Prayers of Comfort and Peace for the family of Elder Burrows....

Our beloved neighbor and friend, Elder McKay Burrows, recently passed away while serving his mission in Romania.    We extend our love and prayers to his beloved family at this very difficult time.  The following is a statement from the family:

Statement from the Burrows family

Our beloved son and brother, McKay Choy Burrows, passed away Jan. 30, 2010, while faithfully serving a full-time mission for the Lord in the Romania Bucharest Mission. The cause of his death was a tragic accident, in which a natural gas leak in their apartment overcame McKay and his companion, who also died.

McKay passed from this life while fulfilling his life-long desire and commitment to serve a mission. He served in an exemplary manner, touching many lives for the better, including the people he taught, the members of the church in Romania, his companions, and his family and friends at home. He will return home with honor.

Although McKay was only 20 years old when he left us, he accomplished so much good during his life. He was an exceptional student, graduating with honors from Lone Peak High School. He attended BYU on a scholarship. He was a highly accomplished musician, and mastered the piano with a concert pianist's skill to the delight, admiration and appreciation of all who had the good fortune to listen to him play. He freely shared his talents with others and gave of himself for the benefit of those around him. He enjoyed and was grateful for his abilities in a wide variety of other activities, including football, basketball, soccer, volleyball, singing, guitar, writing, drawing and close relationships with many friends.

McKay is an important and loved member of a strong family, and a dear friend to many. We will miss -- but forever remember -- his bright mind, quick wit, empathetic approach, enthusiasm for life, and happy, engaging smile. We will remember McKay's faith, sincerity, obedience and dedication as a missionary, and we will rely on those same attributes in the coming weeks, months and years to sustain us as we dearly miss him.

We appreciate the many expressions of kindness and sympathy from family, friends and loved ones. We feel your love and support, and we thank you for them at this difficult time.

 

http://mormontimes.com/around_church/worldwide_church/?id=13124&utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=email&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+ldsInTheNews+%28Around+the+Church%29


ksl.com - Family and friends remember Utah missionary


Two LDS Missionaries Die In Romania

Self Reliance.....new page at LDS.org

"We become self-reliant," explains Julie Beck, president of the Church's organization for women, "through obtaining sufficient knowledge, education, and literacy; by managing money and resources wisely, being spiritually strong, preparing for emergencies and eventualities; and by having physical health and social and emotional well-being."

This is the opening quote from a new webpage about Self-Reliance located at http://www.lds.org/topic/self-reliance/index.html.

You will find quotes, resources, and specifics outlined by Elder Robert D Hales.  Learn more by going to the above link.

Provident Living Family Home Evening.

(Image courtsey of www.cosmeticsurgeon.co.uk)

I love the Visiting Teaching message for January which focuses on Self Reliance.  You are not surprised...are you?   I hope you are having good discussions with your sisters and encouraging each other to look at all of your/their needs (social-emotional, education, food storage, spiritual, etc).  January is a great time to take stock of what you have in these areas and make plans for what you may need to focus on for the upcoming year. 

I came across this Family Home Evening Lesson that you may want to consider entitled FHE: Provident Living (written by Shauna Gibby):  It comes from LDS Living Magazine and it even comes with a recipe for to make for the "treat" (which is Fry Bread....yum!).

"Security for our families comes from learning self-control ,[and] avoiding the excesses of this world."


Conference Talk:  For more information on this topic read "Being Temperate in All Things," by Kent D. Watson, Ensign, Nov 2009, 38-39.

Thought:  Security for our families comes from learning self-control, [and] avoiding the excesses of this world.

Kent D. Watson, "Being Temperate in All Things," Ensign, Nov 2009, 38-39.)


Song:  "When We're Helping We're Happy" Children's Songbook, p. 198.


Scripture:

But behold, I trust that ye are not in a state of so much unbelief as were your brethren; I trust that ye are not lifted up in the pride of your hearts; yea, I trust that ye have not set your hearts upon riches and the vain things of the world; yea, I trust that you do not worship idols, but that ye do worship the true and the living God, and that ye look forward for the remission of your sins, with an everlasting faith, which is to come. (Alma 7:6)

Lesson:

Ask family members to think of their earthly possessions and choose what they would most like to take with them when they die and why. Discuss the following:

What can we take with us when we leave this earth? (D&C 130:18-19.)

Since we can take knowledge and intelligence with us, what should we be doing?

Empty all the money in your wallet or purse onto the floor or table. Ask someone to read 1 Timothy 6:7, 9-12, 17-21 aloud and then ask:

Why is the "love of money" evil? (Verse 10.)

Share President Gordon B. Hinckley's statement: "It is the love of money and the love of those things which money can buy which destroys us. We all need money to supply our needs. But it is the love of it which hurts us, which warps our values, which leads us away from spiritual things and fosters selfishness and greed." (Ensign, May 1997, 49.)

How can we stay focused on the Lord rather than on temptations, snares, and foolish, hurtful lusts which can accompany wealth? (See verses 11-12, 17-19; see Matthew 6:19-21.)

Whom does Paul say we can trust? (Verse 17.)

What does Paul suggest we be rich in? (Verse 18; see D&C 42:29-31.)

How does providing for the poor build a "good foundation . . . on eternal life"?

What should we do with our riches?

Make a plan to contribute to Church humanitarian efforts or in some other specific way bless those who are less fortunate.

(Dennis H. Leavitt and Richard O. Christensen, Scripture Study for Latter-day Saint Families: The New Testament, [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 2006], p. 263.)

Story:

(Bishop John H. Vandenberg)

My wife and I were married during the time of the depression. I had purchased a new car, and it was all paid for. I was employed; my salary was $125 per month. I remember bringing home my first check. My wife said, "It isn't very much, is it?" I replied, "No, but it will do." She said, "Yes, if we budget it." So we sat down and budgeted: $12.50 for tithing; $1.00 for fast offerings; $45 for rent; $40 for food, and additional amounts for utilities and clothing; and $10 in the savings account, for we presumed and anticipated that a child would come eventually. When we added it all up, the $125 was all allocated. I said to my wife, "It's all gone, and there isn't any left to buy gasoline for my car. What am I going to do?" She replied, "Sorry. I guess you'll have to walk."

So I walked back and forth to work. And the car stayed right in the garage for several months until I got a raise and could spare a little to buy gasoline. We've always managed to get along on my income, and I don't think we have ever had an unhappy moment over it, but rather, much satisfaction in coping with the situation. It isn't so much what you earn, but how you manage.

(Leon R. Hartshorn, Outstanding Stories by General Authorities, vol. 2, [Salt Lake City: Deseret Book, 1971].)

Activity:

Use the simple alphabet/number code (a=1, b=2, c=3, d=4, etc.) to decipher the following message from the Prophet.

23, 5, 21, 18, 7, 5, 25, 15, 21, 20, 15, 2, 5, 13, 15, 4, 5, 19, 20, 9, 14, 25, 15, 21, 18, 5, 24, 16, 5, 14, 4, 4, 9, 20, 21, 18, 5, 19

Answer: We urge you to be modest in your expenditures (see The First Presidency, All Is Safely Gathered In: Family Finances, Feb. 2007, 1)

Refreshment

Alice's Navajo Fry Bread

4 cups flour
2 teaspoons baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups warm water
Shortening for deep-frying

In a large bowl, combine flour, baking powder, and salt. Add water in small amounts, mixing between each addition. Knead dough till soft but not sticky. Cover and let stand 15 minutes. Pull off egg-sized balls and roll each into a round about 1/4 inch thick. Prick with fork 3 or 4 times to allow dough to puff up when it is fried. Deep-fry in hot fat in heavy skillet. Serve spread with jam, or sprinkled with powdered sugar or salt. Makes 16 to 20 rounds.

(Paula Julander and Joanne Milner, Utah State Fare, [Salt Lake City: Shadow Mountain, 1995], p. 37.)

It's week #4 in January, and the focus this week is.....Shampoo

(image courtesy of http://www.best-health-beauty.us/). 

I hope you got all stocked up on Toilet paper last week....and added a little extra for those family members who have a creative outlet:)

In regard to this week's item, it can be purchased at Club stores, Big Box stores, Drug Stores, Grocery Stores, and from Professional Salon's.  There are so many to choose from, that hopefully you can stock up on the brand you prefer.

Having a daughter who just passed her final examinations to become a Cosmetologist, I have heard plenty about all the things I have been doing wrong....lifelong! So, she takes pity on me and cuts, styles, and now has purchased Shampoo etc for me so that I can "do it right". I actually had someone ask me who did my hair, and I told her. She went to the school that my daughter attended, and liked the experience so much....that she is now attending the school. Isn't life is funny.

One thing that my daughter taught me is that if you use Professional Salon products, you actually use less per use, so the container lasts longer. With that being the case, I thought about how much less storage space I would need if I stored a years supply. She also taught me about the benefits of Professional products for my particular hair type. After using them, I have found that my hair is not difficult to comb through after showering, and it seems to want to obey me when I style it.

Also, if I have bottles or smaller items (for hair etc), I have found that putting them into a plastic container allows me to stack more things on my shelves.  I really despise wasted space.

So, figure out what works the best for your.....and get it!

Finally, I found this video from Style network on how to wash your hair.....if that is of interest to you:)

Would you like to contribute to ....science?

Brigham Young University wants samples of vegetable oil from food storage



Vegetable oil is the latest staple of food storage to be tested by BYU Food Sciences.

The BYU Department of Nutrition, Dietetics & Food Sciences seeks samples of vegetable oil that has been in food storage for between six months and five years.

 

Christine Shearer, a graduate student in Food Science, is conducting a study under the supervision of professor Lynn V. Ogden about the how long vegetable oil can be kept in food storage before it should be replaced.

 

"When people store vegetable oil, it slowly goes through a chemical reaction until it becomes rancid," Sister Shearer said. "Most stuff is sold with an advertised shelf life of six months, but sometimes it tastes fine after three years. We want to find out which kinds of vegetable oil last the longest for food storage."

BYU Food Sciences has previously conducted similar studies on 12 different kinds of foodstuffs such as beans and rice that are commonly associated with food storage.


Residents of Utah or southern Idaho willing to provide samples of their food-storage vegetable oil may contact Ann Saunders at Ann_Saunders@byu.edu or 801-422-3912.

Now go see what you have....and instead of tossing it out....

donate it to ....science!

Haiti Relief...........

We have Brothers and Sisters in Haiti who need our assistance desperately. You may notice that I have included a widget to the right that helps you not only see what is happening, but also gives you an opportunity to donate.  The size of the widget is so large, that I cannot fully display it. However, you can easily find the link to give your generous contributions. 

Pray for this work and the Haitian people. The situation there is dire.

News from Alison's Pantry...........

I received a flyer in the mail today.....that saddens me a bit. Here are excerpts from the flyer.

"You are a valued customer of Alison's Pantry and I am writing to inform you of a change in the way we will be handling your business. Changes are often difficult..... Our storefront will be closing on or near February 26, 2010."

"Costs and resources associated with running the store have caused us to rethink our retail outlet and required us to look for other options to serve you...."

"A local representative will be given your name to contact for future delivery of catalogs..."

"The only change for you is your pick up location will change...."

Now, having shared that, they are looking for Utah County Representatives to serve our area. If you are interested, the number is (801) 796-6411

I am sad to see this convenient and local option change as I loved being able to stop in whenever I had a need. This will be a big change for our area indeed.  I wish this local business my best.

Okay.....I have let my children influence me too much on this one.....

As you may know, the target item this week is Toilet Paper. And, some of you may know that I have teenagers and young adults in my family. They are just big kids....who love to have fun.

I have to admit, when I was looking for a tasteful video to post, I did run across this one. Now...I understand that "certain people" really want to try this. So, after talking with a family member who thought you might find this a bit funny, I am cautiously including it.

Remember when I said you needed extra TP if you had Teenagers? Well, the same reason holds for the Airlines....because people get mischievous.

It's week #3 in January....the target item is....Toilet Paper

(image courtesy of i46.photobucket.com)

Well, here we are at week #3 in January 2010. My thanks go out to those of you to emailed and called about last week's item, which was Honey. There are so many viewpoints on such a simple item. It is so nice that we can choose the type that we are most comfortable with.

The target item for this week, (and I never thought I would post a picture of this...ever) is.........Toilet Paper. I do not plan to do any sort of group purchase for this item as it is readily available in small and large packages. I loved the suggestion by Sister Diane L. She uses a Sharpie and dates the items after she purchases them from the grocery store. This way, she knows how long each item lasts. This would be a good system for your supply of Toilet paper.

You may also was to include extra if you have mischievous teenagers......they get a bit creative with this item as you know.

Lastly, here is how it is made. This is a video short from the Discovery Channel.

It's a matter of ......Slow Cooking

(Image courgesy of http://www.omniswam.com/)

The weather outside....can be frightful.  But you can make your kitchen smell so delightful!  This is the time of year to really use your slow cooker or crock pot.  The recipes ususally do not take a great deal of time and are often "price friendly".

Here are a couple of links with recipe ideas for you to try:

http://crockpot365.blogspot.com/

http://southernfood.about.com/library/crock/blcpidx.htm

http://www.a-crock-cook.com/

http://www.familycrockpotrecipes.com/

Put something wonderful into your slow cooker today!  I often use mine on long days or Sundays.  When used on Sunday, the meal is just about ready to be served when we return home from church.

Enjoy

Water.....is a critical......life-giving.....NEED!

(Image courtesty of http://www.mynewsletterbuilder.com/)

Late Tuesday evening the Country of Haiti suffered a severe blow.  The situation there is grave.  One of the most needed and inaccessible items is....water.  They need everything, but it seems such a shame that many who survived this natural disaster may not survive as they do not have access to this simple liquid.

Please consider making a donation to the Red Cross (http://www.redcross.org/) and click on the "DONATE" button.  Also, you can automatically donate $10.00 by texting 90999 on your cell phone.

Now, after doing the above......GO LOOK AT YOUR WATER STORAGE!!!  See what you have, determine what you need.  Do you have water in your 72 hour kits?  Do you have 72 hour kits?  Do you have water in your vehicles?

Consider obtaining a water purifier. Imagine what parents could do for their children in a disaster with a water purifier.  If you have a purifier....do you have extra cartridges?  Do you know how to use it?

Finally, learn how to store water.    See the information from www.providentliving.org/  Click on "Family Home Storage" and then click on "Drinking Water".:

Take that quick inventory.  Be prepared for all sorts of emergencies by having your water storage.  Show your family that you care about them by having the life-sustaining of water on hand.

Finally, once you have water in a big drum, have you ever thought of how you were going to get it out? This instructional video is very helpful.

If you think you can't make bread.......

I struggle with baking in general....and I realize most of it is due to my impatience...and lack of time. However, I don't think that even I could mess this up.  Watch!

It's a matter of.....Honey

(Image courtesy of sushizombie.files.wordpress.com)

Since our topic is Honey this week, let's learn more about it. Some folks are curious how to store honey....

is there anything special that has to be done?

What type of shelf-life does it have, etc?

• Containers: Glass is preferred, however Stainless Steele and Food Grade Plastic are also recommended. Honey reportedly can absorb particles from non-food grade plastic or metals, so the afore-mentioned materials are best. Also, metal can oxidize honey.

• Temperature: Honey should be stored at room temperature and not in a refrigerated environment. Store between 50-70 degrees Fahrenheit

• Light: Store in a dark location, consider wrapping a clear container in a bag to avoid light. Honey can deteriorate when exposed to light for long periods of time.

• Honey can absorb orders and moisture

• Crystallization: Honey can turn cloudy or crystallize. Raw Honey will crystallize faster than pasteurized honey. To use, either place the glass jar and warm in a pan of hot water on the stove, or place the non-metallic container in the microwave to melt. In the microwave, heat for 20-30 seconds at a time to avoid boiling the honey.

• Equivalents:  One pound of honey is about 1-1/3 cups. A 3-pound container holds about 4 cups honey.

• Using in recipes: Some recipes use honey as the main sweetener; others use sugar. Honey can be used to replace some of the sugar called for in many recipes. Use these guidelines for cakes and cookies. Cakes: One-half of the sugar in a cake recipe can be replaced with honey. For every 1 cup of sugar replaced, leave out 1/4 cup of liquid. Cookies: The amount of sugar that can be replaced with honey varies with the kind of cookie being made. For brownies, half of the sugar can be replaced. For fruit bars, honey can replace two-thirds of the sugar called for in the recipe. Only one-third of the sugar can be replaced in gingersnaps. When making either cakes or cookies, first mix the honey with the fat or the liquid. Then mix it thoroughly with the other ingredients. If this is not done, a soggy layer will form on the top of the baked product.

• Baking:  Products made with honey brown faster than foods made with other sweeteners. So when you bake products made with honey, set the oven temperature 25 degrees Fahrenheit lower than what is indicated in the recipe.

• Infants:  Honey and products made with honey must not be fed to infants younger than one year, because honey can cause "infant botulism." Spores of the bacteria that cause botulism are present in honey. When these spores get into the intestinal tract of an infant, they grow and produce a toxin that results in serious illness and death. Remember that these spores in honey are not destroyed by regular cooking or baking methods.

 
(Sources:  http://www.armadillopeppers.com/how-to-store-honey.html, http://homecooking.about.com/od/foodstorage/a/honeystorage.htm, http://www.slashfood.com/2008/08/30/tip-of-the-day-store-honey-appropriately/. http://extension.missouri.edu/publications/DisplayPub.aspx?P=GH1120)

If you ever wonder what the impact of your donations are....

Having worked in the field of Rehabilitation for over 25 years, I personally have witnessed the joy and the feeling of independence that come through therapy, and all the equipment that is available. However, this video is sweet and innocent. What a life-changing event this particularly day was for those featured in this video. It makes me want to do more with what I have to ensure that many more of these "days" happen in all sorts of venues for others around the world.

It's Week #2 of January.....Featured item......Honey

(Image courtesy ofsarvasoap.com)

It's the second week in January and the focus item to stock up on this week is Honey.

I have tried to get several different sources to give you choices about where you can purchase some. I would like to think that I have enough time to go to all the stores to get the pricing...but the reality is that I just don't. I also looked on line to find pricing at some of our local stores....some had it, others require you to go into the store even though they show that they have the item in stock. Still others actually answered their phones...some were helpful....others transferred my call into oblivion and played the "pass the buck" game as to who was really supposed to help me. So, if you don't see specific information listed below on a store that you might frequent....just know that I really tried!

• Kohlers: Please see the email I sent to our ward for pricing.
• Alpine Food Storage : 5 lbs for $14.00, 10 lbs for $25.00, and 45 lbs for $100.00. Please note that their pricing includes taxes. If you want to purchase from them, contact me and I can help get your order to them.
• Good Earth Natural Foods: 5 lbs Raw Honey for $36.29, 2lbs & 10 oz for $26.79.
• Alison's Pantry: Item #: 1307, Size: 4 lb. tub for $12.69. Item #: 1309, Size: 42 lb. pail for $122.39.
• Emergency Essentials: #JC1-FS-H110, 9 lbs for $25.95 (on sale this month....it usually cost over $30.00)
• Macey's (Case lot pricing): Kroger Honey 16 oz - $2.40 each (case of 12 - $28.80)
• Neighborhood Beekeeping (a Highland company) Raw Honey http://www.neighborhoodbeekeeping.com/  2 lbs:  $7.95, 1 Gallon $44.95, 4 Gallonw $167.95

If you wonder what you could do with Honey, there are many uses. We all know about putting it on bread and toast, but it can be used in cooking in a variety of ways.

Get some today!

It's a matter of "Gummies"....

Yes.....we are continuing our discussion of ...... Jello...or Gelatin depending upon what you would like to call it. I actually made "Gummy candy" and even made my version of "Fruit Snacks" with real fruit. I had the peanut gallery (here in my home) critique all versions and the following is what I ended up with.

Now, why would you make them when you can buy them? Because they are easy, yummy, and use this week's featured item....Jello. Here is how you do it!

Here, you see a 3 oz box if Gelatin, a half-a-cup of water, Non-flavored Gelatin (Knox brand), and several candy molds (that I already had).

Pour the Gelatin Powder into a bowl.

Add the Non-flavored Gelatin (FYI, there is about 3/4 of a tsp of powder per packet)

Mix the two powders together.

Pour in the water.

Mix very well and try to incorporate all the grains into the liquid.

Place in the microwave on high for 40-60 seconds. Remove from the microwave and stir well. Make sure there are no grains on the bottom of the bowl.

Pour into molds.

Place mold(s) into the freezer for 5 minutes.

I got a little smarter as I went...I separated the molds with canning rings so that I didn't have to take up so much surface area in my freezer.

Remove the molds from the freezer and pull the snacks from the molds.

Things I learned in the process:

1. My first attempt to make them came out very, very, very chewy. I felt like I was trying to eat a tire. So, with a little tweaking, the final recipes are below.
2. Clean your bowl and utensils as soon as you put the molds into the freezer.....the mixture sets up in the bowl as well.
3. You will spill some...so just count on it. You will most likely spill on your molds and on your counters. Get the counters cleaned as soon as you clean the bowl. I did not try to put the bowl in the dishwasher to clean it, but I may try it in the future.
4. Experiment with them to find the "right" way for you.

"The Little Red Hen's Gummy Snacks"

• 2 1/4 to 3 Tablespoons of Unflavored Gelatin (3-4 packages depending upon desired consistency)
• 1/2 Cup water or fruit juice
• (1) 3 oz (or 1/2 Cup) flavored Gelatin
• Optional: 2 Tablespoons sugar or powdered drink mix (with sugar added).

Mix powders together. Add the liquid and stir well. Place in the microwave and cook for 40-60 seconds on high ensuring that all "grains" are liquefied. Pour quickly into molds. Place in the freezer for 5 minutes. Remove from the freezer and pull from molds. If the candy is too sticky, you can drop the candies in a baggie of powdered sugar and coat them.
The other recipe that I experimented with was the following:
"The Little Red Hen's Fruity Snacks"

• 2 1/4 Tablespoons of Unflavored Gelatin
• 1/2 Cup pureed fruit (I used applesauce)
• 1/2 Cup flavored Gelatin or (1) 3 oz package
• Optional: 2 Tablespoons of sugar or powdered drink mix with sugar.

Mix powders together. Add the Fruit and stir well. Place in the microwave and cook for 40-60 seconds on high ensuring that all "grains" are liquefied. Pour quickly into molds. Place in the freezer for 5 minutes. Remove from the freezer and pull from molds. If the candy is too sticky, you can drop the candies in a baggie of powdered sugar and coat them.

What a neat treat to make that is very, very simple to do. Your children will enjoy the process and the treat. Try it soon!

It's a matter of ......Winter Gardening.

We have a guest blogger today....Brother Devirl B. The following photos and words are from him.

I recall his photos from last year of his fresh Spinach that he was growing...in the dead of winter! I love this idea.....from a self-sufficiency standpoint. Get ready to be amazed!

The "Experimentation Plantation"

In a four foot square area we planted 78 garlic cloves in March and harvested them the end of June. We then planted parsnips and thinned them to 24 plants the first part of August. In late October we dug two and put four inches of straw around the remaining plants leaving the green tops showing. I then threw a couple inches of dirt on top of the straw for more insulation. Parsnips and carrots should not be dug until after the first hard freeze because the cold turns the starch to sugar. This is probably nature's way to protect the roots.

#1 - The "winter" lettuce patch was a four by six foot area beyond the parsnips which we also planted the first of July. This was way too much lettuce for two families during August through October. Toward the end of October I put plastic over the wire dome to see how long I could keep the lettuce going. It was good through most of November.

#2 - On 21 December we dug two more parsnips. Even though they are quite large, they are still tender with good flavor.

#3 - The wire mesh marks the start of the carrot row.

#4 - The carrots were planted the first of July and were "winterized" the same way as the parsnips. They are 1 1/2 inches in diameter at the top. They are not as tender as "baby" carrots but the flavor is quite good.

#5 - The produce washed up well and the tops that were buried were still green. The tomatoes are "Long Keepers" and have been ripening in the garage since October. The tomatoes taste as good as the ones from the store but of course they fall way short of vine ripe ones. The golf ball just appeared in the garden and is included in the picture for size comparison.

Other thoughts:

With an established orchard and flower garden, we decided this year to grow tomatoes and learn about preserving food. We got a dehydrator, a steamer and a canning stove. We learned a lot!

If you steam 100 pounds of grapes too long, you get 27 quarts of slightly bitter grape juice. If you let carrots go to seed, you will have carrots everywhere; flower beds, walk ways, along the fence.

If you plant California poppies in Highland, they will overrun a flower garden in three months.

Potatoes accidentally dropped on the ground grow better than the ones carefully planted in potato bags. We also learned that 47 tomato plants is 40 too many. My wife sprouted five varieties from seed and I got to plant them all. I had tomato plantations in Alpine, Highland and Orem. The ugly purple Cherokee tomatoes taste the best and we are still eating “fresh” Long Keepers.

If you put jell-o on apple slices before you dry them, the dehydrated apples taste great.

Cantaloupe picked when the stem comes off with just a little push of the thumb is “vine ripe” and wonderful. And by the way, nectarines are easier to can and taste better than peaches.

Final thought - If food is the only reason you are growing a garden, just buy it and spend the extra money and time on a vacation.

I love honesty! However, if I needed something green, and everything was gone from my storage....and the store was not an option.....I would get out my snowmobile and go over to Brother D's home and barter if it happened this winter!

Creative recipes for our week's focus product....Jello

(Image courtesy of scienceblogs.com)

Yes, I can hear you....."are you going to talk about Jello...again". Oh Yes, because I want to offer you some suggestions:

My Mom sent me the following, that has several recipes for the use of Jello. Certainly, you will find many salad recipes, but also recipes for Popsicles, cheese cakes, and other unexpected uses. I even have recipes that call for Jello when I make Jam.

Note that some of these sites speak of 'Jello' gelatin, and 'Jello' pudding. Consider having both. Another reason to consider this food is that it can be a treat. If you needed to live solely on your storage, how welcome would a variety of snacks be to you and your family?

Check out the following:

• http://brands.kraftfoods.com/jello/recipes/
• http://www.jellorecipes.net/Jello-Recipes/index.php
• http://molly-mormon.com/recipes-every-jello-recipe-you-could-imagine/

You may also want to consider including Knox-Gelatin, which is non-flavored. Several recipes call for it as well. Remember this one from a few years ago?

KNOX BLOX - FINGER SIZE GELATIN SNACK

4 envelopes Knox unflavored gelatin
3 pkg. (3 oz. each) flavored gelatin
4 c. boiling water
Into large bowl combine Knox unflavored gelatin and flavored. Add boiling water and stir until dissolved. Pour into 13 x 9 inch pan. Chill to firm. Cut into 100 (1 inch) squares. (courtesy of Cooks.com)

More News from the Lindon Home Storage Center....big changes!

Hello everyone, I recently received this email from the "Cannery" and you can see that things are changing in the operations. Please read the details below. Make a commitment to visit the cannery and get needed supplies for your family.

Lindon Home Storage Center Information

940 W Center St. Lindon, Utah 84042 Phone: (801) 785-0997


Normal Days and Hours of Operation
Tuesdays & Thursdays F 9:00 AM to 7:00PM.
Saturdays F 9:00 AM to 1:00PM.

*Note: Hours are subject to change. Current days and hours of operation will be recorded on our answering machine and posted outside the LHSC entrance door.

BULK ITEMS* and Prepackaged Canned* items may be purchased “off-the-shelf.”

Dry-Pack Canning* is WALK-IN ONLY — First-Come-First-Serve!
· No pre-scheduled appointments will be made.
· Each group of 1 to 3 Processing Patrons will be assigned a work-station.

Your Dry-Pack Canning Shift: Within our hours of operation, you may process Dry-Pack products which are sold at the Home Storage Center for as long as you choose.
NOTE: Patron orders should be submitted no later than ½ hour before closing time.

ORDERING: You may bring a copy of the Home Storage Center Order Form found at http://providentliving.org or simply complete the order form at the Home Storage Center.

Product prices are found on the order form. There is no sales tax on home storage products.
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Dry-Pack Canning Patrons will be given processing instructions by our Home Storage Center Missionaries. Processing steps include:
Completing your order and validating it with a LHSC staff member.
Preparing for dry-pack canning in our Pre-Processing Area.
When directed, taking pre-processed items (cans, boxes and products) to assigned work-station.
Having completed products and quantities validated by LHSC missionaries.
Obtaining any bulk products included in your order.
Paying for validated order at the LHSC Office. (Note: Cash or personal check only.)

Available Products* to CAN and/or order in BULK are:
Black Beans
Pinto Beans
White Beans
Nonfat Dry Milk
Rice
Sugar
Red Wheat
White Wheat
Apple Slices
Carrots (dehydrated)
Macaroni
Quick Oats
Regular Oats
Dry Onions
Potato Flakes
Spaghetti
Refried Beans
Cocoa Mix, Hot
White Flour
Fruit Drink Mix

Limited Life — BULK ONLY Items*:
· Pancake Mix ( four – 4 lb. Bags per box)
· Potato Pearls (twelve – 28 oz. Mylar pouches per box)

*NO ORDER LIMITS… Products are based on Availability. First-Come-First Serve

Prepackaged Items (6/ #10 cans per box): l Starter Kit (2ea. red wheat; 2ea. white rice, 1 ea. pinto beans & 1 ea. quick rolled oats); l Pinto Beans; l Quick Oats; l White Rice l Red Wheat.

It's a great idea.....really!!!!

(Image courtesy of cobornsdelivers.files.wordpress.com)

What do Gilligan's Island, Maryann, and the Idaho Potato have in common? Well, watch this video and see a great idea for peeling potatoes! I promise...you are going to love it!

January Week #1 item.....Jello

As we start this journey to build our Long-Term Food Storage supplies, the first thing on the list (and is the target item for this week) is Jello. This counts as one of your sugar products. It can be used in a variety of ways:

• Dessert
• Salads
• Gigglers
• Sprinkle on fruit that you are dehydrating for color and flavor
• Mix with applesauce and make fruit leather.

As I search the net looking for pricing, it appears that a 3 oz box of Jello, or a competitors product ranging in price from $.89 to $3.00 a box. However, I want to bring something to your attention...2 local retailers....Allison's Pantry & Macey's.
Allison's Pantry offers Jello Brand Gelatin in 24 oz bags (that yield 34/4 oz servings) for the great price of $2.89 a bag. It is Item #: 1920.
Allison's Pantry is located at 580 West State St, Pleasant Grove, Ut 84062. Phone: (801) 796-6411
Also, I have seen these bags of Jello (on the bottom shelf) at Macey's. They are located at 931 West State Road, Pleasant Grove, UT 84062-2102. Phone: (801) 796-6601
You can save a lot of money by purchasing it this way. So, go online to fine them!

Bookmarks.....to help you on a weekly basis

Recently, our Relief Society Presidency distributed our new manuals for 2010. They even included a schedule of the lessons! We have been asked to not only read our lessons in a timely manner, but also to read our scriptures. I don't know about you....but I always need a bookmark to "keep my place" in the book.

So, I will provide one for you....each month. There is a reason for the monthly bookmark, it is to help you add to your Long Term Food Storage staples.

Each month, your bookmark will have suggested items to keep you focused when you shop on a weekly basis. Also, I will include quotes to help motivate you to be prepared.

Here is a preview of the January bookmark:

Each week when you do your shopping, include the food storage item for the week. By the end of the year, you will have increased your long term food supply.


“If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear” D & C 38: 30

Week 1: Jello, Week 2: Honey, Week 3: Toilet Paper, Week 4: Shampoo

How much do you need? The following gives specific amounts for some things based upon the recommendations of our Church Leaders, the rest you calculate based upon menu's you compile and the rate you family uses the toiletries etc.

• Grains: wheat, flour, rice, corn, oatmeal, pasta, etc 300 lbs


• Dairy: Powdered milk, canned milk, cheese,etc 75 lbs


• Sugars: sugar, honey, jam, jello, corn syrup, etc 60 lbs


• Salt: 5 lbs


• Fats: Shortening, Vegetable Oil etc 20 lbs


• Legumes: Dried Soybeans, pinto beans, navy bean, red beans, split peas or lentils, canned beans, peanut butter canned nuts: 60 lbs.


• Water (2 week supply): 14 gallons


• Meats: canned, frozen, dehydrated


• Vegetables and fruits: canned, frozen, dehydrated


• Multiple Vitamins (especially A & C)


• Medical: First Aid Kits and Feminine supplies


• Misc: Baking powder & soda, Yeast, Spices


• Laundry and cleaning: Toilet paper, hand soap, shampoo, toothpaste, laundry soap, dish soap


• Fuel & Light: Wood-paper logs, matches, candles, flashlights, batteries


• Expanded Storage: Juices, Tomato sauce, stews, soups, chili vinegar, trash bags, paper towels.

Most everything on the list is included in the week by week purchase. If you follow the suggested purchases, you have a good shot of having several months, if not a years supply of food and toiletries when January 2011 rolls around.

"Bookmark it!"

Make Food Storage a Priority this year......

Happy New Year!

I am hoping you are starting the new year off with thoughts of being better prepared and ways to protect and bless your family. The following article comes from the Mormon Times and is written by one of my favorite "Food Storage Guru's", Leslie Probert. Listen to her message.....it applies to......you.

Make food storage a priority this year


By Leslie Probert (Published: 2010-01-01 00:16:17)

Food storage is proving to be a lifesaver in these difficult economic times when people know how to use it.

A mother of five children confided recently, "My husband has had half his usual work this last year, causing a significant reduction in income. Because we had our food storage we have had complete peace of mind. I knew I would be able to feed our family.

"This friend has been diligent over the years in purchasing food storage.

She followed a calendar, with food storage items divided among the months, according to when they would most likely be on sale.

Each time she went to the store, she purchased as much as she could of the items of the month. If she found a sale on something else, she bought it instead, returning to the calendar the next visit to the store.

At the end of each year, she started the calendar again.

Her diligence over the years allowed her to acquire a significant store of food, which is blessing her family now.

My friend not only stored food, but regularly tried food storage recipes made entirely from stored foods, including the basics.

Her family already had favorites from food storage recipes before this time of reduced income. Food storage recipes were even requested for birthday meals. She stored what was needed to make delicious recipes. Her diligence has paid off.

To teach their children life lessons, she and her husband have been very open about their financial circumstances.

Having little income, 85 percent of her cooking is food storage meals.

Their children have said they don't notice any difference in things at home, other than mom's baking bread more. Life has stayed very normal.

She has found having a variety of recipes keeps meals interesting and delicious for her family. An added bonus is that she has lost weight by eating whole grains.

Tired from a long day before Christmas, this mother realized, at 5:15 p.m., nothing was started for dinner at 6 p.m.

With the help of a son, who chose Beef and Green Chile Soup by 5:25 p.m., the recipe was assembled by 5:30 p.m. and ready to eat by 6 p.m."That's what I love about food storage recipes. They are SO fast to prepare," she said.

This friend has found homemade bread comforts her family. When her husband has felt discouraged that he cannot find more work, she has taken him to their food storage room, reminding him that he has provided well for their family.

A father of another family, having four children, lost his job in April of last year. The following month he confided, "I am expecting help from Father in heaven in finding a new job because I have been obedient and have my food storage.

"Following church counsel to store a year's supply of food brought increased faith, as he petitioned the Lord for help. In the Lord's good time, he was successful in finding a great job. Having their food storage, and good recipes to make with it, also helped this family until new employment came.

In your time of plenty is the time to prepare for a time of need.

Let us not be as early church members, who were chastened by the Lord, "In the day of their peace they esteemed lightly my counsel ..." (Doctrine and Covenants 101:8).

Storing food is an inspired way to sustain families in lean times, blessing those who have faith to follow such counsel.

Plan this year to make food storage a priority. Make it a goal to see how much you can accomplish by the end of this year. Begin experimenting with recipes. Claim the blessings that come from storing food and knowing how to use it.