
needing solar advise
Does anyone know anything about this freezer or a 75W kit that would work for it. Any advise or suggestions would be greatly appreciated!!!! Blessings>faithfarm
http://www.lehmans.com/shopping/product/detailmain.jsp?itemID=5299&itemType=PRODUCT&iMainCat=676&iSubCat=1286&iProductID=5299
Thoughts and great website (cheese)
Good Morning All! I hope this finds you all well. This week is always an exciting time for me--The last week of the year! It is the time that I look back at all we have done in the year and make plans for the new. I love to get out the notes from a year ago's plans and see what we accomplished and how they have changed. So much happens here on the farm that is really hard to keep up with what happened when and it is a joy to realize all that has been done in the past year. It is also fun to look at what was top priority in January 2008 and what is top priority in 2009. It really shows if you are staying on track or if God has us going in another direction and how we have moved with that. It's also a time to plan for the new years planting season. Over the last couple of years gardening has gone from a 'have to do' to a real pleasure. I do so look forward to planting now. Deciding on what we we will plant and how much-what worked well last year and what didn't-How to improve--It's all alot of fun. Every year I like to try something new in the garden and this year I still have not decided what that will be. DD wants to grow purple potato's...I'm just not sure about that one yet-LOL.
Everything else is going fine here--Eight weeks and counting until kidding season begins...Fresh milk on the horizon! I also found an amazing website on cheese making with great pictures---
http://biology.clc.uc.edu/Fankhauser/Cheese/Cheese.html
Anyone interested in making cheese should check out this site--alot of hardwork has gone into it, you will easily see. I was impressed. Does anyone else have a great homestead skill site they want to share? Hint-Hint
I hope you all have a truely Blessed New Year>faithfarm
Holiday Greetings!
Good Morning Friends! I hope this finds you all well. First let me wish all of you a very Merry Christmas and a peace-filled New Year!
Things have been going fine here on the farm. Rabbit breeding season is in full swing so it's bunnies-bunnies everywhere! The goats are looking very pregnant now and the babies will be arriving at the end of Feb. The new goat barn is almost all framed in and hopefully we will be able to finish it up as soon as the weather cooperates a bit. It will make this years kidding season so much better! The Chickens are laying an unbelievable amount of eggs for this time of year-Thank God for that--It sure has been nice with all the holiday baking going on. The last turkey and the butcher hogs has made it to the freezer. Hunting season has been very successful as well and I have tried my hand at a few new ways of putting up meat. I finally figured out the whole making Jerky thing! It has made the boys very happy. We are finishing up the last of the Christmas gifts--we decided this would be a homemade Christmas for all this year. The entire family has participated and it will be very exciting to see all that everyone has made. Other than that there is not much to tell--just life at its norm. I am beginning to daydream about the spring gardens and am entertaining an idea to put in a new garden bed. Winter has just officially arrived yesterday and I am already looking forward to planting again-LOL. There is just something about planting a seed and watching it grow--It just amazes me everytime! Well I am off to make a batch of jelly and to get the house ready for company. Peace be with you.
Blessings>faithfarm
Change
I was up at an unusually early hour this morning so I thought I'd turn on the computer and see what was going on in the world. I see that it is official now, the Fed has announced the US has been in a recession since Dec 2007....glad they finally figured out what most of us have already felt and known. Yeah I know--a bit sarcastic--it's a numbers thing. There were a few other headlines that caught my eye-Pentagon to deploy 20,000 troops in the US...interesting...I am curious to see who is going to be in charge of these troops...State or Fed?....Looks like it will fall under FEMA....HMMMMM...something to think about anyway. I also read some headlines on the Pres.-elect Obama's choices for his new team members....alot of familiar faces taking key cabinet positions. I see that they are going to have to use the "Saxbe fix" again to skirt the Constitution. Seems like that happens alot. There are a number of other headlines that I found interesting but won't bore you with. I have noticed that when you look at the media only one or twice a week it keeps you informed but doesn't bog down your daily life. There is so much going on and so many ways to get information these days that I personally think it desensitizes us to what is happening. Does that make since? Take for example the markets. You have dramatic gains and losses now--your talking about losses of 600+ points in a day and gains of triple digits--talk about a rollercoaster ride! Yet only a year ago these types of headlines would have been horribly shocking-and now they have become the norm. Desensitization. That is only the tip of the iceburg so to speak. Can you imagine how shocking today's headlines would be only 10 years ago? Terrorism being an everyday topic? Who woulda thunk it? And yet it still doesn't shock us today------I pray that I don't get so numb to things that I am no longer shocked by it and that my heart doesn't harden to the point that that I cannot see. Yes I do long for the days that your house was always open and church doors were never locked-but those days are gone. When you read stories of a man being trompled to death because of a sale at W-mart....it really makes you wonder---What kind of people have so little regard for human life that they can step on another human being to death?! The same kind of people who give gift certificates for abortions.....Oh it is a sad-sad thing we as a nation of people have become. Let us not become so numb that we cannot feel compassion for one another. This nation needs a change.....a change of heart...that is not something any political figure can do...it's a choice each and everyone of us have to make and make on a daily basis....do we stop our busy lives long enough to make a difference in someone elses life. Are we so busy with our own that we can't take 2 minutes to be kind to the elderly lady in the store or open a door for the woman with wrestling with a handful of children. It breaks my heart when kindness is the shocking thing and when cynicism replaces empathy. Let me tell you a story about something that happened to me this last week----I went to the local feed mill and got my usual run of feed-I was busy on the phone and did not pay attention to the new guy loading my feed and when I got home I noticed that there was an extra bag of high-dollar feed in the back-one that I did not pay for...in all honesty....it took me a moment to decide what I should do....I wanted to say yipeee--free feed! but my better side knew I needed to call and explain what had happened. So I did...and the response I got was what shocked me the most. I told them what had happened and I'd pay for the bag the next time I came in....They were very puzzled acting on the phone--so the next time I went in to town I made a run to the mill and picked up my ticket...they still seemed totally shocked and almost questioned why I did...the look was actually skeptical like I had another motive for doing it...it was a very odd situation. The lady apoligized for the event but the look of puzzled never left her face. Yes I know...who would have known? I would have. How can I expect others to treat me honestly and fairly if I do not treat others the same way. The point I am getting to is not one of hey-look at what I did-"toot-toot my horn"-but the fact that honesty is so uncommon that even that is met with skepticism. Are we so far from where we should be that we can no longer look at another person without questioning their motives or integrity? I am just as guilty...I see the "homeless" man on the street corner holding a sign and ask myself...hmmmm-is he one of those cons clearing $200,000 a year begging on the street? Sad-Sad. Where is my heart? Am I giving him a dollar because I want to help someone in need...if he is not for-real does that change the motive behind my actions? Am I doing it because of me or am I doing it because of him? Am I going to have to answer to his actions? No....but I am going to have to answer to mine. And something tells me that using the excuse for not helping the needy or feeding the hungry is because I thought they might be a con-artist isn't going to get me very far. I'm not out to save the world or am I trying to get anyone else to...but wouldn't it be a better place if we all took just a few minutes out of each day to be nice to each other-to smile and be kindhearted. To make a difference to those we do come into contact with--Why do we find that so hard to do? Wave at your mailman, be kind to the pregnant cashier who is snappy with you or the gas station attendant who has been up all night. Everyone has their own story and reasons--is it so much easier to be mean back-than to be nice? We have to start somewhere....we can't be so afraid that we forget what makes us who we are. I know there has to be more caring compassionate people in this world than there is hard-hearted people. We just get lost in the business of the day....I think it is high time we find ourselves....not because 'tis the season' but because that is who we are...a nation filled with honorable, trustworthy, compassionate, caring people. Politics can't make that kind of change-but the people can-we can. Blessings>faithfarm
It took about that long---
For those who still read my blog you know I am on a Monday-Friday electricity and internet usage schedule--So I just got caught up on the news--Here is two items that got my blood pumping right off the bat! You should read these if you have time:
Tax on LiveStock
http://www.wyfb.org/NewsFeeds.aspx?file=Links/NWS281b9276fe1f.htm&ID=530&from=front
http://worldnetdaily.com/index.php?fa=PAGE.view&pageId=81556
The View-Joy Behar
Now I know why I am so much more peaceful on "off-days"! LOL
Blessings>faithfarm
New adventures in homesteading
We have made some changes here at faithfarm and are trying some new things that I thought I would share. First big change is the electric. Last week we decided that we would try living without using electric as much as possible. The method that we decided to "train" ourselves on goes like this....All power goes off except for one hour a day, usually sometime in the morning we turn the power on and we do whatever is necessary in that hour. The logic if, there is any, is that for one hour a day we could run generators or use alternate methods of power to do what we need. So my hour of power goes something like this....I wash a load of clothes in the washing maching(I'm not ready to use the washtub just yet ...I have one just procrastinating on that), I vacume the floor, charge power tools, and I have been making a batch of dough in the bread machine for baking in the oven later(just a time saver there), I also use as much water as I need to do dishes ect for that time. I fill every thing up from outside to inside. I realize that not all this is going to go exactly the same using a total solar application or with a generator but it is close. The only exception to the rule is the fridge and freezer. It is not possible right now for us not to have them and they are the 2 items that will be the first to go alternative source. We are using the computer on Monday's and Friday's for now which allows us to keep up with the news/weather and DD computer school work time. The other days of the week we do school the traditional way-ye ol' paper and pen method-lol. I know this sounds odd but it really has improved our quality of life around here. We are less distracted by gadgets and are able to spend more quality time with each other. We play games at night by lamp light and it is so much quieter and peaceful. Everyone seems so much more relaxed and we have laughed with each other so much more. It's hard to explain. The whole experiment seemed really odd at first and there was some adapting to be made but just what little time we have been doing it has already changed our point of view on things. Life is more peaceful and what I thought would be hard without all the electric helpers and timesavers is amazingly simple. Who would have thought? It is also giving us a better idea on what a minimum useage requirement for a wind/solar system would be.
The other two new things we are trying here is candle and soap making. I think I have the candle making process down and we are working on the soap making. I am using a simple goat milk soap recipe I found. Both items I hope to have for Christmas gifts. Our Christmas is going to be a hand-made Christmas this year--not just for the immediate family but the entire family is doing it. It is an exciting time for all of us to see what each one has done. I am really looking forward to it.
Everything else is going fine here-the animals are doing well and the rabbits are multiplying fast-lol. I'm still working on the canned meat process for storing.
Peace and Blessings>faithfarm
Please read!
Please take the time to read this--I'm sure we are not the only ones who said this won't happen in our country...........
http://www.parentalrights.org/blog/uncrc/%e2%80%9cimagine-if-%e2%80%9d?utm_source=ParentalRights.org+Newsletter&utm_campaign=bb631453e8-UNSurvey_intro_Nov_2008&utm_medium=email#more-99
The Reality of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child
Imagine an Air Force mom, serving her country on a month-long deployment, who learns that her daughter has been secretly removed by local authorities, claiming the child has been “abandoned.” Children begin mandatory sex-education at the age of four, regardless of their family’s opinions, beliefs, or convictions, and parents are imprisoned if their children fail to receive any of their mandatory vaccinations. Parents live in a state of constant supervision and suspicion.
Imagine if your national government had the audacity to appoint a “guardian” to monitor your child from birth, charged with the legal responsibility to evaluate your decisions as a parent and armed with the legal authority to “intervene, prevent or rectify” any violations of your child’s rights. Public and private schools alike are policed by the national government, and classes begin with singing about the principles of peace, tolerance, and the United Nations. Your child’s confidential medical records, stored in a nation-wide electronic register from birth until age twenty, can be accessed at any time, without your knowledge, by any physician, teacher, or government social worker in the nation.
Now stop imagining, because for parents in the 193 countries that have ratified the United Nations’ Convention on the Rights of the Child, each of these scenarios is true.
Constant Supervision and Suspicion
Since its adoption by the United Nations in 1989, the Convention on the Rights of the Child (CRC) has become the most widely accepted international agreement in history, ratified by every nation of the world except for the United States and Somalia. All signatories pledge to protect children’s rights, foster their development, and uphold their best interests by re-writing their national laws to conform to the standards set forth in the treaty.
While all this may sound harmless and even commendable, the reality is that the Convention allows and even demands that national governments interfere in the decisions of individual families and parents. By invoking the “best interests of the child ,” policymakers and government agents have the authority to substitute their own decisions for those of the child or parent. In short, parents lose their rights to be parents, and become merely caregivers. The result, as parents across the globe are now discovering, is that the family is being steadily undermined, often with tragic and devastating results for the very children who are supposed to be protected.
The Need for Vigilance
Thankfully, the United States still remains the sole organized government of the world that has rejected the Convention on the Rights of the Child, because our elected leaders emphatically rejected the Convention’s incursions on American law and the American family. America believes that international committees and courts should have no authority in the affairs of her families, and that the right and responsibility of lawmaking should be wielded only by her own sons and daughters.
This emphatic resistance, however, must be more than simply a one-time stand, for without vigilance on the part of its citizens, America is unlikely to remain the last stalwart defender of parental rights. Nations across the globe are reaffirming their commitment to the Convention every day, and domestic scholars, activists, judges, and politicians continue to urge us to join them.
To challenge their cries, ParentalRights.org will be taking a closer look at countries who have been recently cited by the United Nations as “model-governments” in the battle for children’s rights. Beneath their shiny veneer of success are stories and movements that reveal the dangers taking shape beyond our borders. Americans everywhere need to be informed about the true nature of the international movement for “child rights.” In short, they need to hear the stories of real parents, in real countries, who are becoming the real casualties of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.
Homesteading Skills
Good Morning All! It's still dark and quiet here so I thought I would spend a few minutes sharing a thought I have about homesteading skills. The term homesteading has many different definitions and has changed over time. Basically it's striving for a more self-sufficient life or what many people call a 'simple-life style'. That term actually makes me laugh....I have found very little to do with homesteading being simple-LOL. All joking aside a big chunk of homesteading involves learning new skills and putting your hands to work. There are many different skills associated with this lifestyle and many different ways to do it. It's finding what works best for you and learning what your good at. I think that is the key. Yes you do need a general knowledge of alot of things but somewhere in that one or two things will rise to the top. If your anything like me you can do alot of different things -- but one will be your joy--it's that one thing that you do that you look forward to and it brings you so much peace and happiness. Only you will know what that is. For me it is the animals. I love working with the animals-all of them-good, bad, dirty, clean...every aspect of that I feel a great deal of satisfaction from. (Yes I do find joy cleaning out the barn...as odd as that is!) For some it is gardening, baking, cooking, candlemaking, soapmaking, sewing, crochet, woodwork, building, leatherwork, metalwork.....the list goes on and on. It is very useful to have some working knowledge of all aspects of homesteading or atleast know someone who is Blessed with a strength in that area. The point is there is so much to learn-so many different things encompassed in this lifestyle that I can't imagine anyone being great at all of it. Don't try to master all the skills...learn enough to do it if you have to...find the one or two things you love and make that your thing...your day will be filled with many things but in that day your blessed to do what you love. I think God gives us all a talent. It will come easy to you. There is no denying it when you find it. It's what you do.
What is your special talent? Do you share your gift of knowledge in that area to help others? Something to think about>Blessings>faithfarm
For Today
There sure is alot of people on the blog this morning! I haven't seen so many people here at one time in a while. I think we all are feeling very emotional this morning-one way or another--some I understand others I do not. But it is not my place to understand. I think the main thing we have to keep in mind is God is in control. Regardless of how your flesh is feeling right now. (I had to be reminded of that myself this morning.) "Change" is coming my friends-Like it or not. It is important to remember who you are and why we are here. We are commanded to love one another. To have compassion. It is not always easy--but no where have I read that it is supposed to be. I do not know what will be in the days to come but I do know that God is in control and we have a choice to live according to His will. And in that choice we can find peace and joy in any circumstances that this world has to offer. Peace and Blessings to you all>faithfarm
Peace for Today
May this help you find peace today..............................a friend reminded me of this Psalm early today
Psalm 37
Of David.
1 [a] Do not fret because of evil men
or be envious of those who do wrong;
2 for like the grass they will soon wither,
like green plants they will soon die away.
3 Trust in the LORD and do good;
dwell in the land and enjoy safe pasture.
4 Delight yourself in the LORD
and he will give you the desires of your heart.
5 Commit your way to the LORD;
trust in him and he will do this:
6 He will make your righteousness shine like the dawn,
the justice of your cause like the noonday sun.
7 Be still before the LORD and wait patiently for him;
do not fret when men succeed in their ways,
when they carry out their wicked schemes.
8 Refrain from anger and turn from wrath;
do not fret—it leads only to evil.
9 For evil men will be cut off,
but those who hope in the LORD will inherit the land.
10 A little while, and the wicked will be no more;
though you look for them, they will not be found.
11 But the meek will inherit the land
and enjoy great peace.
12 The wicked plot against the righteous
and gnash their teeth at them;
13 but the Lord laughs at the wicked,
for he knows their day is coming.
14 The wicked draw the sword
and bend the bow
to bring down the poor and needy,
to slay those whose ways are upright.
15 But their swords will pierce their own hearts,
and their bows will be broken.
16 Better the little that the righteous have
than the wealth of many wicked;
17 for the power of the wicked will be broken,
but the LORD upholds the righteous.
18 The days of the blameless are known to the LORD,
and their inheritance will endure forever.
19 In times of disaster they will not wither;
in days of famine they will enjoy plenty.
20 But the wicked will perish:
The LORD's enemies will be like the beauty of the fields,
they will vanish—vanish like smoke.
21 The wicked borrow and do not repay,
but the righteous give generously;
22 those the LORD blesses will inherit the land,
but those he curses will be cut off.
23 If the LORD delights in a man's way,
he makes his steps firm;
24 though he stumble, he will not fall,
for the LORD upholds him with his hand.
25 I was young and now I am old,
yet I have never seen the righteous forsaken
or their children begging bread.
26 They are always generous and lend freely;
their children will be blessed.
27 Turn from evil and do good;
then you will dwell in the land forever.
28 For the LORD loves the just
and will not forsake his faithful ones.
They will be protected forever,
but the offspring of the wicked will be cut off;
29 the righteous will inherit the land
and dwell in it forever.
30 The mouth of the righteous man utters wisdom,
and his tongue speaks what is just.
31 The law of his God is in his heart;
his feet do not slip.
32 The wicked lie in wait for the righteous,
seeking their very lives;
33 but the LORD will not leave them in their power
or let them be condemned when brought to trial.
34 Wait for the LORD
and keep his way.
He will exalt you to inherit the land;
when the wicked are cut off, you will see it.
35 I have seen a wicked and ruthless man
flourishing like a green tree in its native soil,
36 but he soon passed away and was no more;
though I looked for him, he could not be found.
37 Consider the blameless, observe the upright;
there is a future [b] for the man of peace.
38 But all sinners will be destroyed;
the future [c] of the wicked will be cut off.
39 The salvation of the righteous comes from the LORD;
he is their stronghold in time of trouble.
40 The LORD helps them and delivers them;
he delivers them from the wicked and saves them,
because they take refuge in him.
Peace and Blessings to you>faithfarm
Cold Weather Rabbit talk
There are just a few things to keep in mind when raising rabbits in cold weather. Rabbits for the most part don't seem to mind cold. They need to be out of the wind and dry. This will also make it easier for you to spend time caring for them! Here is a couple of things to consider:
Water: Rabbits need water. Frozen waterers can be a problem for both you and your rabbits. The only cost affective thing I have come up with is using metal waterers in the winter. They are easier to break the ice out of and do not bust like the clay or plastic waterers. Rabbits love warm water in the cold. You should take warm water to them atleast twice a day in freezing temperatures. If your rabbits are licking the ice in the bowl they need more water and you should increase your warm water trips.
Food---Rabbits seem to eat alot more in the cold. I increase the amount of hay in the cages. This seems to provide them with what they need and does not increase your feed bill alot.
Pests---Pests like mice can really be a problem when it turns colder. They need to be controlled or they will steal your rabbits food and spread disease.
Air--make sure you have fresh air--closing up a rabbitry too tight can create poor air quality for your bunnies.
Heat--- That is up to you--Depending on where you live---I do not heat my rabbitry here as our winters are not that severe and I find it easier on the rabbits to adjust to cold weather --just be consistant in what you do-Rabbits don't adjust to changes rapidly.
Babies--winter is the peak breeding season for rabbits. Adjust your diet needs for this and provide good nest boxes with plenty of fresh hay. If it is extremly cold line the nest box with cardboard to help protect the new babies. I always keep extra fur around for those does that do not pull enough fur. Plan on shelter for your new arrivals before they come. This will make winter chores so much easier.
If you ever have any bunny questions - just let me know - I'll be more than glad to help anytime I can!>Blessings>faithfarm
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