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Fitness and Preparedness – Part 1, by N.C.. My wandering path to fitness.
It was only when I was dealing with the Covid crisis that I understood that fitness is a resource. Far from being a happy insight, I only realized it was a resource because I was rapidly running out of it. It was sort of like realizing your car runs on gasoline because the Low Gas Light came on; somewhat less than an ideal situation.
Great time to start working out, yes? Well. Yes and No. Exercise damages your body initially, it’s the recovery that builds you back stronger. Sticking with the analogy, that’s like your gas light coming on while you were being chased. Yeah, you need to stop and fill up. Yeah, the people chasing you are going to catch up while you do that. Keep going without filling up and you will run out and your pursuers catch up.
Unlike other resources, you cannot panic buy (or obtain by other means) fitness at the last minute. By the time you realize you need more of it, then it’s probably too late. Fielding three kids, one an infant, while your wife struggles to breathe is not a time where you get to institute an exercise routine. You’ve got what you brought.
Thankfully, my reserve saw me through. Got away from the pursuers before the car ran out. In that situation, you immediately start looking for a gas station. What does that mean in the real world? It means instituting a healthier lifestyle that will allow you to build up an adequate reserve of fitness for your next test. Whether that test is trying to get out of a warzone, fighting to defend your family, or staying fit enough you can take your grandkids fishing, the test is coming. Now is the time to build your reserve.
In this article I’m going to go over mistakes I’ve made in thinking about fitness, mistakes I’ve made in training, and will end with resources and principles that I think will help you get where you want to be. All the normal caveats apply, this is not medical advice, I am not a doctor, consult your doctor to make sure you’re putting in place a good exercise regimen for you and your situation. Depending on where your health is your starting point and path forward may be different but we all have a path forward. We need to make progress on it. Go talk to your doctor and get working on progress.
My wandering path to fitness
When I was a teenager my older brother gave me a weightlifting book and I started following it. No real thought beyond “here’s the routine, I follow it”. Fast forward a few years and I paid for a body composition analysis. I got my numbers and I asked the coach who administered it if I was fit. He kind of sagged in his chair, shrugged, and asked: “What’s fit?”
I didn’t know what to say. I don’t remember what I did say. What I realized afterward…
Boston Globe: Abortion alarm spurs push for Mass. cellphone data privacy law
“Ideally, we would have a strong federal privacy law,” said Caitriona Fitzgerald, deputy director of the Electronic Privacy Information Center. But in the absence of such a law, she said, “states need to act to protect their constituents.”
Read the full article here.
Turn Old Busses Into Livable Quarters!
Are you looking for ideas on how you can transform a vehicle into a roaming home? Read on and gather ideas to create a beautiful bus renovation.
If you like the idea of living in a roaming home and travel the open road without the worry of not having the comfort of a home, your best option is to do a bus renovation. Many bold DIY-ers have made their dream of roaming home come true. Read on and look for that beautiful roaming home that can take your heart desires anywhere.
1. Cool 1959 Chevrolet Short Bus Retro
Winkelman Architecture transformed this short bus into a livable quarter for 12 passengers and a driver. It has a Moroccan-inspired interior, multicolored beads, tassel lamps, and Arabian textile prints. With plumbing (toilet and sink) as well. View it here.
2. Big Green Bus
[instagram url=https://www.instagram.com/p/BtdbRY9gT5G/ hidecaption=true width=625]
Built by carpenter Adam Collier-Woods. It has an amazing space that can accommodate up to 6 people comfortably and offers 2 double bedrooms, a full-size kitchen, and log-burning stove. Available for rent in the heart of Sussex countryside. Check it out here.
3. Franklin Vintage Caravan
If you just want a tiny place for you to travel with, you must see how the Franklin Vintage Caravan was transformed into a tiny house. Check it out here.
4. Rustic Masterpiece 2001 GMC Bluebird School Bus
Built by young couple Alyssa and Will and it took them 5 months to complete but the transformation of the 2001 GMC Bluebird School Bus into a new livable rustic masterpiece was a dream come true for the couple who wants to take a journey across the country in their bus, working on the road and look into what America has to offer. Check it out here.
5. Sweet Home Transformation of 1989 Thomas Saf-T-Liner MVP
Built by Jake Von Slatt following an inspiration from the book Rolling Homes by Jane Lidz. He transformed the old 1989 Thomas Saf-T-Liner MVP school bus into an amazingly livable family quarter out from mostly recycled and salvaged materials. It’s complete with kitchen, bathroom, bunk room, salon, and a master’s bedroom. View the transformation here.
For those living “off the grid”, you’re going to love these useful hacks! https://t.co/HbjJ38tXsw pic.twitter.com/SLnVDhuZPp
— Homesteading (@HomesteadingUSA) June 26, 2016
6. A Practical House Bus
Built by an architecture student, a truly practical living quarter out from an old bus. Complete with bathroom, kitchen, setting, and a bedroom. Check it out here.
7. Hospitable Home Transformation of the 1998 Thomas Built Bus
Who would not be amazed how the designer transforms this 39 foot Thomas School bus into a comfortable and hospitable living quarter that sure to fit an adventurer who loves to move from place to another.
A Few Herbs To Grow and Use For Emotional Well-Being
Exploring the realm of medicinal herbs extends beyond their physical healing properties, as they possess the potential to support our mental and emotional well-being. In addition to their renowned immune-boosting, pain-relieving, and digestive benefits, herbs have the ability to alleviate anxiety, mild depression, induce relaxation, improve sleep, and enhance focus and mental clarity.
The extensive array of herbs used for these purposes is vast, making it challenging to compile a comprehensive list. Nonetheless, the forthcoming pages highlight a selection of easily cultivated and enticing herbs, exuding beauty and a delightful aroma, ideal for your personal garden. These herbs can be effortlessly transformed into soothing herbal teas.
While these herbs are generally considered safe for use in teas and other herbal preparations, it is advisable to seek guidance from a healthcare professional before consuming them in large quantities, for prolonged periods, or for treating specific medical conditions.
Consulting with an expert ensures proper dosage determination and helps identify potential interactions with medications or any other side effects. This precaution is particularly crucial for pregnant or nursing women, as well as individuals taking prescription drugs.
Herbs for emotional well-being
Lemon balm
Lemon balm (Melissa officinalis), a perennial herb with vibrant green leaves reminiscent of its mint relative, emits a distinct lemony fragrance. Its historical use as a stress and anxiety reducer adds to its appeal.
Growing lemon balm: Lemon balm thrives when planted as young plants during late spring. It is generally considered hardy up to Zone 4. With a potential height of 2 feet or more, it makes a charming addition to any perennial bed. Its abundant green leaves and small white flowers add visual appeal when in bloom. Lemon balm is a relatively fast-growing herb, typically reaching maturity in approximately 70 days. Harvest the leaves when desired, whether for immediate use or for drying to create delightful herbal teas.
Health benefits: Lemon balm has a traditional reputation for addressing insomnia and anxiety, often enjoyed in the form of tea. Numerous studies support these medicinal uses, sometimes combining lemon balm with other calming herbs like valerian. Interestingly, lemon balm may offer additional benefits for mental health. Although further research is necessary, a recent compelling finding suggests that treatment with lemon balm extract may enhance cognitive function and reduce agitation in individuals with mild to moderate Alzheimer’s disease.
Rosemary
Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis), a fragrant perennial shrub native to the Mediterranean, is renowned for its culinary applications and possesses potential mood-boosting and brain-protecting properties.
Growing rosemary: Begin by planting rosemary as young plants during the spring, ensuring well-drained soil and ample sunlight. Carefully select rosemary varieties, considering their growth habits, such as upright or trailing, compact or sprawling, and their cold hardiness levels. While only a few varieties are marketed as hardy beyond Zone 6, in warmer climates, rosemary can be cultivated as a hedge. In cooler regions, it is advisable to grow rosemary in pots,…
Securing Water Off Grid | Homesteading Guide
Do you want to know the process of securing water off the grid? Follow along the free video series and learn the process of securing water off the grid.
“Water” the most important substance on earth, especially for survival. If you are to live off the grid, you must know what are the water resources you have available in your location to find out what are your options. As you could remember our favorite Youtubers, OFF GRID WITH DOUG AND STACY, are just doing great with living off the grid and off course they don’t want you to miss out on how you can secure water when you start living off the grid. Read on and check the videos prepared for you in securing water off grid.
Off Grid: How to Secure Water Part 1
A glimpse of what you can expect from the first video:
- Doug set up gravity feed water system for rain-water.
- He built 10 feet deep and thirty feet long, section of his barn
- Raise a tank about 20″ or so from ground level to give even more gravity fall to the cabin.
- He used 1500 gallon cisterns, 3000 gallons total capacity and 250 gallons for the first flush.
- How Doug set up the place for his water system.
Doug discussed a lot on how his work in getting started with securing water for his homestead. Don’t miss checking the full video.
Hit play to start video below or watch it here:
Off Grid : How To Secure Water Part 2
Let’s take a peek at what to expect from the second video:
- He used 4” PVC schedule 40 to allow the water flow to his cabin.
- He has shown the progress of their water system both inside and outside.
- How the waters will come in from the T construction of PVC.
- Doug also put a mosquito screen on his tank opening to stop mosquito from laying eggs and stop other pest getting inside his tank.
- He has two big tanks that are joined together.
Make sure to check the video, as Doug explained how he keep sanitation and have proper water distribution.
Hit play to start video below or watch it here:
Off Grid : How To Secure Water Part 3
Let’s take a peek on the third and final video of OFF GRID with DOUG and STACY securing water off grid.
- Connecting up the pipes. Doug show’s the entire process on he connected the pipes
- How deep he buried his pipes.
- Doug show’s what areas of his land and house he connected the pipes to have water in.
Make…
15 Top Homesteaders To Follow On Instagram
Looking for top homesteaders to follow on Instagram? Does the homesteader way intrigue you? Read on and find out the top homesteaders to follow on Instagram!
If you’re looking for inspiration to get started on homesteading, these are the people you should be following. They’ll show you the ropes and get you ready and self-sufficient in no time!
If you are interested in living off grid and planning to explore a life outside the comfort of the modern world, you must be aware that you are not alone. More and more people are really doing great becoming self-sufficient and finding ways to create things from scratch. To help you out to which fellow homesteader you can follow to get some tips and guides about homesteading, we’ve compiled, but listed in no particular order, the 15 top homesteaders you can follow on Instagram!
1. The Prairie Homestead
A photo posted by Jill Winger (@theprairiehomestead) on Jul 18, 2016 at 7:14am PDT
The Prairie Homestead is Jill Winger’s homestead blog. Jill’s blog will let you discover the freedom brought by homesteading and teaches you different ways to your roots and write your own homesteading story.
2. Longest Acres Farm
A farm located in the hills of Central Vermont. Kate who’s a mother and a farmer presents beautiful photos of her Icelandic Sheep, Devon Cows, Ossabaw Pigs, her wonderful life and her family’s experience on their farm.
3. The Elliott Homestead
The Elliott Homestead is own by Shaye Elliot and its filled with her homesteading experiences. Here, she allows you to enjoy life on her farm and shares ideas on how to can peaches, the use of cloth diapers instead of disposable ones and tasty dishes you can make by using the crops you’ve grown.
4. The Homesteading Hippy
Heather of The Homesteading Hippy began her homesteading adventure when they’ve bought their first house in 2006 and have attempted to start their first garden by raised bed boxes and planting over 200 seeds and plants in a very limited space, though they didn’t have plenty of produce at that time but since then she learned a lot about how to become a successful homesteader and wishes to encourage her followers and readers to start where they can and learn along the way.
5. Root Simple
An urban homesteading blog by the authors of Making It: Radical Home Ec for a Post-Consumer World and The Urban Homestead: Your Guide to Self-Sufficient Living in the Heat of the City, Erik Knutzen and Kelly Coyne. It covers the topic about going back to basics, gardening, DIY living, urban homesteading, herbal medicines, animals, transportation, saving, and food preservation.
Are you a true homesteader? Take a look at these 5 homesteading characteristics to find out! https://t.co/5hfxROkUci pic.twitter.com/XCVAfO3OjE
— Homesteading (@HomesteadingUSA) July 23,…
Start-up costs, Continuation costs, Profits, and Contradictions.
In this article, I compare different livestock – Start-up costs, Continuation costs, Profits, and Contradictions.
I was not raised on a farm but when we purchased 20 acres I knew that we needed to put the land to good use. Thankfully, I have a husband who is almost as adventurous as I am so we jumped into the farm and homesteading life with both feet. God was gracious and we landed well- not very gracefully but we are surviving and even thriving in most areas!
This article will compare the different animals that we have tried to raise on our plot of Heaven on Earth, as well as the costs involved. Remember that we have only been farming for 15 years and our experiences may vary from yours. I am hoping that you will learn from our mistakes and gain some insight from our situation.
These are the animals with which we have had experiences:
Horses , Cows, Chickens – Layers, Chickens – Meat, Goose, Ducks, Rabbits (meat), Sheep, Goats – Dairy.
HORSES
We started with horses. Yep, hay burners. (For those of you who have never had these gentle giants on your property, they are called “Hay Burners” because unless you are using them for transportation, plowing, or enjoyment, then they really don’t do much except eat hay and poop.)
Although we hadn’t thought about having equine on the farm, my daughter had been praying for a free horse for several years and God heard and answered her prayers. Not only did she get a free horse, but it came with free feed and free tack and a free saddle. Who were we to turn down all that free stuff? For those who have or have had horses, you know that as soon as you get a free horse, the expenses begin.
Horses can be picky regarding the hay they eat. Right now in the mid-west, good hay costs around $8-10 a square bale. Horses also need a salt block and a mineral block. These run about $7 each at our local farm store.
Not-so-funny story about needing a salt block… Our second free horse (because horses are herd animals and we didn’t want the first one to be lonely J) was under the weather so we called the vet who came right out and determined he was dehydrated. After sedating him and shoving a gastric tube into his stomach, and filling his gut with electrolytes, I learned the importance of a $5 salt block as compared to a farm call vet bill ($160).
There is also the need for a farrier for their hooves, if you can find one in your area. In our area, they charge an average of $50 per horse (not including shoeing) and the visits are generally every 8 weeks.
And then, since horses don’t live forever, you need to consider the matter of burial. With our other (smaller) livestock we are able to transport their carcasses to the back corner of our property….
Garden Seed Starting Calculator | Homesteading Guide
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FTC Announces Complaint Against Amazon for Manipulative Design Practices in Amazon Prime Enrollment and Cancellation Tactics
Today the Federal Trade Commission filed a complaint against Amazon for using dark patterns to trick consumers in both the enrollment and cancelation processes for Amazon Prime. The complaint alleged that that Amazon’s use of manipulative design causes consumers to enroll consumers in automatically-renewing Amazon Prime subscriptions without their consent. Additionally, the FTC alleged that Amazon knowingly created a cancellation process “designed to deter consumers from successfully unsubscribing from Prime.” The complaint charges that Amazon’s use of deceptive user-interface design to manage enrollment and cancellation of Amazon Prime subscriptions violated both the FTC Act and the Restore Online Shoppers’ Confidence Act.
“Amazon has a long history of using complicated, mazelike design features to prevent users from choosing privacy protective options. These deceptive designs harm users because Amazon continues to charge membership fees from misdirected users and collect, use, and retain users’ personal information.” Said EPIC Counsel Sara Geoghegan. “The FTC’s lawsuit is a strong step towards holding Amazon accountable and stopping the company from undermining the privacy of its customers. Dark patterns and deceptive designs harm consumers and the FTC should continue to take action against the use of these manipulative design features.”
In 2021, EPIC filed a complaint with the D.C. Attorney General alleging that Amazon’s use of manipulative dark patterns in the subscription cancellation process was unlawful. EPIC also signed on to a coalition letter in 2021 urging the FTC to investigate Amazon’s use of dark patterns in the Prime cancellation process.