The Easiest Way to Decorate Easter Eggs with the Kids

 

I was kind of dreading decorating the eggs with the kids this year until I discovered a new technique. The old technique involves a dipping process which is messy and time consuming, and you have to add vinegar to the dye to make deep colors. The vinegar inevitably makes the eggs taste awful. 

Even with newspapers, towels, and everything else you can think of, the process is a mess.

But this year I found a new way.

       First, start with eggs that are blown out. The process to create these involves poking two small holes in each egg, one at the top and one at the bottom. Make the bottom hole slightly larger. Then blow the egg innards into your favorite recipe (like STMJ), and rinse out the egg shells. Let them dry. It can be helpful to do this well in advance of decorating day.

     Then get some small, sandwich-sized plastic bags from the dollar store. They do not need to be locking like those ziploc-style bags. And while you are shopping, pick up a variety of pack of food coloring from the baking section.

     Next, put a drop of food coloring of your preferred color in a plastic bag, and add the egg. Smear the coloring around the egg as desired. Do all of the eggs and use all of the colors. A single drop of food coloring goes a long way.

     Let the eggs dry and enjoy.

What You Need to Know About Selling Plants on Etsy

 This last springtime I learned something about Etsy - that there are many people who want to buy garden plants at that time of year to maximize their growing season. 

"What is THE GROWING SEASON?" you ask, in disbelief.

Well it turns out that Northeners, often referred to as Yankees, can only grow plants outside in the late spring, summer, and early fall. So they are just going outside as we are just returning to the inside in a kind of opposite effect.

I was reminded of this fact when I decided to try to sell some of my extra papyrus plants on Etsy this last March and April. By March and April, my water gardens were overflowing and plants were literally bursting out the sides and bottoms of their pots. Forehead smack, that ruins my pots! So I took many photos and listed the yellow cannas, which bloom first, the taro, and the papyrus.

Turns out that no one really wants to buy taro and cannas, likely because they are available at box stores most everywhere, but boy did the papyrus sell! I sold 9 sets of three rooted plants each at a very reasonable price, all within the span of two weeks. It was so fast that Etsy literally held my payments because they thought I had been frauding people somehow. But I did sell the plants so they eventually paid me.

One more thing about selling plants on Etsy - I have sold about 20 to 30 plant sets now, and in those orders have had two people whine and complain that the plants they received were not what they ordered. So...I am going to have to raise prices to make up for the bad apples. Just like Walmart. I mean, where do you think I learned that from?

Dividends are the Ultimate Rewards Program Part 2

Our home

Dividends are the ultimate rewards program for investors. They are a distribution of a portion of a company's profits to its shareholders. Dividends are a great way for companies to reward their investors for their loyalty and commitment to the company. In this blog post, we will discuss why dividends are the ultimate rewards program and how they benefit investors.

First and foremost, dividends are a tangible and reliable reward for investors. Unlike other rewards programs that offer points or rewards that may have a limited lifespan or expiration date, like those flyer miles, dividends are a direct payment to shareholders that they can use as they see fit. Whether they want to reinvest the dividends to buy more shares or use them for other expenses, dividends are a valuable reward that can be relied upon.

Secondly, dividends are a great way to provide consistent returns to investors. Companies that pay dividends typically have a stable financial situation and are less likely to suffer from market fluctuations. This stability provides investors with a sense of security and helps them to plan for their financial future. Additionally, dividend-paying companies tend to be more attractive to long-term investors, who are looking for consistent returns over time.

Another benefit of dividends is that they are a great way to increase a company's attractiveness to investors. By offering dividends, companies are signaling to investors that they are financially stable and committed to long-term growth. This can attract more investors to the company and increase its stock price, which can benefit all shareholders.

Moreover, dividends are a tax-efficient way to earn income from investments. In most countries, dividends are subject to lower tax rates than other types of income, such as interest income or capital gains. This means that investors can earn income from dividends while keeping more of their earnings. Some dividends are taxed at the usual income tax rate and others such as REITs are taxed at the capital gains rate, which is often better for low earners. 

Lastly, dividends can also provide a valuable source of income for retirees. Retirees often rely on income from their investments to support their living expenses. Dividends can provide a steady and reliable income stream for retirees, which can help them to maintain their quality of life in retirement.

     Monthly or quarterly dividend income can be a great source of wealth for early retirees also. Owning stocks and bonds that provide returns are truly passive investments, and can be set it and forget it. This is why a lot of the online community are big fans of exchange traded funds like SCHD and JEPI and VNQ, which we also appreciate at our homestead.

In conclusion, dividends are the ultimate rewards program for investors. They are a tangible and reliable reward that provides consistent returns, increases a company's attractiveness, and provides a tax-efficient way to earn income. Additionally, dividends can be a valuable source of income for retirees. As an investor, it's important to consider dividends as a factor when choosing which companies to invest in. By investing in companies that pay dividends, investors can benefit from a valuable and reliable rewards program.

Lemon Poppy Seed Bread: A Delicious and Easy Recipe for the Breadmaker

 Lemon poppy seed bread is a delicious and easy-to-make treat that can be enjoyed by people of all ages. It is perfect for breakfast, snack time, or dessert. This recipe can be made in a breadmaker, which makes it even easier to prepare.

This recipe accomplishes two things: it uses up extra lemons from the garden and extra eggs from the ducks.

Ingredients:

3 cups all-purpose flour

1 1/2 teaspoons salt

1 1/2 teaspoons baking powder

3 tablespoons poppy seeds

2 teaspoons lemon juice

2 teaspoons lemon zest

1 cup vegetable oil

3 eggs

1 cup sugar

Instructions:

Breadmaker Instructions:

Put all the ingredients in your breadmaker's bowl and place in the breadmaker. Program your machine for the Quickbreads setting.

Oven Instructions:

Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Grease and flour a 9x5 inch loaf pan.

In a large bowl, whisk together the flour, salt, baking powder, poppy seeds, lemon juice, and lemon zest.

In a separate bowl, whisk together the oil, eggs, and sugar until well combined.

Pour the wet ingredients into the dry ingredients and mix until just combined. Do not overmix.

Pour the batter into the prepared loaf pan.

Bake for 50-60 minutes, or until a toothpick inserted into the center comes out clean.

Let cool in the pan for 10 minutes before removing to a wire rack to cool completely.

Tips

For a sweeter bread, increase the amount of sugar to 1 1/2 cups.

For a more moist bread, add 1/2 cup of sour cream or yogurt to the batter.

To make a lemon poppy seed cake, bake the batter in a 9x13 inch pan for 35-40 minutes.

To make a lemon poppy seed muffin, bake the batter in 12 muffin tins for 15-20 minutes.

Variations

Add 1/2 cup of chocolate chips to the batter for a chocolate lemon poppy seed bread.

Add 1/2 cup of dried cranberries to the batter for a cranberry lemon poppy seed bread.

Add 1/2 cup of chopped nuts to the batter for a nutty lemon poppy seed bread.

Serving Suggestions

Lemon poppy seed bread can be sliced and served with butter or cream cheese.

It can also be used to make sandwiches or French toast.

Lemon poppy seed bread can be stored in an airtight container at room temperature for up to 3 days.

Are Wicking Beds Right for your Florida Gardeners

     A wicking bed is a type of sunken garden bed that uses a wicking system to deliver water to plants from a reservoir at the bottom of the bed. This system allows plants to get the water they need without the need for constant watering.

Wicking beds are a great option for anyone who wants to grow their own food or medicine but doesn't have the time or energy to water their plants regularly. They are also a good choice for people who live in areas with limited water resources, or people who live in hot southern areas like Florida and Texas.

How to Make a Wicking Bed

Building a wicking bed is a relatively simple process. Here are the basic steps:

Choose a location for your wicking bed. The location should be in a sunny spot and have well-drained soil.

Clear the area of any weeds or debris.

Lay down a waterproof barrier such as a tarp or pond liner that is at least 5 mils thick.

Place a layer of rocks such as tumbled river stones on the barrier, this is your reservoir layer.

Place a layer of wicking material in the bottom of the bed. The wicking material can be made from a variety of materials, such as geotextile fabric, coconut husk, or even old towels.

Create a bed of soil that is at least six inches thick. You can do this by layering a variety of materials, such as newspaper, cardboard, leaves, grass clippings, and compost.

Wet down the materials as you layer them.

Plant your plants in the top layer of the soil.

Water your plants regularly.

Fertilize your plants as needed.

Or you can use a large barrel, with the top cut off, a few pipes added, like in the diagram.

There are many benefits to using wicking beds. Here are a few of the most important ones:

Reduced watering. Wicking beds require much less watering than traditional garden beds. This is because the wicking system delivers water to plants from the reservoir at the bottom of the bed.

Reduced weeds. Wicking beds are less likely to be overrun by weeds than traditional garden beds. This is because the wicking system helps to keep the soil moist and prevents weeds from germinating.

Increased yields. Wicking beds can produce higher yields than traditional garden beds. This is because the wicking system helps to keep plants healthy and allows them to absorb more nutrients.

Improved soil quality. Wicking beds can help to improve the quality of the soil in your garden. This is because the wicking system helps to aerate the soil and break down organic matter.

Here are a few tips to help you get the most out of your wicking bed:

Choose the right materials. The materials that you use in your wicking bed will affect the quality of your soil and the success of your garden. Make sure to use materials that are high in organic matter and nutrients.

Keep the soil moist. The soil in your wicking bed should be kept moist, but not wet. Too much water can cause the materials to decompose too quickly and can also lead to waterlogged soil.

Fertilize regularly. Your wicking bed will need to be fertilized regularly. Use a balanced fertilizer that is specifically designed for organic gardens.

Be patient. Wicking beds take time to establish themselves. Enjoy the process!

The Shotgun Approach to Buying Stocks

When it comes to investing in the stock market, there are two main schools of thought: diversification and concentration. Diversification is the idea of spreading your money across a variety of different stocks, while concentration is the idea of putting all of your eggs in one basket.

There are pros and cons to both approaches. Diversification can help to reduce risk, but it can also limit your potential gains. Concentration can lead to higher returns, but it also exposes you to more risk.

In this blog post, we will discuss the benefits of holding small amounts of many stocks. We will also explore some of the risks associated with this approach.

Why Hold Small Amounts of Many Stocks

There are several reasons why you might want to hold small amounts of many stocks. First, diversification can help to reduce risk. When you invest in a variety of different stocks, you are not putting all of your eggs in one basket. This means that if one stock goes down in value, it will not have a major impact on your overall portfolio.

Second, diversification can help to increase your potential returns. By investing in a variety of different stocks, you are giving yourself a chance to participate in the growth of different industries and sectors. This can help to offset the losses that you may experience from other stocks. This can be a great thing if there is something going on, like a banking failure or an energy crisis. You may lose money on some of your investments in those classes, but since you were also invested in consumer goods and real estate, you did ok overall.

Third, diversification can make it easier to recognize and manage your portfolio gains. When you have a large number of stocks, it can be easier to see which stocks are performing well, which should trigger a wise investor to deposit more money into that holding.

The Risks of Holding Small Amounts of Many Stocks

While there are many benefits to holding small amounts of many stocks, there are also some risks associated with this approach. First, diversification can lead to lower returns. When you invest in a variety of different stocks, you are not likely to experience the same highs and lows as you would if you were concentrated in a few stocks. This can lead to lower overall returns.

Second, diversification can make it difficult to track your performance. When you have a large number of stocks, it can be difficult to keep track of their individual performance. This can make it difficult to make informed investment decisions. That is why using some of these new online tools can be very helpful, such as the app Stock Events.

There are both pros and cons to holding small amounts of many stocks. Ultimately, the best approach for you will depend on your individual circumstances and risk tolerance. If you are looking for a way to reduce risk and increase your potential returns, then diversification may be a good option for you. However, if you are looking for the highest possible returns, then you may want to consider concentrating your investments in a few stocks.

Here are some additional tips for holding small amounts of many stocks:

Do your research. Before you invest in any stock, make sure you do your research and understand the company's business model and financials.

Diversify across different industries and sectors. This will help to reduce your risk if one industry or sector experiences a downturn.

Rebalance your portfolio regularly. This will help to ensure that your investments remain diversified as the market changes.

Monitor your investments closely. Keep an eye on the performance of your stocks and make adjustments to your portfolio as needed.

By following these tips, you can help to reduce the risks associated with holding small amounts of many stocks and increase your chances of success.

Duckweed versus Water Hyacinth, Which is Right for Your Homestead?

Duckweed and water hyacinth are two aquatic plants that are increasingly being considered as potential sources of livestock fodder. Both of these plants are able to grow rapidly and prolifically in water bodies, making them attractive options for farmers and ranchers looking for cost-effective, sustainable feed sources.

In this blog post, we will compare and contrast duckweed and water hyacinth as potential fodder sources, looking at their nutritional value, ease of cultivation, and other important factors.

Nutritional Value

One of the most important factors when considering any feed source is its nutritional value. In this regard, both duckweed and water hyacinth have a lot to offer. Duckweed is rich in protein, with some species containing as much as 45% protein by dry weight. It is also a good source of essential amino acids, as well as vitamins and minerals such as vitamin A, vitamin B12, iron, and calcium.

Water hyacinth, on the other hand, is high in fiber and also contains significant amounts of protein (up to 15% by dry weight). It is also a good source of minerals such as potassium and phosphorus. However, it is important to note that water hyacinth can accumulate toxic compounds such as heavy metals, which can make it unsuitable for consumption in certain areas. (They both bioaccumulate, though less research has been performed on duckweed and azolla for that purpose. It would be wise not to consume or allow animals to consume any plants that may be contaminated with large amounts of heavy metals.)

Ease of Cultivation

Another important factor to consider when comparing duckweed and water hyacinth as fodder sources is their ease of cultivation. Duckweed can be grown in a variety of water bodies, from small ponds to large-scale wastewater treatment systems. It requires relatively little maintenance, and can be harvested multiple times per year. However, it is important to note that some species of duckweed can be invasive and may require careful management to prevent them from spreading to other water bodies.

Water hyacinth, on the other hand, can also be grown in a variety of water bodies, but requires more maintenance than duckweed. It grows best in warm, tropical climates and can be sensitive to changes in temperature and water quality. Additionally, because of its potential to become invasive, water hyacinth may require more careful management than duckweed.

Environmental Impact

Both duckweed and water hyacinth have the potential to provide a number of environmental benefits in addition to their use as livestock feed. Duckweed, for example, has been shown to be effective at removing excess nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from wastewater, reducing the risk of algal blooms and other water quality issues. It can also provide habitat for a variety of aquatic species.

Water hyacinth, on the other hand, can help to prevent soil erosion and reduce water evaporation in areas with high temperatures and low rainfall. It can also provide habitat for a variety of aquatic species, including fish, turtles, and birds. However, as mentioned earlier, water hyacinth can also become invasive and may require careful management to prevent it from spreading to other water bodies.

Cost and Availability

Finally, when considering duckweed and water hyacinth as fodder sources, it is important to consider their cost and availability. Duckweed is relatively easy and inexpensive to cultivate, and can be harvested multiple times per year. It is also available in a variety of forms, from fresh to dried, and can be fed to livestock as a supplement or as a complete replacement for other feed sources.

Looking to buy some live duckweed to try out at your homestead? Look no further than this excellent Etsy store, run by Knotty Pots.

Water hyacinth, on the other hand, may be more difficult and expensive to cultivate, depending on the location and water quality. It is also less widely available than duckweed, likely because it is illegal to buy/transport in some areas, including Florida. Water hyacinth may require more effort to harvest and process for use as livestock feed, as it is larger and heavier.

In conclusion, both duckweed and water hyacinth have the potential to be valuable sources of livestock feed, depending on a variety of factors such as their nutritional value, ease of cultivation, and local and regional laws.

Cyperus papyrus

Uses : Textile, Ornamental. Native to : Egypt
     The history of this plant is long and well-known, but did you know that it has become an exotic invasive in Florida? Once, long ago, someone planted one of these in the shady part of our yard underneath several Cherry Laurel trees, and years later there is still 3 or 4 stalks surviving.
     It is known to grow in areas like ditches and swamps, where abundant moisture can be found.
     Historically, the young shoots can be roasted and eaten much like bamboo. I have fed the stalks and leaves to the rabbits, and they aren't dead yet, so I must be doing something right.
     Unfortunately wildlife seem to have no interest in this unusual plant. It flowers in the spring, but the flowers are green and right in the middle of the big green fan fronds, so kind of easy to miss.

You can cultivate Papyrus like I do, as in, with abandon. Since they are in the grass the family they are very forgiving. What I like to do with them is put a bunch of dead leaves and mulch in he bottom of a 1 gallon pot, then put the piece of plant in, then put mulch and leaves all around the sides of the plant to hold it up. Then stick the whole thing into one of my mini ponds because papyrus loves water. I have literally grown papyrus in rocks in pondwater before. I stopped using rocks because they became annoying when it was time to divide up the papyrus stems and roots.

This plant is part of my master plen to take back the front of my yard, which is a great big mess. But papyrus is sweet and beautiful, and the rabbits like to eat it so I'm going to keep this well-haved permaculture fodder source around as much as I can.

Tradescantia pallida: A Versatile and Easy to Care for Edible for Your Florida Garden

Tradescantia pallida, also known as Purple Heart, is a beautiful and versatile plant that can be grown both indoors and outdoors. It is native to Mexico and has a trailing habit, making it perfect for potted planters or ground cover. Tradescantia pallida is also relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginner plant owners.

Description

Tradescantia pallida is a perennial plant that grows to be about 6 inches tall. It has thick, fleshy stems that are covered in purple leaves. The leaves are oval-shaped and have a pointed tip. Tradescantia pallida produces small, pink flowers in the summer.

Cultivation

Tradescantia pallida is relatively easy to care for. It prefers full sun or partial shade and well-drained soil. Tradescantia pallida can be grown outdoors in USDA zones 9-11. In colder climates, it can be grown indoors as a houseplant.

To water Tradescantia pallida, water the soil deeply when the top inch of the soil is dry. Tradescantia pallida does not need to be fertilized often. However, you can fertilize it with a balanced fertilizer once a month during the growing season.

Prpagation

Tradescantia pallida can be easily propagated from stem cuttings or from divisions. To propagate from stem cuttings, take cuttings that are about 4 inches long and remove the bottom leaves. Dip the cuttings in rooting hormone and plant them in well-drained soil. To propagate from divisions, simply divide the plant into two or more pieces.

Benefits

There are many benefits to growing Tradescantia pallida. It is a beautiful plant that can add color to your garden or home. Tradescantia pallida is also relatively easy to care for, making it a great choice for beginner plant owners. It is edible to rabbits and ducks. Additionally, Tradescantia pallida is a versatile plant that can be used in a variety of ways. It can be used as a ground cover, in hanging baskets, or even as a houseplant. 

Problems

Tradescantia pallida is susceptible to a few pests and diseases. Aphids, mealybugs, and scale insects can all damage the plant. Additionally, Tradescantia pallida can be susceptible to root rot if the soil is too wet.

Conclusion

Tradescantia pallida is a beautiful and versatile plant that is easy to care for. It can be grown both indoors and outdoors and has a variety of uses. If you are looking for a plant that is both beautiful and easy to care for, Tradescantia pallida is a great option.

Red Mulberry, Morus rubra

The Red Mulberry, also known as Morus rubra, is a tree species native to North America. It belongs to the mulberry family, Moraceae, which includes over 1000 species of plants. The Red Mulberry is an important tree species in many ways, as it provides a range of ecological, economic, and cultural benefits.

Ecological Benefits

The Red Mulberry is an ecologically important tree species, as it provides various ecological benefits. The tree is well-suited to a wide range of soils, from sandy loam to heavy clay, and can tolerate a range of pH levels. The tree is also tolerant of flooding, making it an important species in riparian zones, floodplains, and other wetland areas.

The Red Mulberry produces large quantities of fruit, which are eaten by a range of wildlife species. The fruit is rich in nutrients, including vitamin C, iron, and calcium, and is an important food source for many bird species, including blue jays, robins, and cedar waxwings. Other animals that feed on the fruit include squirrels, raccoons, opossums, and deer.

The Red Mulberry also provides important habitat for a range of insect species. Many butterfly and moth species rely on the Red Mulberry as a host plant for their caterpillars. The tree also supports a range of other insect species, including beetles, wasps, and ants.

Economic Benefits

The Red Mulberry is an economically important tree species in North America, as it has a range of commercial uses. The tree is grown for its fruit, which is used to make jams, jellies, pies, and other food products. The fruit is also used to make wine and other alcoholic beverages.

The wood of the Red Mulberry is also valuable, as it is hard, dense, and resistant to decay. The wood is used to make furniture, flooring, and other high-quality wood products. The bark of the Red Mulberry is also used in traditional medicine, as it has been shown to have antiviral and antimicrobial properties.

Mulberry trees are easy to propagate and make an excellent fodder source.

Cultural Significance

The Red Mulberry has a rich cultural significance in North America. The tree has been used for centuries by indigenous people for food, medicine, and other purposes. The Cherokee people used the bark of the tree to treat fever, while the Iroquois used the inner bark to make a tea to treat coughs and colds.

The Red Mulberry also played an important role in the Underground Railroad, as it was used by slaves escaping to freedom. The tree provided important cover for escaping slaves, as well as a source of food.