Did you ever wonder how it all started?
It turns out that Halloween dates back to the ancient Celtic (Irish, Scottish, Welsh) festival of Samhain (pronounced sow-in) marked this day as the end of summer and the end of the harvest season. The following day, November 1 marked their New Year and the start of the long dreaded winter in Ireland, Scotland, Isle of Man, and Wales.
In addition, the Celts thought that the presence of otherworldy spirits made it easier for the Druids to make predictions about the future. To commemorate the even the Druids built huge sacred bonfires where people gathered to burn crops and make animal sacrifices to the Celtic Gods to ward off bad spirits. During the Celebrations, people often wore costumes, typically consisting of animal heads and skins and attempted to tell each other's fortunes.
For more on the History of Halloween, click here.
Monday, October 31, 2011
Saturday, October 29, 2011
Majors
Whether you going back to school or just now attending it is important for you to which direction you are headed. The most common major in colleges today is in business. It is also the one that I would least recommend. In reality, business majors are a dime a dozen - meaning there are way too many. Most business majors come out of college straddled with debt and end up starting out making minimum wage or close to it.
Currently there is a severe shortage of Science, Math, and Health related majors. Some of these majors may require a Master's degree to excel in the field, but they pay very well. My son is currently majoring in Electrical Engineering and my daughter in Mechanical Engineering. They will never have to worry about employment, because of the shortage of engineers. If they cannot find employment with a private company, they can easily become self employed.
While fine arts degrees are nice, they are basically pre-unemployment degrees. Let's get real, Prince William may have a degree in Art History, but most people do not have his resources. Most of us live in the real world, where the purpose of going to school is to obtain employment.
Now for the disclaimer. I started off as a Geology major. When I found out the company that I worked for paid for business degrees, I switched my major - BIG MISTAKE. I should have gone back to school full time and earned my geology degree. A mistake I can rectify! Currently I am shopping for Master's Degrees at this time which with only a few undergraduate courses I can qualify for. After all, as long as you have a pulse, you are capable of learning.
Good luck!
Currently there is a severe shortage of Science, Math, and Health related majors. Some of these majors may require a Master's degree to excel in the field, but they pay very well. My son is currently majoring in Electrical Engineering and my daughter in Mechanical Engineering. They will never have to worry about employment, because of the shortage of engineers. If they cannot find employment with a private company, they can easily become self employed.
While fine arts degrees are nice, they are basically pre-unemployment degrees. Let's get real, Prince William may have a degree in Art History, but most people do not have his resources. Most of us live in the real world, where the purpose of going to school is to obtain employment.
Now for the disclaimer. I started off as a Geology major. When I found out the company that I worked for paid for business degrees, I switched my major - BIG MISTAKE. I should have gone back to school full time and earned my geology degree. A mistake I can rectify! Currently I am shopping for Master's Degrees at this time which with only a few undergraduate courses I can qualify for. After all, as long as you have a pulse, you are capable of learning.
Good luck!
So What Are You Eating for Dinner?
I have to say I found the following story amusing.
Man Allegedly Beat Woman with Frozen Armadillo
Published : Tuesday, 18 Oct 2011, 12:26 PM CDT
DALLAS - A man used a frozen armadillo to attack a 57-year old Pleasant Grove woman, Dallas police said.
The incident happened on Sept. 29 in an apartment complex parking lot.
According to investigators, the altercation occurred when the suspect was selling the carcass to the victim, who planned to eat the animal.
The pair apparently began arguing over the price of the item when the man twice threw the armadillo at the woman.
The animal first struck the woman in the leg and then in her chest.
She was reportedly bruised by the attack.
Detectives have been unable to find the man, who could face assault charges.
The incident happened on Sept. 29 in an apartment complex parking lot.
According to investigators, the altercation occurred when the suspect was selling the carcass to the victim, who planned to eat the animal.
The pair apparently began arguing over the price of the item when the man twice threw the armadillo at the woman.
The animal first struck the woman in the leg and then in her chest.
She was reportedly bruised by the attack.
Detectives have been unable to find the man, who could face assault charges.
During the depression it was not uncommon for this to occur. I had found recipes for this in some of the older cookbooks that I had inherited. Just thought I would share a a recipe for you:
Since my cookbooks are in storage, I will share a recipe from Discuss Cooking.
Possum Stew
Yes, I am aware that not everyone eats possum and the old joke about roadkill is truly lame. One should remember that not everyone gets their coffee at Starbucks or their meat at the local grocery. So if possum is not to your liking, just roll over and play dead until next month.
Ingredients:
1 big possum
½ cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium yellow onions, sliced
4 carrots, cut in thick slices
2 cups fresh or frozen corn
3 strips of thick-cut bacon diced
½ cup tomato juice
1 28 oz. can diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 Habanero peppers diced (wear gloves)
¼ cup white vinegar
10-12 drops Tabasco
salt and pepper to taste
6 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
Preparation
1. Rub possum with salt and pepper.
2. Brown possum in olive oil in a large skillet.
3. Transfer possum to large dutch oven or stock pot.
4. Fill oven/pot 2/3 full with water.
5. Add vinegar, onions, carrots, corn, and habanero peppers.
6. Bring to boil and add bacon.
7. Cover tightly, reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
8. Bring to boil and add potatoes, garlic, Tabasco, tomatoes and juice.
9. Cover tightly, reduce heat and simmer for another hour.
10. Make a no lump paste of cornstarch and warm water.
11. Add enough paste to stew until thickened to wanted consistency.
12. Add salt and pepper to taste and simmer 15 more minutes
Ingredients:
1 big possum
½ cup olive oil
2 garlic cloves, minced
2 medium yellow onions, sliced
4 carrots, cut in thick slices
2 cups fresh or frozen corn
3 strips of thick-cut bacon diced
½ cup tomato juice
1 28 oz. can diced tomatoes
1 tablespoon cornstarch
2 Habanero peppers diced (wear gloves)
¼ cup white vinegar
10-12 drops Tabasco
salt and pepper to taste
6 medium potatoes, peeled and sliced
Preparation
1. Rub possum with salt and pepper.
2. Brown possum in olive oil in a large skillet.
3. Transfer possum to large dutch oven or stock pot.
4. Fill oven/pot 2/3 full with water.
5. Add vinegar, onions, carrots, corn, and habanero peppers.
6. Bring to boil and add bacon.
7. Cover tightly, reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour.
8. Bring to boil and add potatoes, garlic, Tabasco, tomatoes and juice.
9. Cover tightly, reduce heat and simmer for another hour.
10. Make a no lump paste of cornstarch and warm water.
11. Add enough paste to stew until thickened to wanted consistency.
12. Add salt and pepper to taste and simmer 15 more minutes
Friday, October 28, 2011
Different Options for Buying
If you're on a budget or short on cash and NEED something, consider some different buying options.
Craig's List - Everything from Real Estate to clothing. Make sure your seller is legitimate, there have been some security concerns.
Garage Sales - I have bought numerous items from garage sales ranging from books to my first laser printer. Sometimes you can find a bargain and sometimes not so much.
Pawn Shops - Usually tools, guns, jewelry, and electronics are the best finds. Electronics are usually checked before the pawn broker will accept them.
Ebay - Just about anything you could possibly want (except guns and alcohol) are on E-bay. I even sell there myself.
Amazon - Like E-bay but with a set price.
Goodwill/Salvation Army stores - Great finds on clothing, books, furniture, and electronics. Items are not checked to see if they work.
Thrift Stores - They are similar to Goodwill and Salvation Army stores, except the pricing is different.
Retail Consignment Stores - Usually clothing (designer) and furniture. Remember, sometimes you can find a bargain, sometimes not.
Craig's List - Everything from Real Estate to clothing. Make sure your seller is legitimate, there have been some security concerns.
Garage Sales - I have bought numerous items from garage sales ranging from books to my first laser printer. Sometimes you can find a bargain and sometimes not so much.
Pawn Shops - Usually tools, guns, jewelry, and electronics are the best finds. Electronics are usually checked before the pawn broker will accept them.
Ebay - Just about anything you could possibly want (except guns and alcohol) are on E-bay. I even sell there myself.
Amazon - Like E-bay but with a set price.
Goodwill/Salvation Army stores - Great finds on clothing, books, furniture, and electronics. Items are not checked to see if they work.
Thrift Stores - They are similar to Goodwill and Salvation Army stores, except the pricing is different.
Retail Consignment Stores - Usually clothing (designer) and furniture. Remember, sometimes you can find a bargain, sometimes not.
Cooking on Your Engine
When my mother passed away, my sister and I divided up her cookbooks. We were looking through Lone Star Legacy II from the Austin Junior Forum and found an interesting concept. Manifold Cooking.
The recipe states that cooking while driving, or manifold cooking, had its beginning with resourceful G.I.'s faced with the dreary prospect of cold beans. G.I.'s found they could heat their beans on the manifold of their jeeps! This grew into the idea of wrapping packages of food in fold to place on the manifold of cars to cook while driving. Whatever you are cooking must be securely wrapped in several layers of extra heavy duty foil using the drugstore wrap and reversing the seam side with each wrapping. Try to wrap the packages to more or less conform to the shape of the manifold. The foil packages should be tied onto the manifold with coated wire to prevent the wire from cutting the foil Of course, no steam escapes during the cooking, so the food is literally cooked in its own juices. Meat does not brown; however, the meat may be quickly browned before packaging it. This also improves the flavor - just as it does when cooking in your kitchen. As with camp cooking, the exact cooking times are variable. As a general guideline, average speed of 50 to 55 miles per hour, is equal to an hour in your home over at 300 degrees to 325 degrees. In most cases, you should turn the package about halfway through the cooking period, but be careful not to puncture the foil! There are unlimited possibilities to manifold cooking - use your imagination! So, fill up the tank and let's go cooking! An may you never lose your pot roast.
The recipe states that cooking while driving, or manifold cooking, had its beginning with resourceful G.I.'s faced with the dreary prospect of cold beans. G.I.'s found they could heat their beans on the manifold of their jeeps! This grew into the idea of wrapping packages of food in fold to place on the manifold of cars to cook while driving. Whatever you are cooking must be securely wrapped in several layers of extra heavy duty foil using the drugstore wrap and reversing the seam side with each wrapping. Try to wrap the packages to more or less conform to the shape of the manifold. The foil packages should be tied onto the manifold with coated wire to prevent the wire from cutting the foil Of course, no steam escapes during the cooking, so the food is literally cooked in its own juices. Meat does not brown; however, the meat may be quickly browned before packaging it. This also improves the flavor - just as it does when cooking in your kitchen. As with camp cooking, the exact cooking times are variable. As a general guideline, average speed of 50 to 55 miles per hour, is equal to an hour in your home over at 300 degrees to 325 degrees. In most cases, you should turn the package about halfway through the cooking period, but be careful not to puncture the foil! There are unlimited possibilities to manifold cooking - use your imagination! So, fill up the tank and let's go cooking! An may you never lose your pot roast.
Mrs. Jim Albrecht (Donne)
100 Mile Chicken
Broiling Chickens, split in half
Butter mixed with garlic powder
Salt and Pepper to taste
Paprika, optional
Brush chicken halves liberally with melted butter and garlic powder. Season with salt and pepper. You might also sprinkle with paprika for added color if you don't choose to brown the chickens before packaging. Carefully pad with wads of foil any areas where bones might puncture the foil covering. Wrap as directed. Turn after 50 miles. Serves 4.
Mrs. Jim Albrecht (Donne)
While doing some research, I also found a new cookbook called Manifold Destiny which has several recipes using this concept.
Wednesday, October 26, 2011
Pet Vaccinations
It is important to vaccinate your pets. I consider my dog to be one of my children, and he knows it. The last thing I want for him is to be in pain. Here are the recommended vaccinations.
From ASPCA via Petfinder:
It should be remembered that each veterinarian must ultimately decide on the safest and most effective vaccination protocol to use to protect their patients against infectious diseases. It may not be the same for every animal even if the external circumstances seem similar.
From ASPCA via Petfinder:
Vaccination Guidelines
Dr. Lila Miller, DVM, ASPCA
The recognition that serious medical conditions such as certain sarcomas and auto- immune hemolytic anemia may be vaccination related have forced the veterinary profession to re-exam vaccine safety and reassess recommendations for vaccinating the average pet owner's companion animal. While the benefits of vaccination still far outweigh the risks, a careful assessment of the risk factors of each individual animal should be undertaken before deciding on a vaccination protocol. Recent investigation into the origins of recommendations for yearly vaccinations for dogs and cats pets have revealed that they may not have been based on any duration of immunity studies or other true scientific data. They are not legal requirements, and have become the subject of the hottest debates in small animal medicine today. The latest studies, although not totally conclusive, provide compelling reasons to believe that many vaccines provide immunity from disease for several years and that annual boosters are not only not necessary but may, in fact, be harmful. Many veterinarians are offering to check vaccination titers in lieu of giving the routine annual booster shot. The days of going to the veterinarian for an annual booster may soon be a thing of the past, to be replaced with an annual physical examination with appropriate vaccinations at specified intervals only.
When deciding on a vaccination schedule for your pet, you and your veterinarian may need to take the following into consideration:- Is the vaccine necessary?
Is the disease found in the area, and how dangerous is the disease?
Is the disease contagious to people?
- How effective is the vaccine?
- How safe is the vaccine?
- What is the animal's age?
The very young and very old are more in need of vaccination to protect against infectious diseases than adult animals.
- What is the general overall health?
Immune-compromised, debilitated, pregnant, sick, and stressed animals all present special circumstances that the veterinarian should take into consideration before vaccination - What is the animal's risk of exposure to the disease?
For example, cats that stay indoors exclusively have very limited, if any, exposure to outside diseases unless the caregiver is working in a shelter or animal hospital, for example, and brings disease home on their hands or clothing. These cats may not require yearly vaccinations, except for rabies if required by local ordnances. Many ordinances require rabies every three years rather than annually. - What is the prevalence of the disease in general?
Some areas never experience cases of Lyme disease or corona, so vaccination against these diseases makes little sense unless the owner travels with the pet to areas where these diseases have been found. - What is your pet's past vaccination history?
Animals that have experienced vaccine reactions in the past should be handled with caution when administering booster vaccinations. - What is the pet's lifestyle?
If the pet travels or has frequent close contact with other animals (groomers, kennels, obedience classes, etc), a different vaccination protocol may be necessary.
Many vaccination guidelines divide vaccinations into core and optional vaccines. Core vaccines are usually given against diseases that are high risk, highly dangerous diseases that are widely encountered and may or may not be spread to humans. In general, optional vaccines are given against diseases that may have a regional distribution, do not cause serious illness, may be encountered infrequently or in certain populations only. Optional vaccines may also be of limited effectiveness. Based on duration of immunity studies and concern about adverse vaccine reactions, the American Association of Feline Practitioners (AAFP) recommends that cats no longer be vaccinated annually as a matter of routine. AAFP recommends that kittens should be vaccinated initially with the appropriate vaccination series for their age and type of vaccine used, then a year later, then every 3 years for panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis, and calici virus. Rabies should be given initially, one year later and every 3 years with a vaccine specifically licensed for 3 years and in accordance with specific local regulations. These vaccines are considered by most veterinarians to be the core vaccinations to be given to almost all kittens and cats. . Some veterinarians may consider FeLV a core vaccine, but it is recommended that cats be tested first and the vaccine administered if they are at risk for exposure only.
Other feline optional vaccines include feline leukemia (FeLV), FIV, chlamydia, ringworm, giardia, bordetella and FIP
Due to concern about vaccine associated sarcomas, it has been recommended that vaccines be given in specific anatomic sites- rabies in the right rear leg, leukemia in the left rear leg and the trivalent panleukopenia, rhinotracheitis and calici in the right front leg. If a tumor occurs, it is easier to amputate a limb to achieve the wide excision necessary to save the cat's life than to try and resect a large area over most other parts of the body. It is also recommended that vaccine serial numbers be recorded so that reactions can be traced back to the batch of vaccine that was used.
Similar three-year guidelines have not yet been officially formulated for dogs, but many veterinarians believe that canine vaccines should also be given every three years only. The core vaccines for dogs are generally considered to be distemper, parvo, hepatitis and parainfluenza. In some areas where Leptospirosis is a common problem, the vaccine against this disease might also be considered by some to be a core vaccine. Other optional vaccines include Lyme, corona, Giardia and Bordetella/Parainfluenza for dogs that frequently board or travel around areas of dense populations of dogs (i.e. dog shows) and are subject to catch kennel cough.
Recommended Core Feline Vaccination Protocol:Feline PanleukopeniaOptional Feline vaccines
Feline Rhinotracheitis (Herpes)
Feline Calici
Rabies
Give initial core vaccination series to kittens, then give one year later and every three years thereafter.
Feline Leukemia (FeLV)
Feline Infectious Peritonitis
Microsporum Canis (Ringworm)
Chlamydia psittaci (renamed Chlamydophila)
Giardia
Bordetella
Feline Immunodeficiency Virus (FIV)
Assess risk carefully before giving these optional vaccines. The FIV vaccine is new.
Recommended Core Canine Vaccine Protocol
Canine DistemperOptional Canine vaccines
Canine Adenovirus (hepatitis)
Canine Parainfluenza
Canine Parvo
Rabies
Give initial vaccination series to puppies, then give one year later and every three years thereafter. Certain breeds may need to get a parvo shot more frequently- i.e. Rottweilers, Dobermans, pit bulls
Canine corona
Leptospirosis
Giardia
Lyme
Parainfluenza/Bordetella
Assess risk carefully before giving these optional vaccines.
It should be remembered that each veterinarian must ultimately decide on the safest and most effective vaccination protocol to use to protect their patients against infectious diseases. It may not be the same for every animal even if the external circumstances seem similar.
Please have your pet vaccinated.
Goals: Setting and Maintaining
It's amazing how many people say they want to do something and never really formulate a plan on how to do it. Setting and maintaining goals is the one way to reach that milestone.
My favorite: "I wanna lose weight."
"Ok. So how are you going to do it?"
"Oh, I guess I'll go join a gym or something"
No real plan.
First, in the example above - how much weight do you want or need to lose? Set a plan into motion on losing weight - walking, running, hiking, swimming, or put on your appointment book exactly how often or when you will be going to the gym. GET UP OFF THE COUCH!
Of course goals are much more than the example given. Look at the big picture and set lifetime goals. Goals can relate to:
Consider your 5 year plan a "to-do" list.
Another example: I grew up in poverty. I was a child of the welfare system and lived in subsidized housing. I always wanted to go to college, but after living with different relatives and switching high school six times, it was not an option when I graduated high school. So at 27, I started college. It took me 9 years, but I graduated in 1999 at the age of 35 with B.A. from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio. It can be done. It just takes a plan.
My favorite: "I wanna lose weight."
"Ok. So how are you going to do it?"
"Oh, I guess I'll go join a gym or something"
No real plan.
First, in the example above - how much weight do you want or need to lose? Set a plan into motion on losing weight - walking, running, hiking, swimming, or put on your appointment book exactly how often or when you will be going to the gym. GET UP OFF THE COUCH!
Of course goals are much more than the example given. Look at the big picture and set lifetime goals. Goals can relate to:
- Career
- Financial
- Education
- Family
- Artistic
- Attitude
- Physical
- Pleasure
- Public Service
Consider your 5 year plan a "to-do" list.
Another example: I grew up in poverty. I was a child of the welfare system and lived in subsidized housing. I always wanted to go to college, but after living with different relatives and switching high school six times, it was not an option when I graduated high school. So at 27, I started college. It took me 9 years, but I graduated in 1999 at the age of 35 with B.A. from Our Lady of the Lake University in San Antonio. It can be done. It just takes a plan.
Buying Seeds
If you are planning a garden for next year, you may want to look for seeds now. This is the time of year in which many stores put the seeds on sale. The best seeds to buy are heirloom seeds, since they can reproduce year after year.
Since I rent, I have container gardens. Which means I can move my garden inside for the winter.
Seeds that I have I store in a cool dry place. As long as they are not frozen or get wet, they will keep for a period of years.
When buying seeds, make sure that what you are buying will grow in your area.
Short term plants need to be eaten within a few days of harvest. These include leafy greens, radishes, cucumbers, broccoli, and spinach.
Mid term plants can be stored for several months. These include pecans, some types of squash, potatoes, and onions.
Lont term plants can be dried or dehydrated and include pecans, wheat, barley, peas, beans, and corn.
Most items can be canned.
Since I rent, I have container gardens. Which means I can move my garden inside for the winter.
Seeds that I have I store in a cool dry place. As long as they are not frozen or get wet, they will keep for a period of years.
When buying seeds, make sure that what you are buying will grow in your area.
Short term plants need to be eaten within a few days of harvest. These include leafy greens, radishes, cucumbers, broccoli, and spinach.
Mid term plants can be stored for several months. These include pecans, some types of squash, potatoes, and onions.
Lont term plants can be dried or dehydrated and include pecans, wheat, barley, peas, beans, and corn.
Most items can be canned.
Paying Off Debt
For those of us in the real world, you've probably had a few bumps in the road. I know I have. There are some things that I have done, that I should have known better. After all, I've worked in Financial Services for over 30 years, and I am a Chartered Life Underwriter. All I can say is we live and we learn.
Some writers and so-called experts will tell you pay off the ones with the lowest balance and then put that money towards the next one and so on until it's paid off. I took a different approach.
First, sit down and on a piece of paper list every bill you have. Make four columns (Name of creditor, balance, interest rate, and minimum payment). Now that you've done that, have a drink! You've just completed the hardest part!
Look at the bill that you have that has the highest interest rate.
For Example: ABC Mastercard - $2814 bal. - 22.47% APR - $45 min pmt.
Think about this, they are charging you more money than any other piece of credit that you have. Can you work it into your budge to pay $114? I paid off credit cards using this approach. I would pay $50 or $100 payments + the interest being charged every month. Within 2 years I was out of debt.
Think about it, try a new approach!
Some writers and so-called experts will tell you pay off the ones with the lowest balance and then put that money towards the next one and so on until it's paid off. I took a different approach.
First, sit down and on a piece of paper list every bill you have. Make four columns (Name of creditor, balance, interest rate, and minimum payment). Now that you've done that, have a drink! You've just completed the hardest part!
Look at the bill that you have that has the highest interest rate.
For Example: ABC Mastercard - $2814 bal. - 22.47% APR - $45 min pmt.
Think about this, they are charging you more money than any other piece of credit that you have. Can you work it into your budge to pay $114? I paid off credit cards using this approach. I would pay $50 or $100 payments + the interest being charged every month. Within 2 years I was out of debt.
Think about it, try a new approach!
Christmas Decorations - Spend Some Time with Your Kids!
One of the things that I always found fun was making decorations with my children when they were young. Especially if it was bad weather outside. I found a site with a ton of ideas.
All Free Crafts
Remember this?
The Angel Book Tree
Project Instructions:
Choose a paperback book with a strong spine and remove the covers.
Slice the spine with a sharp knife to separate the first 30 pages. This will make the first half of the tree.
Begin folding the pages, as shown in the Photo 1, at right. First, fold the top right corner toward the spine to form a right angled triangle.
Fold the triangle toward the spine again, as shown in Photo 2.
The bottom edge of the page will overhang the bottom of the book.
Fold the overhanging triangle at the bottom of the book back up to form a straight line along the the bottom of page, as shown in Photo 3.
Repeat with all thirty pages and set aside.
Use the knife to slice another 30 pages from the book. Turn this section so the spine is on the right, rather than left. Repeat the steps above to create a mirror image.
Glue the two halves of the Christmas tree together and add a wooden star at the top.
Spray paint the tree all over. You may need two or three coats for complete coverage.
All Free Crafts
Remember this?
The Angel Book Tree
Project Instructions:
Choose a paperback book with a strong spine and remove the covers.
Slice the spine with a sharp knife to separate the first 30 pages. This will make the first half of the tree.
Begin folding the pages, as shown in the Photo 1, at right. First, fold the top right corner toward the spine to form a right angled triangle.
Fold the triangle toward the spine again, as shown in Photo 2.
The bottom edge of the page will overhang the bottom of the book.
Fold the overhanging triangle at the bottom of the book back up to form a straight line along the the bottom of page, as shown in Photo 3.
Repeat with all thirty pages and set aside.
Use the knife to slice another 30 pages from the book. Turn this section so the spine is on the right, rather than left. Repeat the steps above to create a mirror image.
Glue the two halves of the Christmas tree together and add a wooden star at the top.
Spray paint the tree all over. You may need two or three coats for complete coverage.
Planning Christmas Dinner without it Breaking the Budget!
I know Christmas is 60 days away. That's no reason not to plan. I usually have about 20 people over. Between my children, their friends and usually some troops from local bases, I end up with a house full.
Here are some suggestions depending on how many you are cooking for. I usually have 3 entrees, 5 side dishes, 2 drinks, 5 desserts, and a stuffing.
Look at your entree, here are some possibilities:
Don't wear yourself out, a meal is meant to be enjoyed - by the cook too!
Here are some suggestions depending on how many you are cooking for. I usually have 3 entrees, 5 side dishes, 2 drinks, 5 desserts, and a stuffing.
Look at your entree, here are some possibilities:
- Turkey
- Ham
- Goose
- Duck
- Standing Rib Roast (Pork or Beef)
- Brisket
- Cornish Hens
- Quail
- Salad
- Fruit dish (fruit salad or fruit compote)
- Root vegetables
- Yams
- Potatoes
- Broccoli and Cheese
- Egg Nog
- Punch
- Non-alcoholic punch for kids!
- I usually have at least one Christmas Cake (red velvet, carrot, spice, etc)
- Pies - this is the South after all! (I usually have 3-4) (Pumpkin, Sweet Potato, Pecan, Chocolate Cream, Lemon, Mincemeat, Coconut Cream or Banana Cream)
- Desserts (such as my Brownie Trifle, English Trifle, Tiramisu, Baklava, etc)
Don't wear yourself out, a meal is meant to be enjoyed - by the cook too!
Eating Fresh Food In Season: Fall
One of the best ways to save money is to eat fresh food while it is in season. Of course having a raised or container garden is one of the best ways to start.
If you are planting:
Early fall vegetables (usually 2-4 weeks) include: broccoli, lettuce, mustard, spinach, chives bunching onions and radishes.
Mid fall vegetables (usually about 60 days) include: carrots, leeks, turnips, kohlrabi, cabbages, cauliflower, collards, and Swiss chard.
Late fall vegetables (usually about 90 days) include: root vegetables, beets, parsnip, rutabaga, globe onions.
If you're looking to buy vegetables: Look for these:
If you are planting:
Early fall vegetables (usually 2-4 weeks) include: broccoli, lettuce, mustard, spinach, chives bunching onions and radishes.
Mid fall vegetables (usually about 60 days) include: carrots, leeks, turnips, kohlrabi, cabbages, cauliflower, collards, and Swiss chard.
Late fall vegetables (usually about 90 days) include: root vegetables, beets, parsnip, rutabaga, globe onions.
If you're looking to buy vegetables: Look for these:
- Belgian endive
- broccoli
- Brussels Sprouts
- cabbage
- cauliflower
- celery
- onions
- pumpkin
- spinach
- zucchini squash
Monday, October 24, 2011
Reducing Your Housing Cost
It's amazing how the little things can add up to big savings in your home. Here is a list of a few that can cut down on cost and save you money.
Caulk - Around every window, door and seem of your house. Yes it takes a little effort, but it saves an amazing amount of money.
Insulate - Even if it means buying 1 roll of insulation per pay day and rolling it out in the attic. This helps keep the warm air in in winter and cold air in during the summer months.
Attic Fans - Helps the hot air to escape during the summer. The are usually cheaper to buy and install or have installed during the winter.
Weather Stripping- Make sure your doors do not have gaps around the sills. Put weather stripping to seal them. I've done this so you can't tell me it's too hard.
Lights - Turn them off when they are not being used. Replace them as needed.
Ceiling Fans - I have fans in every room. The reverse for Winter/Summer months.
Water - Make sure there is not any water escaping anywhere in your home. Also buy the outside jackets now. This way if it does freeze, you have them ready to put on. If it does not freeze, you have them for next year, when they will undoubtedly cost more.
Phone / Cable / Internet - Do you really need all of those channels? Is there a cheaper package? Is is cheaper to get them bundled? Compare. Also, do you really need cable in each and every room? You know each additional box cost $10 per month.
Children's Rooms - Does your child really need a TV in their bedroom? Do you know what they are watching? This not only destroys family time. It also lead to social isolation.
Cell Phone - Have you compared your plan lately? I get unlimited talk time, internet, and texting all for $54 per month. If I want an extra line it would be $10 more. No contract.
Groceries - Do you plan your meals? see here. Do you use a list? Do you use coupons? Do you look online to see what is on sale? If not - shame on you! This is one of the easiest ways to save money. It takes a little effort - but once you're in the habit you should never go back to wasteful spending.
Transportation - Do you have your car regularly maintained? Oil changes every 3.000-5.000 miles? Coolant checked? Injectors checked? Check your air filter? Keep your tires properly inflated and change them when needed? Do you run your car with premium gas at least once a month or add in an octane booster to help clean your engine? If not, you should start. Also, check your transmission fluid and brake fluid. Have your brakes checked at least once a year.
Caulk - Around every window, door and seem of your house. Yes it takes a little effort, but it saves an amazing amount of money.
Insulate - Even if it means buying 1 roll of insulation per pay day and rolling it out in the attic. This helps keep the warm air in in winter and cold air in during the summer months.
Attic Fans - Helps the hot air to escape during the summer. The are usually cheaper to buy and install or have installed during the winter.
Weather Stripping- Make sure your doors do not have gaps around the sills. Put weather stripping to seal them. I've done this so you can't tell me it's too hard.
Lights - Turn them off when they are not being used. Replace them as needed.
Ceiling Fans - I have fans in every room. The reverse for Winter/Summer months.
Water - Make sure there is not any water escaping anywhere in your home. Also buy the outside jackets now. This way if it does freeze, you have them ready to put on. If it does not freeze, you have them for next year, when they will undoubtedly cost more.
Phone / Cable / Internet - Do you really need all of those channels? Is there a cheaper package? Is is cheaper to get them bundled? Compare. Also, do you really need cable in each and every room? You know each additional box cost $10 per month.
Children's Rooms - Does your child really need a TV in their bedroom? Do you know what they are watching? This not only destroys family time. It also lead to social isolation.
Cell Phone - Have you compared your plan lately? I get unlimited talk time, internet, and texting all for $54 per month. If I want an extra line it would be $10 more. No contract.
Groceries - Do you plan your meals? see here. Do you use a list? Do you use coupons? Do you look online to see what is on sale? If not - shame on you! This is one of the easiest ways to save money. It takes a little effort - but once you're in the habit you should never go back to wasteful spending.
Transportation - Do you have your car regularly maintained? Oil changes every 3.000-5.000 miles? Coolant checked? Injectors checked? Check your air filter? Keep your tires properly inflated and change them when needed? Do you run your car with premium gas at least once a month or add in an octane booster to help clean your engine? If not, you should start. Also, check your transmission fluid and brake fluid. Have your brakes checked at least once a year.
Buying and Storing Non-Perishable Foods
Buying non-perishable foods on sale is a great way to stock up. There are several options:
Cans - Usually good for 2 years. Will have an expiration date printed on them. I usually take a black permanent market and write month/year on front.
Bags - For flour, brown and powdered sugars and baking goods, I usually store in the freezer for at least a week. Then seal in a ziploc gallon size bag to make sure there are no uninvited guest. The same with Pasta.
Jars - Are like cans. You will have a printed expiration date. Mark it on the front in permanent marker. Also, make sure the jars are in a secure location so they will not fall. Second thing to look for is a reusable jar. When I buy Spaghetti Sauce, I only buy the sauces that come in the canning jars. They can be re-used, traded, or sold.
Boxes - Boxes can be treated differently depending on what and how it is packaged. For instance - Hamburger Helper is in sealed envelopes within the box. So it can be easily stored on the shelf. Pasta, however is usually loose inside the box. If you plan on keeping it for any period of time, it is best to take it out of the box and put it into either a plastic container or a sealed bag.
Just a note - the expiration dates on foods are not really expiration dates. Some links with more information are here, here, here, and here.
Another option, if you are looking at storing food is the freeze dried and dehydrated food.
While there are many sources for this, two of the best I have found is:
Honeyville Farms
Emergency Essentials
Remember, shop well, shop smart!
Cans - Usually good for 2 years. Will have an expiration date printed on them. I usually take a black permanent market and write month/year on front.
Bags - For flour, brown and powdered sugars and baking goods, I usually store in the freezer for at least a week. Then seal in a ziploc gallon size bag to make sure there are no uninvited guest. The same with Pasta.
Jars - Are like cans. You will have a printed expiration date. Mark it on the front in permanent marker. Also, make sure the jars are in a secure location so they will not fall. Second thing to look for is a reusable jar. When I buy Spaghetti Sauce, I only buy the sauces that come in the canning jars. They can be re-used, traded, or sold.
Boxes - Boxes can be treated differently depending on what and how it is packaged. For instance - Hamburger Helper is in sealed envelopes within the box. So it can be easily stored on the shelf. Pasta, however is usually loose inside the box. If you plan on keeping it for any period of time, it is best to take it out of the box and put it into either a plastic container or a sealed bag.
Just a note - the expiration dates on foods are not really expiration dates. Some links with more information are here, here, here, and here.
Another option, if you are looking at storing food is the freeze dried and dehydrated food.
While there are many sources for this, two of the best I have found is:
Honeyville Farms
Emergency Essentials
Remember, shop well, shop smart!
Be Sure and Vote!
I'm not going to tell you how to vote - but this is the advice that I give most people that I meet.
Make a list of items that are important to you. It may include (but not limited to):
Research your candidates. Do not just blindly go with a party.
Register!
VOTE!!!
Make a list of items that are important to you. It may include (but not limited to):
- Jobs
- Education
- Environment
- Economy
- Military
- Regulations
- Housing
- Deficit Spending
- Lower Taxes
- Smaller Government
Research your candidates. Do not just blindly go with a party.
Register!
VOTE!!!
Stop Acquiring Debt
Many people say they get out of debt, all the while buying new things on credit. Reality is - you will never be out of debt if you keep charging!
Here are some things to consider:
Pay cash. If you can't afford to pay cash for it - do you really need it? Or better yet, can you really afford it?
Use same as cash plans. In other words, your refrigerator goes out. Is there a store in your area that has 6 months no payments / no interest. If so, use it. Make 6 equal payments before the interest comes due. This way it will be paid off and you will not owe any additional monies. This is the way I bought my refrigerator, stove, and microwave from Best Buy. Other stores have the same types of options.
EZ Pay Options. When my computer crashed earlier this year, I had to get one to replace it quickly. I couldn't afford to go spend $700+ all at one time. I went to QVC and used their EZ pay plan. They deducted it from my account over a 3 month period. so instead of one big outlay, I only had $233 per month for 3 months.
Rent to Own. Some rent to own stores will have a 90 day same as cash option. If you pay off the purchase within 90 days, you pay the price you would normally pay. If not, you pay the hyper-inflated cost these stores are known for. I paid for my dryer this way. Quick and easy - 3 months was plenty of time to pay it off.
Lay-A-Way. If you know that an appliance is going out - lay-a-way may be an option. Sears has an 8 week program. It will give you an option for payments and a way to replace an appliance that you know will need replacing soon.
Buy Used. If you have an item or need an item such as furniture, you may want to take a look at second chance stores or Craig's List. This will cut down the cost of an item.
Borrow. Is there a chance of borrowing an item instead of buying it? Items such as saws, other tools, small appliances, etc... can sometimes be borrowed. Be sure to return them!
Trade. Do you have something that someone may want to trade for? It's an option!
Here are some things to consider:
Pay cash. If you can't afford to pay cash for it - do you really need it? Or better yet, can you really afford it?
Use same as cash plans. In other words, your refrigerator goes out. Is there a store in your area that has 6 months no payments / no interest. If so, use it. Make 6 equal payments before the interest comes due. This way it will be paid off and you will not owe any additional monies. This is the way I bought my refrigerator, stove, and microwave from Best Buy. Other stores have the same types of options.
EZ Pay Options. When my computer crashed earlier this year, I had to get one to replace it quickly. I couldn't afford to go spend $700+ all at one time. I went to QVC and used their EZ pay plan. They deducted it from my account over a 3 month period. so instead of one big outlay, I only had $233 per month for 3 months.
Rent to Own. Some rent to own stores will have a 90 day same as cash option. If you pay off the purchase within 90 days, you pay the price you would normally pay. If not, you pay the hyper-inflated cost these stores are known for. I paid for my dryer this way. Quick and easy - 3 months was plenty of time to pay it off.
Lay-A-Way. If you know that an appliance is going out - lay-a-way may be an option. Sears has an 8 week program. It will give you an option for payments and a way to replace an appliance that you know will need replacing soon.
Buy Used. If you have an item or need an item such as furniture, you may want to take a look at second chance stores or Craig's List. This will cut down the cost of an item.
Borrow. Is there a chance of borrowing an item instead of buying it? Items such as saws, other tools, small appliances, etc... can sometimes be borrowed. Be sure to return them!
Trade. Do you have something that someone may want to trade for? It's an option!
Sunday, October 23, 2011
Brownie Trifle
Brownie Trifle
1 box brownie prepared as directed, divided in half
2 small boxes instant chocolate pudding
Heath or Skor pieces
2 small containers of cool whip, thawed.
Bake the brownies according to directions. Half. Crumble in trifle or glass bowl.
Make the first batch of chocolate pudding, pour over brownies.
Pour 1/2 the bag of English Toffee pieces over the pudding.
Scoop the first container of cool-whip over it.
Repeat process.
Lay-A-Way
They say what's old is new again. This pre-credit depression era phenomenon is back.
It's a great way to buy for Christmas and pay with cash!
The way it works is you will put a percentage down, pay a usury fee of usually between $5-$10 and have 3-6 months to pay it off. Most Holiday lay-a-way plans require that you have it out by the middle of December.
Here are a few retailers offering it:
Walmart - offered in stores only.
Sears - offered in stores only. Offered on major appliances all year long.
K-Mart - not sure how their's work since there is not any stores near me.
Burlington Coat Factory - Check with the store to find out how their program works.
TJ Maxx - Another store not located near me.
Marshalls - offered in stores only.
Toys R Us - apparently offered in some stores for major purchases only.
If you prefer to shop online: www.elayaway.com offers selections from 100's of stores.
Source: frugalliving.about.com
It's a great way to buy for Christmas and pay with cash!
The way it works is you will put a percentage down, pay a usury fee of usually between $5-$10 and have 3-6 months to pay it off. Most Holiday lay-a-way plans require that you have it out by the middle of December.
Here are a few retailers offering it:
Walmart - offered in stores only.
Sears - offered in stores only. Offered on major appliances all year long.
K-Mart - not sure how their's work since there is not any stores near me.
Burlington Coat Factory - Check with the store to find out how their program works.
TJ Maxx - Another store not located near me.
Marshalls - offered in stores only.
Toys R Us - apparently offered in some stores for major purchases only.
If you prefer to shop online: www.elayaway.com offers selections from 100's of stores.
Source: frugalliving.about.com
Judas Priest Retiring.
I've always considered Judas Priest my "other" favorite band. I first saw them on the Defenders of the Faith tour in 1984. A few weeks after seeing my favorite band. I've been hooked every since. God bless them, and thanks for the 40 years of Metal!
Diamonds and Rust
Living After Midnight
The Green Manalishi
Angel
Breaking The Law
You've Got Another Thing Comin
Take These Chains
Pestilence and Plague
I wish all the members of Judas Priest the best!
Rob Halford
Glen Tipton
Ian Hill
Scott Travis
K.K. Downing
Ritchie Faulkner
Are You Prepared for a Winter Storm?
This past week it dropped down into the 30's here where I am currently working. It is said that extremes breed extremes in weather. With the past summer that we had, we're probably going to have an extremely cold winter.
Here are some items that you will want to make sure you have at home as well as in your car.
Here are some items that you will want to make sure you have at home as well as in your car.
- Food, such as energy bars, pop tarts, trail mix, jerky
- Water - I picked up a 12 pack just to put into my car.
- Blankets - I have 2 wool blankets that I keep in my car.
- Candles - just remember if you light them - you will need to have a window open at least an inch or so - so that fresh air can get into the vehicle.
Preparing for Public Rioting and Looting
These occupy people and their promise of violence have got me to thinking. Last week, they marched on Bank of America, 1 block away from where I work.
What happens when a riot or looting occur in an area where you live or work? There are options.
Avoid the area if you are not in the area - do not go in!
Leave the area - This may not be as simple as it sounds.
Starting now keep your eyes open:
What happens when a riot or looting occur in an area where you live or work? There are options.
Avoid the area if you are not in the area - do not go in!
Leave the area - This may not be as simple as it sounds.
Starting now keep your eyes open:
- Look for tunnels to escape through. I found a way out of my building by accident.
- Look for culverts and/or ditches that can keep you out of the main area where the rioting and/or looting is taking place.
- Look for sky bridges between buildings that you can use to avoid the ground where the rioters and/or looters are.
- Find alternate routes from and to work/home.
- Do you have food and water in your vehicle?
- Do you have protections in your vehicle? Guns and/or pepper spray? Do you have the correct permits to carry a gun?
- Do you park close to your building? Can you make it to your car safely?
Car Insurance - What Are Those Limits Anyway???
Do ever feel overwhelmed or just plain confused when you here an agent or insurance company ask you what limits you have or want on you car insurance. You're not alone. Here is a brief explanation of what they mean.
Deductible: This is the amount of money you will pay out before the insurance kicks in. If you have a $500 on your collision coverage - you will pay the first $500 to get you car fixed if you hit someone. Same with comprehensive - which is anything other than collision. These two coverages can have different deductible amounts.
Liability 100/300/100 - while the amounts can be different - they all mean the same thing.
Deductible: This is the amount of money you will pay out before the insurance kicks in. If you have a $500 on your collision coverage - you will pay the first $500 to get you car fixed if you hit someone. Same with comprehensive - which is anything other than collision. These two coverages can have different deductible amounts.
Liability 100/300/100 - while the amounts can be different - they all mean the same thing.
- The first 100 is the amount that the insurance company will pay for personal injury per person.
- The second amount 300 - is the total amount that they will pay for personal injury per accident regardless the number of people injured.
- The third amount 100 - is the toal amount the insurance company will pay out for property damage (other vehicles, buildings, trains, telephone poles, etc)
- 4 door cars are cheaper to insure.
- The higher the deductible the lower the premium.
- Look at the cost of vehicles driven in you neighborhood, base your coverage on that since most accidents occur near home.
- If you have a lot of assets, consider Umbrella coverage. You must have the highest amounts of coverage before the Umbrella policy kicks in. Then they cover up to $1,000.000 and is sold in increments of such.
- The better driving record that you have, the cheaper your insurance will be.
Discount Cards
Interested in saving money???
Who isn't? Right?
There are some options for you! Discount cards - here are some of the one's that I found:
Entertainment Passbook - You know - the book that kids sell as fund raisers during the school year. It also has a card inside which allow you to receive discounts from their website.
AARP - This is a liberal left leaning organization that allows membership at 50. You can also receive discounts by joining.
AAA - The American Automobile Association is an auto club. It also allows discounts usually at hotels and resteraunts.
Local discount cards - my son sold the "Panther card" which gave discounts at certain businesses in Helotes and Northwest San Antonio.
Store Discount Cards - Rite-Aid, CVS, Kroger, Ingles, and Walgreen's all have store loyalty programs.
Bulk Stores - Sam's and Costco - although membership fees can range between $40-$100.
Loyalty cards - Ace Hardware, True Value, Staples, and Office Depot as well as many airlines offer these.
Most Major Hotel chains offer discount plans for there loyal guest including Hilton, Marriott, Ramada, and Best Western.
If you find yourself in need of gift cards check out this site: www.giftcardgranny.com
Who isn't? Right?
There are some options for you! Discount cards - here are some of the one's that I found:
Entertainment Passbook - You know - the book that kids sell as fund raisers during the school year. It also has a card inside which allow you to receive discounts from their website.
AARP - This is a liberal left leaning organization that allows membership at 50. You can also receive discounts by joining.
AAA - The American Automobile Association is an auto club. It also allows discounts usually at hotels and resteraunts.
Local discount cards - my son sold the "Panther card" which gave discounts at certain businesses in Helotes and Northwest San Antonio.
Store Discount Cards - Rite-Aid, CVS, Kroger, Ingles, and Walgreen's all have store loyalty programs.
Bulk Stores - Sam's and Costco - although membership fees can range between $40-$100.
Loyalty cards - Ace Hardware, True Value, Staples, and Office Depot as well as many airlines offer these.
Most Major Hotel chains offer discount plans for there loyal guest including Hilton, Marriott, Ramada, and Best Western.
If you find yourself in need of gift cards check out this site: www.giftcardgranny.com
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Halloween Costumes
Is it just me or has Halloween costumes become ridiculously expensive? Parent should keep in mind that it is a one night event.
Do you know of anyone with older children that may have a costume left over from last year? Can it be altered to be reused again?
Can you create a costume?
I would ask why they are so expensive, but I already know the answer. Because some people are willing to pay the prices being charged. Supply and demand drives the prices up for everyone.
Do you know of anyone with older children that may have a costume left over from last year? Can it be altered to be reused again?
Can you create a costume?
I would ask why they are so expensive, but I already know the answer. Because some people are willing to pay the prices being charged. Supply and demand drives the prices up for everyone.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)