SURVIVAL SCOOP

4 STEPS TO SAFE DRINKING WATER

2011-07-14T20:08:00.000-07:00

Humans and animals must have water to survive. Securing a safe source of water takes time. Consider how to best invest your resources well ahead of a crisis point. When standard clean water sources are unavailable, here are some ways you can help secure safe drinking water.

1. SELECTION
Choose the cleanest water you can find. Look for a water supply that does not have any obvious debris floating in it. Check to be sure dead animals, sewage, or other bits of organic matter are not easily seen in your water source. Locate a source that hasn't been contaminated by chemical spills.

Some people believe that exposure to various water sources will give you immunity to disease-carrying microbes, making it possible for you to safely drink unfiltered water while traveling. The reality is that some microbes could wreak havoc with your health and cause severe physical damage. There is some truth that limited exposure can build immunity. It is also true that no one wants to become ill unnecessarily. Avoid chemically contaminated water sources as these hazards cannot always be filtered from the water. Don't take risks if you don't have to do so.

2. FILTRATION
Filter the water you collect. There are many ways that water can be contaminated. Not all contaminants are visible. Select a method of filtration to further insure the safety of your drinking water.

With water filtration, there are a range of options from bad to better and best. No single option is practical in every application. Everything from the temperature, sunlight, terrain, individual skill levels and materials on hand will play a role in the safety of the water you consume. Preparation and information is the key to keeping your water supply a source of health rather than a hazard.

3. DISINFECT
Disinfect the filtered water to kill any remaining disease carrying organisms. Once you’ve selected and filtered your water, you will want to heat it to the point of pasteurization. This is about 150 degrees Fahrenheit, several degrees below the boiling point.

Using pasteurization helps to avoid loss of water vapor by boiling. Pasteurization can be done using sunlight by leaving a sealed transparent container of water in direct sunshine from two to four hours. The time depends on the heat of the sun and the surface on which the container is resting.

Without a thermometer, it may be easier to heat the water to boiling to insure it’s disinfected. Use a lid or covered container to avoid loss due to steam. Distilling water by boiling and drinking the condensed steam is the safest way to consume clean water from questionable sources. Proper water distillation insures that the contaminants are left in the original vessel while only pure water moves to the catch vessel.

4. STORAGE
Use safe storage methods. Good drinking water can easily become contaminated by exposing it to a tainted container. If plastic containers have been used for toxic chemicals, it is possible that the plastic could release some of those chemicals back into your carefully cleaned water. Wash glass containers carefully before re-use. Take the time to cover containers to protect the contents from contamination.

LEAN TIMES PREPARATION

2011-06-21T08:17:00.000-07:00

A shopping spree to purchase thousands of dollars in pre-packaged survival solutions may not be the best option for families that are already dealing with a tight budget. A better choice is to invest in tools and information. Granted, you could easily overspend here as well. However, getting a good back to basics education and accumulating tools can be done frugally if you are wise in your selections.

Tools are one thing that you can invest in and begin to use now. You wouldn't want to purchase a needed tool and simply store it. For a tool to be useful, it must be used skillfully. Select tools that can be used in everyday situations and become familiar with them. Borrowing and renting tools can give you some hands-on experience and help you narrow the field to those you find best suit your needs. Look for a tool that can be utilized for more than one purpose. A single-purpose tool can take up too much space or resources required for maintenance relative to its usefulness.

Whether you are deciding on a tool for heat, shelter, food or clothing, ask yourself if the tool can be used for at least 3 tasks. If not, this may not be a good investment. Take the time to look at your expenditures as investments. What will be the the return down the road? An example of this may be that learning to tend plants and animals today will feed you tomorrow and make you familiar with the ways you can enrich your environment. Taking the time to learn how to sharpen and maintain a tool today will make you familiar with skills that will make it easier to maintain and repair other tools in the future.

Regarding food preparation, look for tools that are simple and help reduce the expenditure of time and energy. An example of this may be a grain mill. This can be a hefty investment, however it pays for itself by allowing you to make an assortment of breads and pastas for a minimal expense. Knowing how to process a grain into food gives you more options when traveling or trying to make ends meet in lean times. Having whole grain on hand allows you the option of sprouting, grinding, or cultivating the seed. A bag of milled flour cannot offer you this.

Convenience foods do save time. Take that time to learn some basic chemistry and become familiar with how ingredients can be blended to create certain flavors. Using various spices, and herbal blends allows you to add nutrients and taste to otherwise bland foods. Becoming familiar with the actual foods that go into a finished dish gives you valuable experience and confidence when preparing whole foods. During food shortages, those who understand these things are better able to create filling and nourishing meals with what little is on hand.

In lean times, knowing how to use available resources and having the skills required to prepare food from basic ingredients will serve you and your family well.

USEFUL TRAVEL CLOTHING QUALITIES

2011-05-21T19:15:00.000-07:00

Survival scenarios rarely arrive with prior notice. Most people will be improvising and dealing with materials on hand. However, there are some circumstances that arrive with advanced notice allowing you the opportunity to select carefully what items you pack. Selecting the right garments can give you a great advantage in your ability to regulate your body temperature, protect yourself from the elements, or avoid standing out in a crowd. When selecting what to take, consider carefully your fabric choices.

It’s impossible to state with certainty which fabrics will work best in every climate and every situation. However, research reveals some qualities that are consistently desirable.

NEUTRAL COLORS
The clothing you pack needs to be versatile enough to wear well in a variety of locations. Neutral colors coordinate well with each other, allowing you to pack fewer items which can be mixed and matched. Brown, black and khaki colors work especially well for pants, shorts and skirts. If you are traveling to a warm location avoid dark colors for your outerwear as these colors can make you uncomfortably hot.

COMFORT
It would seem that other considerations would have greater importance. Comfort is key however when selecting garments which give you greatest mobility. Look for clothing that feels good against your skin allowing for ease of movement. What may be a pinch or an itch now could turn into a blister later. Listen to your body and ignore the mirror when testing garments for comfort.

QUICK DRYING
Again and again the importance of having quick drying material is recommended by experts. Fabrics that can be washed and dried completely are given high ratings for desirability. This quality prevents trace amounts of moisture from being trapped in seams where bacteria can grow. This is of great importance when trying to avoid fungal infections on your skin and avoiding mold growth in your pack.

LIGHT WEIGHT
Another point on which experts agree is that garments should be very light weight. For comfort in cooler temperatures, layering ls recommended so that the body temperature could be regulated by removing or adding layers. Making sure that layers are not heavy means you will use less energy carrying those items. Remember that bulky items can often weigh less than more compact ones.

MOISTURE WICKING AND BREATHABILITY
Clothing should be made of materials that breathe well and wick moisture away from your skin. This serves a dual purpose. Moving moisture away from the skin means that you will more easily regulate your core body temperature. Additionally it means that your skin isn’t as susceptible to opportunistic inflammation and blisters that occur when friction is applied to wet skin.

WRINKLE FREE
This isn’t necessarily an essential quality. However, if you are traveling light, it often means that you will be packing garments into a small space. Knowing that you can arrive at your destination and not have tell-tale creases running through your clothing is an added bonus, especially if you are trying to be inconspicuous and not draw attention to yourself. This particular feature, however, is a subjective quality and not one that should be given highest priority. Many times, hanging a freshly washed garment to dry will eliminate most wrinkles. Another hint is to select garments that are made of fabrics with a pattern which will mask wrinkles.

When preparing an emergency pack or a bug out bag, take these qualities into consideration. You’ll be glad to have clothing on hand that will travel well and hold up under a variety of conditions.

The following 5 minute video -- Selecting Clothes to Pack -- discusses many of these considerations when packing.

BACK PAIN SURVIVAL GUIDE

2011-05-05T03:01:00.000-07:00

When your back muscles are spasming in pain, it's difficult to think. The pain can become so severe, that it leaves you nauseous. In some cases, the event can go on for days, leaving a sufferer feeling as though he is recovering from a bad case of the flu.

These are my best recommendations for stopping back pain in its tracks.

FIRST
Don't ignore your pain! As soon as you start hurting, acknowledge that something is wrong and take steps to remedy the situation. Ignoring a painful back, or trying to 'work through the pain,' can lead to further injury and greater pain. This leads to more down time which will keep you away from the things you most enjoy doing or tasks that require your attention.

Use alternating cold and hot water. This gives immediate relief. Use your shower and work on it for at least 15 minutes, starting with cold and ending with cold. The longer you can keep this up, the better. This settles things down right away.

This article offers a more detailed description of this method: Remedy for Inflammatory Pain
This article explains why cold and hot applications help relieve pain: Treatment for Swollen Feet and Hands

NEXT
Keep hydrated! Drink lots of WATER! Water helps flush your system of toxins that have accumulated in your painful muscles and joints. It's easy to forget to drink when you are hurting. You may even avoihttp://www.blogger.com/img/blank.gifd fluids thinking that it's so painful to move, you don't want a full bladder with which to contend. However, water is your friend in the journey to stop an aching back. Dehydration can even make the pain worse by leading to constipation, which can actually cause additional back pain. To determine how much water you should be drinking, read this post: Healthy Hydration -- How Much Water Should You Drink?

Add ginger to your water. Drinking ginger tea can help ease the pain. If you can't find this, a well made ginger ale can help. Ginger root helps reduce spasms and pain. Read more about ginger's properties here.
Benefits of Ginger Root

FOLLOW THROUGH
After you've reduced the pain, use a cabbage leaf wrap overnight. Seriously, put a cabbage leaf on the area and go to bed. I know it sounds strange, but you'll be amazed by how well it works. One man could barely walk with knee pain before he was willing to give this a try. His tired stiff knee felt like new after being wrapped in cabbage. Here's an article on how to use cabbage leaves: Cabbage Leaves Relieve Pain and Swelling

An additional thing you can do that can really help relieve the pain is to take a good quality cod liver oil. We like to purchase Nature's Answer, Liquid Norwegian Cod Liver Oil, Natural Lemon-Lime Flavor from iHerb as my husband doesn't care for those that taste of fish. Fish oil is a natural anti-inflammatory. Read your labels and use care in your selection. When hurting, we simply take a couple of tablespoons and repeat every 2 hours or so until the pain subsides. This works well for other inflammatory conditions as well, including things like mild allergic reactions.

DISCLAIMER: As always, use your own judgment and common sense when applying these remedies. These are methods that have worked in my own home and for others. This article presents ideas and information designed to enrich the reader. This is not offered in lieu of sound medical advice. The opinions and ideas expressed are fallible and that of the author. Readers are encouraged to be well-informed and draw their own conclusions.

REASONS TO USE A SMALL PACK

2011-04-28T02:25:00.000-07:00

Articles and books on survival regularly offer lists of items should be packed for emergency travel. The overwhelming majority recommend that you pack light. There are good reasons for having few items to carry when you are on the move.

You will have to keep your pack secure. This is more difficult to do if you are encumbered with a large bag. It’s good to be strong enough to heft a good bit of weight, but if your strength is used to carry your pack, you won’t have much left to protect yourself or keep track of your possessions. Additionally, a large, heavy pack is a signal to others that you are on the move. It makes you less anonymous. This can create some difficulties.

A large pack will make it difficult for you to maneuver into and out of tight spaces. If you need to catch a ride or take public transportation, you’ll need extra space for your bag. Not every Good Samaritan has a large vehicle. You’ll not be able to take advantage of two-wheeled conveyances. A smaller pack enables you to avoid storing it in a trunk or a locker. Buses will require you to place a large pack on the roof or in the cargo compartment where you can’t keep an eye on it. You can keep a small bag on your lap and avoid extra fees for a seat to hold an oversized backpack.

If you need something out of a large pack, you may find yourself having to unpack and repack it to get the desired item. The larger your pack, the more cumbersome this process becomes. This can be dangerous if you are trying to get to your medical kit. It’s just a lot easier to have to rearrange fewer and lighter items.

A smaller pack gives you the freedom and flexibility to decide which route is best for you rather than which route you can manage with your large bag. Moderate terrain can become impassable if you must manage it with a heavy pack. Any terrain is easier to traverse with a lighter pack. Rather than use up strength and stamina carrying unnecessary weight, use it to choose the journey rather than let your pack determine your route.

Take the time to notice people outdoors who are moving with freedom. The ones that participate in the most activities have the lightest and smallest packs. Learn how to make use of multiple use items as a way to lighten your load. Information weighs nothing, and it can make a vast difference in the tools you will be able to utilize.

Sean with Silver Fox Bushcraft takes the time in this clip to show what he carries in his pack for hiking and woodland exploration.

David Wendell with Bushcraft on Fire shows how you can create your own kit without a retailed pack.

INTERNET SURVIVAL: PROTECTING YOUR PRIVACY

2011-04-07T10:18:00.000-07:00

Privacy is something that you don't realize you need until you've lost it. Here are some ways to maintain your privacy and relative safety on the internet.

You may be sharing more than just a few cute photos when you post an image on the internet. GPS enabled phones can capture images that can accurately reveal your location. All it takes is a few right clicks of a mouse for someone to copy the coordinates, paste them into Google maps and then map the shortest route to view that loved one or prized possession in person. With social network status lines, you could be revealing your CURRENT location and inviting untold numbers of strangers to join you. It’s important to be aware of this even when well-meaning family members are taking pictures of your children.

This video shows you how to disable the GPS tag on your phone photos.

This video covers some of the other dangers to revealing your location to strangers.

It is best if you don’t make public your full legal name, street address, date of birth, telephone number, or Social Security number.

If asked for your name, use initials. Scramble the letters of your name, use nicknames etc. This precaution will also give you a head's-up if you receive spam. If someone addresses you by anything other than your actual name, you will know that this is not someone you know personally.

Never make your street address public. If it is required, offer only what is necessary. Some sites only require a state or region. Adjust your security settings to keep this information private. Only make online purchases from trusted vendors as you will have to give them your address for shipping purposes.

Keep your birth date private. Sites that require your birth date often do so in order to insure you are an adult. If their security is breached, this is a key piece of personal information that someone could use to guess your social security number. Check your security settings and be sure this information is private. Consider using an online birth date that includes your birth year and an alternative month and date. Or you could use your actual month and date with the year previous or following your actual birth year. This will give the host an accurate gauge of your age without opening you up to unnecessary snooping.

Don’t reveal your home telephone number. Refrain from offering this and keep security settings private if it is included in an online profile. If someone discovers your telephone number and knows your full name and birth date, it is possible for them to use these items to add unauthorized charges to your bill.

Your social security number shouldn’t be given out unless it is absolutely necessary and to a verified financial or medical institution that you called. Always ask if you can offer an alternative number. Decline to give your number to someone that calls you.

Protect portable electronic devices with passwords. Use upper and lower case letters, numbers, and symbols. Don’t tell your device to remember your user name and password. Don’t store financial information on portable devices. Always log off when you’re finished. If your laptop or phone is lost, it’s harder for someone to access your personal information or clean out your accounts.

Internet safety is basically taking the time to cultivate good habits. Posting something on the internet is just like putting something on a very public bulletin board. The time you take now to develop these habits will protect you and your family later.

Bonus tool for readers with children:
Here’s one of my favorite tools for school aged children that want to do internet research. Make Quintura for Kids the home page on your internet browser. This search engine filters out undesirable "adult" content and reviews approved sites regularly. We’ve used it successfully at our house and recommend it to other households with children. It provides a safe way for kids to do searches without awful content and images surprising them. Try Quintura for Kids out for yourself at quinturakids.com.

Note: Quintura won’t prevent users from going to inappropriate internet addresses that they know how to get to. You’ll need another type of filtering service for that application. Check out this article for some additional suggestions for user accountability helps.

THE PRICE OF PARALYZING FEAR

2011-04-01T04:05:00.001-07:00

Strong emotions in charged circumstances bring about visceral responses that are not planned or calculated. These strong emotions are dominant and can cancel out intellectual responses. This is true whether you are dealing with a child delighted with a long-desired gift, a young lady surprised with a marriage proposal, an athlete celebrating a victory, or a person who finds himself in need of rescue.

An experienced teacher will tell you that all learning stops the moment a student becomes overly emotional. A distraught person can’t be expected to make considered logical choices. Whether someone is dancing in delight, or wailing in dismay, unchecked emotions make it impossible for that person to respond in a calculated, intellectual way.

I’ve recently viewed footage of people who have had their cars towed to an impound lot. These individuals must navigate a confusing maze of legal and financial requirements before taking possession of their vehicle. The circumstances are varied, but one thing is common: these people are under stress.

For those who are able to calm themselves, setting aside feelings of victimization and anger, the results are fairly straightforward. They determine what is required for the release of the vehicle, go about getting their affairs and documents in order, and then return to claim their car.

For those unable to calm themselves, the process becomes more tedious and lengthy. They direct their frustration at the workers in the office. Aggressive body language, raised voices and accusations fly back and forth as workers try to tell the car owner what he or she will need. Often, the person only hears one or two instructions before emotionally shutting down. They leave and return several times as they collect one or two of the documents they need each time. The stress level of the worker starts to rise as he or she responds to the upset customer. This leads to mistakes and omitted information on the worker’s part.

Fear impairs mental function in the form of confusion, forgetfulness, and the inability to concentrate. In this state, a person can be numbed by shock, begin to panic, or lash out in anger. When seconds count, a fearful person may cause others in his party to lose their life. It may be necessary to leave him behind for the sake of the group’s safety.

I find that the most recommendations for survival safety focus on two concepts: faith and preparation. The more important of the two is faith. Why? In survival circumstances, the truth you know about God and about man will have a powerful impact on your behavior. A person of faith won’t waste as much time second-guessing and railing against the circumstances.

Faith is the opposite of fear. Faith moves us towards life. Faith reminds us of the One in whom our trust is placed. Faith tells us that we are not alone.

Once your fear response calms, your preparation will kick in. If you’ve practiced thinking on your feet, making decisions on the fly, and dealing with various terrains, you will find yourself well-served by your time invested in these pursuits. However, if you are not able reign in your emotions, all of that preparation may likely do you no good.

I found an account of an interview of survivors of the 2004 Indonesian tsunami. The reporter stated that it occurred to her that everyone sitting in that room lived because they ran to the mountains. Those that did not move immediately died. It reminded me of the scripture that reads, “And let him that is on the housetop not go down into the house, neither enter therein, to take any thing out of his house: And let him that is in the field not turn back again for to take up his garment” (Mark 13:15,16).

Fear used properly can be a lifesaver. As a master, fear can kill. Learn truth. Build your faith and be prepared. When circumstances seem dire, these steps will equip you to respond.

DEBI PEARL'S 2ND BOOK ON CHILD SAFETY: SARAH SUE LEARNS TO YELL AND TELL

2011-02-25T10:24:00.000-08:00

A children's book about how to stay safe from predators isn't the first choice on most parent's shopping list. We want our children to remain innocent and not live in fear. Isn't part of protecting them shielding them from information about predators?

At first, it sounds reasonable to avoid unpleasant topics with our children. Then I recall how we learned fun rhymes and songs to reinforce safety lessons when I was a child. I can remember being taught how to cross a street LONG before I was ever allowed to cross by myself. Someone decided that knowing how to stop, drop and roll if my clothing caught fire was vital to my well-being . . . . just in case. We weren't allowed to play with matches, but a big talking bear reminded us that only WE could prevent forest fires. We didn't even live near a forest!

That's why I'm so glad to see a children's book that does this same thing. SARA SUE LEARNS TO YELL AND TELL promotes a positive message to children that there are things they can do to stay safe. Without being graphic or going into lurid details, this book encourages children that are approached to immediately alert someone. Debi Pearl's latest children's book gives little ones confidence that God is on their side and there IS something they can do. It's comforting to tell children that there IS a way to respond and they CAN tell someone who will listen.

SARA SUE LEARNS TO YELL AND TELL is a book that reinforces safety for children growing up in today's world. Decades ago, the dangers were different. Today, human trafficking and child predators are common. These hunters hide in plain sight, and they know how to target vulnerable children.

Debi's book helps me remind my children of the ways they can avoid looking like an easy target. Reading SARA SUE with them opens up a dialogue so that they know it's safe to come to me and talk about these issues. The rhyming verse and colorful images are both appealing and entertaining for children. The helps in the back of the book are an encouragement to parents that we needn't be afraid, just prepared.

I'm very grateful that this grandmother took the time to not just teach these lessons to her own family, but that she has reached out to help keep other children safe as well.

Click the button to order:

SARA SUE LEARNS TO YELL AND TELL can be a lifeline to children that don't know how to respond to threats. Senator Scott Brown describes what happened to him as a child.

DEBRIS HUT BASICS

2011-01-11T10:21:00.000-08:00

A debris hut is a structure constructed of found materials that can include leaf matter, branches, grasses and even snow. The insulated walls shield a person from cold and weather, serving as a combination sleeping bag and shelter. Using natural resources, a debris hut can be assembled in nearly any location. These can be used as an emergency shelter or a temporary shelter while you work to secure a more permanent structure.

While advanced skills are not required, experience and a good work ethic can be invaluable. A good training exercise is to construct a model from small sticks to get a good idea of what will be required for a full scale shelter. Another good idea is to build a full sized model using a time limit. In a survival situation, you may be limited by how much daylight is left in your day. Having a time limit will help you prioritize and work efficiently. Spending the night in your creation will quickly tell you which elements were lacking such as location, size, insulation, waterproofing, door construction, or bedding.

When deciding where to locate your debris hut, it is best to select an area that is a safe distance away from water sources. These could flood or dampen your shelter. Check the wind direction and position the entrance away from the prevailing wind. An open area that receives optimum sunlight surrounded by a stand of trees acting as a wind break is ideal. Keep the entrance small to help retain heat. A small fire at the entrance of your shelter will help keep you dry and warm.

When constructing a debris hut, smaller is better. This saves on construction time, materials needed and the smaller space is easier for you to warm with only body heat. Make it large enough for you to wiggle into feet first. To size the structure, lie on the ground and mark the outline of your body.

It is good to gather more material than you think you will need as the walls should be as thick as your arm’s length. Straight tree branches with leaves removed can be pounded into the ground to form your basic frame. A common method is to construct an A-frame for the entrance. This can be lashed together to form a support for the ridge pole and additional branches can be propped against the ridge pole to form the ribbing of the frame. On top of this, the debris is piled and woven to insulate and waterproof the shelter. If you have some thick plastic sheeting, use it to help waterproof your hut.

Every survival circumstance has unpredictable variables. Within these variables the human body needs to be protected from a loss of warmth that can lead to death. Knowing how to make a debris hut can truly be a lifesaver. Make a game of it and see what sort of structure you are able to construct from the things you find in your own backyard. Take the time to visit a wilderness area near your home and practice working as a group to build a structure. Once you’ve slept in your creation, you will know if there are things that need to be reworked. These fun activities can give you invaluable experience in the event of an emergency.

Dave Canterbury demonstrates how to construct a type of debris hut called a spider shelter in this short video.

The Wendell family demonstrates how a woman was able to construct her own debris shelter and overnight comfortably with her children in the structure.

GUIDELINES FOR VOLCANO SAFETY

2010-12-09T11:28:00.000-08:00

It is best for people that live near a volcano to make plans for an eruption. Learn the alert levels issued by your local emergency management office and know what they mean. Listen for emergency updates and instructions, making note of information about hazards you may encounter. Prepare for a possible evacuation. Make additional preparations to shelter in place.

A volcanic eruption can alter the landscape in ways that are difficult to imagine. Near the site, there can be loss of life, and destruction of structures and property. The resulting ash cloud can cause airports to shut down and turn daylight to darkness. Earthquakes, flash floods, wildfires, thunderstorms and tsunamis can all occur as the result of a volcanic eruption.

Memorize the recommended evacuation routes. Maps marked with this route should be kept in each car and another in your home. Select maps with detailed geographical markings of the area surrounding your location. In the United States, hazard zone maps can be secured from the U.S. Geological Survey that will show probable lava flow paths and give time estimates on travel to certain locations along with their relative safety.

Prepare a getaway kit. Include safety goggles and dust masks or bandannas to protect your eyes and lungs from falling ash. Include long sleeved shirts, long pants and sturdy footwear. Keep a well-stocked first aid kit, blankets and warm clothing in a convenient location. With this, keep a battery-powered radio and fresh batteries so that you can still monitor alerts if your power goes out.

Unless you need to evacuate, stay indoors. Bring pets inside and move livestock into shelters. Close all vents, doors and windows for protection from ash and burning cinders. Put damp towels under doorways. Cover downspouts, machinery, electronic devices and computers to protect them from ash that can disable and clog machinery and pipes.

Listen for creaking noises from your roof. Ash will fall silently and can cause the roof to collapse under its weight. Remember to wear a mask and goggles if you go outside to clear ash off of the roof and gutters. Remove your clothing before re-entering the house rather than bring ash inside where it can irritate the airways of everyone indoors.

Keep at least three days worth of water and food in your home. An eruption can contaminate water supplies and you may have to rely upon what you have stored. If you hear that an eruption is imminent, fill all sinks, tubs and containers with water. Rely upon your stored water until your regular source is deemed safe.

If you must drive, use your headlights, proceed slowly at about 35 mph and watch your gauges for signs of an overheating engine. Ash can clog your radiator and other moving parts of an engine. Ash will also make roads slippery. When parked, cover your vehicle with a tarp and place it under a shelter to protect it from the falling ash.

If you must evacuate, turn electricity and gas off at the mains before you leave. Head for higher ground and try to stay upwind so that ash and gases are blown away from you. Volcanoes’ greatest dangers (lava flows, mudflows, poison gases and flooding) all move towards low-lying areas. An elevated area gives you greater protection than any attempt to outdistance the danger.

Afterwards, don’t return home until authorities say it’s safe to re-enter the area. Seek medical treatment for any injuries. The wait for medical treatment will be shorter for those farther away from the disaster site. When cleaning up property after an eruption, dampen the ash before sweeping or shoveling the buildup. This keeps the slippery substance from getting tossed back into the air.

Remember, in the event of an eruption, you may have only moments to react. Being prepared to move quickly and decisively can mean the difference between life and death.

This 4 minute video shows the extent of the destruction
caused by the eruption of Mount St. Helens.

This 17 second video shows Mount St. Helens
erupting in slow motion.

The entire side of the mountain slides to one side.

DANGERS DURING A VOLCANO

2010-11-23T19:06:00.000-08:00

A volcano is a mountain that opens downward to a reservoir of molten rock. When pressure from gases and melted rock becomes strong enough, the mountain erupts in an explosion that spews gases and rocks through the opening. Volcanic blasts can devastate miles of landscape within hours or minutes. Here are some of the things to watch for during a volcanic eruption.

An ASH CLOUD can turn day to night and prevent you from being able to recognize landmarks, coating everything it touches with a dark powder. It is made up of bits of glass and exploded rocks made under extreme temperatures. This corrosive substance does not dissolve and can damage mucus membranes, irritating skin and eyes. Infants and those with breathing problems are most at risk of injury from this. Cover your eyes, nose and mouth.

FALLING ROCKS (pyroclastics) can land miles away from the volcano. Place a ridge line between yourself and the volcano or hold something (backpack, box, trash can lid, your arms etc.) over your head for protection.

FIRES occur wherever burning debris lands onto tinder, spreading quickly.

FLOODING & MUDSLIDES kill more people than the initial blast. Even miles away, these are a danger as normal waterways are clogged or changed by the lava flow, ash and debris.

HEAT is also released with temperatures high enough to burn human flesh. Move away from the blast area to avoid this.

LAVA FLOWS are super-heated molten liquid. Nothing can stop them. Don’t attempt to cross them even if they appear cooled. This could be a thin crust that will give away under your weight. Never try to cross hot spots, mud holes or geysers as the ground surrounding them can be too thin to keep you out of the molten lava below.

POISON GAS and volcanic smog (vog) is the result of sulfur dioxide and other pollutants reacting with oxygen, moisture and sunlight. It can cause lung damage, breathing difficulties, headaches and death. Use a respirator, mask or moist cloth and get away from the area as quickly as possible. DON’T KNEEL OR CRAWL!!! The most dangerous gases often accumulate near the ground.

STRONG WINDS follow an eruption and can be felt miles away from the blast, knocking over trees and structures.

If you live in the vicinity of a volcano, NOW is the time to develop a plan to deal with events in case of an eruption.

Many Indonesians died in the aftermath
of Mount Merapi's eruptions
during October & November 2010.

DVD REVIEW: "NAKED INTO THE WILDERNESS"

2010-11-10T08:39:00.000-08:00

Readers may be interested in seeing an example of how rustic skills can serve you. NAKED INTO THE WILDERNESS gives a good overview of how this is possible. It’s one thing to know how to start a fire or build a shelter, it’s quite another to know how to have a shelter, fire and food without ready-made tools. There’s another level of skill required to know how to utilize the strengths of each individual within a group, take advantage of found materials and manage the variables that weather and terrain can toss your way.

NAKED INTO THE WILDERNESS is a video that demonstrates how primitive skills can be applied in their context. To emphasize the value of each technique, the participants venture into a remote location without iron tools or containers.

Part one takes you into the Kansas woods as you observe skills in several categories. Watch as the individual participants form into a cohesive group, securing food, shelter and the tools they need to accomplish each task.

While stone tools make for a slower work pace, you'll see that a LOT can be accomplished with very few basic materials. Watching this gave me a real appreciation for some skills that modern culture seems to have left behind including:
● basket making
● pottery
● fire-starting
● cooking over an open fire,
● stone knapping to make knives, axes and arrowheads
● cordage
● shelter construction
● foraging
● trapping
● and more

The second part of the video shows another group camp that utilized modern bedrolls and pre-made primitive gear. This footage has some scenes that show how "down time" is used by members of the group to make improvements to the camp. Additionally, there are scenes that show some lighthearted moments. Day 4 contains some silliness as a couple of the guys decide to try swimming in frigid waters. If you'd prefer to pass on some back nudity, skip that section.

The DVD is divided into topical chapter headings so that you will be able to review applicable sections. If you are practicing individual skills, it helps to see them demonstrated in a real life setting -- although this is not a detailed instructional video. You'll also get a pretty good idea of how to prioritize tasks and divide the labor among individuals. NAKED INTO THE WILDERNESS leaves you with an appreciation for how a small tribe or community with few materials and some knowledge can greatly enhance the life of all its members when they are willing to work together.

This is a valuable addition to your library and will work well as a gift if you are interested in these skills for personal use or for demonstration purposes. The production value is not up to the polished standards of a professionally produced work. This is not a video on how to be rescued when lost. Rather, you’ll be invited to enjoy the home movies of experts in primitive skills and gain from their insights. In spite of surface noise distractions, dead air and the occasional “is that thing on?”, there’s a lot to glean from this footage. NAKED INTO THE WILDERNESS takes you from theory to implementation of skills you’ll need to survive in primitive conditions.

Available at Bulk Herb Store.

Click on the image to order.

FASHION SAFETY FOR WOMEN TRAVELERS

2010-10-23T18:58:00.000-07:00

A woman’s travelling attire affects her safety and her social interactions. When a woman presents herself in a way that suggests she isn’t carrying valuables and won’t easily be subdued, she can reduce the chances that she will be accosted. It is worth your time and effort to avoid looking like someone that might invite unwelcomed advances.

NO FLASHY JEWELRY
Wearing expensive jewelry when traveling can make you an attractive target. You could be injured if a thief were to grab a chain from your wrist or neck. A diamond ring may attract unwanted attention. If you MUST wear jewelry, choose something pretty that clearly has no value and turn your ring so that only the band shows.

FOOTWEAR
Choose comfortable, flat shoes that make it easy for you to run. You need shoes that protect your feet and allow you to move quickly. Select comfort and practicality over looks.

RESPECT FOR LOCAL SENSIBILITIES
Be aware of local customs when you travel. You are a guest where ever you go. Dress like one. The locals have had generations to develop a way of dressing that suits the climate and the culture. Learn from their example. Find out what is appropriate apparel for the places you are visiting.

Be modest, casual and comfortable. Consider how you might appear to a predator. Women wearing tight clothing, revealing tops and shorts can invite scrutiny from undesirable characters, lewd comments and attempts to look down shirts. Scantily clad women can also be offensive to residents. When it comes to safety, how you look is more important than your intent.

COVER UP
It isn't necessary for a female traveler to cover her head in most places, but there are places where having a covered head means you will get help easier should you need it. When in doubt cover your head. Lay aside opinions about appropriate dress and carry a bandana, scarf or crushable hat. A willingness to cover can convey respect, prevent prying eyes, and help avoid unwanted attention.

In some communities, bare arms and legs are only acceptable during swimming. A lightweight long-sleeved shirt, jacket or sweater can be wrapped around your waist. It will be available for sun protection or warmth and is easily removed when not needed. If you find yourself in a place where bare arms aren’t permitted, you’ll have a quick and easy slip-on solution.

A scarf shows its versatility in this regard. A scarf can be used as a head covering, a shawl or a shrug. If it’s long enough, it can cover your shoulders and your head. A silk scarf can even double as a cover for your motel pillow. In a pinch, it can be folded and used as a sack to carry items.

THINK BEFORE YOU GO
Dressing for safe travel won’t cost you a lot of money, but the time you invest in selecting your garments carefully can be priceless. Instead of drawing unwanted attention, remember that it’s more important to your loved ones that you arrive safely.

In the following clips, Kirsten and Liz discuss how women can dress for safety when traveling. Bulk Herb Store’s Shoshanna demonstrates many ways to accessorize with a scarf.

FIVE POINTS FOR PERSONAL SAFETY

2010-09-30T18:30:00.000-07:00

Personal safety has a lot to do with not taking unnecessary risks. While there’s no guarantee that you will never be in an emergency situation, you can take steps to discourage attackers and make rescue more likely. This is an abbreviated list of some things you can do to stay a little safer as you move from place to place.

PREPARATION
• Leave written details of your travel plans with two trusted friends who will notify searchers if you deviate from your itinerary.
• Carry a noisemaker like an electronic device, personal alarm or a whistle. If you have one, use the car alarm button on your key chain.
• Carry a heavy duty flashlight, pepper spray, or even a walking stick. Check laws in your area. In the event of an attack, be prepared to use your choice of device or it could be used against you.

POCKETS
• Avoid carrying a purse or wallet. These are targeted by thieves.
• Use several front pockets for valuables to avoid total loss if robbed.
• Keep emergency money in unexpected places such as shoes, bra, money belt, etc.
• Carry purse or backpack on arm opposite the roadway to make it more difficult for a motorist or bike rider to grab.

PEOPLE
• Walk with confidence keeping your head up, eyes at nose level, alert and with purpose. Attackers look for easy, fearful targets.
• Don’t engage in conflicts that can escalate into physical contact. Criminals sometimes work in packs and try to manipulate someone with a quick temper into striking first. Later, they claim that their assault on your person was self-defense. When you have the option, walk away rather than fight.
• Don’t travel alone. Have at least one other person for a walking partner.
• Treat people with respect. Arrogant strutting alienates people that could help you.
• Be willing to learn. Ask questions, seek advice from locals.
• Express gratitude. Say thank you.
• Don’t wear expensive clothing and jewelry unless necessary.
• Avoid drawing attention to breasts, belly or thighs by wearing garments that expose them. Wise clothing choices keep you from being overly attractive to predators and give you freedom to access more locations that may have a dress code. Collared shirts (not sleeveless) and long pants are a good choice for men.

PLACES
• Be aware of your surroundings. Dark lonely places are best avoided. Stay in well lit, populated areas. This is a safer route, even if it takes a bit longer.
• If you see criminal activity occurring, leave the area. Some authorities arrest everyone and ask questions later.
• Public transportation and crowded areas require heightened awareness. These places allow people to jostle and bump into you – perfect opportunities for a thief.
• Don’t tune out. Wearing a headset cuts you off from your surroundings, making it easy for an attacker to sneak up on you. When walking alone, don’t listen to electronic devices.

PROTECTION
• Learn some simple, easily performed defense tactics. You don't need to know how to beat an attacker, only how to buy yourself enough time to get away.
• MAKE NOISE if assaulted. Attackers hate attention-making noise. Don't underestimate the power of one person who may come to your aid if they hear you.
• Practice yelling at top volume. Tell what is happening, give lots of details and describe your attacker while yelling “Call 911!” Repeat these as often as possible as a command. Witnesses don’t always know what to do and are more likely to respond to instructions than to pleas for help. Your assailants may be so stunned to hear you describe them that they run away.

These short videos below feature Captain Steve Pearl
who elaborates on more safety measures that anyone can employ.

MAGNESIUM FIRE STARTER STICKS

2010-09-05T13:20:00.000-07:00

Magnesium fire starter sticks can help you get a fire going, even in wet conditions. The shavings burn hotter than 1,000°F. This tool is small enough to be kept on a key chain and weighs less than 2 ounces. Similar motor skills as those required to strike a match are all that the user will need to get a spark. Magnesium fire starters respond well to a light touch and finesse rather than blunt force. If the first effort fails, enough magnesium remains on the stick for a few hundred more tries. For these reasons, I think it is an ideal tool for women and children as well as men.

There are three basic components to a magnesium fire starter stick: magnesium, flint and carbon steel. The large, light grey portion is the magnesium. The narrow dark cylinder embedded in one side of the magnesium is the flint rod. The third part of the tool is a separate piece of carbon steel that resembles the blade of a jig saw.

To get a fire started, use the toothed edge of your saw to peel some shavings onto the finest fibers in your tinder nest. Try not to gouge chunks out of the bar. The thinner the shavings are, the easier they are to ignite. Work in an area protected from gusts of wind as these shavings are feather light. If using a knife, utilize the back edge so that you don’t dull the blade of an important tool.

Some instructions recommend creating a dime-sized pile of shavings, but with a well constructed tinder nest, you’ll likely need less. A pile of shavings equal to the size of a pencil eraser may be enough. I recommend that you start with the smaller size and add more shavings if necessary. In this way, you are able to extend the life of your tool.

Hold the magnesium starter in your less dominant hand with the dark flint bar turned upward. Hold the saw blade in your dominant hand, pinching the flat of it between your thumb and forefinger. The narrow edge of the blade will extend just beyond your fingers. Run the short side of the carbon tool across the flint in a downward stroke towards your tinder nest and magnesium shavings. You should immediately see sparks. If they don’t immediately catch, move your hands closer to the magnesium shavings so that there is a better chance of ignition. Hesitate long enough between strikes to check your tinder for a flame.

Another way to coax a spark is to hold the jig blade steady and pull the flint towards your body as you scrape it across the blade, directing the sparks into your tinder bundle. Experiment with both methods to see which is most comfortable and effective for you.
Neither shaving the magnesium nor striking the flint will require you to etch deeply into your tool. If you aren’t having good success and notice that there are deep gouges or an edge that’s worn flat, try a lighter touch.

CAUTION:
Don’t risk holding the tinder nest in your hands when striking a spark with magnesium. It burns so hot that a flaming piece of magnesium could easily burn through human skin all the way to the bone. Instead, allow the magnesium shavings to flare and catch the tinder. THEN you can hold the nest and gently blow, feeding the flame vital oxygen.

Remember, the adrenaline rush of urgent circumstances can decrease fine motor skills, so take the time to get familiar with your fire stick before there is an emergency. Magnesium fire starter sticks can be found at most outdoor retailers for $2 or less. Purchase two of them and practice with one until you are comfortable with it. This small investment of time and money has the potential to save your life.

Here’s a video demonstration of how to start fire using a carbon steel knife with a magnesium fire starter. I don’t recommend gouging at the magnesium in this way, but the process is forgiving and worked for him.

HOW TO BUILD A TINDER NEST

2010-08-28T15:39:00.000-07:00

Other names for tinder nests are tinder bundles or bird’s nests. Your tinder nest will be used to coax a spark or ember into flame. It maximizes your chances of success in building a fire. Once the nest is burning it is used to start a larger fire.

To construct a tinder nest, select dry and flammable materials. A variety of items can be used from clothes dryer lint, fuzz from socks and sweaters, to foraged materials. Many outdoor enthusiasts carry waterproof containers filled with cotton balls dipped in petroleum jelly for this purpose. Found tinder can include dry grass, cattail fluff, cottonwood down, leaves, thin layers of tree bark, moss, wood shavings, brown leaf litter, dropped pine needles and more. A found bird’s nest will work well also.

Dry tinder will break easily when bent or crushed. If the exterior feels dry, but it gives rather than snaps when bent, the material isn’t truly dry. If the ground is damp, search out materials that are found resting on top of bushes or limbs. These items will be drier than ground litter because they have been exposed to the sun and air.

Place damp tinder inside your jacket, but not next to your skin. By the time you are ready to start a fire later in the day, the tinder will have been dried somewhat by your body heat.

Shredding the tinder creates additional surface area that will more easily catch flame. Materials that are fuzzy are ideal for feeding a spark. Gather the tinder on a bandanna or other cloth. Grab a length of tinder in both hands and move your fists in a bicycle pedaling motion. Work over the entire length of the tinder. The tinder will soften and become pliable. Bits and fine dust will fall down from your hands and be caught on the bandana.

Take some of the coarse pieces of prepared tinder and create a loose over hand knot with a diameter of about four inches.

Stuff the remaining tinder into the knot’s loop. Keep stuffing the nest until it is dense. It must be able to prevent the coal from falling through the fibers and out of the nest and it must provide enough fodder to keep the spark from fizzling out before a flame starts.

Collect the dust that has fallen into your bandanna and place it in the center of the nest. It will help if you first make a small hollow or depression in the center of the nest to contain the dust. As you pick up the dust you will notice that the finest particles fall back down onto the bandanna. This will mean that you'll be packing finer and finer dust into the nest’s depression until the finest dust will be on the top, just where you'll place the spark or ember.

Once your nest is assembled, keep it in a protected area where it won’t be bumped or blown around by the wind. Then assemble the fuel for your fire and prepare to strike a spark.

SIGNS OF DEHYDRATION -- WHY YOU NEED WATER

2010-08-17T13:07:00.001-07:00

The human body can live for approximately 3 days without water, but this doesn’t mean it will be functioning at full capacity. Dehydration is the condition that exists when your body begins to lose more water than you drink. The body looses water primarily through perspiration, respiration and elimination of waste. Long before you feel thirsty, you can actually begin to dehydrate. Even slight dehydration will impair your health.

Diuretics such as alcohol, beer, coffee, tea and caffeine increase the amount of water lost in these natural processes. Drinking salt water increases the amount of salt in your body and forces fluids from your organs in order to dilute it. This diminishes your body’s fluids at a greater rate than if you hadn’t drank anything.

Without the proper amount of water, metabolic processes slow. The water content of your blood decreases and it thickens to the consistency of sauce. This increases the strain on your circulatory system. Blood pressure can fall to dangerously low levels. Blood clots may form. Normal kidney function can be impaired.

Fatigue and thirst occur if the water content of your body drops by only 2%. Other symptoms include things like lethargy, headaches, dizziness, muscle cramps, loss of appetite, mental fuzziness and depression. Any difficulty functioning emotionally or physically is made more severe by mild dehydration.

As dehydration becomes severe, your mouth will feel quite dry. This is known as "cotton mouth," and you may notice a crease forming on your tongue. The frequency and volume of urination will decrease. Your urine will take on a deep yellow or orange color and have a strong odor. As dehydration progresses, your eyes will become dry and sunken; your heart rate will increase.

In severe cases urination will stop completely. Lethargy will increase, along with irritability, and you will become nauseated. Vomiting will dehydrate you even more. Once your condition becomes severe with water levels dropping by more than 10%, a failure to rehydrate is fatal.

The time to prevent dehydration is before you are threatened with a lack of proper drinking water. Take the time to learn how to filter AND disinfect found water sources with basic tools. Become skilled in locating natural water sources. It’s not a good idea be left trying to remember untested skills and information while you are suffering from mental confusion brought on by dehydration. Not only is it frustrating, bickering among dehydrated group members with poor thinking skills can be deadly. When you find yourself in survival situation, you’ll be very thankful you took the time to see to this basic need.

5 WAYS TO GET ALONG WITH DIFFICULT PEOPLE

2010-07-31T17:10:00.000-07:00

Some people are just easier to work with than others. In a survival situation, lives can depend upon successfully navigating a challenging relationship. These methods can help.

FIRST – REALIZE THAT YOU AREN’T THE ONLY PERSON WITH THIS PROBLEM.
Many difficulties arise when someone is convinced of his ‘chronic uniqueness.’ This is the belief that one’s history, circumstances, wants, needs, requirements and desires are so different that no one could possibly understand or be trusted to make decisions affecting him. Telling this person he is mistaken will place him on the defensive and cause more time-consuming conflict. Recognize this self-deception for what it is and avoid taking offense when you see it in others while guarding against it in your own thinking.

SECOND -- DON’T EXPECT OTHERS TO SOOTHE YOUR EMOTIONS.
Others shouldn’t have to listen to you whine. It sounds harsh, but lives could be at risk. Your companions don’t need to be reminded of your emotional turmoil at every opportunity. Your willingness to avoid complaining will add to your value as a team member. Save the details of your inner struggles for a journal. Communicate information as it is necessary. Endeavor to be an encourager. Conversing about the positive points of your circumstance is a way to redirect your thoughts while helping others.

A mural in the rotunda of Oregon's State Capitol
shows the Lewis and Clark Expedition
arriving at Celilo Falls on the Columbia River in 1805.

THIRD – ACCEPT YOUR RESPONSIBILITY IN THE MATTER.
If you habitually blame others for conflict, it places the group dynamic at risk. It ISN’T just the other person’s problem. Red flags that you are contributing to difficulties are if someone avoids your company, finds excuses for leaving the area when you arrive, or routinely discounts your input. If this is the case, here are a couple of steps that may help:

STEP ONE: Stop spreading the dirt.
When people discuss their difficulties with others, it is in your best interest to change the subject and not take part in such conversations. If your team member suspects you are speaking about him, it will cause a rift. This broken trust can lead to resentment that is displayed in actions and attitude. Your companion becomes just what you painted him to be by responding to your damaging words.

STEP TWO: Focus on strengths and abilities.
Look for opportunities to say something genuinely positive about your team member. Do this even if he is not within earshot. It helps YOU to take inventory of strengths and abilities rather than cataloging irritating traits. Refocus your thoughts when you find yourself falling into this habit. This will help you be less abrasive towards this person without having to put on a front.

FOURTH – DON’T OFFER PLATITUDES AND EXPECT A GOOD RESPONSE.
Many people think social niceties are essential for good group dynamics. A crumbling group dynamic isn’t helped when pleasantries are extended without underlying goodwill. Nice manners ALONE aren’t enough to smooth over serious fractures – and poor manners aren’t a serious enough offense over which to engage in a bitter battle.

FIFTH – BE WILLING TO LOSE THE BATTLE IN ORDER TO WIN THE WAR.
Often, both parties are too proud, too bitter or too hostile to reconcile their differences. Remember, the goal is to survive, not to be proven right. Don't nag or pressure others to conform to your way of thinking. It’s true: ‘A man convinced against his will is of the same opinion still’ -- AND . . . he’s pretty ticked off at being manipulated.

When you set an example of flexibility and refuse to hold grudges, you inspire others to follow your lead. Set aside behaviors that cause conflict and demonstrate your willingness to contribute to the welfare of the group. Your willingness to patiently make an effort to get along can help make the best of a bad circumstance.

GUIDELINES FOR EMERGENCY WATER STORAGE

2010-07-15T19:30:00.000-07:00

The human body can only survive three days without drinking water. This makes water a crucial aspect of emergency preparedness.

In most homes, nearly 25 gallons of water per day is used by each person. This includes water used for drinking, cleaning, flushing and cooking. Additionally, most of the systems which supply water to these homes are dependent on electricity. Even properties with wells often utilize electric pump systems. So, water storage is important should the power grid go down.

It is recommended that you evaluate your family’s needs for a seven day period. If you are careful with your water use, you should be able to manage with 2 to 3 gallons of water per person in very warm climates. Half of this will be drinking water. The other half will be used for cooking and hygiene. You may not drink this much water currently, but keep in mind that other sources of beverages may not be available. Additionally, you will be adjusting to living without the benefit of items like air conditioning and electric fans. You will need to replace water lost through perspiration and respiration.

If you know ahead of time that you may lose your supply of water, take the opportunity to fill bathtubs, sinks, ice chests and any other container you have that is strong enough to hold water without leaking. Separate your water into two categories: drinking and all other.

It is advisable to prepare for at least seven days without water. This means that each member of your family will need 21 gallons of water in storage. To be safe, you may wish to double this amount. A family of 5 would require 105 gallons of water in storage. Twice that amount would be 210 gallons. So, two or four, 55 gallon drums would meet your storage needs.

A gallon of water weighs a little less than 8.5 pounds. This is an important consideration for storage and transportation. Quantities of water are best stored on a reinforced concrete floor as 55 gallons of water (not including the weight of the drum) would weigh almost 500 pounds. This is too heavy for most other flooring systems.

If you are unexpectedly without water, there are places in your house that contain useable water. Most hot water heaters hold about 40 gallons of drinkable water. The tank portion of the toilet also has water that is useable for some non-drinking purposes. Ice cubes in the freezer are another source. Don’t throw away the water found in canned goods as it is another valuable source of hydration when every drop counts.

Water can be collected from downspouts or in a child’s wading pool during a rainstorm. You can leave a clean bedspread or sheet out during the rain or overnight on the grass to collect the dew. Wring it out over a storage container. Non drinking water sources include water from the toilet bowl and the waterbed mattress.

Take time now to plan ahead for possible water shortages. Get creative with ways to replenish your stored water once the faucet is turned off. Train yourself and your family members to conserve the water you DO have.

TREATMENT FOR SWOLLEN FEET AND HANDS

2010-07-02T09:46:00.000-07:00

Mobility and ease of movement are greatly impeded by inflammation and swelling. In urgent circumstances, this can be dangerous. Swelling indicates that more fluids are being delivered to the area than it is possible for your lymphatic system to carry away. Rather than leave the fluids there to stretch and strain the tissues, there is a way to reduce the swelling and recuperative time.

You can create a biological pump.

Fill a bucket with icy water and another container with the warmest water you can endure. Place your swollen limb into the cold water and allow your limb to soak for several minutes. Then move the limb into the warm water soak for several minutes. Continue to do this until you are relieved of the swelling.

I have found that inexpensive foam ice chests are useful for this application as they are large enough to hold a sufficient volume of water and maintain the heat or coolness of the water over a 30 minute session (or longer). If this is not an option in a remote location, find a container that can hold warm water and move between a cold running stream and the heated container of water. You may even substitute heated rocks wrapped in an insulating cloth as your source of warmth and a frozen towel for a cold wrap.

The point is to repeatedly cool and warm the limb. The heat draws oxygenated blood to the area and relaxes the tissue. The ice shrinks the tissues and helps move fluids away from the limb. Done repeatedly, it increases the movement of fluids away from the area, promoting healing and increasing the range of motion.

You may still need some time to regain strength in the limb, especially if there has been structural damage. However the healing will progress at a faster rate when swelling and inflammation are reduced.

Of course, the primary defense against a swollen limb is to prevent its occurrence.

Poor movement mechanics and a lot of sitting can lead to a tendency towards swellings. Additionally, this can contribute to arthritis pain, poor bone density and tension in the neck, eyes, and jaw. These are common symptoms among populations that have a sedentary lifestyle with brief interludes of intense exercise. In cultures that require movement throughout the day this is not the norm. The human aging process is not naturally characterized by these symptoms.

When your feet or hands swell, it is an indication that toxins and waste material have accumulated in the area. With the regular use of your muscles, the circulatory and lymph systems can become healthy enough to flush the area free of toxins and bring nourishment to the tissues. Not using muscles means that these functions cannot be carried out as they were designed, and this makes you prone to injury and disease.

The good news is that the function and health of your body can be improved when you change your behavior with respect to the design. So, if you haven’t been utilizing muscle groups, it’s not too late to start. Your ability to take care of yourself and your loved ones is improved with physical fitness.

This guide is written for information purposes only and not meant as a substitute for skilled health care. When incorporating these methods, a reader must be informed, utilize good sense and be aware that he assumes all liability.

EVALUATING CHARACTER IN A CRISIS

2010-06-24T10:59:00.000-07:00

When determining your options in an emergency, those who trust the all-knowing God can pray for wisdom to know the best course of action and maintain composure. Additionally, there are skills you can practice to evaluate character in a crisis.

Make mental notes of the demeanor and behaviors of anyone that attempts to take charge. Observe these things closely while discussing a topic that is not controversial. What is the tilt of the head, the posture, the position of the shoulders, arms, hands, legs and feet? How does this person stand or sit? Notice the eyes, the lines around them and the lift of the eyebrows. Notice the thickness of the upper lip and whether it suddenly becomes thinner when certain topics are broached.

Which way is the torso facing? Individuals are more likely to turn their abdomen towards someone they care for or trust. Face the person trying to persuade you and observe his stance. If he turns his shoulder towards you, this is known as giving someone the ‘cold shoulder.’ It can be an indicator that the person is uncertain of his words, or he may be hiding something. Someone who suddenly leans backwards is displaying a desire to retreat from a topic. Alternately, leaning forward during a topic can mean that the person is very interested in the subject and the person to whom they are speaking. A turn in the conversation that results in hands clasped in front can mean that the person is trying to appear smaller and retreat from the discussion.

Any change or movement away from the established baseline could indicate that you aren’t hearing the whole story.

If poor lighting prevents you from seeing, use your ears to help determine a person’s truthfulness. Listen for verbal clues that reveal the true intent.

Use of the word ‘but,’ can indicate something is hidden. Statements like, “Some people might think I’m wrong, but” raises questions about who would disagree and their reasons for doing so.

How does the person answer yes or no questions? Do you get a solid yes or no followed by an explanation? Or does the person lead with qualifications? An example might be – Question: ‘Are you telling me the truth?’ Truthful answer: ‘Yes’ or ‘No.’ A suspect answer would be: ‘I would NEVER lie to you. You know that.’

A third verbal indicator is when someone laughs when asked a serious question. ‘Are you certain this is our best course?’ followed by a chuckled ‘YES!’ is a reflexive way to cover doubts, allay fears and try to encourage the group. A more honest answer might be a sober ‘I’m as certain as I can be with my limited experience under these conditions.’ Keep in mind that a group is more easily led when a person displays confidence, so the first answer may not be a deal breaker.

A fourth verbal indicator to watch for would be the choice of words used by the individual. ‘I realize you aren’t convinced that I’m being honest with you,’ contains the phrase ‘I’m being honest with you.’ The statement, ‘I understand it’s easier for you to think that I would lie to you,’ has the phrase ‘I would lie to you.’ These are unintended keys to the truth. The first statement is likely a truthful one while the second statement is suspect.

These helps aren’t comprehensive. Used alone, they aren’t enough reason to ignore sound advice – even if it comes from a less than honest person. Like doctors delivering bad news, an individual may simply loathe to tell you the full story, believing it best not to worry you. Consider the whole picture and what you know of the character of the person before deciding whether to follow. Nevertheless, it helps to know when a person is being forthright.

MEASURING DAYLIGHT BY HAND

2010-06-14T16:38:00.000-07:00

When you are outdoors or living with limited (or no) electricity, tasks are measured by how much daylight remains. Light from the sun is necessary in order to accomplish many duties. Knowing how much natural light remains in the day will tell you how to set your priorities regarding things such as shelter and fire.

This is important, especially if you are accustomed to a routine that includes things like a late evening meal with time to relax afterwards. The preparation and cleanup will best be done while the sun is still shining and you are able to see what you are doing. It is NO FUN to wake up the next day to soiled cookware because there wasn’t enough light to do the job right the night before. Ask anyone that has tried to set up a shelter in the dark, and you will quickly hear enough stories to make you want to avoid that scenario also.

To estimate how much daylight remains, locate the sun in the sky without looking directly at it. Fully extend your arm and turn your hand to look at your palm with your fingers pointing to the side. Measure how many finger-widths of space there are between the bottom edge of the sun and the horizon line. For every width of a finger you can place between the sun and the horizon, there is approximately 15 more minutes of daylight. So, if you had a single span of your hand between the sun and the horizon, there is about an hour (4 fingers X 15 minutes) before sunset.

In the morning hours this method can be used to estimate how much time has passed since sunrise. Additionally, measuring the distance of the sun from both the eastern and western horizons, will give you a good general idea of the length of time you will between have sunrise and sunset. Half of that time will give you the hours between sunrise/sunset and mid-day. This valuable tool will help you avoid becoming so consumed with any single task that you run out of time to accomplish other important things.

SWEATING IN A SURVIVAL SITUATION

2010-05-20T12:55:00.000-07:00

Thermoregulation is a skill that is valuable to have in an outdoor situation. Thermoregulation is the ability to keep body temperature within certain boundaries, even when the ambient temperature is very different.

A first step towards thermoregulation is to remain calm. A panicked person will have an increased heart rate and the urge to move quickly. The reason to avoid this is because heavy activity will cause the body to perspire and lose valuable water. Additionally, sweat will dampen clothing. Wet clothing will speed hypothermia after sunset, when temperatures begin to fall. This is a consideration EVEN IF you are in the middle of the summer season because evening temperatures can rapidly decline. Perspiration dampened clothing can contribute to skin irritation and blisters.

Knowing how to heed your body’s signals regarding thermoregulation is a life-saving skill. If you begin to perspire, loosen and remove outer garments. This will help keep clothing and skin dry. Watch members of your group and encourage them to remove layers also. If you find that the temperatures are very warm, a dampened cloth across your neck is one method that will help you avoid heat exhaustion.

Avoid working at full capacity as this will create a greater need for drinkable water to replace the hydration you have lost. Work at 60% of your capacity – the point just before you break into a sweat. In a survival situation, it is better to learn the art of steady, plodding activity that brings gradual results, rather than racing to finish each task.

Using this method, construct a shelter, make a fire and prepare for nightfall. When the temperatures drop, re-apply the extra clothing that was not needed during the day.

The following video by Spencer Two Dogs discusses Thermoregulation.

DANDELION REMEDIES AND USES

2010-05-06T17:43:00.000-07:00

Dandelion can be used liberally as it is non-poisonous. The roots, leaves and blooms of the plant are edible. Dandelion supports a healthy urinary tract, kidneys and liver function. When harvesting, be careful to select plants that have not been exposed to toxins or chemicals. For more information, click here.

This plant is traditionally used to support healthy liver function. Dandelion is rich in vitamin C and is useful in the treatment and prevention of scurvy. It is also useful in the treatment of skin eruptions and warts. The milky white juice that flows from the stalk can be applied directly to spots on the skin as a treatment.

Dandelion is useful in the treatment of excess fluid buildup in soft tissues. Because it replaces the nutrients lost as water passes from the body, there is not the mineral depletion associated with pharmaceutical diuretics. Dandelion is also consumed as a treatment for lung disease that is marked with wasting of the body.

Classified as a bitter herb, Dandelion is useful in the treatment of acid stomach or heartburn brought on by a lack of muscle tone. It works as a mild laxative in habitual constipation. A decoction or extract of Dandelion administered three or four times a day can help with an irritated stomach. It has a good effect in increasing the appetite and promoting digestion.

INFUSION/TEA
Pour 1 pint of boiling water over 1 ounce of Dandelion and allow to steep for 10 minutes.
Strain and sweeten with honey. Drink several glasses in the course of the day. The use of this tea is efficacious in the treatment of nausea and edema.

DECOCTIONS
This method of herbal preparation involves gently simmering an herb until the water is reduced to a specific amount.

Version 1
Place 1 pint of the sliced root in 20 parts of water and gently boil for 15 minutes. When cooled, strain the liquid and sweeten with honey. A small teacupful may be taken once or twice a day.

Version 2
Simmer 2 ounces of the herb or root in 1 quart of water until the volume is reduced to a pint.
Take this in 6 ounce doses every three hours for scurvy (caused by too little vitamin C), scrofula (lymph gland tuberculosis usually of the neck), eczema and all eruptions on the surface of the body.

Version 3
Decoction for jaundice in young children:
1 ounce Dandelion root
½ ounce of each of Ginger root, Caraway seed & Cinnamon bark
¼ ounce Senna leaves
Gently boil in 3 pints of water until reduced in volume to 1 1/2 pint. Strain. Dissolve ¾ cup honey into the hot liquid and bring to a boil again. Skim all the impurities that come to the surface when clear. Allow to cool. Give frequently in teaspoonful doses.

Version 4
Decoction for Gall Stones
1 ounce each of: Dandelion root, Parsley root, and Balm herb
One half ounce each of Ginger root and Liquorice root
Place in 2 quarts of water and gently simmer down to 1 quart
Strain. Drink six ounces every two hours.

DANDELION TINCTURE
Collect Dandelion plants (including roots and tops) from a pesticide and herbicide free zone.
Good-quality dried Dandelion may be substituted. It is best to collect more than you think you'll need because the plant does wilt during preparation. Clean the plants according to instructions found here.

Slice the roots thinly. Fill a quarter to two-thirds of a canning jar with dandelion root. Pour just enough boiling water over the herbs to cover. Then fill the rest of the jar with 100-proof vodka. Seal the jar tightly and shake to mix thoroughly.

Set the jar in a warm sunny area. The sun will not harm the tincture. Shake the jar twice daily. The tincture will be ready in two weeks. Strain the liquid through a clean cotton cloth or coffee filter. Squeeze the solid matter to express all of the liquid. Pour the tincture into a dark amber glass bottle, filling to close to the top to eliminate air exposure during storage. Cap tightly. Store in a cool, dark cabinet until needed.

Take a spoonful of the tincture every day to help with health issues.

Some individuals include the dandelion leaf as well as the root in the tincture. A tincture made from the leaves may be taken three times daily by placing 10 to 15 drops in a spoonful of water.

This article is not meant to be taken as medical advice. The information provided is for the enrichment of the reader and is not offered as a substitute for the care of a health professional. The reader assumes all liability and should use common sense and discretion when utilizing this information.

DANDELION: HARVEST OF HEALTH

2010-04-14T21:21:00.000-07:00

Dandelions are known for their dazzling yellow blossoms that give way to a globe-shaped puff ball, sending seeds floating away on the breeze. Others view this plant as a persistent weed that can invade even a well-kept lawn.

This plant has smooth, jagged-edged leaves, and hollow, milky, stems that yield a single flower. Also known as ‘swine’s snout,’ Dandelion’s green sepals encircle its closed bud producing a silhouette that resembles a pig’s nose.

Several flowers resemble Dandelions. Check the leaves and flower stems. If the leaves are hairy or the flower stems are branched -- or the root structure does not match the description of Dandelion root – you have found a look-a-like and not an actual Dandelion plant.

A nutritious food and a prized tonic, Dandelions are edible from the root, to the leaves and the blossoms. Gather Dandelion from an area KNOWN to be free of pesticides & toxic chemical contamination (avoid roadways).

LEAVES
The shape of the leaves inspired the name of this vegetable. ‘Dent du lion’ is a French phrase that means ‘tooth of the lion’ and refers to the tooth-shaped leaves.

Leaves should be harvested in the early spring before the plant blooms because that is where the energy of the plant is concentrated in the spring – new growth. These can be used for salads, tea, soups and tonics. Dandelion leaves are great eaten fresh and can be dried for later use.

To clean them place the leaves in a basin of water and agitate gently. Allow the leaves to soak while the dirt settles to bottom. Remove gently so as not to stir up the dirt in the bottom of the basin. Run the soaked leaves under running water. Place in a colander to drain.

FLOWERS
Flowers should be harvested after the dew has dried, but before heat of the day – in late morning. The flowers won’t open on a cloudy day. As soon as rain threatens, the heads will close. The blooms also close at night (or late afternoon) and open again when the plant senses the sun’s rays.

To harvest the flowers, pull on the sepals (green leaves at base of bloom) and the blossoms will pop off the stem, saving you the trouble of removing stems later. Clean them just as you would the leaves.

ROOT
Dandelion roots can be eaten fresh or dried. The best quality roots grow in well-cultivated soil. They form a slim, carrot-like tap that is twisted and brittle, milky white in color and seated deep in the soil. When unearthed, the plant will reproduce from broken remnants of root left in the ground.

Harvest roots in mid-summer as this is the part of the year when they are thought the least bitter. These are best from free, moist soil located in shady areas. Frosty conditions will lessen the activity of the roots, so it is not good to gather them during cold weather. However, it is not a problem to harvest during wet weather. Use a long fork or trowel and lift steadily and carefully. Try not to break or cut the roots as they will lose their valuable juice by bleeding.

Dandelion roots should be dried whole or cut 3 to 6 inches long if too large. These roots generally take about two weeks to dry. They will shrivel to ½ inch or less in diameter and appear dark brown with lengthwise, spiraling wrinkles. Fully dried Dandelion roots will be hard enough to snap revealing their white interior. Store the dehydrated roots in a dry place to avoid mold and in a tightly covered container to protect them from pests. They will keep for one season.

HABITAT ENRICHMENT
Dandelion nectar attracts butterflies, hoverflies and bees. Finches also enjoy the seeds of this plant.

Learn now to identify safe sources of Dandelion as it is a nourishing food source and a helpful remedy in time of need.

HOW TO RELEASE A ZIP TIE

2010-03-24T11:05:00.000-07:00

Who knew there were three different ways to get out of a zip tie restraint? I didn’t until I looked into it. These skills are fun to use as tricks for amusement. However, if you find yourself being held by bad guys, it can be a lifesaver. Knowing this information may help you resist the urge to panic in a dangerous circumstance. And THAT may be just the advantage you need to get away.

Zip ties are cheap and nearly impossible to break, making them a favorite for human restraints. If your hands are secured in front of you, here is what you need to know to release your binding.

CREATE SOME WIGGLE ROOM
When someone places a zip tie on your wrists, place your hands side by side, palms down, and ball your hands into fists. Flex your chest to enlarge the span of your shoulders. When the bad guys come by to tighten your restraints, they will see that they are snug. Later, when you relax, you should have enough room to release your bindings with a small shim.

A FLAW IN THE DESIGN
Zip ties have a small latch that wedges itself against the teeth on the strip that is pulled through the lock. When the strip is pulled backwards, the latch falls against the teeth and prevents it’s release. A small nail file, eyeglass screwdriver, razor blade, pin or other small object can be used to insert between the teeth and the latch to allow the plastic strip to be pulled out of the lock. If you’ve got enough slack in your bindings, you should be able to insert a shim and release your zip tie.

Here is a video that shows how to release a zip tie using the shim method

Re-use Your Zip/Cable Ties - The funniest movie is here. Find it

REMOVE THE TIE WHILE STILL LOCKED
This method also begins with creating wiggle room. Hold your wrists crossed with the thumbs facing upwards, rather than to the sides. This enlarges the circumference that will be needed to secure your hands. When the zip tie is tightened, move it up your arm by spreading your elbows wide. When you are not being watched, rotate your wrists so that your hands are palms together as if in prayer. Inch the zip tie forward on your hands with the goal of getting one thumb free. Pull one hand through and then the other will slip free easily.

This video demonstrates how remove your hands from a zip tie without unlocking it and how to use it to unlock a door. Not sure the zip tie had anything to do with the hair.

BREAK THE LOCK
The third method seems a bit counterintuitive. Place your hands together with palms facing and the fingers curled into a fist. Try to have the lock resting on top of your wrists where the two arms meet. Have the tie as tight as possible. Raise your hands to the face or chest level with elbows bent. Then, drive your arms down quickly, past your sides and try to make your shoulder blades touch. This will place force onto the lock that will cause it to snap and fail.

The following video demonstrates how to break a zip tie lock.

As always, this article is offered for information purposes only. The reader should exercise good judgment and assumes all liability when attempting to utilize these methods.

CRICKETS MAY BE JUST THE TICKET IN A SURVIVAL SITUATION

2010-02-17T18:17:00.000-08:00

Crickets can be found in shallow burrows beneath stone or dirt or in tufts of plant material. They are more active at night when the males can be heard calling to attract females for breeding. While most varieties are found in forests and grasslands, crickets can also be found in marshes and seashores as well as caves and trees.

AS A THERMOMETER
You can use the sound of a cricket as a thermometer. If you are in a temperate area that is not hotter than 100º F or cooler than 55º F, then you can tell the temperature by counting the number of cricket chirps you hear in 15 seconds. Add 40 to the number of chirps you hear. The result is the temperature in Fahrenheit. If you wish to know the temperature in Celsius, determine the number of chirps you hear in 25 seconds, divide that number by 3 and then add 4.

AS A LURE
Crickets can be used as live bait to secure a satisfying meal of fresh fish. Cricket fishing is most effective in small lakes and within 15 feet of shore.

Once you’ve located a cricket and secured your hook to the fishing line, bait your hook with the live cricket. Hold the cricket firmly between your thumb and fingers while you insert the hook held in your other hand. Some instruct that the barb of the hook should be inserted into the thorax behind the cricket’s head, pressed through the length of the cricket's body and exited via the rear end just under the tail. However, experienced cricket-bait fishermen tell me that they prefer to insert the barb into the rear, just under the tail and thread it through the length of the body, exiting through the thorax, near the head. This method keeps fish from sucking the cricket off of the hook, robbing you of your meal AND your bait.

If you locate an empty can, it can be converted into a makeshift reel. Toss your baited hook into the water, making sure to keep a firm hold on the free end of the line. Reel in your line by wrapping it around the can. Repeat until you have your fish.

AS A FOOD SOURCE
Compared to cattle raised for food, a cricket can reproduce nearly 20 times faster. Within 3 to 4 weeks, a female can lay over a thousand eggs. Crickets can thrive using a fraction of the space and food required to produce an equivalent amount of consumable meat from other livestock. When compared to meat production by chickens and pigs, crickets were twice as efficient. They are able to provide meat at four times the rate of sheep, and six times the rate of cattle when allowances are made for carcass trim and dressing.

Crickets as a food source can offer a significant source of many nutrients and protein. Nutritionally, 100 grams of cricket meat is 21% protein, 6% fat and 3% carbohydrates along with 21 mg of calcium. Per gram of dry weight, cricket meat provides 63 to 122 mg of fatty acid which includes linoleic acid and a-linolenic acid as well as copper, iron and magnesium. This is produced while they consume table scraps.

CRICKET ROUND-UP
The Paiute people used to harvest crickets by digging a series of large trenches. These were covered with dry straw. Large numbers of crickets would be herded into the trenches. The straw was then set aflame, roasting the crickets alive. The women would then gather bushels of the cooked bugs and take them home to grind into protein-rich flour for bread.

RAISE YOUR OWN
One way to ensure a ready supply of crickets that have not been exposed to chemical sprays is to raise your own. Keep them in an aquarium with a couple of inches of soil on the bottom. Place egg cartons inside for roosts. Moistened cotton balls will provide them with water. Leave grated bits of vegetable and grain scraps for them to eat, making sure they have a ready supply of fresh foods. Every few days, mist the soil lightly. Make sure the lid is tight-fitting and secure as crickets are known for their ability to escape their confines and will attempt to do so whenever the lid is opened.

PREPARATION
Take the desired quantity live crickets and place them into a colander or other container with drain holes. Cover the container quickly with a piece of wire screening or cheesecloth to keep the insects from escaping. Rinse them thoroughly by running water over them. Dry them by shaking the colander until the water no longer drips. Place the crickets in a sealed container and place this in the freezer for about 15 minutes. This will be long enough to kill them, but not long enough to freeze them. Remove them from the freezer and rinse them again. Cricket's heads, hind legs, and wing cases can be removed according to personal preference. The legs will tend to get stuck in the teeth and could be painful to swallow. The crickets can then be eaten raw, roasted, or dehydrated to be incorporated into your favorite recipes.

CAUTION
Whatever your method, care should be taken when harvesting crickets for food. Don’t collect insects near residential areas as they may have been contaminated by herbicides or insecticides.

Below Ray Mears demonstrates using a can as a fishing reel.
It's towards the end of this short video:

MUSTARD PLASTER

2010-02-01T16:21:00.000-08:00

Mustard plasters are a simple and effective way to treat congestion and coughs. These can also be used to alleviate aches and pains associated with inflammation. The vapor from a mustard plaster helps to break up congestion. The plaster also increases circulation and oxygenates the area of contact.

HOW TO MAKE A MUSTARD PLASTER
Place 2 cups of flour and 4 tablespoons of dry mustard into a small bowl and blend with a fork. You can use prepared mustard if that’s all you have on hand. Continue stirring and add a small amount of warm water until the mixture is the consistency of paste. Spread this onto half of a flannel or cotton cloth that is sized at least 1 foot by 6 inches. Fold the cloth over onto itself. Lay this onto a baking sheet in your oven on its lowest setting and leave it for 5 minutes. If you leave it too long, it will overheat and harden. Remove the plaster from the oven. DO NOT MICROWAVE YOUR PLASTER.

THE APPLICATION
To use the plaster, wear a thin t-shirt and place the warmed plaster on top of your chest. Don’t apply the plaster directly to your skin. Plasters can be applied to the back and the chest at the same time. Cover the plaster with a warm blanket and relax for 15 to 20 minutes.

PRECAUTIONS
If the skin becomes irritated, blistered, reddened or otherwise painful, remove the plaster. It is not recommended to leave the treatment in place longer than thirty minutes. For small children, you can halve the recipe and only apply the plaster for 10 to 15 minutes, checking to make sure the skin has not become irritated. It is not recommended to use the plaster on children younger than 6 years or on frail elderly persons.

This treatment can be re-applied every 4 hours until the condition improves.

DISCLAIMER
This article is for information purposes only. Readers that incorporate these methods do so at their own risk. None of these guidelines are a substitute for the care of a trained healthcare professional.

EARTHQUAKE SAFETY

2010-01-16T18:58:00.000-08:00

When the earth begins to move seconds are crucial. There isn’t time to panic AND survive. Choose to act and live. If you can feel a tremor, you are close enough to the epicenter (or blast) for there to be structural damage in your area. Depending on where you are located, the following guidelines may help save your life.

BASIC RULES
Keep a flashlight and sturdy shoes within reach of your bed and your work place. At home, keep clothing you can quickly put on within reach of your bed. If you are in bed when the shaking starts, remain in bed until the tremor is over. Once the shaking stops, put on your shoes and clothing. Broken glass will easily slice through bare feet (or casual/dress shoes) and hinder your efforts to get to safety.

DUCK * COVER * HOLD

IF YOU ARE INDOORS crouch near an interior, load bearing wall. Place yourself beneath a study object (table, etc.). Protect your head and neck with your hands. Brace yourself by hanging onto whatever you are beneath.

IF YOU ARE IN A TALL BUILDING duck under a sturdy object. Cover your head and neck with a hand. Hold onto whatever you are ducking underneath for stability. When exiting, always use the stairwells. NEVER use elevators during earthquake or fire.

IF YOUR ARE OUTDOORS
Observe where the large trees and power lines are located. These could be falling hazards. Avoid these or any other overhead hazards. Look for an open space where you can avoid falling debris. In the city you should avoid standing near high buildings. As much as 2 to 13 feet of glass could cover city streets below high rise buildings.

IF YOU ARE IN YOUR CAR
Stay in your car. Try to position yourself away from overhead hazards. Don’t park underneath an overhang. If you ARE stuck under a bridge in your car, remain in the car during a tremor. Tires will act as a cushioning (and insulation) if heavy debris fall onto your automobile. If you are on an open roadway, pull over to the side of the road (don’t block the road). Wait for the shaking to stop. Listen to your radio for reports & instructions.

AFTER THE SHAKING STOPS
Expect aftershocks; be prepared to repeat the DUCK, COVER & HOLD. Make sure you are okay. Get a flashlight. Flashlights are much safer than candles in the event of gas leaks. Account for everyone in the household (if at home). Get everyone out to safe place – pre-determined meeting place. Then, take a lap around the house to assess the damage to property – any large cracks, foundation movement, does the house look askew?

Don’t turn off natural gas until instructed by authorities. Listen to AM radio for updates/news from the Emergency Broadcast Network regarding where to go for help.

Don’t forget to locate your pets. Try to calm and re-assure them. Place them on a leash or restraint for several hours until you are SURE they are calm and not prone to running away. This can also help keep them from biting because of anxiety.

FOLLOW YOUR INSTINCTS
Use your best instincts regarding disaster safety. Observe the habits of nature around you. Did you know that on Monday, May 5th of 2008, frogs in China began a mass migration that took them across streets and roads? The following Monday, May 12th, central China was rocked by a 7.8-magnitude quake which killed nearly 10,000 people.

USE CAUTION
This article should be used as a guideline. Taking the time to think through your options BEFORE such an event will greatly help you should you ever find yourself in such a position. This information is not a substitute for professional services. The reader assumes all liability when utilizing these measures.

HERBS AS INCENSE

2010-01-04T08:13:00.000-08:00

In the past, certain herbs such as sage and rosemary were burned to cleanse sick rooms. Cedar is a fragrant wood known to have antiviral, antifungal, expectorant, and lymphatic cleansing properties. Pine, Spruce and Fir needles contain shikimic acid, the main ingredient in Tamiflu, which is used to fight the bird flu. Frankincense is also a known to be very effective incense in the treatment of respiratory ailments. Mullein and Eucalyptus leaves are also beneficial herbs that can be used in this manner.

By slowly burning herbs, the essential oils are released into the smoke and carried into the lungs of those that inhale it. If a person is suffering from bronchial inflammation, the beneficial properties of the herb are applied directly to the inflamed tissue.

I know of one woman that had been dealing with such a strong cytokine response during a bout with the flu that she was choking, vomiting and struggling for air. Her husband closed the damper on their wood stove and tossed some Cedar into the fire, filling the house with smoke. Immediately, the cytokine storm stopped. Within 20 minutes, there was no mucus and she felt as though she hadn’t had the flu at all. They have repeated this remedy with the same result on other family members, airing the house afterwards.

American Indian tribes regularly used Cedar to smoke and cleanse their homes. In rustic conditions, smoke can be used to cleanse a person, clothing, bedding or shelter of vermin, molds, etc. Cedar smoke was one of the ways that priests were instructed to cleanse a house where there had been a plague (cf. end of chapter 14 of Leviticus).

HOW TO BURN HERBS AS INCENSE
Using tongs, place a hot coal or ember from a hard wood fire onto a heatproof dish. Place the herbs onto the hot coal and allow the herbs to smolder. Inhale the resulting smoke. The goal is to encourage the plant material to produce smoke, not to ignite into an open flame. This can be accomplished by only using hot coals (rather than fire) and/or by binding the plant material into a tight bundle.

Tightly bundled herbs are called smudge sticks. Some branches, twigs or leaves are supple enough to form into tight braids. Dried leaves can be secured with twine and unbleached paper. To use a smudge stick, hold one end of it to a flame until it ignites. Then the flame is gently blown out leaving the plant material to smolder and smoke. Smudge sticks are handy as it is easy to direct the smoke and they will tend to burn for a longer period of time.

CAUTION
Do not inhale the smoke of any herb or plant material to which you have known allergies. This article is for information purposes only. Readers that incorporate these methods do so at their own risk and should utilize safety precautions. None of this information is a substitute for professional health care.

AMAZING LOVE!

2009-12-23T08:14:00.000-08:00

FRANKINCENSE, THE GIFT OF HEALING

2009-12-17T16:04:00.000-08:00

Frankincense is an amazing healer. It’s one of the items I would select for an emergency survival pack. I make that statement because this gum resin can make a huge difference when you are fighting a fast-moving infection.

Frankincense is sold as little pebbles of hardened gum, powder and/or essential oil. The powder and gum granules are light-weight. The granules are easier to handle (in my opinion) than the powder and can be ground to smaller bits if needed.

Frankincense can be used for steam inhalation or aromatherapy if you are dealing with bronchitis, colds, and other respiratory ailments. I’ve seen it used to great benefit as part of a regimen for recovery from pneumonia. I place several granules of Frankincense in combination with dried mullein and eucalyptus leaves in a crock pot with filtered water to steam the air in a room. In rustic conditions, you can burn Frankincense with hot embers placed into a fireproof container (or on a rock) as incense.

As a topical wound dressing, Frankincense is regenerating, restorative and a skin rejuvenator. Because its properties are somewhat astringent, oil infused with Frankincense has been used as a uterine tonic and massage oil following childbirth. By easing inflammations, Frankincense promotes the healing of blemishes, sores, scars, skin ulcers and wounds. In some places it is used as a treatment for leprosy. (See "HOW TO INFUSE OILS")

I know of a case where a patient had a weeping leg wound that had a foul odor. Red streaks and swelling warned that the infection was advancing. Good wound care was followed, but the infection persisted. Frankincense was applied after all else was tried. The leg immediately responded. Upon examination by a physician, he was surprised that the wound only required stitches and that the leg did not need amputation. It had been his experience that such severe cases resulted in loss of the limb.

I witnessed an instance where an arm was branded on a hot oven rack. At the time of injury, all that was available to dress the wound was honey and a very old batch of plantain infused olive oil. Later, the area was gently cleaned and a proper dressing applied. The wound was an inch long and (at its worst) about one quarter of an inch deep. Although the burn was 2nd degree, there was only faint blistering. Early indications were that the wound was healing quickly, but it became infected. The arm became swollen; the wrist and arm painful to use; red streaks began to appear. The inflammation reduced upon application of a garlic poultice, but did not fully retreat. Upon application of olive oil infused with Frankincense, the inflammation and pain retreated in less than 12 hours. Within 24 hours, the pain ceased and the wound began to heal from the inside. Within 48 hours there was no more swelling, the wound had closed with a healthy pink, and the wound was filling in from the bottom layers of the skin. Within the week, it appeared to be a faint scar from a long-forgotten injury.

If available, Frankincense can be an invaluable tool in effective wound care. If you utilize an essential oil of Frankincense for medicinal purposes, make certain that the product was steam distilled or alcohol extracted rather than by some other chemical solvent method. Most manufacturers will be glad to answer your questions over the telephone. Note that manufacturing methods can change over time, so you may wish to check labels each time you purchase, even if it is the same brand name.

This article is for information purposes only. It is not meant as a substitute for medical care. The methods described are employed at the risk of the reader.

HOW TO START A FIRE WITH A SODA CAN

2009-11-14T07:38:00.000-08:00

I don’t think there is a lot of nutritional value in a can of soda, but the can itself could prove useful in a survival situation. It is possible to use an empty soda can to start a fire. In the event you find yourself in need of fire for cooking or heat, a discarded can could prove most beneficial.

The concave bottom of these cans is designed to give strength to the container. It is possible to polish this surface to a high sheen to create fire. The curved reflective surface is able to collect the sun’s rays and focus them to a single point, igniting flammable tinder.

Once you’ve found an empty pop can, utilize materials you have on hand to polish it to a mirrored gloss. If you have the 0000 steel wool – the finest grade – you will be able to accomplish this with just a few minutes of rubbing. You can also burnish the surface with a baking soda paste, toothpaste or a paste made with scouring powder.

Once this is accomplished, you’ll want to finish with a polish. To polish the surface you can rub it with a bar of chocolate, crayons, candles, Vaseline, or any other waxy material. Apply the material to the bottom of the can and rub with a cloth, repeating this process until you’ve gotten the desired effect. A word of caution, don’t eat the chocolate after it is used for this project as it will have absorbed the aluminum a known toxin.

When the surface has a mirror finish, point it toward the sun. To find the focal point, hold a small scrap of paper between the can and the sun, moving it closer or farther away from the can until the sun’s rays are focused into a small dot of light. Visually mark this spot and hold your tinder there until it begins to smoke and then flame.

You will need about an hour’s time to polish the can’s surface. Igniting your tinder will take less time, depending on the quality of your materials.

This article is provided for information only. The reader assumes all risks and liability in the implementation of these methods and is urged to use common sense and sound judgment in its application.

INCREASE LEARNING WITH FUN

2009-11-05T00:18:00.000-08:00

Learning in a secure environment is further reinforced when you raise the level of intensity (fun or excitement), repeat the activity and find ways to capture the student’s attention for a sustained period of time. One of the goals of effective instruction is to find a way to incorporate these qualities and thereby increase learning.

Institutions of learning don’t always make room for these elements. However advertisers and students of human nature are free to pursue them. A major car company recently began a contest to see who could develop the best innovation that would make a task fun and promote changed behavior. By making the tasks enjoyable, the desired behaviors were reinforced, encouraging the participants to sustain the activity and repeat it often. The very design of the project promoted learning and – over time – changes in behavior.

Why would this be of interest to you? It is because these things will enhance your learning as you attempt to acquire new skills. Whether the skills fall into the category of rustic living, herbs or natural medicine, one of the keys to survival is preparedness and education. However, that education will be hindered if your planning is characterized by a sense of fear rather than a sense of adventure. Also, no one wants to practice skills that are overwhelming and drudgery.

Take the time to relax and create some family adventure and fun together. Pursue these things as a hobby. Discover the wonders of nature that surround you. What common and useful plants are growing in your area? Take a few excursions. Pitch in to help others with their learning projects. Organize a class with friends. Make it a social time as well as a learning time. Focus on a particular skill and host a workshop or a contest in your own back yard. Your family will be enriched with the fun and memories while you are gaining information that is an investment in your future. Become a creative student and re-discover the joy of learning.

HERE ARE THREE OF THE EXAMPLES OF THE FUN THEORY PROJECTS:

In this first example, the goal was to increase the use of trash receptacles by members of the public. Watch to see how they found a way to make using a trash can so much fun that a boy is seen looking for more trash to place inside the bin.

Here, the object was to increase bottles placed into the recycling bin. A few flashing lights later, a crowd gathered to cheer on their fellow recyclers.

We all know that taking the stairs is better for us than taking the escalator. In this video watch the time elapsed footage that shows a dramatic shift in use of the stairs when the steps are creatively covered.

BUY THE VISION & SAVE -- 2 DAY LIMITED OFFER!!

2009-11-02T17:03:00.000-08:00

Readers of this blog will be glad to know that the publishers of THE VISION have partnered with 6 companies to help promote the new novel by best-selling author Debi Pearl. THE VISION has been on the Amazon’s Top 100 a total of 5 times since its release on 7/1/09 and has earned the right to be called an Amazon Best Seller. Now you can be part of the push to reach #1 on Barnes and Noble.

When you to order THE VISION from Barnes and Noble on 11/3 or 11/4, SIX companies will offer a 25% discount off of merchandise purchased from their web store (no other discounts apply). This is just in time for the Holidays!

As a thank you for your purchase of THE VISION, it is possible to save hundreds of dollars, depending on the products you decide to purchase. In addition to the savings, the purchase offer includes free downloadable EBooks. **

Now is the time to start your Holiday Savings! Follow the links to visit these fine merchants prior to receiving your coupon codes. REMEMBER: the purchase date must be 11/3 or 11/4 to qualify for 25% off savings and free EBooks. **

TAKE ADVANTAGE OF THIS OFFER!
Order THE VISION by Debi Pearl from BarnesandNoble.com on November 3rd or 4th, 2009 (offer good on these days only) and you will receive coupon codes from the following companies offering 25% discounts from their webstores. Discounts cannot be combined with other discounts.

1. Ancient Healing Oils
2. The Bulk Herb Store
3. College Plus!
4. More Than Alive
5. No Greater Joy
6. The Mission Ball

PLUS! You will also receive free downloadable ebooks and bonus gifts from Gary D. Foster Consulting (see details below).

HERE’S HOW TO ORDER!!
On November 3rd or 4th...
1. Visit www.DebiPearl.com
2. Click the Barnes & Noble link to place your order.
3. Email your receipt immediately to Mel Cohen to receive your coupon codes.
Coupon codes expire on 11/9/09.

<<>>**FREE E-BOOKS FROM GARY D. FOSTER CONSULTING**<<>>

Distance Learning for the 21st Century-
These days, you don't need to spend years on a college campus to earn your degree. In fact, you can cut your tuition costs by 50% and graduate in two years or less through CLEP exams and online classes. Read this EBook and start your distance learning degree today!

Earning Dual Credit: How to Combine High School and College-
High school students may not realize it but the study they're doing in high school can actually count for college credit through CLEP exams. In fact, they don't need to wait until graduation to do college-level coursework either. Find out how high schoolers can graduate college by age 18 for a fraction of the time and cost of the traditional college system.

Herbal Alternatives-
You will discover how herbs can be used as healthy alternatives. This book provides “How To” directions for numerous home remedies for adults and children. Discover the use of herbs as; Antibiotics, Tinctures, Oil Extracts, dosages and more. Learn to make your own Salves and Ointments. The secrets of building immunity in your children are reveled. This is a MUST READ!

FREE 3-MONTH SUBSCRIPTION The Foster Letter-
The Foster Letter is a biweekly publication that will be sent to you via email. It provides a Religious Market Update, and is An Executive Marketplace Intelligence Report for Business and Ministry Decision Makers.

DUTCH OVEN COOKING

2009-10-29T23:23:00.001-07:00

Cooking over an open fire doesn’t mean you have to give up your favorite baked and roasted foods. You might even find that your old favorites are greatly enhanced when cooked in a Dutch oven. When cooking over an open fire, use a Dutch oven with a lipped lid and three feet on the bottom.

DON’T USE METAL UTENSILS
Don’t use a metal utensil on a properly seasoned cast iron pot or pan. Use wooden utensils as metal will remove the nice coating you’ve worked so hard to put there.

THE FIRE
For Dutch oven cooking, use hard wood to build a hot fire at least an hour earlier than your cooking start time. Don’t use ‘soft’ resinous wood or commercial charcoal. Soft, resinous woods (like pine) tend to burn cool and produce a lot of black soot. This is bad for your fireplace and it makes a mess on your cookery – and it’s not so great for the cook, either. Because commercial charcoal is often filled with chemicals and additives that bind them into uniform lumps and increase their flammability, I don’t use them for my cook fire. Learn to build a nice fire with hard wood and you won’t be bothered with either of these. Make sure a good bed of red coals has been laid. Use an oven mitt or cloth to protect your hands as well as a curved iron tool to lift the lid from your pot.

PRE-HEAT YOUR DUTCH OVEN
If needed, wipe the inside of your pot (including the lid) with a paper towel and olive oil. While you prepare your ingredients, place the lid on your Dutch oven and set it near the fire to warm. This is similar to pre-heating your standard oven. Pre-heating your pot will allow the oil to penetrate as the iron warms and allows the food to properly cook. The lid keeps ashes from flying into the pot. If your recipe calls for peppers, onions, or carrots, I add them to the oven at this point to simmer a bit and to provide a cushion between the bottom of the pot and the rest of my ingredients.

ADDING THE FOOD
Prepare your ingredients to be added to the pot. Don’t forget your seasonings. Move your heated Dutch oven a comfortable distance from your fire. Use a curved piece of metal to remove the hot lid.

Add layers of your other ingredients. If you are cooking rice, this is when you would add your water/broth and the rice. Add any additional vegetables. The last ingredient I add is my meat as the juices from the meat will help season the vegetables/rice/potatoes beneath it. Be mindful of the depth of your pot at this point as you don’t want your food to touch the underside of your pot’s lid. If you are baking bread or a desert, place the batter/dough/ingredients into the pot just as you would before placing it into a regular kitchen oven. Replace the lid.

ADD THE COALS
Use a shovel to move some hot coals to the edge of the fire into a small pile. I find that this makes things much more manageable than trying to place the Dutch oven into the fire. Set your Dutch oven on onto this small bed of coals and then begin to shovel hot coals onto the pot’s lid. Once you’ve evenly covered the lid with hot coals, and made sure there is a good bed beneath, shovel a bit of ash over the live coals. This is called banking your fire. It allows the coals to retain their heat as they burn slowly because they aren’t exposed to too much oxygen.

Allow your food to cook about the same time as you would in a conventional oven (assuming you have a good bed of coals), possibly 10 minutes more. Use your shovel to remove the live coals from the top when finished. A whisk broom can remove any ash dust. Using a pad, lift the pot by the handle, protecting your hand from the heat. Move the vessel off of the live coals and set it away from the fire. Lift the lid with a sturdy piece of curved metal and set it to the side. Check your food. If done, serve with a wooden serving spoon. If not, replace the lid, return the pot to the small bed of coals it sat on previously, replacing more coals onto the lid. Wait a few more minutes and check again.

If your first try results in a bit of burned crust, that’s fine. You will soon get the hang of it. The wonderful aroma of hot food will soon silence the critics that will gladly eat around the burnt edges. There aren’t often leftovers. They are ready to eat!

CLEAN UP & STORAGE
For cleanup, gently remove any food residue from the pot with a soft sided scrub pad or wooden spoon. Eventually, you’ll likely find that a clean towel will easily do the job. If there is baked on residue, simply set the emptied pot next to your fire again and allow the remaining bits to cook to ash. Never put your Dutch oven through a dishwasher or immerse it in soapy water. This will strip it of its protective seasoning. Simply wipe the pan and recoat it with oil. You should be able to see your reflection in the bottom of your Dutch oven. Replace the lid for storage.

>>--->WANT TO LEARN MORE?<---<<

Learn about HARD CORE survival in the wilderness with PRIMITIVE WILDERNESS SKILLS, APPLIED. This DVD is offered by the Bulk Herb Store and would make a GREAT gift for the survival skills enthusiast in your life. Additionally, the new best-selling book by Debi Pearl – THE VISION – offers a wealth of information on herbal medicine. Why not combine the two and purchase THE VISION during the upcoming Barnes & Noble Blitz November 3rd & 4th? If you purchase THE VISION on those dates from Barnes & Noble, you’ll receive free gifts and 25% off coupon off of ANY product offered by The Bulk Herb Store. That means you could get PRIMITIVE WILDERNESS SKILLS, APPLIED at a deep discount! Additionally, you’ll be able to shop at five other vendors with that same discount. Just purchase THE VISION on November 3rd or 4th from Barnes & Noble, email melcohen@hughes.net your receipt (showing the date of purchase) and you’ll get all the details. Plan now to save when you buy THE VISION from Barnes & Noble, November 3rd or 4th -- NEXT WEEK!

The following video is a demonstration of bread-making using a Dutch oven. While the footage shows use in a conventional oven, the technique is the same -- except for the fact that you'd be using fire as your heat source as described above:

GENERAL GUIDELINES FOR BARTERING

2009-10-21T21:28:00.000-07:00

If you find yourself without access to currency, bartering is a method by which you may secure items in trade. Bartering can also be used to generate goodwill and secure services from others. Being prepared to barter is the first step towards a successful trade.

As you consider which items you may wish to collect, here are some guidelines that I think may be helpful.

TRADE ITEMS ARE AN INVESTMENT
Remember that goods purchased for trade are not for your own personal use. Trade items are an investment designed to get you a good return – a maximum profit. This means you want to purchase bargain items, but not junk.

An example of this may be tools. For your own personal use, you want the best tools you can afford, but for trade, a discounted or used item will do just fine. You won’t be able to trade junk, but you can find good bargains at flea markets, consignment shops, pawn shops, garage sales, yard sales, estate sales, and other discount stores.

IN A PINCH REFURBISHED IS AS GOOD AS NEW
Take into account your unique skills as you invest in trade items. If you have carpentry, metalworking, leatherworking, sewing, or other skills it may be possible for you to purchase items that need repair at an even deeper discount.

MULTIPLE USE ITEMS
Consider investing in items that have multiple uses. This will save storage space and increase your opportunities to trade. Items such as duct tape, tarps, string or twine, blankets, rubber bands, buckets, basins, soap, and assorted cloth fall into this category.

PRODUCE MATERIALS FOR BARTER
Rather than stockpiling an assortment of items, consider learning a skill set that enables you to produce valuable items. The ability to create your own ammunition is a valuable skill. For further information on the tools required for this you should research bullet swaging. Skills in metalworking, sewing, pottery, masonry, soap making, candle making and foraging will be beneficial for bartering as well as for your own personal use.

INFORMATION
Select books which will serve as a resource for those looking for ways to become self-sufficient. Consider books that provide individuals with entertaining ways to pass the time. Valuable literature will be that which offers both an entertaining story AND an education. Shop for used books offered at a discount.

Of course, your creative mind is your most valuable resource. The ability to use something and then refit that item for other uses will serve you well. These things can be practiced now, training your brain to spot opportunities. THE VISION by best-selling author Debi Pearl is one of those books which will help spur your creative juices. An adventure novel, it is set during a time of social, economic, and political unrest where the main characters must draw upon all they’ve learned in order to survive. Get your copy today and consider the possibilities.

GOLDENROD HARVEST & USES

2009-10-08T22:05:00.000-07:00

Goldenrod is the common name for Solidago virgaurea. This plant grows in Europe, Asia, and North America. This plant grows in open areas, along hillsides, and mountain ranges, reaching a height of 2 to 3 feet, with alternate leaves, and branches of golden flowers when in bloom.

The plant blossoms in the fall of the year when it is ready for harvest. In most areas, you will know goldenrod is ready as you notice the feathery yellow blossoms beside the roadway. Don’t harvest these plants as they’ve been exposed to the exhaust of cars.

The best places to find goldenrod are areas near water that have good sun exposure. I was able to find a small open span near an abandoned foot bridge. The area was filled with leggy grasses, pokeweed and goldenrod. To harvest, use sharp garden shears and cut the top 2 to 3 feet with blooms. The smell of wild carrots or a faint citrus aroma comes from the aromatic bruised parts of the plant. The flowers can be used to produce a pleasant yellow dye.

DRYING HERBS
To preserve your herb, secure the cut stems with twine in small groupings (5 to 10 stems). Leave a loop in the string and hang them upside down (flowers pointing downward), with a box lid beneath them. You can hang them in a closet, spare cabinet, from a beam, in a storage room, or on a wall where they will not be disturbed. Even coat racks and hooks can be used. If the herbs are small enough, you can place a paper bag over the leaves and blooms to catch any loosened plant parts as they dry. The plants will dry in 1 to 3 weeks. You can also preserve flower arrangements in this same way.

Once dry, remove the blooms and leaves from the stem and store in a clean glass jar with a lid.

Goldenrod is a medicinally beneficial herb classified as detoxifying, regenerating and symptom regulating.

DETOXIFYING HERBS are those which help clear blockages and remove excesses. Goldenrod contains tannin and is classified as a bitter. A bitter promotes the secretion of the digestive juices as it is tasted. This herb helps the body remove excess fluid (diuretic). Traditionally, this herb was used to help remove stones in the bladder. Thick phlegm and deposits of hardened mucus (catarrh) are reported to be removed by goldenrod. Because it has antioxidant properties, goldenrod tea is useful for urinary tract infections. A digestive, goldenrod strengthens weak digestion. By promoting the perspiration (diaphoretic), this herb helps remove toxins from the body.

REGENERATING HERBS build and tone overwhelmed tissues and functions. As an astringent, goldenrod helps to shrink inflamed tissues. Its volatile oil gives goldenrod its aromatic properties. In powder form, it is used to help speed wound healing and produce scar tissue known as cicatrization. This was once commonly used to treat ulcers. The ability to promote the healing of damaged tissue classifies goldenrod as a vulnerary.

SYMPTOM REGULATING HERBS promote the relief and comfort of pain and other troublesome symptoms. Because it prevents and counteracts decay, goldenrod is classified as an antiseptic. Goldenrod tea can be used for an oral rinse. A stimulant, goldenrod increases the activity of other herbs when added to a remedy. A carminative, goldenrod helps remove gas (and the related pain) from the digestive tract. A tea infused with goldenrod, can help reduce fever. This same application can be helpful in the treatment of painful menstruation.

TEA
To make a tea, place 2 teaspoons of dried flowering stalks into a container. Pour boiling water over the herbs and cover for 10 minutes. Drink a cup three times daily until symptoms are allieviated. This tea is considered helpful in the treatment of seasonal allergies (one half cup four times daily). However, if I found it helpful, I would drink as often as I desired.

NASAL SPRAY
In addition to drinking the tea, it can be administered as a nasal spray. This helps with upper respiratory tract illnesses which have characteristic sore throat and low fever, accompanied by inflammation.

SOOTHING OIL OR SALVE
Strains, sprains and sore muscles respond favorably to a soothing oil infused with goldenrod. Apply this liberally and repeatedly as often as every ½ hour if needed (every three hours or so usually). This has been known to ease chronic pain and stiffness. While this will not help structural damage, it does ease inflamed and painful tissues. Wounds, cuts, and scratches are also soothed and healing is aided with the application of a salve or oil made with goldenrod because of its vulnerary properties.

TINCTURE
The symptoms of allergies are helped with tincture of goldenrod. When formulating a tincture, you can combine goldenrod with other herbs as it increases their beneficial properties. Nettle and elderberry work well with goldenrod in this application for some individuals, but as with all herbs, the individual response (and any underlying conditions) must be taken into account when determining the best treatment. Blend goldenrod with Echinacea, yarrow and elderberry to make a tincture which can be effective in alleviating kidney and urinary tract infections. A dropperful is administered every hour until the discomfort subsides. Thereafter, several drops are taken 3 to 4 times daily for about ten days. Ten days is a good trying time and one used in Scripture to prove that healing had (or had not) taken place.* A tincture can also be used as a linament.

In later articles we will cover how to create your own oils, salves and tinctures. In the meantime, if you’re interested in learning more about herbs (and a lot of other topics) I recommend THE VISION by best-selling author Debi Pearl. Nestled neatly among an intriguing plot are tidbits and tips about the everyday use of herbs. Get your copy today.

*A study of the phrase “ten days” in the Bible can prove interesting.

This article presents ideas and information designed to enrich the reader. This is NO substitute for personalized professional care. The opinions and ideas expressed are fallible and that of the author. Readers are encouraged to be well-informed and draw their own conclusions.

REMEDY FOR INFLAMMATORY PAIN

2009-09-28T20:04:00.000-07:00

If you’ve ever worked yourself into a knot of pain, you know how inflammation can render you immobile. Your muscles are spasming. Depending on the severity of this round, you’re looking at days spent in bed, pain medications with possible nausea. You are also likely aware that pain medications don’t always work. I suspect that pain medications are more often used to keep the patient quiet than they are to manage actual pain . . . but that’s just my opinion.

There is an alternative treatment that can untie those knots. It’s called HOT COLD treatment.

Using hot and cold compresses creates a pumping action. The cold pushes blood from the area. The warmth brings fresh blood into the area. This circulates the blood and reduces the level of inflammation in the blood stream. By reducing the inflammation, the pain will be decreased and mobility will be more quickly restored.

There are two methods to accomplish this.

METHOD 1 – HOT/COLD SHOWER
Stand under a shower with water running and aimed at the painful area. Turn the water on as cool/cold as you can stand for 15 seconds or so, then turn the water as warm/hot as you can stand it. Repeat this for 20 minutes or so (and yell as needed).

Method 2 – YOU MAY NEED HELP
Take 2 bath towels and moisten them (wet and then wring them out). Get one paper bag and place into it a single moistened towel. Set your oven on its lowest setting (100 to 170). Place the closed paper bag into the oven (be sure that it isn’t touching a heating element). Get another paper bag and place into it the remaining towel. Put this into the freezer.

START WITH COLD – END WITH COLD
After 15 minutes, place the cool towel onto the painful area and set a timer for 15 minutes. When the timer rings, grab the towel from the oven and replace the warm towel with it. Return the cool towel to the freezer and repeat as long as necessary. Make it a relay, removing and replacing towels, alternating cold and heat.

Depending on temperature sensitivity, you may need to place a cloth between the towel and your skin as a buffer. I also recommend placing an insulating towel or blanket over the top to retain the heat/cold. Re-moisten the towels as needed. Remember to end the cycle with a cold towel.

I have done this through the night, napping 15 minutes at a time. It was worth it to lose only one night of sleep rather than days of productivity.

If you are in a remote area, use a fire to heat dry rocks and then wrap them in the damp towels. Be sure you use dry rocks, or they will explode in the fire. Use the towel-wrapped rocks for the warm compress. The towels damp with fresh water can be used for the cool compress. Fan the cool compress so that the moisture will begin to evaporate, making the compress even cooler. In a survival situation, the sooner everyone is at their best, the better. Inflammation from a strain or injury can lead to immobility. This is one way to combat that and get everyone back to 100% (or at least a good 75%).

This article is for information purposes only. Utilize these methods at your own risk and using your own discretion.

TIPS TO AVOID CHILD ABDUCTION

2009-09-03T05:08:00.000-07:00

A mother was recently stunned to be reunited with her daughter. The young woman had been kidnapped as a child 20 years ago. Her case is not the only one of its kind as children are abducted and held against their will worldwide. We all want to believe that we live in a place where these things couldn’t possibly happen. However, one of the ways we best protect ourselves and our children is to prepare for the worst and live within guidelines designed to contribute to that safety.

THE LIE YOU WANT TO BELIEVE
The most dangerous lie is the one you want to believe. These are lies that you believe because the truth would be uncomfortable. “Do what I say and you won’t get hurt,” is a lie as old as the father of lies. You want to believe that you will not get hurt, so many people will obediently comply and face terrible consequences. The same thing happens when parents think that safety guidelines don’t apply to their own circumstance. To imagine that their child might be taken is nightmarish.

BUT I DON’T WANT TO LIVE IN FEAR
One way parents and children can better secure themselves is by accepting that we live in a world where predators look for easy prey. Children can be taught how to make themselves less of a target and what to do if the unthinkable occurs. Rather than traumatizing a child, these measures can give the child the confidence he or she needs to act quickly in an emergency and AVOID danger.

USE EVERYDAY EXPERIENCES
Talk to your child about who qualifies as a stranger. Running errands to the grocery store, the library, the bank, the park, or any other routine outing can be used to reinforce and teach important lessons.

• Point out strangers that can be trusted if your child is in danger or needs help.
• Play, “Who is a stranger” with your child. Remind them that strangers don’t always look frightening or creepy or old. Sometimes bigger children will victimize smaller children.
• Identify safe places a child could run to if they need help: stores, restaurants, homes of friends or family members, libraries, community centers, local police stations, etc.
• Observe people and talk about the difference between someone that is well-mannered and someone that is overly familiar. Help them identify when someone is ‘too’ nice or eerily perfect.

IMPORTANT INFORMATION YOUR CHILD SHOULD KNOW
• A stranger is someone they do not know.
• They should never go with someone they do not know (not even walking in the same direction), even if they seem nice.
• Never go into a house, building or car with a stranger, no matter if they promise a reward, toy, candy or anything else, not even if the stranger knows their name. Yell “NO!” and run away.
• It’s okay to hit and hurt an adult if you feel you are in danger. It isn’t rude or bad to run for help.
• A child should never help adults who claim to be in trouble and in need of assistance. Yell, “NO!” Get away and go for help. Adults can ask adults for help. An adult has no business asking someone else’s child for help.

Avoid suspicious scenarios such as:
* Someone with a leash looking for a lost puppy.
* Someone needing directions.
* Adults asking a child for help with a broken down car.
* Someone asking for help to find something in a car or house.

• Consider using a secret word so that a child knows you sent a trusted adult. If a stranger (or other person) knows the child’s name, but not the secret word, the child should refuse to go with him/her. Change the word often.
• Always tell the child if someone else will be picking them up or giving them a ride, and tell the child who that person will be.
• They should never accept gifts from a stranger. Candy or toys, etc. Unless you are present and give permission. Anything offered when parents are not there should be refused. These items can be used as lures. Sometimes candy is drugged, or something is placed in or on the gift that will harm the child.
• They should trust their instincts. If something feels weird about a situation, they should run away. They should run for help if they feel scared. RUN – don’t walk – to the nearest safe place and TELL SOMEONE THEY NEED HELP.
• It is more important to be safe than it is to be polite. Better safe than sorry.
• Three R’s – Recognize, Respond and Report any stranger that makes them feel unsafe – IMMEDIATLEY.

ROLE PLAY; MAKE IT A GAME
• Pretend to be a stranger asking for directions or help to find a lost pet.
• Show the children how to keep a safe distance – beyond arm’s reach.
• How to run away if the stranger gets too close or grabs another child. Go get help right away.
• How to yell and scream effectively to attract the most attention.
• How to flail and kick effectively to break an abductor’s grip.
• Teach them how to claw the stranger’s eyes, ears, nose or mouth.

TEACH CHILDREN TO BE A DIFFICULT TARGET
• Teach children to look out for each other and stay together.
• Train children to never go with those who invite them to leave the group.
• Always walk or play with a safe buddy or in a group.
• Require children to check with you first before leaving your home or some other location.
• Organize parents in your neighborhood to teach their children these tips.

If these guidelines and information are incorporated as part of daily living, your child should not be traumatized. These items can be taught just as parents teach their children to wear seatbelts, watch for traffic and wash their hands before eating to safeguard their physical well-being.

SURVIVING A WILD DOG ATTACK

2009-08-20T17:35:00.000-07:00

A DANGEROUS TREND
A 65 year old woman and her 77 year old husband were recently killed by a pack of wild dogs. This didn’t happen in the outback or the African bush. This happened in the United States, in Georgia, on a quiet neighborhood street.

Feral dogs are wild dogs that have not been socialized by humans. These are usually the offspring of household pets that have been turned out by their owners. The United States leads the world in the numbers of pet dogs.

DVM Magazine (February 2009) published an article that stated the ASPCA believes that 1 million dogs and cats could become homeless within the United States due to economic reasons. As financial difficulties press, some owners prefer to abandon their animals rather than euthanize them, thinking this is a kindness.

According to the PBS documentary Dogs and More Dogs (2004), selectively bred wild foxes produce puppies that have domestic characteristics -- in both nature and appearance -- within 2 to 3 generations. The reverse is also true. As dogs are forced to fend for themselves, they will breed with other dogs that display survival traits and produce offspring with these same characteristics – often within the first or second generation.

This means that within a year, one dog can become a skilled hunter and contribute to the numbers of wild animals in a homeless pack. Deaths due to feral dog attacks are shocking, but considering these facts, it is surprising that it doesn’t happen more often.

DISCLAIMER:
The following information is provided to give you options to survive a wild dog attack or avoid it in the first place. Recommendations to use lethal force are given in order that you may defend life, but they may not be legal and could cause you to be liable for legal actions later. The goal here is to remain alive.

BE PREPARED
If approached by a strange animal, there are steps you can take to avoid being bitten and increase your chances of survival. Remember that dogs respond to your body language not the meaning of your words. You must use your body to communicate to the dog that you aren’t a good target.

Carry a repellent with you when on foot. A good dog repellent for aggressive nuisance pet dogs is a mixture of ammonia and hot pepper sauce in a pump sprayer set to half-way between stream and mist. This works best when sprayed into the mouth and nostrils or eyes.

Carry a weapon. These can range from baseball bats, golf clubs, knives or walking sticks. Use your imagination. Any of these can keep some distance between you and a threatening animal.

A strange animal that approaches you should be treated as a potential threat. Don’t ignore warning signs because you think that a breed is always friendly. One sign of aggression is if the animal holds his head level – not high or low. An even steady run – as opposed to a loping gait – means the dog is charging.

DON’T APPEAR THREATENING TO A DOG
Don’t look the animal in the eye. This is seen as a challenge. Avert your eyes. Don’t stare the animal down.

Don’t smile. Bared teeth signify aggression and a challenge. A wild dog will want to meet this challenge.

Stand at a 45 degree angle towards the dog. Present your less dominant side, and keep the dog in your peripheral vision. This signals that you are not a threat and that you are not in a position to attack (which is face forward in dog language).

DON’T DISPLAY FEAR OR WEAKNESS
Don’t turn your back on an approaching dog. This is a sign of weakness to a dog and will encourage the animal to lunge at you.

NEVER run. This will excite the dog’s chase response – and dogs can run faster than you.

Remain still and calm. Hold your position. The dog may lose interest if he does not sense you are afraid. If you panic, the dog may feel threatened or become more confident in his attack.

If you speak, use a commanding tone. Lower your voice and issue commands like “GO HOME!” or “DOWN!” Shrieking in a shrill tone is not using a commanding voice.

SHIELD YOURSELF
If you can slowly do so, fold your arms tightly to protect your hands. If you can’t do this without exciting the dog, keep your arms lowered and your hands balled into tight fists to protect your fingers. If you extend your arms or hands, you are inviting a bite.

Put something between you and the animal. The dog will fixate on this (umbrella, hat, bag, stick) and be lured to bite the object instead of you. Remember, even if the dog bites your arm, that still leaves you one good arm and two legs to get away.

If possible back away slowly (remember not to turn your back to the dog) and try to place an obstacle between yourself and the dog. Climb on top of a car, a tree or some other object that places you out of reach of the animal. THEN you can shout for help.

IF A DOG ATTACKS YOUR PET
Don’t pull on your dog’s leash. If you do, you will cause puncture wounds to become tears. Additionally, your tugging in the opposite direction will keep your dog from being able to defend itself. Let the leash loose. Evaluate the situation. If you have a lethal weapon, use it. If the other animal is small enough, you may be able to use your stick to beat him off of your animal, but not if he is part of a pack. If you aren’t sure you can overcome the attacking animal, it is better in my opinion to use the opportunity to escape. Living is honoring the sacrifice of your beloved pet in my opinion.

IF A DOG ATTACKS A CHILD OR ANOTHER PERSON
Use whatever lethal weapon you have to stop the attack.

Focus on the attacking dog FIRST. Don’t try and tug the victim away from the dog. This will rip the person’s skin and cause puncture wounds to become gashes. Force your own hand and arm into the dog’s mouth. Your larger limb can be used as a lever to open the dog’s mouth and remove the other person’s limb without tearing at the wounds. Keep driving your arm in and downward into the dog’s mouth to minimize damage to your arm. A variation of this is to jam the pointed end of a stick into the dog’s mouth, ramming it down the throat.

In the event that there is a pack of animals attacking a child, cover the child with your own body. Curl into a ball, face down, with your knees pulled inward and your hands locked behind your neck to protect your face, ears and neck. Become a rock to shield the child from further attack.

IF YOU SHOULD COME UNDER ATTACK
Use any weapon at your disposal to stop the dog with deadly force.

Put something between you and the dog. This can be a hat, book, purse, jacket, umbrella, stick, a bicycle or piece of lawn furniture – whatever is on hand. If nothing else is available offer your arm, preferably have something wrapped around it. This leaves you with a free arm and two legs. Offering the dog your arm will keep him from grabbing onto your leg and dragging you to the ground or from leaping for your throat.
If an arm bite does occur, try to hold the arm so that the bite will clamp down on the sides of the forearm or wrist. Teeth puncturing the soft, flat flesh could damage arteries inside the forearm or wrist. Remember to keep your hand balled into a fist to protect your fingers.

Work to avoid getting knocked onto the ground. Keep your balance.

Use your stick to block the attack if you can. If not, shove the stick down the dog’s throat. If he has your arm, he may release his hold at this point.

If you don’t have a stick, consider shoving your arm down the dog’s throat. Shoving your arm down the dog’s throat can cut off his oxygen or make him gag. Pulling your arm away, rather than shoving your arm forward, will increase your injuries.

If the dog has your arm, attack his vulnerable places: use your thumb to gouge out an eye or deliver a sharp blow to the throat. In this position, you can choke the dog until he passes out by feeding him one arm and placing the other behind his head and pulling upward until the neck snaps. Another method is to grab one of the dog’s hind legs and jerk it upward. This will put the dog on its back – a submissive stance. Use the leg as a lever to keep the dog on his back and drag it to a safer place for you. Be careful with this, though, as you don’t want to end up on the ground.

If you get knocked to the ground, try to remain calm and as motionless as possible, unless the attack continues. If the attack continues, curl into a ball and roll onto your stomach, arms over ears, knees protecting your throat. Use your hands to protect the back of your neck by clasping your hands behind your neck. This is a passive position and may end the attack.

AFTER AN ATTACK
Make a mental note of the dog’s size, breed, sex and color.

Wash the wound with warm, soapy water, wrap in a clean cloth, applying gentle pressure to stop the bleeding. Seek medical attention and follow wound care procedures.

Report the attack to authorities and warn neighbors, especially those which are elderly or have small children.

A FINAL WORD
I’m a dog owner. I love my dog, and she is well-trained. I take good care of her, and I respect her dog-ness. A dog left to its own devices will do what dogs were designed to do. When we respect the design and intent of these animals, we can take appropriate measures to keep our families safe.

FEATURED VIDEO:

Preparing Yourself for Dog Encounters from Hector Hernandez on Vimeo.

GERMINATION FOR THE NEXT GENERATION

2009-08-11T19:34:00.000-07:00

Genesis 1:29

And God said, Behold, I have given you every herb bearing seed, which is upon the face of all the earth, and every tree, in the which is the fruit of a tree yielding seed; to you it shall be for meat.

Healthy plants and animals have been designed to reproduce after their own kind. As gardening practices developed, seeds were saved from the previous season for planting the following season. Farmers would select seeds from the plants that fared the best in their environment.

In recent history, major US corporations have been formed which retail seeds to farmers. This has been a beneficial relationship as it saved the farmer labor hours and allowed him to try new varieties of crops. The corporations were able to devote their resources exclusively to seed collection, storage and retail.

Scientific developments have made it possible to alter seeds in order to increase their profitability. Some of these newer methods have had dire consequences for farmers, food quality, and the consuming public. In the name of protecting standards, this new technology could create a world-wide dependency on seed corporations. This would be accomplished by retailing seeds that have been engineered to produce for one season and then yield seeds that are either sterile or very unpredictable in their ability to reproduce.

Three popular methods currently used to accomplish this include hybrid plants, genetically modified (GM) seeds and Terminator Technology.

Hybrid plants can produce food and seeds, but their seeds don't produce after their own kind because the plants are a cross of two different varieties. Genetically modified (GM) seeds are designed to produce plants resistant to chemical poisons and sprays. This enables farmers to use more chemicals during the growing season which has a damaging effect on the soil and the microbial and micronutrient content available to the plants. Terminator Technology is a type of genetic modification that insures a seed will only produce plants for one season, rendering subsequent seeds sterile.

Individuals can act to help insure that a fertile source of seeds remain available to the general public by starting their own seed banks. You don’t have to be a farmer to harvest and store seeds for future use. When purchasing seeds, look for catalogs that state they do not retail GM seeds. Purchase only heirloom seeds, as these are unaltered. Look for fruits, vegetables, grains and various herbs that you would use for seasoning, spice and/or medicinal purposes.

Seeds harvested from flowers, fruits, vegetables and herbs can be placed onto waxed or parchment paper to air dry at room temperature. Use a marker to label the paper, so you won't forget the date and the variety. When dry, move the seeds to a labeled paper envelope. This can be kept in a glass jar in your refrigerator for long term storage. If you have dark, cool, dry area, seeds are generally known to store well in such an environment. For grass and grain seeds that would be broadcast over a large area, you may want to make some seed balls for convenience in storage and later planting.

But why store seeds if you don’t plan to grow them?

Currently, there is a bill before Congress (H.R. 875) that threatens to so regulate sources of food that it has the potential to put a stop to roadside stands, backyard gardens and organic farming practices. Whether this will become law and how it will be enforced remains to be seen. Yet, it may be wise to begin saving seeds now, while the practice is still unregulated.

Consider harvesting and storing seeds that you may not be interested in growing. Do your research and label the seeds with both their botanical and common names. There are internet sites devoted to trading seeds. You may be able to get the seeds you want for free by trading your unwanted surplus.

Without heirloom seed companies, these seeds could cease to exist. In the current economic and political climate, this is a possibility. Individuals that enjoy the freedom of growing their own foods -- or even purchasing foods grown without chemicals -- would do well to take the time to secure their source of heirloom seeds.

No Greater Joy Magazine is a bi-monthly publication that featuring articles on simple living and strengthening family ties. Visit Mike and Debi Pearls’ web site at www.NoGreaterJoy.org to get your free subscription today.

How to Harvest & Dry Seeds -- powered by eHow.com

FLOOD SAFETY

2009-07-24T11:46:00.000-07:00

The number one weather-related killer in the United States each year is flooding. On average, 140 deaths are caused annually due to flood conditions. Of that number, three quarters die in vehicles.

The best way to survive a flood is to understand that nature is not the enemy. Flooding occurs often enough to give us lots of information on how best to deal with these conditions.

The primary type of flooding is river flooding. This can occur even if there has been no rainfall in your immediate area. A heavy rain event far upstream can cause river levels to rise even though you haven’t seen storm clouds. These conditions can have a cumulative effect over days or weeks. It is important to know the topography of the land around you and whether or not you are at risk for flooding.

Some precautions that you can take include keeping pets restrained or on a leash and indoors. Secure livestock on high ground. Listen to your local weather station. When a flood warning is issued – ESPECIALLY a flash flood warning, understand that there isn’t much time to move. You may only have seconds to escape. Remember that the water will seek low lying areas. Streets, streams and creeks will fill rapidly. Rather than attempting to outrun the waters, seek higher ground. Never attempt to outdrive a flash flood. Flash floods move faster than a car could travel.

If there IS time to prepare, then move your furnishings and valuables to an upper level. Stock up on clean water, filling various containers, including bathtubs. Implement your family disaster plan.

NEVER DRIVE in flood waters. Water covering the road could be covering hidden dangers. Just because you are familiar with the ground surface, doesn’t mean it is safe. The lay of the land may well have been changed by the swirling water. The waters may contain runoff toxic chemicals, downed power lines or other debris. Stop, turn around and go another way.

Avoid walking in floodwaters. The currents in floodwaters are strong. As little as 6 inches of water can sweep an adult or a child off their feet and carry them away. Listen to public health warnings regarding boiling water advisories. Take time to become aware of the entry points of your home. Neighbor’s pets or other wildlife such as snakes or rats may try to take refuge in your house.

If you return home after a flood, examine the exterior of your home, checking for damage and places where critters may have entered. If the foundation appears damaged, hire a professional to inspect the residence to see if it’s safe to enter. Wear protective clothing – dust mask, rubber gloves, long pants, boots, and long-sleeved shirts – as you clean your property. Floods cause a lot of mud, silt and other debris to enter your home. Be prepared to change garments as they become soiled. The soil contains bacteria that could make you ill.

Earlier this year, the Cane Creek community in Tennessee experienced localized flooding. The July-August 2009 issue of No Greater Joy Magazine includes two personal accounts of the event. Impressive photos are included along with an article by bestselling author Debi Pearl entitled: "The Biggest Cane Creek Flood on Record.” Her son, Gabriel Pearl wrote of his adventures in the article entitled: “Cane Creek Flood.” You can read both articles free online or sign up for a free subscription to No Greater Joy Magazine and have it delivered to your home.

SUSTAINING LIFE IN A CAVE

2009-07-16T13:58:00.000-07:00

Norman’s Ranch and Sportswear Store can be found in a little town called Havre, Montana. Norman’s is a thriving enterprise, but that’s not all there is to see in Havre. Beyond the rail museum and other highlights you will find ‘Beneath the Streets.’ Today, this is a novel stop on a tour, but at one time it was a bustling business zone. One hundred years ago, cowboys and ranch workers would find their way here to be relieved of their pay by gambling, drinking, visiting the opium den and keeping company with enterprising females.

Havre might have been one of the early pioneers of below-ground businesses but it wasn’t the last town to try it. Craighead Caverns is part of a massive system of caves in a place called Sweetwater, Tennessee. About 70 years ago, Fort Oglethorpe utilized horses. The manure from those horses was used as fertilizer for a mushroom farm begun in a large cavern. Those mushroom beds were located near a dance floor that became a nightclub called the Cavern Tavern.

Caves aren’t normally sought after as permanent shelter, but it’s not really a bizarre idea. This has been tried previously. The real sticking point is to try and conceive of how entire groups of people could be housed AND find a viable source of clean food, air and water within a cave for great lengths of time.

When studied, however, this may not be such a strange idea.

About 40 years ago, Soviet scientists were testing several types of algae to determine their nutrient content. Techniques perfected during that research are being used today to create nutritional supplements. Because it is necessary to secure a large climate-controlled growing environment, some manufacturers are utilizing caves. Systems are being marketed today which grow fish and vegetables using limited resources. This is accomplished by using water filtered from the fish container to feed nutrients to the plants which are grown in trays with peat moss and pea gravel. Along with automated feeding, both the fish and the plants receive artificial sunlight via solar powered growing lights. As you may have already surmised, it is possible to utilize this technology to create a livable environment inside a cave.

However, the idea that both humans and animals could live for extended periods inside of a cave without returning to the surface for supplies is not the only surprising revelation.

Rural Tennessee has produced a writer that has used these pieces of information to create a suspense-filled story in her newest book, The Vision. Near a labyrinth of caves reside Debi Pearl and her husband, Mike. Together, they serve as administrators of No Greater Joy Ministries. ~ There, they also oversee No Greater Joy Ministries. While Debi Pearl is well known for her writing, this is her first work of fiction. Debi’s newest work, The Vision is not unlike the caves of Tennessee; taking the reader around surprising twists and turns that raise questions about whether these things might actually occur.

The first in a series, The Vision delivers on its promise to both entertain and inform. Get your copy of The Vision by Debi Pearl today.

PREDATORS PREY ON RUNAWAYS

2009-07-08T17:38:00.001-07:00

Survival skill training can be one way to help your child avoid becoming a victim. The ability to find food and shelter until rescued will shield a child from many dangers. One of the most important ways a parent can protect children from abusers is to work to provide a safe, secure home environment where a child knows he is loved and wanted.

Criminals know that runaways are easy prey; that’s why they target them. The Vision is a new book by Debi Pearl that touches on the reality of the victimization of runaways in this country.

Rates of runaways soar as more and more families are disintegrating. Over two and a half million children run away from home each year according to the United States Department of Justice. A large number of runaways are lured into illegal solicitation. A majority of these children are indentured into service by abusers. Many of these go unnoticed because their disappearance is never reported to authorities by their malfunctioning family.

Federal agents in a nationwide sweep broke up more than 12 child prostitution rings in October 2008 that used children as young as 13 up to age 17. Metropolitan areas were not the only places these businesses thrived. Many of these operations are able to thrive in areas that are suburban or rural.

Criminal hunters study the mental and emotional makeup of their targets. They realize that these children are in search of a secure and safe place. Whatever the child lacked at home – food, clothing, money, attention, shelter – all of that is promised by the abuser. The control of the children is additionally secured by physical force and the threat of violence.

The response of local law enforcement is often to give a criminal record to these children. While a child must be 17 in most states in order to qualify as a consenting adult, there is no age limit on how young a child must be to escape prostitution charges. While the law states that an underage child cannot consentually agree to intercourse, those same laws can be used to level criminal charges against a child engaged in that activity.

Hundreds Nabbed in Prostitution Bust
Shared via AddThis

These youngsters lack family members that are willing to take them in, or rather, no family with whom they would want to live. It is not common to find safe houses with counseling services, medical treatment, and crisis management. Although released from jail or juvenile services, these children often have no other option but to return to the same bondage they escaped.

The Vision contains a story of several people that encounter a hopeless, young runaway. Endurance, faith and patience are put to the test as an angry, untrusting soul is at stake. This is just one of the strands that is woven into the tapestry of The Vision. Find out what happens! Don’t wait to purchase your copy of The Vision by Debi Pearl.

THE VISION by Debi Pearl -- A Fictional Tale with Realistic Elements

2009-06-30T19:57:00.000-07:00

>>================<<>>================<<

Debi Pearl has written a new book, The Vision (ISBN: 978-0-9819737-0-8). The main characters of The Vision find themselves embroiled in controversy over their mission while their community faces unrest, politics swirl and the environment becomes increasingly hostile.

Throughout the book, Yellowstone threatens to erupt. Readers may suppose that the writer has used her creative license overmuch. However, Yellowstone is classified as a super-volcano, and geologists predict that this super-volcano could erupt.

A massive caldera is the site of Yellowstone National Park. Calderas are bowl shaped geographical areas that cap stores of molten rock. Yellowstone's caldera is shaken by quakes centered three miles beneath its surface.

Both Yellowstone's size and dormancy gain it notice as a super volcano.

"A super-eruption is the world's biggest bang. It's a volcanic explosion big enough to dwarf all others and with a reach great enough to affect everyone on the planet," is the description given by Bill McGuire of the Benfield Greig Hazard Research Center with a professorship at London's University.

The force of such an eruption would require a thousand atomic explosions each second to equal it. The world's largest city, Tokyo, could fit inside Yellowstone's caldera because it's so massive.

Geologists estimate that every six to seven hundred thousand years there is a volcanic eruption at this location. They go on to estimate that it was 640,000 years ago when the last major eruption occurred. Give or take a few thousand years, this means that Yellowstone may be overdue to erupt.

In the event of a volcanic eruption at Yellowstone, predictions are that there would be a 90% loss of life (animal and human) within a 600 mile radius of the blast. Ash spewed into the air would become deadly when inhaled by survivors across the United States. Farm animals would also experience massive casualties, interrupting food supplies.

Travelers would be stranded as transportation stopped. Short term, airplanes would be prevented from flying while rail and other motorized conveyance would be stopped as well.

A great volume of the explosion would be projected into the air where, cooling, it would turn into bits of sharp, jagged rocks and glass. A grayish or black haze would immediately darken the sky because of the matter suspended in the air. A noticeable sulfuric odor, thunder and lightning would assail the senses.

With thunder rolling, the immediate disaster area would become blanketed in a muffled quiet. The first 12-60 hours would be characterized by a heavy ash fall. Structural damage to buildings would come about because of the weight of firmly packed ash. A foot's depth of ash would weigh enough to collapse a roof.

Rain would fall out of season as a result of the particles in the air. Water mixed with ash would coat everything with slime. Mudslides would soon follow the rain. Contaminates would be found in water supplies. Air filters on automobiles would become clogged, and roads would become too slippery to navigate. Electric companies would also encounter engine failures, resulting in uncertain availability of electricity.

Clouds of residual ash could be worked back into the air by human activity for weeks or even years after the ash had settled. To prevent breathing in ash particles, it would be necessary to don facial masks. Survivors would have to contend with limited clean air, resulting in widespread health concerns. Worldwide, there would be crop failures and loss of vegetation.

A hazy light would characterize the daytime as diffused light tried to penetrate the suspended particles in the atmosphere. Within days of the volcanic blast, the skies over Europe would be reddened. Two to three weeks later, Yellowstone's sulfuric acid cloud would blanket the earth. The upper atmosphere would be infused with sulfur creating a planetary climatic cooling effect as great as 10 degrees. Six to ten years could pass before normal temperatures started returning.

Scientists predict that because of temperature changes south of the equator, there will be failure of the monsoon season. Asia would experience monumental food shortages as a result of this reduced rainfall.

Weeks or even years prior to an eruption, Yellowstone National Park service scientists predict that there will be measurable warning signs. Hank Heasler, Yellowstone park geologist, stated that, "If the park were poised for a major eruption, the signs wouldn't be subtle."

Debi Pearl has authored a fictitious volume in The Vision. Nevertheless, there is an uncomfortable realness in regard to Yellowstone's super volcano.

SIGNALS FOR RESCUE

2009-06-20T11:24:00.000-07:00

Before you need to signal for help, one of the best ways to be sure you are found is by taking the time to plan to be found. When you travel, leave an itinerary of your trip with a responsible, trusted person at home. Include times that you expect to be at certain locations. Write down where you are going, your route, and when you are due. If your itinerary changes, let your contact person know right away. List any possible alterations to your route. Have pre-arranged meeting places for members of your party if you become separated. This will enable rescuers will know where to search if you are missing. Other helpful information to include in your itinerary are the health and general condition of members of your party, including any medications, a list of your gear including amount of food, water, clothing and shelter materials, and emergency contact information (family members and doctors' telephone numbers, etc.)

I have never been lost,
but I will admit to being confused for several weeks.
~ Daniel Boone ~

If you find yourself "confused" and in need of rescue there are a variety of ways to let your rescuers know your location.

You can utilize a variety of materials to signal for help including fire, smoke, flashlights, brightly colored clothing, reflective mirrors, whistles, or electronic devices. Remaining calm can enable you to use your imagination to plan a creative way to signal potential help. Knowing your options can save your life by keeping you from making a deadly mistake.

At the moment you realize you are lost, create a marker to designate your spot. Pile some rocks together, bend some branches, or create some other easily recognizable sign so that you will know the spot. This will be your base. If you decide to try and make your way out, this is where you will return for another try if your first attempts fail. This will also be the place you wait for rescuers.

If you choose to move away from your base, leave a note at the marker. Tell your plans and your direction of travel. As you travel mark the way at regular intervals with a pile of stones, a broken branch, or some other easily identifiable clue as to where you have been. This will help rescuers find you.

Electronic devices can be invaluable tools in an emergency. However, the potential for abuse is great.
Personal Locator Beacons (PLB's), avalanche beacons, satellite phones and other electronic safety devices can be used in the outdoors. Additional location devices that can be used to signal rescuers include Emergency Locator Transmitters (ELTs) used by pilots and Emergency Position-Indicating Radio Beacons (EPIRB) used by mariners.

While these are considered safety tools, they may also tempt those who carry them to feel they can engage in risky behavior. The belief that rescue from mistakes is just the press of a button away can turn your cell phone, GPS unit or other locator device into a personal body locator.

Be aware that electronic devices do not always function even in ideal conditions. Rugged mountainous areas and rural areas often have spotty reception, if any at all. Damage, battery life, and user incapacitation can all compromise the effectiveness of these devices.

It is always prudent to bring extra survival gear and depend upon survival training and good judgment should something unplanned occur. Be aware of your own personal limitations, the limitations of your equipment and other conditions. That will eliminate the need for search and rescue services, and PLBs.

Flares are highly visible but not long-lasting. Don't waste them. Lights can't be seen during the day unless the rescue party is close. These are more easily seen from great distances at night.

Survival whistles are compact, lightweight and easy to use. These whistles can get you noticed. The human ear can track the direction from which the whistling originates. In contrast, the sound of a human voice shouting can be dissipated by thick vegetation. Vocal chords will quickly give out and the effort will leave you winded. Whistles can be blown almost indefinitely, even when used by a weak or injured person.

Three blasts is the universal signal for distress. This applies to gunshots as well as whistles. Two blasts mean "All is well." Under the right conditions, a rescue whistle can be heard up to 5 miles away.

The survival whistle is also useful in urban environments. It can be used for defense by drawing attention to the situation. Children can carry a small survival whistle on a string around their neck.

Metal whistles are not recommended. Wet flesh will freeze to metal when cold. If you plan to wear a whistle or keep it in your pocket, a plastic whistle with a flat shape may be best.

The ACR WW3 (ResQ Whistle) is a flat plastic whistle with a dual chamber that can be had for less than $3. It was developed for the U.S. Navy. Plastic storm safety whistles are a favorite of life guards. These are so loud that they can even be heard underwater. Storm whistles run around $5 each.

Mirrors can make you visible to rescuers, but you must know how to use them. When aimed correctly, the brilliant flash from an emergency signal mirror cannot be ignored. It will reveal your position in the densest of vegetation or in the most rugged mountainous landscape from an average distance of 10 miles or more.

Commercially available signal mirrors are shatter resistant, lightweight, small and some have holes for hanging from a lanyard worn at the neck or belt. These mirrors also have an aiming hole in the center. Using this aiming hole, the viewer can point the mirror towards rescuers on the ground or in the air and see where the reflected beam is hitting, making adjustments to direct the beam more accurately.

If no signal mirror is available, other reflective materials can be used. A rear view mirror off of a vehicle, a magnetic compass mirror, a shiny CD, a mirror from a purse, aluminum foil, metal cans, or any other polished metal will do.

Two methods that can be used to aim the reflected light are the stick method and the hand method.

To use the hand method, extend your hand and form a "V" with two fingers. Position this "V" so that the object you wish to flash (an airplane for example) can be sighted between the two fingers. Tilt the mirror slightly to move the reflected light beam across your hand towards the center of the "V." This will allow your light beam to come in contact with your target.

Another way to direct your signal is to find a stick that is chest or head high. Position yourself so that the top of the stick and your mirror are in line with the object you wish to signal. Move the mirror so that the reflected light hits the top of the stick.

Scan the horizon regularly with your signal mirror. You may not be able to see rescuers, but they might see you. Also, once you've alerted your target, don't continue to flash them. The flash from your signal mirror is so bright as to be blinding.

The time to practice aiming your mirror is before you ever need to use it.
For a demonstration of signal mirror use, watch the video below:

There are a variety of symbols that signal a need for help. These can be placed on horizontal or vertical surfaces to be seen at a distance by rescuers. The shape of a triangle is a signal with three sides. Three is a universal signal for help. Spell the word "HELP" in large, all capital letters. The letter "V" lets rescuers know you need immediate assistance. The letters "SOS" are a call for help. The letter "X" means that you need immediate medical assistance.

You can stamp these symbols out or use tree limbs, rocks, vegetation or brush to make the signal more visible. If you are in a sandy or flat area, try scraping the symbol into the dirt. You can place signal fires (or flares) in the shape of a triangle, positioning the flames at each corner.

If you have a vehicle, make it more visible from the air and from a distance by clearing vegetation, using a cloth for a flag, or use some other creative solution. Use fuel and oil to start signal fires and feed them with material from the car that creates smoke. Place as many symbols as possible around your location to make your position most visible.

Once help has been spotted, wave. Be sure to wave with two hands and arms. This signals distress. Waving with one arm indicates all is well. It is best NOT to get these confused.

If you feel that the chance for a quick rescue is great and it takes little energy for you to signal, then signaling for rescue should be high on the list of priorities of someone who needs rescuing.

RULE OF 3'S TO SURVIVE

2009-06-10T14:23:00.000-07:00

The number 3 can be the key to your survival in an emergency. When you must prioritize your needs quickly, it helps to know what is most urgent. Knowing the rules of 3 can give you the information you need to make smart decisions.

http://www.free-camping-recipes.com/wilderness-survival.html

"It seems pretty obvious what your priorities should be in a wilderness survival situation once it is spelled out like this. However a lot of beginners think that finding food is the first thing they should do. So they spend all of their energy trying to find some berries, and before they know it the sun is setting. It's getting cold. Clouds are rolling in, and it starts raining. They still have no food, and now they don't have any shelter. That is not a situation we would want to be in. How 'bout you?"

YOU CAN ONLY SURVIVE . . .

3 SECONDS without hope

Most individuals freeze in an emergency. In the immediate confusion and chaos, the human brain tries to draw upon some familiar experience for a plan of action. Finding none, we become immobile. You have three seconds to decide that you have hope and move forward. Statistics show that in a plane crash, you have 90 seconds to exit the wreckage. Three seconds without hope can make the difference between whether or not you have time to clear the area.

Survival depends upon your ability to shake yourself out of the stupor of disbelief and hopelessness.

Walter B. Cannon studied the case histories of sudden, unexplained deaths from around the world. In 1942, he published his theory that the brain unleashes stress hormones that can cause fatal heart arrhythmias in individuals that have given up all hope of escape -- they are literally scared to death. Use fear to spur yourself towards life-saving action. Determine to grasp onto hope and make a plan to live.

3 MINUTES without air

Few people can hold their breath for 3 minutes. In circumstances where oxygen is limited, your next priority is to get to a place where you can breathe.

3 HOURS without shelter (in extreme conditions)

Once you have breathable air, your next priority is to find (or construct) shelter. Those who take off on prolonged hikes may find themselves going in circles and/or racing the setting sun to construct safe sleeping quarters. In extreme conditions, you can live for a couple of days without water and weeks without food, but you cannot survive without shelter. You could suffer from hypothermia at 50 degrees, especially if the wind is blowing and you are wet. In warm climates, you will need shelter from the sun. Protect yourself from the elements.

3 DAYS without water

The next challenge is to find clean water. This may mean collecting rainwater or finding a water source shared by plants and animals. Avoid activity that leads to lots of sweating and heavy breathing. This causes your body to lose water more quickly. Conserve what water your body has by working at a nice steady pace. Whatever your course of action, your body will need water soon.

3 WEEKS without food

Some of us will survive even longer without it, but food will become an urgent concern for survival after a couple of weeks. With plenty of water, some can even survive longer than three weeks, but you will want to locate a source of nourishment while you still have the strength to do so.

3 MONTHS without companionship or love

This is actually part of the first rule of 3. In order to continue in a prolonged survival circumstance, most people need to have a sense of purpose and belonging. Knowing that someone is there for you and caring what happens to you can help you continue doing what is necessary for survival when the days and weeks seem to drag. Strong faith will make all of the difference for these survivors.

This video offers important information on adaptability and a survival mentality by David Wendell.

FOR FURTHER READING:
The Survivors Club by Ben Sherwood (ISBN-10: 0446580244)
http://www.free-camping-recipes.com/wilderness-survival.html
http://www.mountainsurvival.com/

SEED BALLS -- NATURE AT WORK

2009-06-02T11:46:00.000-07:00

Seed balls are a seed delivery system that protects seeds from drying out in the sun, getting eaten by birds and insects, or from being blown away by the wind. Additionally, the ingredients of a seed ball offer nutrients that the seed needs to germinate and grow properly.

http://davesgarden.com/guides/articles/view/1627/
"Native Americans . . . carried their precious seeds within tiny balls made of clay and soil and hardened in the sun. There was little loss of seeds since they were encased within the clay balls. When they arrived at their destination, the clay balls were placed wherever needed, and with the spring rains and summer sunshine, they grew where they were placed. A garden was planted . . ."

In 1973, a variation of this method of broadcasting seed was used to make 'seed bombs' to revitalize New York's Bowery neighborhood. (http://heavypetal.ca/tag/seedbomb/) Seed balls and bombs are also used by "Guerrilla gardeners." These are individuals that secretly plant various seeds in neglected public and private areas.

RECLAIMING BARREN GROUND
Seed balls are a convenient way to reclaim a bare patch of land that is arid, has an unpredictable rainfall, and where the soil is thin and compacted. This method can also be used to furnish an area with plants that attract beneficial insects, transforming it into a wild garden. Wildflower and herb seeds are well-suited this method. Seed balls offer the flexibility of scattering the balls on a sunny day and allowing nature to decide when it is best to start the seedlings.

"We use a combo of wild flower, mustards, radish seeds and wheat to create a haven for beneficial insects. We sow the balls in winter in our next-door neighbor's yard. They had a long piece of bare ground adjacent to our garden that was full of weeds and bermuda grass *yuck*."
(http://www.pathtofreedom.com/pathproject/gardening/seedballs.shtml)

HOW THEY WORK
When enough water penetrates a seed ball, the clay content softens, and holds the water close to the seed as it sprouts. The seedling then draws upon the other nutrients in the seed ball to establish itself in the soil.

As the crop from one season matures, the seeds for the next season are formed into balls that can be scattered at harvest.

Because much less seed is used than in conventional growing, there are fewer plants. But these plants are stronger and reportedly have a higher yield.

HOW TO MAKE SEED BALLS: 1 * 3 * 5
Seed balls are made using a 1:3:5 formula -- 1 part seed mixture, 3 parts compost (manure or potting) soil, and 5 parts clay.

For additional protection from insects, you can include a 10% addition of some insect repelling herbs such as red chili pepper, cayenne, catnip, pennyroyal or peppermint -- or a combination of them.

SEED BALL RECIPE:
1 part seed mix : wildflowers are best, avoid seeds of invasive plants.
3 parts dry organic compost . . . can blend manure or potting soil with this.
10 percent insect repelling herbs (wear gloves when using pepper).
MIX WELL
5 parts finely ground natural clay (terra cotta, gray or white)
MIX WELL
2 parts water (added gradually)

This can be done following these approximate measurements to make about 30 seed balls:
1/3 cup seed mix
3/4 cup compost
1 tbsp repellent herbs (wear gloves if using pepper)
1 1/4 cups clay

Mix the seeds into the dry compost by hand. Then add the clay to the mix and blend everything by hand until well-incorporated. Use gloves if you've added cayenne pepper to your mix. Mist water onto the mixture while stirring, just enough water to allow the mixture to bind together to the consistency of cookie dough.

Roll the moistened mixture into penny-sized round balls about the size of a marble. Once this is done, place the balls into the sun and allow them to dry completely for a day or two (24 to 48 hours).

When ready, the seed balls can be placed onto the ground you wish to seed. Place 1 ball per square foot of soil (9 balls per yard, 10 balls per meter). Consider bare spots that lack vegetation: driveways, exposed tree roots, etc. The process will begin with the first soaking rain . . . or as you decide to water them.

LETTING NATURE DO THE WORK

FOR FURTHER READING:
http://www.wildflower.org/howto/show.php?id=17&frontpage=true
http://heavypetal.ca/archives/2007/03/how-to-make-seedballs/
http://www.pathtofreedom.com/pathproject/gardening/seedballs.shtml

ALTERNATIVE BUILDING MATERIALS AND METHODS

2009-05-05T15:27:00.000-07:00

LABOR SAVING DEVICE
A mixer is an expensive piece of equipment that will make home building less labor intensive. Whether you are using concrete, papercrete, adobe, or cob, a mixer will help the task move along much more quickly. If you are at all mechanically inclined, you may be able to find a used one and refurbish it for your own use. If not, consider making your own homemade mixer.

To make a homemade mixer you will need:
(Image courtesy: http://www.starship-enterprises.net/Papercrete/Mixer/)
* A large, galvanized tub (feed tank) mounted on a tow trailer.
* Lawn mower blade attached to the tow trailer's axle differential.

Pull the trailer behind your truck (or mule, or whatever). The movement of the axle spins the lawn mower blade and mixes your mix.

You can see an example of this mixer being used in the video that follows.

PAPERCRETE is one of several materials that can be used to create your own shelter.
YOU WILL NEED:

30 pounds of concrete
18 pounds joint compound
1 pound boric acid (to make your home bug-proof)
90 pounds recycled newspaper and/or cardboard (wet and shredded)

PAPER ADOBE is much the same as papercrete, only no concrete is used in the mixture.

45 pounds waste paper
120 gallons water
100 pounds of clay
11 shovels of sand

ADOBE
http://www.firebudd.com/adobe/
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adobe

HOW TO MAKE ADOBE BRICKS (COB MATERIAL)

ADOBE RECIPE:
From the site: http://www.zetatalk.com/shelter/tshlt04c.htm
Time required: about one month (most of it waiting for bricks to dry).
Cost: little or nothing
Materials:

One five-gallon bucket
One mixing stick or old wooden spoon
1/2 bucket of adobe clay
1/4 bucket of sand
1/8 bucket of straw cut into two-to-three-inch pieces
Enough water to make a doughlike consistency
Six empty half-gallon waxed milk containers OR six 4 * 11 * 22 inch wooden brick molds, which can be made from 2-by-4s nailed together
Waterproof tape

Directions:

Thoroughly mix the adobe clay, sand and straw in the bucket; add only enough water to create a workable consistency
You can use either the wooden brick molds or the waxed 1/2 gallon milk cartons. To make the molds from the latter, cut one side from the carton (which becomes the open top of the brick mold). Cut and flatten the folded spout end and tape the carton firmly into a rectangular shape.
Pack the brick mixture into the cartons, filling each about tow-thirds full. IN 15 minutes to 24 hours, the brick will be firm enough to tip out. Each batch is different' you will have to judge when your mix will maintain a brick shape.
Place shaped bricks in a sunny location and turn repeatedly as they dry. (A completely dry brick is uniform in color, inside and out.)

MOST EXCELLENT ARTICLE on building with Adobe by J.D. Hooker can be found here. Make Adobe Bricks. Illustrations are included and a description of how the bricks are stacked into a makeshift oven and hardened by firing.

HOW TO MAKE COB/ADOBE. This video shows how cob/adobe can be made without a mechanized mixer.

COB CONSTRUCTION
One of MANY recipes for making cob:
1 part clay
2 parts sand (this keeps the finished product from cracking)
Mix thoroughly
Add just enough water to make a firm dough. A hard packed ball should not shatter when dropped to the ground from shoulder height. If it shatters, it needs more clay. If it flattens (like a pancake) it's too wet.

At this point, the mixture could be used to build an outdoor oven.

TO BUILD STRUCTURES WITH COB, you will add straw (not hay, straw) to your mix. When the mud/sand mixture is the consistency of peanut butter, add your straw. Straw allows the mix to support more of its own weight when wet. It also allows you to make wetter mud, which is easier to sculpt.

Cob Cottage Company (includes lots of pictures of cob houses)
Cob Building in the Country
See this free book online:
Cob Builders Handbook

STRAW BALE CONSTRUCTION
http://www.balewatch.com/

STRAW BALE HOUSE MADE BY SINGLE MOM FOR $50,000

STRAW BALE CONSTRUCTION, DEBUNKING THE MYTHS OF STRAWBALE

HOUSE BUILT USING VARIOUS RECLAIMED MATERIALS (MOSTLY COB).

COB AND WOOD CONSTRUCTION COMBINATION (for roundhouse) . . . also shows example of Reciprocal Frame Roof.

EARTHBAG CONSTRUCTION
To search for more information on the internet regarding this system, use the term 'earthbag' rather than 'sandbag.' If you search for 'sandbag' you will find several helpful hints on how to make your own exercise equipment, rather than how to construct a building.

The speaker on this video has a heavy accent, but I believe it is worth watching more than once to catch what he is saying. He discusses the type of bags used, how to prepare the soil, using barbed wire as a type of mortar to hold the bags in place and how to build using the bags in a staggered pattern. Note: this video does not discuss using a 'tube' system, but separate bags.

RAMMED EARTH CONSTRUCTION
http://www.diyrammedearth.com/
This method is similar to earthbag building except that there are no bags. The earth is held in place by using wooden forms.

VIDEO: John Ryan -- fun Appalachian music background

RECIPROCAL FRAME ROOF:
This type of roof helps create rooms that appear larger because they are not broken up with interior support beams.

"The reciprocal frame is a roof structure where each beam both supports and is supported by other beams in the roof structure. A minimum of 3 beams is required to create a reciprocal frame roof. As each beam supports the next in a reciprocal manner no internal support structure is required. Only the outer end of each beam requires support which will normally be a post used for the wall. The roof loads are transferred to these posts and in turn to the supporting foundation. The beams can be fabricated from timbers, laminated wood, steel or reinforced concrete. A very inexpensive roof structure can be made from logs."

RECIPROCAL FRAME ROOF
Click on the above link for more information on Reciprocal Frame Roofs. Scan down the page and click on the image of the ceiling for details which include architectural drawings.

THERMAL MASS OF NATURAL MATERIALS:
http://www.adobebuilding.com/Adobe_Building_Manual.pdf
"Adobe brick has a high thermal mass meaning that when the brick heats up, it can hold a large amount of heat and then release it slowly. In a well-designed solar passive adobe brick home, the winter sun heats the adobe bricks during the day. This heat is held in the brick and released during the night, keeping your home warm. Conversely, sun is kept off the mud brick walls during summer with strategically placed eaves and/or a verandah, allowing them to stay cool during the day and remain cool all night."

"This time course of the heat transfer is also known as the “thermal lag”. Essentially, the thermal lag is the amount of time it takes for heat to 'pass through'. The thermal lag for earth walls is around 7 to 10 hours for a one-foot (300mm) thick wall. This is ideal for most climates as mid-day heat will be released after the nighttime drop in temperature."

SHIPPING CONTAINER HOUSES
Retired train cars, cargo shipping containers, and truck bed containers are also being utilized to create low-cost housing.

Converting Steel Shipping Containers to Housing

Watch this at Bob Vila

COMBINING METHODS FOR HYBRID BUILDINGS:
Here is an example of a New Mexico house created using several different alternative techniques.
"This segment gives a quick overview of some materials used in green building, including straw bale and adobe walls, earth plaster, natural materials, passive solar heating and cooling, and much more. "

WORTH A TRY:
Alternative building materials are an abundant resource in a society where excess items are routinely disposed. It is not likely that such alternative construction will make a great impact on the environment, but these utilizing these methods WILL save you money if you are inclined to utilize them. Established homeowners can save money by creatively utilizing these methods as they maintain and develop their current property. Cob construction (and similar) methods can be used to create outdoor ovens, walkways, walls, garden benches and many other pleasant features that will increase property value.

Additional Reading:

http://www.constructionbusinessowner.com/topics/environment-and-compliance/recycling-construction-materials-an-important-part-of-the-construction-process.html

http://www.smartgrowth.org/library/resident_const_waste.html

http://activerain.com/blogsview/392846/You-Could-Build-a-House-from-Recycled-Building-Materials

http://www.greenhomebuilding.com/index.htm

This blog presents ideas and information designed to enrich the life of the reader. These articles are NO substitute for consultation with skilled professionals. The opinions and ideas expressed are fallible and that of the author. Readers are encouraged to be well-informed and draw their own conclusions.

BUILD-IT-YOURSELF HOMEOWNER HELPS

2009-05-03T16:32:00.000-07:00

Building your own home is an option for people who own land, but lack the funds to have a ready home constructed.

BUILD BELOW THE RADAR
There are MANY MANY plans from many sources on how to build your own home. While recommendations vary on many points, one place where they all agree is that you must know what the building codes are in your area. You will want to know what must be done to the property to make it ready for a residence. Decide on your water source and sewage options and build in such a way that you have the option to make improvements later. In other words, hauling water is fine while you are young, but you will likely appreciate indoor plumbing in your later years. Construct your dwelling with these things in mind.

One of the most intriguing plans I've seen is that of compound building. Rather than build a single building for a dwelling. some homeowners are opting to erect several small storage shed sized buildings. These are often small enough that no building permits are required. They can be positioned much the same as rooms would be in a house, but they each have their own foundation and roof. A wall is erected around the outer perimeter to
secure the compound and sometimes a roof is placed over the interior courtyard with walkways between rooms (buildings).

This plan for a compound home is of one made with hay bale construction.
Illustration courtesy: http://www.balewatch.com/

If you are homesteading, many authors suggest that you live in an old trailer home (or shack) on the property while you are building. During this time, your tools will likely be kept under a tarp or other waterproof container. Your first construction project (building A) will be the building which will later become your storage/garage space. This will help you perfect your skills while gaining experience. Once building A is complete, you live in building A and use the old trailer for storage while you construct building B. As each new section is finished, you move possessions into that and equipment/tools into your finished storage (which you just vacated).

FREE BUILDING MATERIALS
If you more time than money, you can acquire many building materials for the cost of carrying it away. When modern construction methods are used, the excess materials must be cleared from the site. This is an expense to the contractor. If you follow the construction industry and are dependable, you may be able to get materials FREE in exchange for saving the contractor the expense of hiring a disposal service.

This site has a nice table on how materials can be used in construction:

Recycling Construction Materials: An Important Part of the Construction Process.

Material	How Is It Recycled?	Recycling Markets
Concrete	The material is crushed, the reinforcement bar is removed, and the material is screened for size.	Road base General fill Drainage media Pavement aggregate
Asphalt Pavement	The pavement is crushed and recycled back into asphalt, either in-place or at a hot-mix asphalt plant.	Aggregate for new asphalt hot mixes Sub-base for paved road
Asphalt Shingles	After removal of nails, asphalt shingles are ground and recycled into hot-mix asphalt.	Asphalt binder and fine aggregate for hot mix asphalt
Wood	Clean, untreated wood can be re-milled, chipped or ground.	Feed stock for engineered particle board Boiler fuel Recovered lumber re-milled into flooring Mulch and compost Animal bedding
Drywall	Drywall is typically ground or broken up, and the paper is removed.	Gypsum wallboard Cement manufacture Agriculture (land application)
Metal	Melted down and reformed	Metal products
Cardboard	Ground and used in new pulp stock	Paper products

FOUND MATERIALS CONSTRUCTION
The house in this video "was built over a period of seven months into the side of a hill. It was constructed almost entirely of salvaged, natural, second hand, or found materials. We wanted to see what could be accomplished with out buying newly manufactured materials..."

LARGE PROJECT HELPS
(Image courtesy of http://www.strawbaleconference.com/index.html)

Don't be afraid to ask for help. Building a dwelling can be labor intensive
(another reason for building small). You can gain experience in using
your method of choice by volunteering to help with an ongoing project
near your home. Search the internet for 'learning workshops.' If you are willing to travel and camp overnight, you will be rewarded with more learning opportunities.

When you have enough materials assembled, you can host your own workshop (well worth the expense of hiring an experienced facilitator to teach and organize the crews, in my opinion). Well-placed announcements on the internet and the local health food store (or farmer's market) will get the word out. Consider what you would want to have available as a volunteer, and secure those items when you host a work day(s). This would include toilet facilities, drinking water, possibly a camping area, and possibly enough food for a common meal. Your educational facilitator will likely have some ideas about what works well in these settings (and what he/she may require).

Next, we will look at alternative building materials and methods. . . .

TRANSITIONAL & EMERGENCY SHELTER

2009-05-01T06:51:00.000-07:00

Various circumstances displace people. News footage often shows tent and cardboard villages which provide inadequate housing for refugee families. Overcrowded conditions and sub-standard shelter can contribute to the spread of disease and abuse.

Emergency shelter can include that provided by government agencies or that offered by generous friends or family members. These are not always an option. Creativity may be the key to finding protection from the elements.

URBAN SQUATTING (NOT RECOMMENDED)

Please understand that trespassing is a crime in most parts of the United States. The following is for emergency preparedness information only. Urban squatting is by it's very nature a risky proposition. It is not a romantic alternative lifestyle choice. For the purposes of this article, it is a means of surviving until you can get to a more secure location. Those who would vandalize property and take advantage of absent property owners in order to escape the expense of making adequate provision for themselves and their families are (according to my understanding) thieves and robbers.

This option may only be workable for one or two persons as transitional, not long-term, housing. In other countries, there are laws giving legal status to a person that enters a deserted building and takes up residence. This is not the case here in the U.S.

Having made those disclaimers, it is possible to find livable circumstances in urban areas while you seek to find more permanent housing. Deserted buildings abound, especially in tough economic times. It is illegal to break into a space which has been secured and/or posted. It is possible to find spaces that have not been posted or boarded up . . . but you enter at your own risk (some of these spaces are not structurally sound) and (depending on the laws in your area) with the understanding that you could be on the wrong side of the law. Look for a location that appears to be deserted. Be mindful that you aren't likely the only one looking for housing. There may be another squatter(s) there, and he/she/they may not welcome the company. Look beyond residential housing. Consider abandoned business properties that are otherwise sound.

In a circumstance such as this, good camping skills would come in handy. You will need to know how to dispose of your own garbage and waste in a way that does not promote disease or damage property. You may find it best to remove small bits of rubbish at a time to avoid drawing attention to yourself.

Don't make your presence known. Be discrete about your comings and goings and keep the noise level down. Privacy is your friend and should be guarded.

Consider spaces that weren't originally constructed as residences: alleyways, crawl spaces, space beneath bridges, under docks, etc.

Be quiet and do not be destructive. It costs nothing to clear away debris. Make any improvements you can. You may secure the property by replacing broken windows and repairing doors. You may even be able to make other simple repairs. If discovered, your efforts will go a long way towards convincing the owners of your intent to cause no harm. They might even be grateful that you kept the property in good condition, and law enforcement MIGHT decide they have better things to do than run you in (but don't count on it).

RENT IN TRADE:

If you are at all handy with tools, you may find that some property owners are happy to have you live there rent-free in exchange for some sweat equity. A person willing to do some hauling and cleaning could return a building to livable conditions that would otherwise be condemned and a liability. By scavenging for used materials (windows, doors, flooring, lumber, etc.), you can get supplies for little or no money (or in trade). If you have a truck, some tools and know how to shop for a bargain, such an arrangement (free rent for repairs/maintenance) could benefit all concerned. The owner's property is improved and kept from vandals. In addition to the free rent, you might be able to grow some of your own food.

If you aren't up to the task of landscaping a wilderness or rebuilding a shack, consider something smaller. You may find a nice neighborhood where someone wants to turn that unfinished attic room into an apartment. Transform a junky garage into a new den or perform routine home maintenance and repairs in exchange for living in the space. While this wouldn't work for people with families, single persons with skills (and excellent character references) could earn themselves a nice rent-free home for a stretch of time.

PINING FOR NOURISHMENT

2009-04-02T21:31:00.000-07:00

It was winter 1535 . . . Canadian winter. The French expedition, led by Jacques Cartier, had reinforced their fort, stacked firewood and salted and packed the meat they had harvested. For six months, the river was frozen solid. The snow was 4 feet deep.

The men began to succumb to scurvy. Lacking vitamin C, they lay sick and dying. By mid-February, not even ten men were able-bodied enough to help care for the others. Spring was months away. Time was running out. They were dying.
In a forest full of vitamin C, they were suffering.

Lacking knowledge some died. A chief’s son, Domagaya, visited the fort and told Cartier about a tea made from the trees surrounding the fort that would cure scurvy. With the help of that tea, 85 Frenchmen survived that winter.

PINE NEEDLES:
Pine needle tea is high in vitamins A and C. The needles, inner bark and sap are the most medicinal and nutrient dense parts of the tree. You would have to eat more than five lemons to consume the amount of vitamin C found in a single cup of pine needle tea.

O Tamiflu: Turning Christmas trees into flu drug -- Needles contain high concentration of key ingredient
By Marsha Walton, CNN 2006
The needles of pine, spruce and fir trees contain a fairly high concentration of shikimic acid, the main ingredient in Tamiflu. Countries all over the world are stockpiling the drug in anticipation of a bird flu pandemic.

WARNING:
PREGNANT WOMEN SHOULD NOT consume this tea! Do not consume if you think you may be pregnant. It has been known to cause the death of an unborn child within 24 hours! This also happens in pregnant cows that have eaten pine needles. They will drop a dead calf within a couple hours or days after consuming pine needles.

HOW TO MAKE PINE NEEDLE TEA

* Select pine needles that are nearest the end of a branch and light green in color. These are the newest (baby) pine needles. Older parts of the tree accumulate turpentine from the sap. (This enables older fallen pine trees to be cleared easily by burning and make way for new growth, and it is also why pine stumps make for good fat lighter.) You will want to be sure to use only new green needles for your tea.
* Finely chop the needles. You will need ¼ to ½ cup (about one handful or 1 ounce).
* Bring 1.5 pints of water to a rolling boil and add the chopped needles.
* Boil for 10 to 15 minutes. The liquid should be reduced by about 1/3.
* Allow this to steep, covered for 20 minutes (or overnight).
* This makes a reddish colored tea with a mild taste. A small amount of oil will rise to the top.
* Store in the refrigerator (or in cool storage).

TIPS:

*Don’t boil longer than 15 minutes. The longer you boil the mixture, the less vitamin C will be available.
* Honey and lemon can help improve the taste.

BENEFICIAL PROPERTIES OF PINE NEEDLE TEA
Continue to drink 1 pint (500ml) of Pine Needle Tea every day for one month.

* Promotes heart health
* Relief of varicose veins
* Helps muscle fatigue
* Relief of Sclerosis
* Relief of Kidney Ailments
* Promotes strengthening of nerves in eye
* Relief for eye related ailments that concern connective muscles in the eye
* Relief of Gangrene
* Reacts with smooth muscles that line blood vessels

VARIATION, TO MAKE AN EXTRACT:
Place the hot, boiled mixture into a thermos and let sit overnight (12 hours). Remove the needles the next day and drink the warm extract throughout the day.

Pine Tree Needle Extraction is a traditional remedy that may be used in the treatment of many human diseases. The remedy is effective for working with the smooth muscles that line the blood vessels and other muscular related diseases such as sclerosis. Sclerosis is a condition in which soft internal tissues (and sometimes organs) inside the body become unusually hard.

This extraction is a helpful preventative and a support in the treatment of cancer. Its benefit is greater when the cancer is in the earlier stages. Pine needles exhibit strong antioxidant, antimutagenic, and antiproliferative effects on cancer cells and also antitumor effects.

ALTERNATIVES TO TEA
You may choose to chew on several fresh pine needles. Swallow the juice produced and spit out the needle fiber. This remedy has been used to:

• fight fatigue and maintain one's youthful vigor
• promote the discharge of waste from the body
• stimulate brain activity
• strengthen the heart
• as effective for treating anemia (rich in iron)
• to satisfy thirst and relieve hunger pains.
• to prevents cold and flu
• to relieve dry cough
• rids you of heart burn

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

INTERESTING TIDBIT OF INFORMATION
I found these passages referring to the value of trees:

Deuteronomy 20:19
When thou shalt besiege a city a long time, in making war against it to take it, thou shalt not destroy the trees thereof by forcing an axe against them: for thou mayest eat of them, and thou shalt not cut them down (for the tree of the field is man's life) to employ them in the siege:

Isaiah 41:18-20
18 I will open rivers in high places, and fountains in the midst of the valleys: I will make the wilderness a pool of water, and the dry land springs of water. 19 I will plant in the wilderness the cedar, the shittah tree, and the myrtle, and the oil tree; I will set in the desert the fir tree, and the pine, and the box tree together: 20 That they may see, and know, and consider, and understand together, that the hand of the LORD hath done this, and the Holy One of Israel hath created it.

Revelation 7:3
Saying, Hurt not the earth, neither the sea, nor the trees, till we have sealed the servants of our God in their foreheads.

This blog presents ideas and information designed to enrich the life of the reader. These articles are NO substitute for personalized professional care. The opinions and ideas expressed are fallible and that of the author. Readers are encouraged to be well-informed and draw their own conclusions.

NO-TILL GARDENING METHODS

2009-03-30T09:17:00.000-07:00

After years of springtime digging and plowing and turning soil in her large garden, I have a friend that has just learned the benefits of no-till gardening. She shook her head, amazed at how well the plants produced without the benefit of the backbreaking labor. "To think, all those years . . . and we could have had this much food WITHOUT all that digging!"

RUTH STOUT’S NO-WORK GARDEN

No-till gardening is not a new concept. It’s a concept that was documented by Ruth Stout in 1953 as she began to write about her adventures in gardening in articles published by Organic Gardening and Farming magazine. Twenty years later, these articles would be published in a bound volume called The Ruth Stout No-Work Garden Book (©1971 by Ruth Stout and Richard Clemence, ISBN 0-87857-000-4).

Ruth had become dependent upon having a neighbor plow her 40 by 60 foot plot before she could begin her spring planting. She decided to experiment with means and methods that required little outside assistance.

Ruth has maintained that most of the work associated with gardening – especially organic gardening – is unnecessary except for one thing: mulch. Permanent year-round mulch, in Ruth’s eyes, is the permanent year-round answer to all the garden chores – and anything else you expend energy on is surplus effort or just “playing.” (from the preface)

Ruth’s first chapter is entitled ‘Throw Away Your Spade and Hoe!’ She noticed that her asparagus plants had been growing without plowing for over 10 years. Rather than wait for someone to plow her garden, she decided to pull back enough of the fall mulch to make a trench and plant some seeds. She secured some “spoiled hay” from a farmer and used it as mulch to keep down the weeds, laying it 8 to 10 inches thick (not on top of the seeds). When the seedlings sprouted, she thinned the plants and pulled the mulch close to the plants. Ruth tossed decaying leaves and kitchen scraps (vegetables) into the garden and covered with the hay.

The pages are filled with her blend of blunt no-nonsense humor. She refutes her critics with reports of her harvest.

LASAGNA GARDENING

Yet another variation of the no-dig method is a process called Lasagna Gardening. Patricia Lanza introduced this method in her book Lasagna Gardening (©1998 by Patricia Lanza, ISBN 0-87596-962-3 – You can review the book online here: Google Book Review). Rather than tilling up your garden area, the author recommends that you lay out several layers of wet newspaper or a sheet of damp cardboard over the area you wish to plant. On top of this, you lay several layers of organic material alternating with peat moss. She advocates having a compost pile to supply some of the layers of organic matter. You can also use mulched leaves, grass clippings barn litter, etc. You finish with a layer of peat moss and follow this with wood ash. This is left to ‘cook’ over the winter months.

The expense of the peat moss is one drawback to this method. If you already have an established garden site with enriched soil, you will likely find it unnecessary to do much more than lay down several layers of newspaper, some organic matter and a layer of wood ash.

“The great thing about lasagna gardening, though is that you don’t have to wait to plant – you can build the garden and plant it all in the same day. To make a planting hole in a new bed, simply pull the layers apart with your hands. Set the plant in the hole, pull the mulch back and around the roots, and water it thoroughly. To sow seeds in a newly built lasagna garden, spread fine compost or damp peat moss where the seeds are to go, then set the seeds on the surface. Sift more fine material to cover the seeds and press down. When the plants have two true leaves (the leaves that form after the first pair of “seed leaves”), pull some of the coarser mulch material around them to keep the soil moist and weed-free.”

Click below to view this video of Debi Pearl's lasagna garden.

Video courtesy of Pearl Outdoors

HAY BALE GARDENING

Another life-long gardener lives near me. He is determined to stay productive, even though he is in his mid-80s – although he has cut back to working only 55 hours per week at the local grocery.

The ground he gardens is hard-packed clay and rock – not my first choice for a garden plot. Undaunted, he decided that hay bale gardening was the way to go. Today, he has a thriving organic tomato garden that brings in a nice secondary income . . . all without digging or hoeing!

He told us that he starts with 8 layers of newspaper on bare ground. On top of the newspaper, he places the bales of hay. He has the rows two bales deep. He watches the trade papers and looks for bales of hay on sale. He prefers alfalfa bales. Lately, though, the price has been very high (more than $4 per bale).

An irrigation drip line is placed on top of the hay bales (where they butt together in the row) to water the plants.

To support the leggy tomato plants as they grow, he uses some old wire fencing that he places around the bales (they used to have horses and goats). The fencing is made up of grids about 4 inches square. The openings are large enough that it makes it easy to reach inside and tend the plants. If you were trying to protect your plants from squirrels or deer (as in corn), this open fencing wouldn't do the trick. The fencing is secured with the plastic cable zip ties that are used to hold electronic cords. These can be found cheaply at any hardware store.

Then he mixes up his special soil -- mushroom compost, Black Kow compost, organic potting soil and sphagnum moss and cricket poop as a fertilizer. He mixes his potting soil blend and places it into a large garbage container, closes the lid and lets it sit until he’s ready to use it.

It is interesting to note that the cricket poop was sent to the local extension service and analyzed. The results found it to be the perfect plant food. You can read about how Cricket Poo came to be used here: http://www.cricketpoo.com/cricket_poo_story.cfm

When it's time to plant, he uses a keyhole or wallboard saw (a small saw with one blade) and cuts an opening about the size of a quart jar into the bales. He his potting mixture into the hole and adds the tiny tomato plant.

For fertilizer, he makes a tea out of the cricket droppings, pouring about a cupful on each plant once or twice a week.

Apart from the initial setup, there is little expense. I would say that if you were growing low, bushy plants (as opposed to tomatoes, or climbing vines) the setup would be even less as you wouldn't need the wire support/fencing. . . . unless you needed a way to keep out critters.

When the garden is ready to be put to bed, the cable ties are cut and discarded, the bales opened and the ground is mulched with the decaying hay.

Maintaining the garden is a matter of looking over the rows each evening and picking the near-ripe tomatoes. He picks them when they aren't completely red; they pick up color as they mature. "Just don't ever put a tomato in the refrigerator," he said.

The advantages of no-till gardening are many. In this video Dr. Milton Ganyard, of Ganyard Hill Farm, shares with us the many advantages of no-till gardening and describes his own method.

If you are thinking that you haven't enough room or enough good soil to grow food for your family, watch this video about the Dervaes family from California.Little Homestead in the City

Whatcha Need? Whatcha Got?

2009-02-20T07:48:00.000-08:00

To admit that we might go hungry without the benefit of a grocery store would seem ludicrous to many of our grandparents. Have you noticed that simple, creative solutions escape us when we accept the thinking that without "A," "B" cannot be done?

This point was driven home for me as I visited a village a few years ago. We stopped to watch a canoe being made. The artisan explained that no metals tools were needed for the task. Of course, with a chainsaw and some carving tools, the project could be finished in a day with the help of some skilled friends. The artisan admitted that this was true. Everyone nodded in agreement.

THEN this wise man noted that there were limits to such assembly line thinking. The team working with modern tools would be limited by their brute strength, speed and the number of hours in a day.

He went on to describe how that even children could fell a stand of trees and simultaneously produce a fleet of canoes within a matter of weeks (or days) -- all without modern tools. Even working around the clock, the team of strong men couldn't match that.

His methods were both simple and reproducible.

TO FELL A TREE:
* Locate a source of water and mud.
* Pack the mud around the tree on all sides -- about 6 feet high (or as high as you could reach) -- and leave an open space to expose the trunk on the downhill side of the tree.
* Build and tend a HOT fire at the open spot in the clay.
* Periodically, pull the fire away from the tree and scrape away the charred part of the tree.
* Repeat this process until the tree falls. Tend the flames carefully so that the tree does not catch fire. This can be done with more than one tree at a time if you are industrious. http://www.native-art-in-canada.com/fellatree.html

TO BUILD A CANOE:
* Place wet clay beneath and around the sides of the felled tree.
* Keep this moistened throughout the process.
* Chip away at the topside of the bark and create a flat surface.
* Build a fire along this topside of the tree and keep it smoldering.
* Several times a day move the coals off of the surface and scrape away the charred parts of the tree trunk.
* This can be done with clam shells, hard wood, or other homemade scraping tools.
* Repeat until the log is hollowed out, creating the canoe shape.

Once you have become experienced, several canoes could be made at the same time using any person old enough to know how to tend the fires -- enough to barter or trade for other goods/services. While the strong team of men with modern tools could produce a finished product faster, they could not match potential numbers produced by the less labor intensive method.

The point of this article is not to teach you the finer points of tree felling or canoe construction using alternative means. Rather, it is to encourage you to think outside the box. Instead of thinking "I cannot secure shelter, food, clothing without money to secure tools, cloth, lumber, or whatever," we may be better served by taking inventory of what we DO have and finding ways to utilize that. If you don't have the manpower for a large task, harness the power of the raw materials at your disposal -- water, fire, clay, sand, plants, animals, etc. -- and work efficiently rather than just intensively.

We may not be able to build a factory and mass produce identical products for wealthy consumers, but -- just as the natives without modern metal tools and a team of strong men -- we can find alternative ways to secure what we need.

If you have a skill that you enjoy, make yourself valuable to others and trade your time for the items you lack. You might need a cabinet. The local carpenter might benefit from the wild grapes you harvested, or the jelly you made. You may not eat ham, but your local vendor might be offering you a free ham with your purchase. You could trade your free ham with your neighbor for a couple of his free-range chickens. Your talents and abilities, used wisely, can be traded for the items you lack. Has there been a giveaway on surplus thingamabobs and you haven't ANY use for them? SOMEONE has a use for them. With a couple of trades, you might be able to put yourself in a position to negotiate for a needed item.

ONE RED PAPERCLIP
Kyle MacDonald is a young man that decided he wanted to become a homeowner. Starting with a paperclip he began to 'trade up' hoping to reach his dream. Fourteen months later, he traded for a house! Click on the video below to see a news report about Kyle MacDonald and how he became a homeowner.

The ability to think about using time and talents as currency is definitely a skill worth having in today's economy. You may find that all of that 'useless junk' you've got laying around is valuable to someone that holds a treasure -- at least it's a treasure to YOU. It's worth considering.