MRS. S. NEWS LETTER
FOR FALL 2008
Welcome to the Fall Mrs. S. News Letter.
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthreads.php
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October is . . . . Adopt-A-Dog Month, Computer Learning Month, National Apple Jack Month, National Car Care Month, National Clock Month, National Cosmetology Month, National Dessert Month, National Pickled Pepper Month, National Popcorn Poppin' Month, National Pretzel Month, National Sarcastics Month, National Seafood Month, National Kitchen and Bath Month, and Vegetarian Awareness Month
October 5 is . . . . . National Storytelling Festival
October 13 is . . . . National Peanut Festival
October 30 is . . . . National Candy Corn Day
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October 9 is: Yom Kippur Day
October 12 is: Columbus Day, Traditional (USA)
October 13 is: Columbus Day, Observed (USA)
October 13 is: Thanksgiving Day, (Canada)
October 14 is: Full Moon
October 28 is: New Moon
October 31 is: Halloween
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November is . . . . International Drum Month, Peanut Butter Lover's Month, and Slaughter Month
November 3 is . . . . . Sandwich Day and Housewife's Day
November 15 is . . . . National Clean Out Your Refrigerator Day
November 29 is . . . . Square Dance Day
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November 1 is: All Saints Day
November 2 is: Daylight Savings Time Ends
November 4 is: Election Day (USA)
November 11 is: Veterans Day (USA)
November 11 is: Rememberance Day (Canada)
November 13 is: Full Moon
November 27 is: New Moon
November 27 is: Thanksgiving Day (USA)
November 30 is: St. Andrew's Day (Canada)
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December is . . . . Hi Neighbor Month, National Stress Free Family Holiday Month, Bingo's Birthday Month, and Read A New Book Month
December 4 is . . . . . Wear Brown Shoes Day
December 15 is . . . . National Lemon Cupcake Day
December 28 is . . . . Card Playing Day and National Chocolate Day
Had to put at least one chocolate day in.
December 7 is: Pearl Harbor Day (USA)
December 12 is: Full Moon
December 21 is: Winter Begins
December 22 is: Chanukah
December 25 is: Christmas Day
December 26 is: Boxing Day (Canada)
December 27 is: New Moon
December 31 is: New Years Eve
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Here are about half of the public forums that are in Mrs. S. I will try to put some interesting threads in here from each of them.
1. Streams In The Desert:
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=20&page=1
Boundaries by: Ginger
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post232574
I thought I would share a taste of 'Fresh Grounded Thoughts' by Jennifer Rothschild. (author of Self Talk, Soul Talk) It really spoke volumes to my heart regarding the essentials in my life and weeding out the non-essentials. May her fresh grounded thoughts bless you as well! ~G
What God Has Been Teaching Me Lately
Do you like the way you do life? Does it work for you, or do you work for it?
Several summers ago, I decided the answer to the first question was, "No. No, I don't like the way I do life."
The answer to the second question was, "No. Life isn't working for me; I think I am working for it!"
Life had become so full. It was like an insatiable master who was demanding and was driving me beyond my desires and often my abilities. But the irony was that I had created this "slave-driving" life without even realizing it. So, I spent a little time studying my life!
Have you ever studied your own life? You may be surprised by what you learn. I consciously became an observer of my life and not just a mindless participant. What I discovered was the beginning of making life work for me.
I observed that I needed boundaries. Where were the boundaries in my life? It didn't take long to discover that the reason I couldn't locate my boundaries was because there were none! Life had just become one giant free-for-all! Like a pinball in a machine, I pinged, bounced, rolled and sped with the momentum of the game. It wasn't that the "game" was bad--it was just that it never stopped, it seemed to have no rules, and I wasn't the one pulling the trigger making the ball roll! It was others' expectations, my prior commitments, and some old habits that were in charge now.
I learned if I don't set my own boundaries, they will be set for me. There is only One whom I trust to set boundaries for me, and it was His guidance I pursued in my new quest. The psalmist said that God had drawn the boundaries in pleasant places (Psalm 16:6). So, that's what I began to pursue--boundaries that were set in pleasant places. The purpose for my boundary pursuit was not self-indulgence; it was stewardship.
I don't think I'm the only woman who lacks boundaries. Am I? The boundaries I discovered and began to implement will be the subject of the next few Fresh Grounded Thoughts. Here's something to whet your appetite!
The boundaries I discovered were in these areas:
1. Simplicity
If I add, I must subtract.
If everything has a cost, can I afford it?
Does this choice I am making add complexity or simplicity to my life?
Do I have a place in my home, calendar, or heart for this?
Who or what will I have to neglect to add this?
2. Privacy
Do I actively pursue and engage in solitude?
Is there any part of my life that I feel it's my right to keep private?
Can I say no to someone with out explaining why?
Do I give myself the liberty to let the phone ring? Do I think it's okay to let it go to voice mail and listen to it when it is a better time for me, rather than allowing it to disturb my privacy?
3. Work/Leisure
Do I choose when I can and will work, or do others choose that for me?
Do I carve out time to have a hobby?
Does my motivation to work stem from guilt or performance?
Are others' work and leisure ethics my own?
4. Friends/Family
Am I proactive or reactive in relationships?
Did I choose my friends, or did my friends choose me?
Do I make the effort or sacrifice to invest in my friends and family, or are they the last to get my attention because I know they understand?
Do I allow personal honesty or others' expectations to govern my relationships?
Am I intentional about being a friend?
A sage man who had spent years in public ministry once told me, "Jennifer, you will find that everyone will love you and will have a wonderful plan for your life."
He was right. That great advice applies to you as well. Everyone will love you and will have a wonderful plan for your life. Your boss will love you and will think of an incredible plan for your life. Your husband will love you and have a great plan for you. Your kids love you and have a fabulous plan for what you can do every minute of every day! Your friends, neighbors, church and family all think you are great and the plans they have for you are without limit! It's not that their plans are bad; it's just that maybe their plans aren't best. That's why we need boundaries...so we can live out the best plan for us.
There is One who truly loves you more than He loves Himself, and it is His plan for you that is absolutely wonderful. His plan is trustworthy, and when accepted, it will give you life that really works--life with boundaries that are drawn in pleasant places.
Well, that's what's been percolating in me lately...
If you go back, you will find so many good threads and I'm sure you haven't read them all, I know I haven't.
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2. Announcements and Help
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=34&page=1
Gotta question that is probably real easy to answer but.... by: Nett
I am just too slow to understand. Okay when I start a new topic I have all these options to chose from as far as smilies and all but when I post from inside a thread I don't see this. WHY? (i feel like the cow)
ps....and how come my picture doesn't come up with my name?
(Nett is referring to the cow icon that is going around in circles.) Snow
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=2#Post129139
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3. Daily Diary:
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=13&page=1
Seventh Anniversary of 9/11 by: Stephanie
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post240973
We'll never forget that day will we? I bet each of us can recall exactly where we were and what we were doing when it happened. I had just started teaching the preschool class I was teaching that year.
It was one of those defining moments in history. Like my mom and grandmother tell the story of watching the TV with me an infant on my mom's lap when the President was assasinated.
I just wanted to say I remember! I remember the lives that were lost and the horror that filled our hearts and the influence it had on my life. It is partially responsible for my prep-mindedness today.
God Bless America!
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4. Humor Me:
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=18&page=1
Summer Classes for Men at by: Trip
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post238919
REGISTRATION MUST BE COMPLETED
by Friday, August 22nd 2008
NOTE: DUE TO THE COMPLEXITY AND DIFFICULTY LEVEL
OF THEIR CONTENTS, CLASS SIZES WILL BE LIMITED TO 8 PARTICIPANTS MAXIMUM
Class 1
How To Fill Up The Ice Cube Trays--Step by Step, with Slide Presentation.
Meets 4 weeks, Monday and Wednesday for 2 hours beginning at 7:00 PM .
Class 2
The Toilet Paper Roll--Does It Change Itself?
Round Table Discussion.
Meets 2 weeks, Saturday 12:00 for 2 hours.
Class 3
Is It Possible To Urinate Using The Technique Of Lifting The Seat and Avoiding The Floor, Walls and Nearby Bathtub?--Group Practice.
Meets 4 weeks, Saturday 10:00 PM for 2 hours.
Class 4
Fundamental Differences Between The Laundry Hamper and The Floor--Pictures and Explanatory Graphics.
Meets Saturdays at 2:00 PM for 3 weeks.
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There are 14 classes, so be sure to check them all out.
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5. Nature's Perscriptions:
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=22&page=1
What should i do for a burn blister? by: arby
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post227877
I had my forearm outer side touch the hot coffee pot on the stove the other day. I let out the water from the blister.
Do I leave the separated blister skin on my arm?
Should I remove it and then put antibiotic on it and dressing?
Its about nickel sized, not infected, but concerned it could become so and not sure about the obviously dead burned layer on top of the burned spot.
Any suggestions?
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If you have any suggestions, please let her know. Snow
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6. Preserving the Harvest
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=30&page=1
Water bath newbie questions by: carr
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post244231
Okay y'all, I'm finally attempting to can. I'm trying Darlene's apple butter instructions because it's easy, economical and my (grown) girls love apple butter.
But I do have a few questions, now that I've started the process and put the food on the line ... lol.
My mother used to make apple butter, and my consistency after cooking overnight does not seem right. Hers certainly seemed thicker. Will that come over time? How long after processing should I wait to open a jar for eating?
The instructions that came with the jars said after processing to remove pot from burner and let cool. Does that mean I leave the jars in the water and wait to start the second batch, or can I pull the jars and put in the second batch immediately?
Those same instructions said to wash jars and lids and dry completely before using. It also said to keep in hot water before filling. Do I take them from the hot water and dry inside or can I just dump the water from jar? Wow, that really sounds like a dumb question now that I've typed it out, but I'm from the no-such-thing-as-a-dumb-question school, so I'm going to risk looking the beginner I am and ask it.
Thanks in advance for any help you can offer.
I've really always wanted to do this and am excited to finally be getting started!!!
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7. Nature's Bounty :
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...rd=6&page=1
Diapering my veggie plants: by: Shari
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post235293
We live in the heart of downtown. I am blessed with a huge outside deck. I planted 21 tomato plants and six pepper plants and a bunch of other veggies out there this spring. They are in various containers. They have full sun all day. Toward the end of July, we got a long, dry, hot spell that darn near killed all my food. August is just as bad. I try to water twice a day and really soak those babies, but if I water in the morning, by 4:00 p.m. when I am done with work, these poor things are showing signs of stress and dehydration. Today, my hubby went to a customer's house to fix her air conditioner and noticed she had plants in containers and that they were lush and obviously well hydrated. He said "You must water these things an awful lot. They don't look dried out like my wife's." She said she waters only once a week. She bought the cheapest disposable diapers she could find, poked little holes in the plastic outer covering of the diapers and tucked them in (plastic-coated side up)around all her plants and watered until the diapers were saturated. No weeds, no constant watering! Once a week holds them! This won't work very well for the beets, beans and carrots because of the containers I am using, but it should work on all the other "crops." Hugs! Shari (Another twist for WTSHTF!)
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8. The Spa:
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...rd=5&page=1
Dealing with Diabetes by: Stephanie
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post242435
Hi Friends,
I've noticed many of you are diabetic or have a loved one who is diabetic. I'd like to hear from you concerning what you're doing to control it now and what you'll do THEN in a crisis.
I am Diabetic 2, diagnosed about 3 years ago? I'm on a variety of medications and trying hard to reduce my weight (25 lbs lost).
I know there are a number of herbs that work as well. Are you taking something in particular now? Stocking up on it?
Thanks
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9. Are You Really Ready:
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=11&page=1
Who is BOB? What about GHB? Hint: it's "what," not "who"
by: HSmom
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...all&fpart=1
If you're new to this world of preparedness, this thread is for you. If you're an old hand, you might find some new ideas, and we need you to share what your experience has taught you.
Definitions
BOB = Bug Out Bag = Emergency Pack = Grab-n-Go
A BOB can be many things. There is as much variation in BOB contents as there are people. Basically, a BOB is a bag or backpack that contains essentials. It's always at the ready, usually kept at home, and can be grabbed should you need to evacuate rapidly.
GHB = Get Home Bag
This is a similar bag of supplies that is kept away from home, often at work/school or in one's vehicle. It contains the essentials to maintain a body until home can be reached.
EDB = Every Day Bag
Again a similar bag, often a backpack or a large purse, containing essentials that one carries every single day.
EDC = Every Day Carry
Items that one carries every day, but not necessarily in a bag, such as items in a pocket or on a keychain.
BTW, two or more of these can be one-in-the-same kit.
Getting started: Read about BOBs
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This is just a small part of the post as well as it is a long thread. Snow
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10. Wadda ya Think:
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...ist&Board=3
A Sad Thing in the Newest Generation by: Crazy4Canning
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...;gonew=1#UNREAD
As most of you know, I'm a teacher. I also tutor privately. This is a bit of a soapbox, but mostly a rant....a sad one.
One of the little girls I am tutoring is now reading "Ramona the Pest" by Beverly Cleary. In the very beginning of the book, Ramona goes to kindergarten and sings about the 'dawnzer lee light'...of course the confused words from The Star Spangled Banner "the dawn's early light".
When I was first reading this book as a child, I thought it funny a little kid would mess up the words because I was never given the chance. My parents made VERY sure we knew the words and said them CLEARLY.
This girl, couldn't get it. I had to stop the reading and ask a few questions:
Do you know the National Anthem?
No.
Okay, I'll try again - what about The Star Spangled Banner?
(Blank look) No.
Okay, what do you do when your class pledges allegiance to the flag?
(Puzzled look) Nothing, I just stand there - they make me stand there.
So you don't know any patriotic songs like My Country 'Tis of Thee, America the Beautiful, or even Yankee Doodle?
No.
Do you know why you stand for the pledge?
No.
Do you want to know?
Not really.
Okay, let's talk about what's happening in the book. You need to understand something before we go on....
So, I had to explain to her the line of the song, how it was interpreted in the book by Ramona - essentially giving away the whole beginning of the story because the child didn't know.
As a teacher I know students don't have to SAY the pledge, but they ARE required to stand respectfully. No student has to SING a patriotic song, but I at least I thought most knew the songs or knew about them.
Guess not.
This strikes a very dissonant chord within me. I realize now that when I taught in a private school setting, EVERY DAY we said the pledge and let the children pick a patriotic song...do you know HOW MANY there are?!?!?!
This truly saddens me in many ways.
I don't want to take this conversation to the OH (OutHouse) but just wanted to share my sadness that many young children DON'T KNOW patriotism....at least in the schools I teach in.
My thoughts are swirling...if she doesn't know the National Anthem, does she truly know why we have a Memorial Day holiday? Probably not.
Would her and her family take off their hats or stand tall when the flag is passing by? Doubtful.
Although there is a proud military history in her family, no one has stopped to tell this little girl WHY men and women enlist and WHY it is such a BIG DEAL....
Very sad. So, because she and her family WON'T, I will.
Thank you to the veterans, particularly those who are disabled, lost someone in service, or didn't come home. Thank you to those of you who still STAND and cover your heart when the flag passes by. Thank you to those who KNOW words to the patriotic songs and still remember ALL the words to the National Anthem.
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Please go read the replys to this post.
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11. 2 Bits, 4 Bits, 6 Bits a Dollar!
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=37&page=1
Puppies, Mixed Breed - We are looking for you! by: Hillbillee
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post230783
This post was posted July 26, 2008
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We are looking for a home of our own and our own family to love. We will make really good companions and great farm dogs. We would love to play with our family. Mom likes to chase balls and herd chickens. (Not harm them, herd them.)
We will also make great farm dogs with the mix of Australian Shepherd, Corgi and a little German Shepherd too. We will have a good nose for tracking (We started tracking at three weeks old.) and are used to farm life and animals including cats.
We are five weeks old now. Our pictures are available through email. We have been eating out of a dish at three weeks old and eating dry dog food since we were 4 weeks old.
We love to be held and petted. We are so laid back we will just lay still in your arms and contentedly listen to your voice and let you pet us. We are even content to cuddle up and sleep in your arms. We are not high energy dogs, we are content to just be near you.
We will be ready to go home with you on August 1. Our Mom has already weaned us.
We are located in Northern Lower Michigan.
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This is just part of the Post, so if you want to read the rest of it, please check it out. Snow
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12. Country Homesteading
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=16&page=1
Where do I go to find out if my neighborhood zoning restricts chickens? by: bluegrassmom
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post237728
I live on a small street with a few other houses. One way in, one way out. We are not in the city, but not the buttcrack of the boondocks either. I have a decent sized piece of land here, but want to know what the restrictions are, if any. Where do I start? The courthouse?
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13. The Homeschooling Haven:
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=26&page=1
Having Fun with Solids, Liquids and Gases by: PoGo
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post234951
I just thought this might make an interesting class for some of your students.
http://www.utextension.utk.edu/4H/inservic...LiqSolidGas.pdf
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14. DIY
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=15&page=1
Simple emergency generator by: Campy
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post234560
With some used (or free) parts (lawn mower motor and GM alternator) an emergency generator for charging 12 volt batteries can easily be made. If you add an inverter you can run many AC electrical appliances or tools.
http://theepicenter.com/tow02077.html
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15. Holiday and Gift Central:
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthrea...d=21&page=1
practical, inexpensive guy stocking stuffers by: Betty
http://www.mrssurvival.com/forums/ubbthr...ge=1#Post232429
Target has men's plain white handerkerchiefs boxed set of 6 for $5.00. (With some cross stitch or lace, they could become women's handkerchiefs too)
Big Lots has 12inch wide duct tape in a box for $7.00. Could do some serious repair with this 12x30" piece!
They also have tarps for $10 right now with the grommets in the corners.
For those doing buckets of car items for their guys, check out Big Lots right now. They have quite a few wash/polish/ArmourAll kind of items as well as bundles of cloths. They always have a wall of car accessory items too. I only go every few months, so every time I check out their "guy"isles of hardware, camping, tools, batteries, etc. If you can find what you are hunting, they have great prices.
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See what others have to say.
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for reading this news letter.
I want to wish you all a very as well as a and too.
Remember the Reason for the Season.
Luke 2:11-12
For unto you is born this day in the city of David a Saviour, which is Christ the Lord.
And this shall be a sign unto you; Ye shall find the babe wrapped in swaddling clothes, lying in a manger.
Snow
