Can you dehydrate turkey?

I've dehydrated turkey. I cook it first, pick it, and pull it apart. I chop the breasts. 

If I have any jars that do not seal when I am pressure canning a meat, I usually dehydrate those too. Reprocessing is an option, but it further cooks the meat changing the texture. 

I have dehydrated several meats (crumbled sausage, hamburger, chicken, rabbit, etc.) I rinse the sausage and hamburger with boiling water to remove as much fat as I can. I've also dehydrated hot dogs for dog treats.

I make bone broth but not this year due to the jar shortages. I put meat or vegetables in every empty jar I had. I have some bone broth leftover from a couple of years ago though.

Dear Reader, when I can, I try to share answers to questions. Time keeps me from sharing most of them but a few make it here. There is a search box at the top of the page. I also try to put the blog labels in the posts (also a big hit or miss) which may lead you to some useful information. While I do get a lot of requests, I do not share pictures of my pantry. 

Sky Blue "Tunnel"

Robert O. Norris Bridge

"Norris Bridge"

I think it's kind of pretty.

My late paternal grandfather kept a high school art book in a small book shelf he made himself inside a home he built himself. I read the art book when I was around 7 years old. One of the first lessons in the book was on how to look for lines in everything around us. The second lesson was looking for shapes like circles, triangles, etc. One of the other lessons was about seeing negative space. Those lessons shaped how I "see" the world around me. That book very well may have been why I won the art contest a couple of years later for my drawing of Jesus' baptism. 

This bridge always has me thinking about lines, shapes, and negative space which always leads me to me thinking about that book and my grandfather. I don't know where he got the art book or why he kept it on his shelf. I don't know if he ever drew art, but I know he drew things he would later build from wood. He was very talented in many ways and passed on those talents to his children, grandchildren, and great grandchildren. My Caleb is so much like him in demeanor, woodworking, and music that it is at times uncanny. 

Vitamins and CoVid

A friend shared this aticle with me yesterday: (Thanks Diane!) 

Studies suggest 4 vitamins to lower risk of severe cases of COVID-19

He also says the most recent studies show that nine out of 10 COVID-19 deaths could be prevented if people had adequate Vitamin D levels.

Number 1: Vitamin D, get your levels up, and you can also ask your doctor to test your levels, a very easy blood test.

Number 2: Vitamin C, we know it's working well. There have been some studies on COVID where vitamin C has shown to have very good benefits in the outcome of an illness.

Number 3: Zinc stops viral replication multiple ways, so it prevents the virus from hijacking your DNA, prevents the virus from replicating. It also prevents the virus from entering the cell, so zinc is very important right now.

Number 4: Quercetin, which is what's called a natural bioflavonoid. Quercetin opens up the cells in your body so that zinc can get inside your cells, where it works. So think of quercetin as the key. Think of zinc as the repairman, that is allowed into the house, so-to-speak," says Dr. Osborne.

**************

With vitamin D, there's a therapy that can be done that I recommend, and it's 1000 international units (IU) of vitamin D per pound. So if you're 100 pounds, you would take 100,000 international units of vitamin D for three days. After that, you don't have to keep taking those higher doses, but three days of high dose vitamin D will elevate your serum vitamin D levels to adequate levels," states Dr. Osborne.

**************

Note the other supplements and Ivermectin usage in the link at the bottom of the article  . Marik-Covid-Protocol-Summary.pdf

Permits

For those cheering us on, we passed the first inspection and have been granted a permit for the next big project!

Mr. Sanders

I should like to place a sign there that says Mr. Sanders 

to intrigue and entertain the passersby.

The Anti-Viral Protocol We Used

Caleb was sent home from work on the evening of the 23rd because he was running a temp of 101. By Christmas Eve, his temperature was 103.5 and we were forcing fluids to head off dehydration. He became a little dizzy, so I took his blood pressure. It was low and dropped a bit more over the next few hours. 

The common thing for the majority of people to do when a fever is detected is to take an OTC fever reducing medication. However, that is usually the wrong choice. When the body detects a virus, it raises the temperature to DESTROY the virus. If we interrupt natural defense mechanism, we can prolong illness. 

My rule of thumb is that as long as the fever is not preventing rest and if dehydration is not a major issue to allow the body to do its job. 

Caleb knows this and chose not to take fever reducing medications. He wanted to get well as quickly as possible. Something about a special girl plays into that.

I don't like posting dosages on the blog because most people don't research or take other factors into consideration. There is a lot that goes into calculating a dosage. What you see here may or may not work for you, and you should not take it without doing your own research. I am nothing more than a woman who wanted better health for myself and family so I sought out an education and continue to self educate.* Here's what we took: 

We started him on a viral protocol which included 10,000 IU Vitamin D, 2000 mg Vitamin C, 25 mg Zinc, and 1600 mg Quercetin** (formulation includes bromelain). He also took a tablespoon of the elderberry tincture that I make for our family. He took it every four hours during the crisis phase. 

Clint and I were running temps and feeling poorly later on Christmas Eve. We started taking the same supplements with a variation due to our weight: 25,000 IU Vitamin D, 2000 mg Vitamin C, 50 mg Zinc, 1600 mg Quercetin** and two tablespoons elderberry tincture. We took it every four house during the crisis phase.

At 2 a.m., I went downstairs to check on Caleb. I was surprised and happy to see his fever was breaking (down to 99.5) and his blood pressure had returned to normal. I gave him (and Clint and myself) another round of the protocol before I went back to bed. Clint and I felt right as rain the next morning. We continued the protocol twice a day for the next 48 hours. We will take it once a day for the next week or so.

We were feeling so poorly that I just knew we were going to have to cancel our Christmas plans, but the protocol worked. After decades of using natural medicine with great success, I wasn't surprised that it worked, but I was thankful. I was also relieved that Christmas could continue as normal. 

*I also had some outstanding medical doctors befriend me and help me learn. 

**The best way to get Quercetin is through diet: In this study, AUC_0-24h and C_max of quercetin following the consumption of onions were 2 and 3 times greater, respectively, than those following the consumption of apples (Lee et al., 2012). Quercetin T_max did not differ between dietary sources, but t_1/2 of apple-derived quercetin was more than 4 times shorter after consuming onions (15 h). These findings support that onion-derived quercetin is more bioavailable due to its greater absorption (Lee et al., 2012). https://www.foodandnutritionjournal.org/vol04nospl-issue-conf-october-2016/bioavailability-of-quercetin/

Because Kathy asked: We use Sam's Club Members Mark Vitamin D and Vitamin C. I have had good success with those for many years. The zinc and the quercetin is the NOW Brand. I worked with a marketing company promoting that brand for a few years. I became very familiar with their products. Most of their stuff is very good. I am the kind of person who will pull apart capsules looking for fillers and to test the strength of the herb. 

Because Michele asked: I have not tried any brands of elderberry tincture. It's too pricey for a family of nine. I use the tincture because it is the strongest form. I pick some berries from my farm now and then, but it is never enough. I buy the whole dried berries in bulk from herbalcom.com (been a customer for around 20 years) and pour cheap vodka over them and let it sit in my dark pantry for at least a few months. I have some jars that have been sitting for over a year so it's going to be good and strong once I strain it. When we know we've been exposed to illness, we take a teaspoon a few times a day. Sometimes we adults go up to a tablespoon. We have used it after being directly exposed to a symptomatic person (sneezing, coughing) many, many times and stayed well. 

REJOICING!

What a spectacular day today is! 

My heart is singing praises and rejoicing in the goodness of our Lord to His children!

What a great and loving God we serve!

Remember our friends where the husband had a truck fall on him as he changed the tire resulting in a traumatic brain injury? Remember their special needs children and their son with dwarfism needing brain surgery? Remember the brain surgery had the complication of encephalitis that made us all worry he would die or have a lasting brain injury? 

Such a arduous journey they have traveled!!

So many horrible things! So many awful people they have had to deal with!

I do not know all of the details yet, but God has worked a miracle, her words!!

God has given them a place to rest their weary hearts and minds.

He has provided a large home on a 12 acre mountain retreat complete with rolling hills and a mountain stream. The property is gorgeous. This is my idea of a dream home, and He gave it to my friends. I could not be happier! They are so worthy!!

I am so thankful they were finally able to buy a home! No more renting!

God gave them a healing haven.

I am not a weepy person, but my eyes are leaking with happiness today!

Many prayers of my family for this precious family have been answered today! Praise God!

She says it was way out of their price range but God worked a miracle and gave it to them. 

Dear Reader, will you please join me in prayer that both Lora and Dave (finally I can share their names because the legal stuff is over) and their eight children will heal quickly and fully from all of the trauma and hardship over the last few years? Will you pray and ask a blessing upon their home and their family? Thank you for any prayers you lift on behalf of our friends!

Merry Christmas 2020

Caleb was running a 103.5 temp in this photo, but he wanted to be with his siblings. He is a trooper!

Merry CHRISTmas

to our family and friends near and far, 

old and new,

close and estranged 

from The Asbell Family!

Dear Reader, whomever you may be and wherever you are, I pray you are enjoying more than holiday music, decorations, and presents under the tree. I pray you are also embracing God's great love for you. May we all resolve to worship Him as He deserves each and very day in this coming year. Let's celebrate the gift of Jesus and eternal life by loving on each other today and every day.

The Star of Bethlehem

The Star of Bethlehem 

This was recommended to me by some friends. My family and I sat down and watched it tonight. I feel Frederick Larson uses a very Biblical approach and discovers things about our amazing God that left our family in awe! Our redemption in Christ was written in the stars at the time of creation. We purchased this and will watch it every year. In fact, I plan to watch it again soon and take notes to help me share the message here with others. Our entire family loved this documentary. I encourage anyone who loves the Lord or has an interest in astronomy to watch it.

FREE: Patient Transfer Sheets

We have over 150 of these to pass on to anyone who can use them. The sheet makes it easier to slide a patient from one flat surface to another.
If the same patient is being moved, they can be used over and over, so it is possible this supply can last many years. You can pick them up in the Holland area of Suffolk, Chesapeake, Williamsburg, Gloucester, or Kilmarnock depending on the days and where we are at the time.

FREE

12

 

 

 

I Know the Star of the Greatest Story

I did not get to see the Christmas star, but it is well with my soul...

because I know the Star of Christmas! -w

Red Truck

It has vintage Coca Cola bottles in it too.

Bethany likes vintage Coca Cola items.

Christmas Fun

Pretty Old Mill

 

  

Sittin' in six lane backed up traffic

Horns a honkin', I've about had it I'm lookin' for an exit sign

Gotta get outta here, get it all off my mind

Then like a memory from your grandpa's attic

A song comes slippin' through the radio static

Changin' my mood, a little George Strait 1982

And it makes me wanna take a back road

Makes me wanna take the long way home

Put a little gravel in my travel

Unwind, unravel all night long

Makes me wanna grab my honey

Tear down some two lane country, who knows

Get lost and get right with my soul

Makes me wanna take, makes me wanna take a back road

-Take a Backroad by Rodney Atkins (who reminds me of my cousin Ronnie)

Extravagant Generosity

There was another box and a fellow employee gave her ham to us too.

Our three middle children's boss knew he could not throw his employees their annual Christmas dinner party, so he sent a party to all 60 of his employees! John is a very generous man who does a great deal in our county. Most of what he does is only known by those close to him. He is a very kind and generous Christian man with a servant's heart for others.

God answered Clint's and my prayers when CFA hired Joshua which led to the hiring of Caleb and Bethany. Because of our older children's work ethic, Emily and Hannah have a job waiting when it is time, if they want the job. John passes down his faith and character to each employee. He does not hide his struggles or pretend he is perfect. He is a humble man. It's not just a business to him but a ministry as well.

Maggie Gets a Ride

the victory belongs to the Lord

The horse is prepared for the day of battle,

but the victory belongs to the Lord.

Proverbs‬ ‭21:31

Another Milestone and Pictures

Yesterday was a big milestone, and if all goes well, today will be too! Asbells are rocking these projects!

I do have pictures of the gang to share, but I am having a lot of issues getting them from my new phone to my computer. I've tried everything I know how to try. I've consulted with Joshua, Caleb, and Clint. As soon as I can get it working right, I will take time to make posts to share them. 

Sending lots of warmth and love to our snowed in cousins up north,

W

Southside Baptist Prepares for Its New Christmas Production

Southside Baptist Prepares for Its New Christmas Production

Southside Baptist Church is preparing for this year’s Christmas production, “Draw Close.” The production will take place at 6 p.m. Dec. 19 and 20. 

Visit Southside Baptist Church’s Facebook page or YouTube channel, watch the live stream at sbcsuffolk.org/sbc-live, or watch on the Southside Baptist Church app available on Roku or Apple TV.

his number one

 "A few nights before Ryan died, he told Amy that his priorities were:

1. His Lord and Savior,

2. Her, his wife, and

3. His family and friends

Job in the Bible had the exact same priorities. He was absolutely certain of his number one too, hi  Lord and Savior: "For I know that my redeemer liveth" (Job 19:25 KJV). He also knew that his priorities would be tested over and over again, but it was his Lord and Savior, his number one, who gave him the will to face any test." A Warrior's Faith by Robert Vera

I am glad I know of Ryan's story and his relationship with and impact on the author, Robert Vera. Robert tells the story of Ryan Job in a straightforward conversational manner. I often felt like he was sitting across from me imparting the lessons he learned about the amazing life Ryan Job lived. This book was recommended by a friend whose loved one has a traumatic brain injury. She also derived a lot from the book. This book reinforces that very bad things happen to very good people but by the grace of God they can be victorious and can lead a life that inspires and encourages others. Our suffering only limits us if we allow it to damage our attitude. 

I Thessalonians 5

The Day of the Lord

Now, brothers and sisters, about times and dates we do not need to write to you, for you know very well that the day of the Lord will come like a thief in the night. While people are saying, “Peace and safety,” destruction will come on them suddenly, as labor pains on a pregnant woman, and they will not escape.

But you, brothers and sisters, are not in darkness so that this day should surprise you like a thief. You are all children of the light and children of the day. We do not belong to the night or to the darkness. So then, let us not be like others, who are asleep, but let us be awake and sober. For those who sleep, sleep at night, and those who get drunk, get drunk at night. But since we belong to the day, let us be sober, putting on faith and love as a breastplate, and the hope of salvation as a helmet. For God did not appoint us to suffer wrath but to receive salvation through our Lord Jesus Christ. He died for us so that, whether we are awake or asleep, we may live together with him. Therefore encourage one another and build each other up, just as in fact you are doing.

Final Instructions

Now we ask you, brothers and sisters, to acknowledge those who work hard among you, who care for you in the Lord and who admonish you. Hold them in the highest regard in love because of their work. Live in peace with each other. And we urge you, brothers and sisters, warn those who are idle and disruptive, encourage the disheartened, help the weak, be patient with everyone. Make sure that nobody pays back wrong for wrong, but always strive to do what is good for each other and for everyone else.

Rejoice always, pray continually, give thanks in all circumstances; for this is God’s will for you in Christ Jesus.

Do not quench the Spirit. Do not treat prophecies with contempt but test them all; hold on to what is good, reject every kind of evil.

May God himself, the God of peace, sanctify you through and through. May your whole spirit, soul and body be kept blameless at the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ. The one who calls you is faithful, and he will do it.

Brothers and sisters, pray for us. Greet all God’s people with a holy kiss. I charge you before the Lord to have this letter read to all the brothers and sisters.

The grace of our Lord Jesus Christ be with you.

The Horse Knows the Way to Carry the What?!!

We went over the river and through the woods.

When I was a very, very little girl, I thought the lyrics were "the horse knows the way to carry the snake." I thought it was weird, but it's what the grownups sounded like. I had no knowledge of sleighs as a little one. I sang about that unusual happenstance until I was old enough to read. My husband gives me a sweet smile when he hears this song because he loves thinking about little me singing happily about a horse carrying a snake through the white and drifted snow.

Dear Reader, until we know better, we can't do better. I am thankful for God's Word to impart knowledge on areas where I need improvement. Aren't you? For as long as I have on this earth, I want to shine for Him!

Another Home Dairy

This is another home dairy in my neighborhood. 

It's a little blurry because it was taken from a distance.

You can see another home dairy and learn about how they were used here.

Clint's New Ham Radio Call Sign

Clint wanted a different call sign, so he applied and received one. 

W4PRX 

is his new call sign. 

He has a mobile set up. We will be in Irvington, VA starting this afternoon through Monday morning. 

Clint and Brandon are part of the .2% with Ham radio licenses.

With the uncertainty in our country, we need more people to become HAM radio enthusiasts.

THANK YOU

Thank you, Luis, for the second gift of food you showered on our family! We appreciate you thinking of us with your excess! Emily and Hannah loved the prepared meals and treats!

Thank you, DaShon, for getting Caleb home safely last night when his serpentine belt broke. I stay up until he gets home "just in case," and I was relieved you gave him a ride.

A big thank you to CFA for sending home $220 in prepared fresh salads and other meals last week. 

Thank You Father for the amazing ways you provide an abundance for our family which enables us to bless others. 

But my God shall supply all your need according to his riches in glory by Christ Jesus. Philippians 4:19

A Side Job for Bethany

Bethany shared her artwork with some co-workers. Word of mouth led to a family owned company approaching her to inquire if she could design some artwork to be used along with their company name. She ran with the ideas they gave her, they loved her creation, and she was paid very well for it. 

The logo will be used on the side of their company trucks, in people's front yards as they do their work, on business cards and stationary, and on a sign in front of their business location. 

That's pretty exciting stuff for a just turned 17 year old especially when it just dropped into her lap!

Precursor?

Precursor To The Mark? A 'Vaccination Mark' Under The Skin Now Being Developed

Yes, I do think this is a precursor to the mark prophesied in Scripture. 

CoVid and Ivermectin

I am very familiar with Ivermectin and it's history. It has been used on humans for decades. I use it on my farm as a livestock and canine vermicide. This doctor is simply asking others to look at the evidence coming from all around the world.

Physician Tells Senate, Ivermectin Is a COVID 'Wonder Drug'; If You Take It, You Will Not Get Sick

"Dr. Kory said he's "not just a random doctor" who claims to have a COVID cure: "I'm just asking, review our data."

Dr. Kory said instead of trying to develop expensive new drugs, he and his colleagues have spent months focusing on existing, "repurposed" drugs.

He said Ivermectin is proving to have a "miraculous impact.”

And when I say miracle, I do not use that term lightly, and I don't want to be sensationalized when I say that. That is a scientific recommendation based on mountains of data that has emerged in the last three months.

When I am told...that we are touting things that are not FDA- or NIH-recommended, let me be clear. The NIH, their recommendation on Ivermectin, which is to not use it outside of controlled trials, is from August 27th -- we are now in December. This is three to four months later.

Mountains of data have emerged from many centers and countries around the world, showing the miraculous effectiveness of Ivermection. It basically obliterates transmission of this virus. If you take it, you will not get sick." click the link above to read the rest

Extinct Date Palms Grown from 2000 Year Old Seeds Found Near Jerusalem

Extinct Date Palms Grown from 2000 Year Old Seeds Found Near Jerusalem

Historical accounts of the dates that grew from the palms in this region describe their large size, sweetness and medicinal properties. The Roman scribe Pliny the Elder, for example, wrote that their “outstanding property is the unctuous juice which they exude and an extremely sweet sort of wine-flavour like that of honey”. Unlike Egyptian dates, they could be stored for a long time, meaning they could be exported throughout the Roman Empire.

Sallon and her colleagues found that the seeds of ancient Judean dates are larger than modern varieties, which is often indicative of bigger fruit. They now hope to recreate the ancient fruit by pollinating females with males. 

Barge

The man who took in my mother and I knew as a grandfather worked on a barge.
One sunk with him on it!

He was only upset that he bit his pipe into!

unless there is glory to God in the highest first

“Isn’t it interesting how in Christmas cards and on public displays we often see the words, “Peace on earth, good will toward men”? But how seldom we see the prior words, “Glory to God in the highest!" But there is no peace, there is no good will, unless there is glory to God in the highest first. We forget to put God’s glory first. Fortunately, he does not. God will be glorified.” 

Nancy Guthrie, Experiencing the Peace and Promise of Christmas

when you realize just who your rescuer is

My friend was abused by her husband. She did not tell me right away, but I could see some things were not right. Eventually, she confided in me. 

I listened, prayed, and gave her support for over a decade while she struggled through some horrible things. Her husband was not only abusive, but he broke the trust in their marriage. He was also abusive to their children. 

She attended their church weekly. He only attended a few times a year. He told their church his story, gained their sympathy, made up some things, and turned them all against her. The church demanded she go to a therapist (alone) or be excommunicated. She said she would if the therapist held certification. She arrived and the "therapist" did not have certification, so she left. The church excommunicated her. 

She says this helped her, so I am sharing it here. It's very powerful when you realize just who your rescuer is. 

https://www.flyingfreenow.com/who-will-rescue-me-from-emotional-abuse/

My long time emotional abuser was not my husband, but I also cried out to God in great anguish for help. He answered, and the person ended the relationship in a way that left me with no guilt and great peace. It's all on them. They admitted to me they were emotionally tormented after they closed the door on our relationship. That fact was interesting to me, because I had only relief and the peace the Lord gives. They then went around lying about me working hard to destroy my testimony and my relationships. Most people knew me well enough to know that there was more to the story than how it was presented. Many had seen the abuse over the years so they didn't believe them either. Several told me they were glad I was free. A very few have spoken ill about me or tried to place guilt on me without knowing the facts. Having found peace and healing after all those painful years where I was made to feel lower than the dirt on a worm's belly to the point I seriously contemplated suicide with a knife held at my wrist in the middle of the night, I could care less about what those few uninformed people think. Their opinions about me are insignificant compared to the freedom God has given me. I don't care who understands or not: I'm FREE, and nobody is putting those chains back on me! This is why I support other women who are struggling with abuse. -w

True Story

12:17 PM: My FB answer image was removed. Must have offended someone? I have added it again, and it only shows as a black box for me and some friends. I tried to correct it, but could not, so answered in text so all could see. 

I am not ashamed of where I stand in Christ Jesus.

Someone died for me, and I am a child of THE KING.

Thank You

I have been away from home or I would have posted these sooner!

Thank you Luis for the big basket of mixed fruits! Our family will enjoy them!

Thank you to April for the scrumptious steamer pan of shrimp alfredo! 

Not something you see every day...

takes a double glance upwards

What is that on the power line?

Is that a...

It is.

Ew!

half chuckle

How'd that get up there?!!

I am assuming a bird dropped the skunk as it flew over the powerline.

Evidently, there was an item missing on my "Now, I've Seen Everything" list.

HAM Radio General Class

Clint and Brandon both sat for the HAM General Class test and both of them passed!  This gives them all of the privileges of the Technician Class plus most of the HF Amateur privileges. This will allow them to talk and receive news from around the world once they have the right equipment. The rest of us are very proud of them!

Food

We ended up with 25 turkeys which average around 22 lbs each. We have cooked all except two which are being saved for Christmas breakfast croissants and Easter dinner. We had two for Thanksgiving dinner, and the rest were pressure canned for quick meals during the year.

A big THANK YOU to John for the $300 worth of food from the restaurant. It was very generous. and the young people really enjoyed the treats!

*************

Every year at this time, I take advantage of the sales in the stores to stock up on turkey and other seasonal items. It just makes good sense. So far this year, I have purchased 21 turkeys at 29¢ a pound and 80 lbs of sweet potatoes at 19¢ a pound. I will pressure can most of it. I might make some dog treats and also dehydrate some of the sweet potatoes.

We were also given a turkey (THANKS RICHARD S.!!!) and three hams (THANKS JOHN G.!!!).

While it seems like a lot of food, it isn't when divided by nine people. It will be gone before I know it which is why I am always looking for a good bargain to keep our food costs down. It comes out to a little over 2 turkeys each, and even some of our single friends buy a couple of turkeys this time of year.

To get the total I need to qualify for the turkeys, I purchase shelf stable on sale items since the freezers are filled to the brim with the turkeys. 

I have not made any bone broth yet though. With the canning jar and lid shortages, I am not sure if I will or not. 

**************

Garden: We have had a hard frost, and it shows on the tender leaves. I wasn't expecting to find my green pepper and tomato plants had kept producing though. I brought in nice little harvest over the weekend that the girls had missed when they looked. FYI, my grandmother use to call it a "mess of" tomatoes or whatever.  

Delightful Birthday Weekend!

As soon as our Thanksgiving celebration was over, Clint swept me off my feet! He took me away to travel up our beautiful coast into Maryland for my 52nd birthday. For one of the dinners, he generously treated me to a private seafood buffet which was scrumptious! I also feasted my eyes on the beautiful, scenic routes we took to our destination. 

Joshua drove to see me on my birthday, but we had already left the home where we were staying. I do appreciate the time and effort it took because he had to be up at 4 a.m. and work all day before he decided to come see me. Then he had to drive all the way home. What a beautiful heart he has! 

As I shared earlier, for my birthday, I received shelves in a building. They are sturdy custom built shelves that will serve me well in my job. It was a need I had that my family made happen. 

Clint also purchased me a 2003 Suburban so I can do my thing!!! God had that jump out in front of us ON my birthday! We knew it was His timing, so we bought it. Amanda helped us get it home. 

I also received something much larger than a car for my birthday. It's a private thing in a piney spot, and I am suppose to get the final paperwork today. However, I suspect it might be the end of the week before it gets done...CoVid excuses and all of that! Once it is done, I can set up shop and do what I do! 

I think Caleb was correct when he said, "It's going to be hard to top this birthday!"

Thank you to everyone for the cards, gifts, and Happy Birthday texts!

Delivery Today?!!

Nov 30 1:45 p.m. I am about to take delivery (within the hour), so it is about to be wrapped up! Figuratively and literally! Brandon came home early to help me with it. THANK YOU to all who have been praying with us. We stand in amazement of what God has done this year!! Now, I have to get to work and do what I do so well! 

November 30:

Today is the day for delivery! Due to CoVid, we transferred the funds on Friday. Hopefully everything else will go smoothly.   

THANK YOU to those who have been praying with us on this. With everything going on in the world, this has been a leap of faith. We are certain this is where the Lord is leading, but we can't see exactly where it is headed.

Nov 21:

Last night, we were told "definitely by Nov 30th." So instead of a birthday present, it will be an early Christmas present.

Nov 20:

Major paperwork error discovered today. Everything has to be rewritten. A special trek has to be made to find a lost, critical piece. Then an adventure to deliver another critical piece. Our end is in order. 

Maybe Nov 25th? We are asking God that if this is not for us, that He will close the door and if it is, He will allow this to proceed.

I am good with the wait. I am cleaning out buildings and organizing as I go. I'm pulling things out to use now and putting away things not in current use. There's more than enough to do before a huge delivery and setting up something else. 

Nov 19:

The final work on this agreement is due FRIDAY.

CoVid has slowed things way down, so we are still waiting on the paperwork on our latest opportunity. 

We were told, "It is basically a done deal, just waiting for the paperwork to be filed." I'll post once it is final. Maybe next week or early the following? 

I think this describes what this one has been like with the election and CoVid. We are trusting God to guide our footsteps in the middle of so much uncertainty. 

Thank you to all who have been praying for our family. May the Lord abundantly bless you for the prayers you lift on our behalf

Happy Birthday #52!

2020 has flown by for me. I do not think I have ever worked harder or accomplished as much for my family! I have grown closer to the Lord as I have had to rely on Him for direction, wisdom, and strength. I am enjoying this highly productive season of life very, very much and believe the best is yet to come!

I can say this again this year: I am blessed with good health and am not on any prescription medications. I am approaching the day for it but currently do not wear prescription glasses. I have all of my own teeth. I am physically active working in our home, on our farm, and in helping others. I am married to a strong, loving, Christian man, and we are raising and loving on our seven children who bring us much, much joy. 

This is worth repeating too: "For decades, I was torn apart and felt lower than every other human being but escaped those chains and found my value in the Gift God gave to me. His name is Jesus and He offers you the same gift of salvation. He's real, and He is life/eternity changing!

To God be the glory for every single bit of it! I am blessed far, far beyond what I ever imagined could be possible for myself. I would not trade my life for anyone else's. I am His, and He is mine.

Today marks another year closer to realizing what is behind the veil. I am a bit closer to meeting "the One Who loves me more than all others combined" face to face. One day I will leave my family behind and run away with Jesus. My mind struggles to comprehend casting off this mortal form and stepping into eternity much like a caged bird would struggle to comprehend the vastness of the great outdoors. 

Birthdays are simply mile markers in this journey that has a glorious ever after ending."

My birthday prayer for myself for this next year is that I will become more focused on Him, will guard my heart, eyes, mind, and lips more diligently, and will share His good news with more people. I am asking for discernment and wisdom in all areas of my life. 

If you would like to give me a gift for my birthday, Dear Reader, share Him with someone else. Share your testimony, a Bible verse, how He answered a prayer, or give Him the glory for something in your life. In person, through text, or on social media, it doesn't matter. Just share Him! It would be fantastic if you made an effort to reach the lost, but you can build up another Christian too. I would consider you doing this a highly valuable gift to me. 

My love to all!

We had a very nice Thanksgiving

in our home with our family and a few friends who took time to say hello. 

We normally try to get in some outdoor time like a hike through our woods, a "tractor" ride, or a yard game. It was raining most of the day, so we were indoors. That was a blessing in disguise! We enjoyed our meal and rested all day which made for a nice break from our labors. 

We worshipped and prayed together. Then we watched some Charlie Brown and Christmas movies, rap battles, old televised music performances, and a couple of delightful orchestra performances. We played some games and the girls took time to draw. The kittens came in for a visit and treats. We all became sleepy so Amanda made us a delicious gourmet coffee with whipped cream and toppings. We had a very special, peaceful, and relaxing day. The meal, which everyone contributed to, was delicious!

Dear Reader, I hope you had a wonderful Thanksgiving too!

My job is

 My job is to take care of the possible and to trust God with the impossible.

Ruth Graham

Happy Thanksgiving 2020

 Happy Thanksgiving!
to our family and friends
near and far, old and new
close and estranged
You are loved!

Our family is gathering together to give thanks to the Lord, enjoy a feast, play some games together, and watch some movies.

I hope that wherever you are on this day, you take time to thank the Lord. No matter what is going on in the world, there is always something for which we can be thankful.

Gratitude can transform common days into thanksgivings, turn routine jobs into joy, and change ordinary opportunities into blessings. 

William Arthur Ward

Did you witness voter fraud? FORM

https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScdJ8ygHaBi5DXSgYgsg357T6qJjjnDRj42_WpWe7lqk3BcRw/viewform 

copy and paste into your browser

Why I Chose the Nesco Dehydrator

Nesco Food Dehydrator

 broccoli spears

I've been doing product reviews in several places online and in print since I started homeschooling over 25 years ago. Many of the initial products I reviewed were educational electronic toys marketed to the homeschooling community. I really enjoyed getting those items for my children for free too. Businesses liked my reviews and the kinds of things I noticed that others missed, and it just grew. One of my children is getting a $200 tablet I received for free from the manufacturer for Christmas this year.

I have had the first dehydrator for over 15 years, and the second one is a new addition I purchased in August 2020 when my first failed. Clint was able to fix the first, so now I have two. I use them three to five times a week here lately.

A lot of people think of fruit leather and jerky when they think of a dehydrator. While those are delicious, the uses for a dehydrator go so much further.

For one thing, they are invaluable for preventing food waste. If you have food you know you can't consume before it spoils, you can dry it, package it properly, and then it is preserved for many years. Dehydrated foods can last up to 20-30 years and maybe longer if you have the right packaging. I have never had to throw away anything that was dehydrated.

If you have a food processor or coffee grinder, you can make your own nutritional powders. Herbs can be dried and ground for seasonings and medicine. 

Potpourri from fragrant herbs and flowers grown in a home garden is so nice. I use a mix of basil, thyme, rosemary, and lavender in a hot bath for a relaxing aromatic soak. Dried powdered milk and dried lavender is a nice spa like treat too. (I purchase the milk, but it could be dried in a dehydrator.)

I have used my dehydrators to carefully dry seeds for the next year's garden. The trick there is to not let the temperature get over 100 to 110F.

We like to camp and hike, so the dehydrator helps me dry foods and create soup mixes that take up less space, are light to carry, and easy to prepare. 

The dehydrator also lets me keep a lot more food on hand because once dehydrated, the foods do not take up as much space. Did you know 100 pounds of dried and powdered onions will fit into a small cannister?

Yogurt, sourdough, kombucha, kefir grains, and other types of cultures can be dehydrated when you need to go on vacation or take a break. Dehydrating will preserve the cultures which can later be activated and used. For those who purchase cultures, this can save a lot of expense.

Sour cream can be dehydrated to use as a thickener and flavoring in soups. I leave it in chip form, but a lot of people powder it.

While I dehydrate a lot of our garden produce, I also dehydrate things I purchase from the store. Frozen mixed vegetables are an easy go to for making soup mixes.

Dog treats are so easy. I peel, slice, and soak sweet potatoes in chicken, turkey, pork, or beef broth overnight and then dehydrate them. Easy and so much cheaper than the store!!

I chose the square Nesco because it is a long standing brand with a solid reputation. I wanted a dehydrator I could add trays to because of my family size. The stackable style dehydrator allows expansion whereas the kind that has a set number of trays in a box does not. 

I live in an area with high humidity, so the metal dehydrators were out of the question due to rusting concerns. I chose the square model over round because squares make more efficient use of space which is a tip I picked up from a friend who organizes spaces for a living.

Remember to run your dehydrator with all of the trays it came with to keep a good airflow and prevent the unit from overheating which can damage it. My dehydrators came with four trays each. Each of mine can hold a maximum of eight trays each. 

I use the silicone mesh screens because it keeps small foods from falling through and makes it easier to clean. For foods you know will stick, use a little food safe silicone spray to make it easy to remove them. My favorite way to clean the trays and bottom is to put all of them in a storage tote, soak them for a good while in warm water and dish soap, and then clean them one by one in the sink. That makes quick clean up. 

I also have extra fruit leather trays and have made my own by using inverted plastic lids from meal prep/restaurant take out style containers.

I love my dehydrators because they help keep my food budget on track and can be used in so many ways that enhance our health and daily living.

Congratulations

 to Rebecca at ECU for passing your big exam!

Maybe

It looks like Amanda can move to day shift sometime in February. We are praying that can happen. She will still have her same role and will lose the night shift differential. She has the most seniority of the people who want to go. We will see if God opens this door!

Bethany in Uniform

She is loving her job!

what kind of people ought you to be?

But the day of the Lord will come like a thief. The heavens will disappear with a roar; the elements will be destroyed by fire, and the earth and everything done in it will be laid bare. 

Since everything will be destroyed in this way, what kind of people ought you to be? 

You ought to live holy and godly lives as you look forward to the day of God and speed its coming. 

That day will bring about the destruction of the heavens by fire, and the elements will melt in the heat.

2 Peter 3:10-12

emphasis mine

holy: dedicated to God or a religious purpose; sacred (set apart)

godly: reverencing God, and his character and laws; obedient to the commands of God from love for, and reverence of, his character; conformed to God's law; devout; righteous; as, a godly life.

Therefore, as we have opportunity, let us do good to all people, especially to those who belong to the family of believers. Galatians 6:10

As long as it is day, we must do the works of him who sent me. Night is coming, when no one can work. John 9:4

Dear Reader, Like you, I am watching and wondering what the rest of 2020 and into 2021 will bring. I do believe we are being given a wake up call. It is encouraging to see so many come to know the Lord and others rededicate their lives to the Lord.

Life is easier when we know exactly what is expected of us. In 2 Peter 2, Peter, writing to the churches, is pointing to the end times and telling the Body of Christ exactly what God expects of us. We are to keep showing our love for God by dedicated obedience to His Word. That is a lot easier to say than to put into practice. 

Trucker Strikes?

I was asked what I could find out about the rumored trucker strike. 

First, I've been around a little while and have seen many trucker strikes. I do not recall any being very effective. A lot of companies own their trucks. In the past, they have fired the unwilling drivers and hired new to keep supplying their customers. 

In searching for information, it does not seem organized and lacks traction. Some are backing off of their plans. My best guess is this is a nonevent. At the most, I think it will be one with very small impact. I just can't find enough info to make me think otherwise. If I can't find it, those wanting to participate can't either. 

Also, the people I see as reliable sources of information...it isn't even on their radar. There are bigger things. 

Stop the Tires 2020

It appears the FB page for Stop the Tires 2020 has been taken down. 

https://www.counton2.com/news/stop-the-tires-2020-truck-drivers-planning-a-strike-now-cancel-movement/?fbclid=IwAR3N9-o2nr62HgxF7fyPify9bPFTh9W9Uz66fCO7jvLhAxQuPsOVifQU42o says their event has been canceled.

Trucker Strike 2020

https://www.facebook.com/truckerstrike2020 seems to be the main page for Trucker 2020. 

https://www.facebook.com/truckerstrike2020/posts/891803994684815?__cft__[0]=AZVcvO-IwcjpbAhKaPWVYRXO4IzpXk8Kgg9n6NcYo01AMVphFuo-FbzgH_qtii1mVGK02Kbav9zdphMUwozFfjN4VTfJVjtGyh4PYjP3qJMcSBJD_CP8YuuinDwAN5iGWkMEoK27nGDcKVwMekEDBq2z&__tn__=%2CO%2CP-R  contains the following quote...

"We do not have any dates set. Because, as I said a moment ago, we feel we need at least one million drivers standing behind us to get the attention of the bureaucrats making these regulations. ...This is not a political movement... Trucker Strike 2020 with this face plastered on it...is not political."

"There are some movements out there that have dates set that we are not affiliated with."

I stopped listening around 15 minutes.

****************

Yes, I read the following articles that were sent to me by a few people. While I am not minimalizing the importance of truckers, and I certainly do highly regard them, I could not find evidence of the momentum necessary to cause major interruptions. 

I am not someone who panics very easily...floods, fires, hurricanes, escaped large livestock...changes a girl. I learned not to get scared but to get prepared to overcome the problem. I like to research and analyze, and I'm telling you, I am not doing anything differently because of rumors of a trucker strike. 

A Trucker Strike in November Could Be Another Nail in the Supply Chain Coffin https://www.theorganicprepper.com/trucker-strike-november/

Brazil’s 2018 Trucking Strike PARALYZED the Country: Here’s How America Could Face Similar LONG-TERM Disruptions  https://www.theorganicprepper.com/brazils-trucking-strike/

A more likely scenario than the rumors of a massive trucker strike shutting everything down is people panicking over that information and emptying shelves. We do have empty shelves in my area. Toilet paper, paper towels, bottled water, alcohol, cleaners, and some canned goods are sparse, but you can find it if you have the time to drive around and look. (Networking with friends to find/purchase things is very helpful.)

Emotions help us experience this life. Fear is very useful to us. It causes us to take notice and hopefully be motivated to take appropriate action. However, if we do not engage our intellect, we can be easily make bad decisions or even be led astray. I am always telling my family, "Good information helps make good decisions." Walk circumspectly, Dear Reader! My love to all.  

PS Every time I post something, this person thinks I mean this and another person think I mean that. Above, I am only addressing the strike question.

Do I think, regarding expected rioting and other major problems we are facing, that you should stock up? Well, a good portion of my friends only keep three days worth of food in their house. So, yes. I agree with the common advice to start with a week's worth and gradually build upon it until you get at the very least three months' supply. Water, food, medicine, spare fuel if you can safely store it, etc. If there are lockdowns, shortages (sporadic or long term), layoffs, illnesses, etc, you will have a cushion and time to locate resources. If nothing happens, you simply purchased things when the prices were cheaper...always good investment! You can choose to keep your stores and rotate your stock, or use it up and put money into your bank account. At any rate, there is wisdom in being like the ant.