Camping Gear

Sorry for the broom!
I like to keep dirt out of the tents.

Large Family Camping = Need Space

These are two 10 x 20 cabin-style tents that allow us stand up straight inside. They divide into three rooms and are quick set up tents. They can be set up in around 5-15 minutes each depending on who is helping me and how windy it is. Each comes with two dividers so they can have three separate rooms if wanted. There is even a panel for an air-conditioner and a special hole for extension cords for those who use them. The closest I could find to them today are here and here.

When our children were younger, we put the children in one tent with boys in one room and girls in the other. The middle held their belongings. Clint and I slept within talking distance in the other tent. The other two-thirds of our tent had gear, a folding table, and plenty of empty space for our chairs in case of rain.

Now, our younger girls sleep in the "children's tent," and most of our adult children have their own tents.

Staked down properly and weighed down with some of our gear, these tents have held up very well in 45 mph sustained winds with 50+ mph gusts. One time, we were staying in a "rustic cabin"* and had only a few pieces of lightweight gear in the tents (less than 50 lbs in each). We only staked four corners because no bad weather was expected. Well, a thunderstorm popped up. We had 70+ mph straight-line winds that took down three trees around us. Yeah, that was something! Our shower tent was completely ruined from the wind. One of the tents you see above collapsed on itself. The other was lifted and rolled three times into a grassy field. It received a tear on the corner which is attached to a support pole and a few holes in the mosquito netting. I'll share how and what I used to make the repair in another post.

To the left is a swing grill. To the right is our folding camp grill. We also use a tripod triangle. With these, we can cook almost anything we want. For one of our meals on this trip, we baked salmon with sundried tomatoes and asparagus. We also had blueberry muffins baked in orange peel halves.

We bought the table holding the water cooler back in the mid-1990s. It was around $40-45. Today, a similar table is around $100. Even at that price, I would purchase one because it makes it easy to clean up after our family of nine plus guests. It has received very heavy and long-term use. Once, we left it in place for four months of extended use. It showed a little more wear afterwards, but it held up just fine! 

I recommend a large tarp be used as a rain fly over your camp kitchen if you are going to be camping for more than a few days. This shades your area and will allow you to leave things out if it rains.

Lightweight folding tables and plastic storage containers are a must to keep your food and other belongings clean and secure. 

The water cooler provides "running" water to rinse dishes, wash hands, etc. If we are filling it with potable water, we also use it to cook and brush our teeth. Sometimes I will fill the water cooler with stream water, but we will not drink or brush our teeth with it.

I love Fat Max! This rolling toolbox with a telescopic luggage-type handle has earned its original price many times over. Max holds medium-sized pots, plastic plates, eating and cooking utensils, kitchen linens, zipper bags, plastic wrap, aluminum foil, nonstick spray, seasonings, lighter fluid, matches, and so much more. I load "Max" up using every bit of available space. He has held up to at least 15 years of large family abuse.

We own two of these heavy-duty folding wagons which we found at our local Sams Club years ago. This one carries 150 lbs with no problems. When not in use, we keep food (like fruits and snacks) in it set between chairs so we can use the cup holder/table. Keeping the food in it allows us to quickly roll them under a table in case of an unexpected rain shower. We also have a smaller light-duty wagon and a heavy-duty aluminum hand truck we take with us. These make it easier to get our gear to our walk-in campsite.

Emily's Art 4

He Gave Them the GPS to Work

Clint replying to his men who asked for GPS coordinates of our beautiful camping location.

Update on Mr. Reese

We were able to spend some time with and run an errand for Mr. Reese recently. We learned the in home physical therapy has not worked at all for him. There is literally no change. He is scheduled to have surgery to straighten his legs so he can walk again next month. He will be in a rehab facility for 6-12 weeks. He's not happy about them operating on him, but he wants to be independent again.

If you will, please pray for his surgery to go well and for his recovery to be smooth and easy. Thank you!

Math is not hard.

Are you seeing 1-4% increases or more? The hamburger patties that use to cost me 19.99 are now $24 (25% increase). The ground beef I use to purchase for $40 now costs $70 (75%). The oranges that I use to pay $5.99 for are $7.60 today (26%).

Have you noticed less quality in products including food, less quantity for a higher price, more filler items on the shelves, and more spaces between the products? What is that telling you? Are there indicators this will improve soon? or not improve for a long while?

What about consumer goods? noticing higher prices with less quantity and quality? 

Are you doing your own math or just believing what you are told? Do governments use narratives to keep people calm? 

There are times it is good to close your ears and open your eyes. This practice has served me very well in letting me SEE through the words of others. Observe more. Do your own thinking.

Have you studied the history of the Philippines and Venezuela? Are you aware of exactly how those people have to survive? 

You've heard about the Great Depression, but have you studied it? Have you read accounts from people who lived through it? The people who survived it were proactive early, strong mentally, and quickly adapted to the changing world around them. Are you familiar with how they made do? recipes? obtained things they needed?

I speculate we only have several easier months to prepare. Fall to late winter? Maybe another year? I base my speculation on what I know about the crop forecast (from several farmers), food reserves, and commercial food storage.  

Pray. Prepare yourself spiritually, mentally, and physically. Do not delay. You are alive for this time period for a reason. God has a purpose for you to fulfill. Prepare to shine for Him!

My love to all. 

Food Prices

I've been checking for the update to the USDA Food Price Outlook this morning. It posted a bit later than expected, but it has been updated. It shows more increases nearly across the board. 

If you combine this with the Bloomberg Agri Spot Index (below), you see the increases will likely be significant and long-lasting. There are many banks and commodities experts saying to expect significant price increases. "Sticker shock" at the grocery store is how one group phrased it.

When the US government started talking about the child tax credit monthly payments to keep children fed, I started taking closer notice. If it was just the ones below the poverty line that would be needing help with food for their children, then why is the tax credit for nearly all households with children? "What do they see coming that would affect so many?" I asked myself. I considered if the payments were to start in July as a possible clue as to when they expected the rising prices to be really felt. Here we are and the two are coinciding like I suspected. It doesn't mean I am correct that these two things go together, but I am not a big believer in coincidences. 

The image below shows you how I think as I take information and seek wisdom from the Lord as the manager of my household.

Using the price outlook, I made notes I could share with my husband along with some brainstorming about how to offset some of these costs. I noted what would see the greatest increases so I can plan around them. Some of these things I already do, and some are ideas for further measures. I will definitely cover my hoop houses (and another area I have) to turn them into greenhouses this year to extend our growing season. 

Most of my notes are self-explanatory. I have to drink green tea once a day right now. I drink one in the morning in place of coffee. I can save some dollars making my own. I may even can some in half pints so it will be ready-made on the shelf. 

Dear Reader, I think it is wise that if you have not, to purchase what you reasonably can as soon as you can. Can you also grow a garden? Container garden? What ways can you cut back to offset the rising prices? Mostly, you should prepare yourself spiritually, mentally, and physically for whatever may come. My love to all. 

When it snows, she has no fear for her household;

    for all of them are clothed in scarlet.

She is clothed with strength and dignity;

    she can laugh at the days to come.
Proverbs 31:21,25

The difference between preparing and hoarding

 Preparing is not hoarding. 

I live in hurricane country and have witnessed both preppers and hoarders. Preparing is calm and rational planning and is usually done over a period of time before a crisis arrives. It requires taking regular inventory and logistical planning. It is an attitude and a state of readiness. It is a practice of those obedient to Scripture. 

Hoarding is an impulsive overreaction once an event arrives because they did not foresee or take heed of the problem. IOW, they are running scared grabbing whatever they can because they were caught unprepared. There is no thought or planning involved in hoarding. It is fear-based. 

Remember the truck beds loaded to the max with toilet paper? That's hoarding. Buying a little extra every time you go to the store is preparing. I did not have to go shopping for toilet paper because I had enough in my home for a good while already. I was able to give away some of my stores to family members and neighbors. As I could find it, I did buy toilet paper weeks into the shortage as we used what I had. I did that because I wanted to avoid future price hikes and not let my supply get too low. I only purchased one package at a time as we used it or gave it away to close friends and family to replace what was on my shelves. 

Don't let people who did not stay informed and prepare for the future guilt you into thinking you did something wrong by being prudent. It's truly a shame Aesop's Fables are not as widely taught to children as they use to be. The story of the Ant and the Grasshopper has some very valuable lessons for today's young adults. 

Dear Reader, Do not broadcast how prepared you are. During bad situations, there is such a thing as survivor's hate. It is jealousy/hatred from the "grasshoppers" towards the "ants." It's real and during dire crises, it is very, very ugly. If you read historical accounts about those who prepared during other trying times in history, you will see that the prepared had to change how they were doing things for their own security. 

Question: What do you mean by the Celestial Clock?

In Genesis 1:14, we are told the stars are there for "signs and seasons." The Wise Men used the signs in their time's night sky as a general guide of when and where the Messiah was born. As they journeyed to each point, they gained knowledge and adjusted their course accordingly. 

From the locations, the book of Ezra, and historical travel methods, the journey was at the very least a couple to a few months long. From Herod's decree to murder any child under 2, we know it could have taken as long as two years. Some scholars I have read extend that journey's timeline to three.

Many Christians believe there will be similar signs in the sky pointing to the time of Christ's return. Because of certain Scriptures mentioning signs in the sky coupled with the frequent paralleling of events in Scripture, I think this is something to which to give consideration. Jesus points to celestial signs as  away to tell the time for His return: 

“But in those days, following that distress, “‘the sun will be darkened and the moon will not give its light; the stars will fall from the sky and the heavenly bodies will be shaken.’ “At that time people will see the Son of Man coming in clouds with great power and glory. Mark 13:24-26

Looking for signs in the heavens to help us prepare for the Lord's return is Biblical. This is not the same thing as the Biblically forbidden astrology in which individuals seek guidance for daily living from the stars. God is who we should go to for guidance and wisdom. This is about watching the signs God put in place for the unfolding of His story.

A lot of people are getting excited about celestial events that have happened frequently which makes me cautious. However, when you look at all of these things together in light of Scripture: world events, the overall constellation story playing out, and the physical calendar (Fig Tree parable + Israel 1948 + a generation), there certainly is a compelling reason to expect the Lord's imminent return. That makes me keep it on my radar.

As verbs the difference between predict and speculate

 is that predict is to make a prediction: to forecast, foretell, or estimate a future event on the basis of knowledge and reasoning; to prophesy a future event on the basis of mystical knowledge or power while speculate is to think, meditate or reflect on a subject; to consider, to deliberate or cogitate. source

Dear Reader, Clearly, God wants us to take note of what we see and compare those things to what Jesus said about His return. We should take heed that our speculations do not turn into predictions. As time passes, our speculations may need to be reconsidered with new insight we gain along the way. The command to be vigilant serves a mighty purpose of keeping Christians living for Christ and reaching out to others. I encourage you to study the parable of the 10 Virgins.

Food Prices

Wise people see trouble coming and get out of its way, 

but fools go straight to it and suffer for it. 

Proverbs 22:3

Please do not let this drive you to fear. Fear is not of the Lord. Fear is a stressor and makes you sick in your spirit, mind, and body. It's OK to have concern about a situation, but to let it create anxiety and stress is not wise. Christian, remember who you are, Who you represent, and where you are going!

If you have not stocked up on food and other necessities by now, you should do that as soon as possible. I was going to wait to share this after tomorrow's agriculture report comes out, but that chart will not affect what is already in motion. The last several reports and especially the last Agri Spot chart are enough to show the food inflation ball is picking up more speed. 

If you took my advice to prepare last year, then you are about to see a very good return on your initial investment due to price increases. You should praise the Lord for what you have and continue to stock up as much as you can.

I left a large package of frozen salmon in my online shopping cart for three days. When I returned to add more items, I noticed the salmon was skinless, and we prefer the skin on for the beneficial fats. So, I removed it and went to find the version with the skin on, but they did not have it. When I put the skinless salmon back in my cart, it was $3 and some change more than when I took it out. The large container of instant potatoes I purchase has gone up $2+. The cold relief I purchased for my sick children was also a little over $2 more a package. Eggs are $2+ more per 5 dozen package than they were a year ago. Packs of chicken that cost me around $7 last year are $9 today. We are seeing the significant increases I anticipated last year. I could go at length about the inflation I am seeing and what I expect is coming. However, if you are a shrewd shopper, you are already seeing it for yourself!

We are commanded by Jesus to watch and take note of what is happening in the world. When we are obeying this, we see trouble coming. Preparing ahead for tough times is not only smart, it is Scriptural. I've shared those verses in the blog before. As one reader shared, even Jesus prepares ahead of time. "Behold I go to prepare a place for you." :-)

Dear Reader, Now, I can not see the future, so I can't say anything with absolute certainty. However, there are reports that back up what I have been feeling in my gut for a long time now. Thanks to the Lord, I had a heads up on this almost five years ago. It's a long story. If you want to hear it, I will share that testimony in person. My family will tell you it's true. They heard me praying, saw me ask for their prayers as I researched, and then they start acting upon what I learned.

Looking at the inflation reports and the agri spot index, I think it is safe to conclude it is likely bigger and more widespread increases in the prices of goods are on the way.** If the forecasts by financial experts come to fruition, the coming increases will become very burdensome for some. I love you, so I am encouraging you to prepare as much as you can as soon as you can.  

Buy some extra shelf-stable food. Learn how to repackage long-term storable foods so they will survive a long time. Buy some seeds. Plant a garden. Plant perennial vegetables. Buy books/download/print out info on how to care for that garden. Learn how to forage. Don't waste. Preserve through canning and dehydration. Learn old food preservation methods. Once you have the knowledge/skill, no one can take it from you. Make your family eat healthier. Build yourself mentally, physically, and spiritually. I am doing at least a few of these things every day right now. I am trying my very best to be faithful in preparing. I am also trusting Him for what I can't do.

By failing to prepare you are preparing to fail. -Benjamin Franklin

**There's so much more I could share, but I just do not have the time. Here's another thing to factor: Did you know farmers are under contract to plant on a certain date? They do not get to choose based on the weather in their area. I am hearing farmers in the midwest were told to plant way too early this year, and many crops will likely suffer. Are you aware of the suspect food storage fires of last year not just here in the US but in other nations? Crop damaging storms? Are you aware the breadbasket countries are limiting their exports on grains and other foods so they can feed their own people?

Tomorrow a pre-scheduled post will be on the blog, but in a separate post I will also share the difference between preparing and hoarding. My love to all.

 

So IT did happen!

The First Step to Restoring Unity

 " How can the Church stay united and Christians continue to be known for their love while also disagreeing?...

1. WHEN CHRISTIANS DISAGREE… RECEIVE ONE ANOTHER: ROMANS 14:1-12

You will note that this section begins and ends with this admonition (Rom. 15:7). Paul was addressing those who were strong in the faith, that is, those who understood their spiritual liberty in Christ and were not enslaved to diets or holy days. The “weak in faith” were immature believers who felt obligated to obey legalistic rules concerning what they ate and when they worshipped. Many people have the idea that the Christians who follow strict rules are the most mature, but this is not necessarily the case. In the Roman assemblies, the weak Christians were those who clung to the law and did not enjoy their freedom in the Lord. The weak Christians were judging and condemning the strong Christians, and the strong Christians were despising the weak Christians.

“Welcome one another!” was Paul’s first admonition, and he gave four reasons why they should."

https://www.olivetree.com/blog/when-christians-disagree/

I've been taming lions.

This is a pretty blue tortoiseshell.

At one of the nice homes I watch, there are three feral cats.

It's a growing problem in their area. It's a growing problem in many areas.

The community there has joined together to provide sterilization, medical care, and food. 

When I am there I have been working to tame down three.

I now have two of three I can pet and pick up. The last one is making strides. It now comes out to watch me while I work with the others. If I can tame them down enough I may be able to find them a home. They will never be housecats, but they may make great mousers on a small homestead in exchange for food and affection.

When I was a small child, I would run through the humongous weathered barn on my grandparent's farm to catch the wild kittens. Then I'd work to earn their trust until I could hold and pet them.

It doesn't take a lot of effort, but it does take patience.

So...This Happened

This is so embarrassing, and I've debated with myself about sharing it. I am sharing it because everybody has a stupid moment, and I know ya'll can use a laugh.

I am not at my home where there are no close neighbors and where we are surrounded by forest giving me the luxury of great privacy. That's my normal for over 26 years. I appreciate that privacy so much more after today.

I am staying in a nice house which is in view of the road. Not fully awake, I took two steps outside early this morning to pour water into a bowl for some feral and pathetic-looking cats that were dropped off months ago. That's one of the things I do here for the owner while they are away.

I didn't think it would take more than a few seconds and did not think of a robe or anything else. My only concern in my half-asleep state was that the bowl was bone dry, and I wanted to get some water to the poor animals before I got into the shower.

What I didn't know: During certain times of the year, the front door is tricky, and the deadbolt must be engaged to keep the door locked. That means the knob lock isn't usually effective. So, when I unlocked the deadbolt and the door popped opened, I guess I subconsciously assumed the knob lock was unlocked.

That stinkin' door shut behind me just as I took the two steps necessary to reach the bowl. I wasn't worried. I finished pouring the water, turned around, and tried to open the door. It didn't open. I tried the door again. I was very sleepy, so I paused and tried one more time. I would pay money to see my face when I fully realized my situation.

I was wearing only a long t-shirt and my underwear. Crazy hair. My cell phone was inside. No coffee needed today! Suddenly, I was WIDE AWAKE!! :-D

I did not want to walk a quarter a mile to the neighbor's house looking like I was. Not an option. I quickly imagined the description of me being given to the 911 dispatcher, the deputy rolling up, and me having to explain myself. NOPE.

I tried the other doors and windows. All locked. I tried breaking into this house multiple ways while ducking out of view every time a car came. AND, just what is up with all of the traffic on this road today?!! I kicked it beside the knob several times. I hard-shouldered it. I tried to pry it open. Nothing worked. I was desperate!

I forgot about the road at one point. A truck came to a stop while I was slinging a large pipe wrench at the window on the door. Thankfully for his benefit, my body was mostly shielded by the deck railings. I knew the door was cheaper to replace than the windows I could crawl through. My plan was to bust the one pane and unlock the door. The heavy pipe wrench bounced off the door's glass every time, and the driver must have thought twice of messing with a crazy-looking and acting woman because he drove off. Let me tell you, that was one smart move on his part because I was in "some kinda mood!"

There were a few more harried adventures until I finally remembered....

There is a spare key.

Lord help me help my stupid self! :-D I was not laughing when I remembered the key, but I am laughing now. Mercy!

I've never had to use it, so it wasn't in my sleepy head. Once I collected myself, I called the owner of the home--just in case someone calls them. I am now re-evaluating my friendship j/k because they couldn't stop laughing.

When I called my C-Dawg and told him about my morning manic moment, he only commiserated with a short "Oh no!" Then he laughed and laughed and laughed and laughed. :-D

I am here tomorrow too. I'll shower, dress, AND have the coffee BEFORE opening the door.

I love you all...have a good laugh and a great weekend!

PS- I also relearned that an unrestricted bosom is no friend of a running woman. 

CoVid

This is just an early heads up for those who have been in direct contact with us. 

Joshua has been exposed to CoVid and is having symptoms. He is getting a test this afternoon. We were told we will know the results tomorrow. 

it stabilizes the saints

To know that nothing happens in God's world apart from God's will may frighten the godless, but it stabilizes the saints. -J. I. Packer

A few of our carrots

We have six areas we grow carrots in currently.

This came from a part of one of those beds.

I hope to expand to a dozen beds.

I'm Dreaming...

Right now, I convert our hoop houses for what I need, but I would so love to have one of these.

She can keep them.

picture taken 4/22/21

There is a glut* of eggs that come in the spring. When summer's heat hits, the birds lay less. They lay even less in the winter, if at all. During this season of plenty, I am preserving (water glassing, freezing, dehydrating) all of the eggs I can for the leaner season.

I decided I do not want these eggs. 

Our wise Leghorn hen laid where there is built-in protection. I've been introduced to those thorns before. She can have her nest. Maybe we will get some chicks? 

I'll let you know if she starts sitting.

*For our ESL friends: an excessively abundant supply of something

Excellence Should Be Recognized

Video: Gloucester County sheriff's deputy lifts vehicle after woman's head pinned under it

"Deputy J. Holt used determination and strength to rescue a woman whose head was pinned under the sunroof of an overturned vehicle. His bodycam recorded it all."

Deputy Holt also won the Top Cop Award in 2020 and 2021.

https://www.gazettejournal.net/top-cop-gloucester-deputy-wins-regional-award/

and

https://www.wtkr.com/news/gloucester-co-deputy-named-crime-lines-2020-top-cop "He’s one of the guys that’s proactive," Warren said. "He’s always putting others before himself."

Url of Video: https://www.13newsnow.com/article/news/local/virginia/video-gloucester-county-sheriffs-deputy-lifts-vehicle-after-womans-head-pinned-under-it/291-759f2e23-dd03-408f-9c46-8ea7afbe81c9?fbclid=IwAR2XdgFfsG6t1BovRsZoWAptjCbv2CaL9kRo8nodpB3CDJwZVE425qTEY4s

Joshua and Journey made a baby.

Joshua and Journey made a baby while on the clock at the restaurant.

He is made from a 4-ounce cup wrapped in a breakfast wrapper, put in a clamshell box, put into two more breakfast wraps, wrapped in saran wrap, given a glove for hair. Then the newborn child was clothed in sandwich sleeves plastered with stickers. Journey made a breakfast wrap diaper sealed with stickers. Then they put the babe in a bassinet made from a 30 count tender box.

Their baby had a very ostentatious name, but it has been forgotten. 

So now, they are calling him Wilson.

4 Foot This Time

Caleb found an even bigger kingsnake on the outskirts of our place.

This one is 4'. He took it to Joshua's room first. Then he brought it to mine.

Of course, he doesn't say, "Hey Mom, I found another harmless kingsnake I want you to see before I move it." 

No, he knocks and says, "Mom, don't freak out. Don't freak out now. Don't freak out, Mom."

That's like pouring gas on a flame! Give me some details!

Then I see the snake. It is shadowy in my room. My son has been talking about pit vipers lately. Talking about them a bit too much, IMO.

With not being able to identify the snake and with his viper talk in my head, I say a WORD and crawl backward on my bed to the wall.

Caleb quietly chuckles at me and says, "It's a harmless kingsnake. It's a big one though. I thought you'd want to see it before I let it go."

I chill and enjoy observing the harmless and beneficial snake which was much more chill than I was.

Emily followed him outside and took the picture you see above.

I am actually happy we have found two kingsnakes on our place so far this year. I am wondering if our long-time black snake resident has died and these have moved in to take over. We had a big black snake Clint allowed to live in our lumber shed to help keep rodent numbers down on our farm. It was massive and did not bother our chicks or eggs. We rarely saw it. I have not seen It or any shed skins this year. Time will tell.

Joshua's Dream

On the night of the 11th, Joshua was dreaming he was very late to work. He woke up around midnight with a start. In his not fully awakened state, he thought he really was late to work. 

He looked at his phone and sees it is 12 something and thinks it is 12 noon. He thinks, "I am so late. I need to call my bosses and let them know." So, as he is dressing he gets a call through Melanie. Her voice mail takes over, so Joshua leaves a hurried message and hangs up.

He calls April, a co-worker, wanting to let someone at the restaurant know he's coming. Our whole family loves April and looks forward to stories about April. She is a character! April answers her phone. Joshua asked her, "Are you at work?"

It's midnight. A half-awake April says, "Are YOU at work?"

Joshua: "I tried to call Mel, but she's not answering her phone. I need to let someone know I am on the way."

April: "Joshua?!!! Are you okay?"

Joshua is trying to fasten the pants he frantically put on and pulled on with one hand. He hangs up the phone so he can finish dressing and get out the door.

He opened his door and saw pitch black. He stood still a moment as his mind figured something was really off. Then he realized what had happened. He was so embarrassed he called his boss and April. He only got about 4 hours of sleep after that.

Joshua gets to work today and as soon as April sees him, she says in her high-pitched voice, "WHAT THE H BOY?!!!! You messed up my sleep!!" Then she asked if he is OK. 

During the early part of his shift, Joshua received a call from Mel asking him if he was at work and if everything was alright. He told her he'd explain when she got there. 

He told his co-workers the story and everyone said laughed with him. They ALL said they had had similar dreams at one time or another. 

None of them had called his boss AND a co-worker though. 

Well, I did teach them to go the extra mile! :-)

Godly Counsel

Philippians 2:3-4 Do nothing out of selfish ambition or vain conceit, but in humility consider others better than yourselves. Each of you should look not only to your own interests but also to the interests of others.

Ephesians 4:32 Be kind and compassionate to one another, forgiving each other, just as in Christ God forgave you.

There are thirteen or fourteen (depending on how you view it) letters written by the Apostle Paul. His letters are so beautifully written. We know they were inspired by God because they are included in Scripture. They contain perfect godly counsel. I often draw from them when my advice is sought or when talking with a young person about the harder aspects of life. Paul's letters to the churches are a good place to seek help for yourself and for others.

Emily's Art 3

Timmy

Timmy had surgery to remove his kidney stones today. This was a long awaited surgery that has been moved several times. He came close to losing his kidney. He said he's hurting badly. Please pray for his pain relief. Thank you very much! My love to all.

Colonial Pipeline Restarted Today

 "Colonial Pipeline initiated the restart of pipeline operations today at approximately 5 p.m. ET," the company said in a statement on its website. "Following this restart, it will take several days for the product delivery supply chain to return to normal."

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/us/colonial-announces-pipeline-restart-says-normal-service-will-take-several-days/ar-BB1gFl7l

Gas Mileage Tips

I've been helping cancer patients find gas and get information, so I have shared some of that in the blog. The following link has some good tips to conserve the fuel you do find. In my area, we are seeing tankers steadily going back and forth to refuel the pumps. 

I think if everyone is patient, the situation will resolve itself. There are places that store gas, so we have it plenty available. We just need to give the truckers time. FYI, there has been a trucker shortage issue growing for over 15 years.

20 Useful Tips to Improve Your Gas Mileage

Something to take into consideration

After Colonial Pipeline shutdown, hacker group 'Darkside is just getting started,' experts say

https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/technology/after-colonial-pipeline-shutdown-hacker-group-darkside-is-just-getting-started-experts-say/ar-BB1gCuyx

"The CEO of a Prevaillon, Karim Hijazi, runs a security intelligence agency that infiltrates hacker communities every day. Hijazi said Darkside is just getting started."

"The fact that they came into the environment, they looked around and took the time to figure out where they were, they stole information beyond just simply ransomware, it was sort of a double extortion attack. It really is unprecedented," Hijazi said.

This news makes me look to the future just like I do when a hurricane is off the coast. I pray, research to gather knowledge, pray on that, come up with some ideas for mitigation, take both my research and ideas to my husband. We pray on it together and come up with a plan to do the best we can for our family. Then we take action. We do as much as we reasonably can to prepare our family for the storm(s) headed our way. 

What are the categories of critical infrastructures in the US? What falls under those categories? What scenarios are likely if one or more are hit? How can we be prudent with this knowledge? Does God require us to work and do things for ourselves? If you see a storm coming and do not prepare, are you showing wisdom? Does Jesus command us to pay attention and take note of happenings in the world so we will know when His return is close? Could physical preparation, along with spiritual, be a PART of the reason He told us to do this?

I do not know if the US will see another hit on critical infrastructure or not, but an expert is hinting it is very likely. I also know of the studies that have been done and reports that have been written by our own agencies. I also see a strike against our infrastructure that caused problems. I've been following maps like this for many years. Prudence tells me there very likely could be more inconveniences ahead. My job as a leader is to do what I can to take care of my household. 

Dear Reader, I am not sharing this to make you fearful. I am sharing it because so many are looking at the wrong thing (inconvenience to self), reacting to the short term, and do not see the bigger picture. Put on your spiritual eyes. Pray for wisdom. Study (read, learn, know, become very familiar with) your Bible.

Gas Shortages

Some of our foreign friends and out-of-state family are asking us about the shortages, so I thought I'd answer here. It saves me time answering questions in one place. I am very pressed for time lately too.

I've been following this story closely since the attack. I did the research for my immediate family and sent them an email informing them so they could make the best decisions. I tell them: "Don't react to the first thing you hear. Seek out good information. Good information leads to good decision making."

The first news story I read regarding this attack was that it was attempted. When I read the word attempted, I thought, "Ah, our cyber soldiers have this." The next story I read said they had shut it down. I thought "WHOA!" Crippling infrastructure is considered an act of war. 

The Colonial Pipeline is the largest US gas pipeline. It supplies 45% of the gas in the US.

Fun fact: Part of this pipeline runs behind where three members of our family work. The pipe itself is underground, but there is an access point. I am trying to get a picture, but people are busy. If I get a picture, I'll post it.

The Colonial Pipeline was hit by a cyberattack (ransomware) by the Darkside group on the 8th. That attack shut down the pipeline. 

No country has taken credit yet. 

Interesting timing that the Michigan governor shut down the CANADIAN pipeline on the 2nd of May.   https://www.msn.com/en-gb/news/other/michigan-governor-orders-enbridge-to-shut-down-controversial-canadian-oil-pipeline/ar-BB1gBkOX

Mr. Blount, the CEO of Col. Pipeline, warns of more shortages coming. IOW, it may get worse before it gets better.

The plan is to reopen the pipeline later this week, BUT they will not resume shipments until the ransomware is fully removed AND all federal guidelines are met. 

"Colonial has given no timeline for the restart of its main pipelines.

The firm has seen the Litasco-chartered Tavrichesky Bridge, carrying 370,000 barrels of gasoline, diverted away from New York toward a new destination of Yorktown, Virginia, near the Colonial-supplied cities of Richmond and Norfolk." https://www.reuters.com/business/energy/traders-book-tankers-europe-ship-gasoline-across-atlantic-after-colonial-2021-05-10/

They are manually operating a portion of the pipeline that goes from NC to MD. They expect full services on that portion by the weekend.

As of 8 p.m. last night, 5% of VA stations were without gas. As of this a.m., around 300 or 7.5% Virginia stations were without gas. Virginia is the hardest hit state with the highest percentage of gas stations out of gas. As of 5 p.m. it was 7.7%. Some have received deliveries. That has helped the numbers.

Patrick DeHaan, aka "Gas Buddy," speculates the problem will extend several weeks. He is asking people to share info through the app to help make finding gas easier. His app is having issues because of the increased load. I don't have this on my phone, but I am getting news about it.

NC's Governor Cooper has declared a state of emergency.

GA's Governor Kemp is temporarily suspending the gas tax to help families and increased the weight limit on trucks so they can haul more gas.

The Energy Secretary says we have a supply issue not shortages. From the comments I heard, they were not too happy with her terminology lesson. We can call it whatever she wants, but people are looking high and low for gas. 

For those who know our location, our closest gas station and the Murphy gas at our Walmart are out. We can still find gas at 7-11s. A county just north of us was completely out of gas at all stations this morning according to residents. 

Our friends in Dayton, VA are having a hard time finding gas. Dayton is south of Harrisonburg. They are having to go to less desirable neighborhoods to keep their building/shed delivery truck going.

Some gas stations are limiting gas to 25 gallons at a time.

Gas stations in Escambia, FL jumped their prices to $4.29. People reported them for gouging, and they lowered it to $3.29. 

SC has been reporting more outages.

A reader in Tallahassee, FL says the lines are unbelievable, and the only gas left is the premium grade at 4.16 a gallon. She doesn't think that will last long.

Some of the long lines: https://twitter.com/CBSNews/status/1392182729228398592 (I do not have a Twitter account, but I can search and see things on it.)

I remember the gas shortages in the 70s. I really do not think this will be that prolonged or severe. But, to help get you through in the short term, here's a few tips I remember from then: 

Fill your tanks. Fill them often...every day or two, as often as you can. It very well may be easier to get a small amount of gas than a large amount. We already have 25 gallon limits in some places. 

Keep at least HALF A TANK of gas. This is a good habit to get into because it keeps you prepared in case of emergency. When your needle hits the halfway mark, treat it as empty and fill the tank. I practice this all of the time when I am driving. You do not want to be rushing a child to the ER or in another crisis and have to stop for gas. Always be prepared. (Yes, I was a Girl Scout.)

Do not store gas in milk/water jugs. They will corrode and leak. Do not store it in open containers like trashcans like I am seeing people do on social media. Besides the fact that it is highly flammable, gas evaporates. 

Rideshare if you can. Drive your most fuel-efficient vehicle. Combine errands with your daily commute. Take any weight out of your car/truck that you can to save on gas mileage. If you work with tools, keep your tools on board if it is likely you will need them for a job to prevent a run back home to get them. (Caleb has to keep his tools with him.)

If this situation becomes prolonged, keep your cars where people can not siphon from your tank. (in your garage, in view while you're out) If it does not get better, the desperate will resort to this. 

A tip: Some of my friends are saving 40 cents per gallon with the app GetUpside. I do not know any more than that, but you might want to check it out to ease the hit on your pockets.

Another factor to consider as you make your plans: 

Coming this summer: Lack of truck drivers could cause gas shortage  
https://abc7.com/gas-shortages-why-are-prices-so-high-crude-oil-shortage-gasoline/10555914/

Our family: We have what we need plus some we can spare, if needed. I won't share more details than that here. To those who know how God has been working in our lives in the past few incredible and amazing years, it has been more of the same...every step of the way! God is good! God is faithful! Ask the Lord to keep preparing and providing for us. Stay close to Him. My love to all!

The promised picture of the pipeline access point. The actual pipeline is underground. Clint wanted his external family in other states to see it. Our love to all!

My Mother's Day

<3 I received many expensive gifts (two major appliances, a "little friend" and more). $200 spending money, seven meals out to eat (over the last few days), flowers, candy, beautiful drawings, plants and gardening items, another natural medicine book, and much more including beautifully written cards from my seven blessings and my sweet husband for Mother's Day. They decorated the house and purchased me a cake. All seven also pitched in and helped me with some hard work for the entire day on a project I am doing. None of it compares to the time they spent with me and the love and fellowship I have with them daily. Every day is Mother's Day when you are treated with love and respect! <3

Picts of Trip and Mother's Day

I am behind on getting our garden in the ground, so that is taking priority now that I am back home again. I was away for a four day Mother's Day weekend. My children came to where Clint and I were staying on Sunday. 

Hopefully, I can share pictures and details from the camping/off-roading trip soon. 

People matter to me, so that is why I have made the time to update the prayer requests even though I don't have time to share pictures. Please be patient.

I was very spoiled on Mother's Day! I even had a special breakfast (and lunch) waiting for me today. My hunky husband and my seven wonders went "all-out" treating me like a queen! 

Prayers for Another Neighbor

Fun-loving Eddie has been fighting inoperable lung cancer for a long while. The treatments are no longer effective, so he has decided to stop. Please keep him and our dear Rose in prayer.

Congratulations Carter!

 I am a little late, but Congratulations Carter on your graduation from JMU!

Please pray for Timmy

Timmy came home on Saturday, May 8. 

At the end of April, his aid thought Timmy was looking off. George inquired about how Timmy was feeling. Timmy said he wasn't feeling the best. George didn't want to leave him all night, so he called 911 and had him transported to the hospital by ambulance. Once there, Timmy received four breathing treatments. In the middle of the last one, Timmy slipped into a coma. He was very close to death. He woke up 12 hours later. I believe the MD has progressed and is now affecting Timmy's chest/lungs. Please keep praying for him.

May 4: Timmy is our neighbor who has Muscular Dystrophy and has to have help to get into his wheelchair every morning. He is an incredible man who goes hunting and fishing from his wheelchair. We consider him a part of our family. 

He sent me this message last night. Please keep him in prayer.

IN W R HOS. ALMOST DIED. 

WENT IN TO A COMA. STILL IN HOS. 

W.R. LOVE ALL. PRAY, TIMMY

(picts don't always load for some)