Another Mouth to Feed

As many others are feeling the crunch of the economy, it finally hit close to home this past week. My husband's employer has decided to put everyone on lay off for a period of time with hopes of bringing them back in several weeks, but at part-time status. He has suspected this was going to happen after a major lay off occurred last year, so it wasn't a complete shock. We are disappointed but not devastated.

All in all, we try to be prepared for the unexpected or inconvenient circumstances. For instance, how could we know that in this time of semi-crisis, we would have another mouth to feed? Earlier this year the girls used their Christmas money to buy some hamsters. While we asked the gentleman at the pet store to kindly give us two of the same gender, we learned quickly from the look of things that he had not. Our suspicions (and fears!) were confirmed on Thursday of this past week when the 8 year old started screaming, "Baby hamsters!!" Two baby hamsters, actually. Here Charlie is seen holding mommy hamster, Brownie. 

And, who can resist taking in this little guy? Or is it a gal? I suppose there is only one way to know for sure. Hamsters anyone?

I Can Can!

Last year, I learned how to can meat in a pressure cooker. I had some wonderful friends walk me through the process. Tonight, I went solo! I canned 18 lbs of chicken and prepared several jars of hamburger for canning tomorrow. I look at the jars and get all giddy. While I hope we never have to use them in an emergency situation, it's nice to know we have a little something on hand just in case. While there are some really good blogs with canning instructions and tutorials, be sure to also check out the National Center for Home Food Preservation, as it includes gobs of information that is updated with current food safety handling information.

A Riddle For You...

What's yellow, encased in glass, and juicy all over? Why, home-canned chicken, of course! So, you may think this looks pretty disgusting, but it is much more appetizing-looking in person. With the help of some friends, I had a go at some canning today. I'm much too tired to go into detail this evening, but another post at a later date with instructions and more pictures is a definite possibility.

While I was packing these jars and watching the pressure gauge today (for what seemed like several hours), I had lots of time to ponder. In particular, I was thinking of how wonderful it will be to use these gems some time in the future. It's like once-a-month-cooking (OAMC) without needing a freezer! The possibilities are limitless....chicken salad, chicken and rice, chicken soup, chicken casserole, [insert your own favorite chicken recipe here]...

Backpacks 75% off at Target

I noticed backpacks are finally 75% off at Target today. This is a great deal, especially if you pick up a Jansport backpack since they carry a lifetime warranty. I know of at least two people who had a minor problem (such as a zipper break or a rip in the bag), and the company made good on it by sending them a replacement that was as good or better than the original item. Even if you are set for school, think of using them for emergency preparedness--every family member should have his or her own 72-hour kit! Safely Gathered In has a great series right now on 72-hour kits. They are in week 7 or so of the series, but it's never too late to jump in and get started.