Dividends are the Ultimate Rewards Program Part 2

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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.

Duckweed: The Versatile Homesteading Crop with Multiple Benefits

Homesteading, or the practice of living self-sufficiently off the land, has seen a resurgence in recent years as people seek to reduce their reliance on commercial food systems and live more sustainably. One plant that has the potential to be a valuable addition to any homestead is duckweed. This tiny aquatic plant has a range of benefits that make it an ideal addition to any homesteading operation.

One of the main benefits of duckweed for homesteaders is its ability to be grown as a high-protein feed source for livestock. Ducks, chickens, and other poultry will happily eat duckweed, which is rich in protein, vitamins, and minerals. In fact, some homesteaders have reported that their ducks and chickens will actively seek out duckweed when given the opportunity. This makes it an ideal food source for homesteaders who are looking to raise their own livestock and reduce their reliance on commercial feed.

In addition to being a valuable food source for livestock, duckweed can also be used as a natural fertilizer for crops. Duckweed is able to absorb nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from the water, which can then be used to fertilize plants. This makes it an ideal addition to any homestead garden, as it can help to increase soil fertility and improve crop yields.

Another benefit of duckweed for homesteaders is its potential as a source of biofuel. Duckweed is rich in oils, which can be extracted and converted into biodiesel. This makes it an ideal crop for homesteaders who are looking to produce their own fuel and reduce their reliance on fossil fuels.

Duckweed is also an excellent source of compost. Because it is rich in nutrients and breaks down quickly, it can be added directly to compost piles to help speed up the composting process and create a nutrient-rich soil amendment.

Another way that duckweed can be used on the homestead is as a natural insect repellent. Studies have shown that duckweed contains compounds that repel insects such as mosquitoes and flies. This makes it an ideal addition to any homestead pond or water feature, as it can help to reduce the number of insects in the surrounding area.

Despite its many benefits, duckweed can be challenging to grow, particularly in colder climates. Duckweed requires warm water temperatures and plenty of sunlight in order to grow and thrive. This is why it is a superior option for Florida. However, with the right conditions, it can be a valuable addition to any homestead operation.

One approach to growing duckweed on the homestead is to create a small pond or water feature specifically for growing duckweed. This can be as simple as a plastic container filled with water and placed in a sunny location. Duckweed can be added to the container and allowed to grow and multiply, providing a valuable source of food for livestock and a natural fertilizer for crops.

Another approach to growing duckweed is to use an aquaponics system. Aquaponics is a system of agriculture that combines hydroponics (growing plants in water) with aquaculture (raising fish). In an aquaponics system, fish are raised in a tank and their waste is used to fertilize plants that are grown in water. Duckweed can be added to the aquaponics system as a natural filter, helping to remove excess nutrients from the water and improve the overall health of the system.

In conclusion, duckweed is a valuable plant that has a range of benefits for homesteaders. From its ability to provide a high-protein food source for livestock to its potential as a natural fertilizer and source of biofuel, duckweed is a versatile crop that can help homesteaders become more self-sufficient and sustainable. While it can be challenging to grow in colder climates, with the right conditions, duckweed can be a valuable addition to any homestead operation.

Want to try out duckweed at your place? You can pick up some from me from my Etsy store here

Discover the Delicious and Nutritious Indonesian Drink: How to Make STMJ

STMJ is a traditional Indonesian drink that is known for its rich flavor and nutritional benefits. The name STMJ is an acronym for the four main ingredients that make up the drink: susu (milk), telur (egg), madu (honey), and jahe (ginger). This popular beverage is commonly consumed for breakfast or as a pick-me-up throughout the day, especially during cold weather.

To make STMJ, you will need to start by boiling a piece of fresh ginger in water until it becomes fragrant. Then, you will need to strain the ginger water into a blender or food processor along with a raw egg, honey, and condensed milk. Blend the mixture until it is frothy and smooth. You can also add a pinch of ground cinnamon or nutmeg to enhance the flavor. Serve the STMJ hot or cold, depending on your preference.

STMJ is not only delicious, but it is also packed with nutrients that are beneficial for your health. Ginger is known for its anti-inflammatory and immune-boosting properties, while eggs provide a good source of protein and healthy fats. Honey is a natural sweetener that is rich in antioxidants, and milk is a great source of calcium and vitamin D. This drink is a perfect way to start your day off on the right foot or as a nutritious snack anytime you need a quick energy boost.

The Ultimate Tuna Potato Salad Recipe

Tuna potato salad is a classic dish that is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. It is made with simple ingredients that are readily available at most grocery stores. The salad is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice. It is also relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight. It can be made inexpensively with many pantry staples such as potatoes and canned tuna.

Tuna potato salad is typically made with canned tuna, potatoes, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and dill. However, there are many variations of the dish. Some people like to add hard-boiled eggs, chopped pickles, or relish. Others prefer to use a different type of mayonnaise, such as olive oil mayonnaise or light mayonnaise. There is no right or wrong way to make tuna potato salad, so feel free to experiment until you find a version that you love.

To make tuna potato salad, simply combine all of the ingredients in a large bowl. Mix well until everything is evenly combined. Serve the salad on its own or on a bed of lettuce. You can also use it as a sandwich filling or a wrap filling.

Tuna potato salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It is a great option for a quick and easy meal, and it is also a good choice for picnics, potlucks, and other gatherings. So next time you are looking for a delicious and nutritious dish to make, be sure to give tuna potato salad a try.

Here is a recipe for tuna potato salad that you can try at home:

Ingredients:

2 cans of tuna, drained

4 medium potatoes, cooked

1/2 cup of mayonnaise

1/4 cup of celery, chopped, optional

1/4 cup of onion, chopped (half an onion)

3 tablespoons of dill, dried is all right

Salt and pepper to taste

Instructions:

In a large bowl, combine the tuna, mayonnaise, celery, onion, and dill.

Season with salt and pepper to taste.

Mix well until everything is evenly combined.

Serve immediately or store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Enjoy!

History of Tuna Potato Salad

Tuna potato salad is thought to have originated in the United States in the early 1900s. It is believed to be a variation of the classic potato salad that was popular at the time. Tuna potato salad quickly became a popular dish, and it is now enjoyed all over the world.

Variations of Tuna Potato Salad

There are many variations of tuna potato salad. Some of the most popular variations include:

Tuna salad on a bed of lettuce: This is a lighter option than the tuna salad sandwich or wrap. Simply serve the salad on a bed of lettuce and enjoy.

Tuna salad as a side dish: This is a great option for picnics, potlucks, and other gatherings. Simply serve the salad on its own as a side dish.

Tips for Making Tuna Potato Salad

Here are a few tips for making the best tuna potato salad:

Use high-quality ingredients. This will make a big difference in the taste of the salad.

Use fresh mayonnaise. This will also make a big difference in the taste of the salad.

Don't overmix the salad. Overmixing will make the salad mushy.

Serve the salad immediately or store it in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days.

Tuna potato salad is a delicious and nutritious dish that is perfect for a quick and easy lunch or dinner. It is made with simple ingredients that are readily available at most grocery stores. The salad is packed with protein and healthy fats, making it a nutritious choice. It is also relatively low in calories, making it a good option for those who are trying to lose weight or maintain a healthy weight.

Tuna potato salad is a versatile dish that can be enjoyed in many different ways. It is a great option for a quick and easy meal, and it is also a good choice for picnics, potlucks, and other gatherings. So next time you are looking for a delicious and nutritious dish to make, be sure to give tuna potato salad a try.

Duckweed: The Tiny Plant with Big Benefits for the Environment and Beyond

Duckweed, also known as Lemnoideae, is a type of aquatic plant that is found in ponds, lakes, and slow-moving streams. It is a tiny floating plant that can grow to be just a few millimeters in size. Despite its small size, duckweed has a range of benefits, making it an important part of many ecosystems.

One of the most significant benefits of duckweed is its ability to remove excess nutrients from the water. As a floating plant, duckweed is able to absorb nutrients such as nitrogen and phosphorus from the water, which can help to reduce the levels of these nutrients in the surrounding environment. This is particularly important in areas where there is excess nutrient runoff from agriculture or other human activities, as this can lead to harmful algal blooms and other negative environmental impacts.

Duckweed is also an excellent source of food for a variety of animals, including fish, turtles, and waterfowl. The high protein content of duckweed makes it a nutritious food source, and it is often used as a supplemental food for livestock and poultry. Think of skimming some off the top of a wastewater pond and feeding it to your chickens, rabbits, and ducks, as I do. They love the taste, and I love the extremely low cost of this nutrition source.

In addition to being a valuable food source for animals, duckweed can also be used as a source of biofuel. Researchers have found that duckweed is a promising source of renewable energy, as it can be converted into bioethanol and other fuels.

In addition to its environmental and economic benefits, duckweed has also been found to have a range of medicinal properties. Studies have shown that duckweed contains compounds that have anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, and antioxidant properties, making it a potential treatment for a range of health conditions. For example, duckweed has been found to be effective in reducing inflammation and oxidative stress, which are linked to a range of chronic diseases, including cancer, diabetes, and cardiovascular disease. Due to duckweed being grown in freshwater, it should be cooked to reduce the possibility of contamination from harmful pathogens that are endemic to our environment, such as E. coli.

One of the most exciting potential uses of duckweed is in wastewater treatment. Because duckweed is able to absorb nutrients from the water, it has the potential to be used in wastewater treatment systems to remove excess nutrients and pollutants from the water. In addition, because duckweed is able to grow rapidly and reproduce quickly, it can be used to treat large volumes of wastewater in a relatively short amount of time. This could be particularly beneficial in developing countries, where access to clean water is a major challenge. Here in Florida, I have found it extremely helpful in managing the duck slough, as it sucks up the manure and clears the water for other garden uses.

Despite its many benefits, duckweed is often considered a nuisance by pond owners and other water users. This is because duckweed can grow quickly and form dense mats on the surface of the water, which can limit the amount of light and oxygen that reaches the aquatic ecosystem below. In addition, dense duckweed mats can interfere with recreational activities such as fishing and boating.

However, there are a number of strategies that can be used to control the growth of duckweed and minimize its impact on the surrounding ecosystem. One approach is to use mechanical methods, such as raking or skimming, to remove excess duckweed from the water. Another approach is to introduce natural predators, such as ducks or fish, that will feed on the duckweed and help to keep its growth under control.

In conclusion, duckweed is a tiny plant with a range of benefits, from its ability to absorb excess nutrients from the water to its potential as a source of food, fuel, and medicine. While it can sometimes be considered a nuisance by water users, there are a number of strategies that can be used to control its growth and minimize its impact on the surrounding ecosystem. With its many potential uses and benefits, duckweed is a plant that deserves further study and exploration. With its low initial coat (buy some from me at my Etsy store) and ease of maintenance, it is a perennial that should be evaluated by any permaculturist or homesteader.

Beautyberry, Callicarpa americana

     Known for its edible small purple berries. I have eaten the berries raw, and they don't have much flavor. Popular for creating jams/jellies - sugar and pectin will have to be added.

    Usually you see the brightly colored magenta berries for months in the summer. I was finally able to get a picture of the flowers themselves.

The New Port Richey Garden Club

     Found this at one of the local libraries. New Port Richey is a lot of things, but I have never thought of it as overly friendly or inviting to gardening, not like Hernando or Polk. Pasco doesn't even sport a community garden or a botanical garden. But here I am, wrong again. 

     I bet they're all really nice people.

Shibataea kumasaca, Ruscus Bamboo

     I'm not even sure how I got this plant. . I don't think I bought it, or did I? No, I think I would remember if I had bought a dwarf clumping bamboo, because it's very cool -

now that I know it's not a weed trying to take over the lemon tree. 

     Indeed, bamboos are cool. I have another larger grass that I quite enjoy because it's beautiful and grows well. And more importantly, it's edible to the rabbits.  These grasses can be very helpful in their ability to displace weeds. They are also easy to harvest and bring to the rabbits.

Ilex verticellata, Winterberry

     This beauty was growing at the Aripeka entrance of the Weeki Wachee Preserve. It looks similar to Brazilian Pepper, so I wasn't about to touch it. Which is a good thing, because as I read about it sounds like there's not too much use for this plant medicinally. That being said, the berries supposedly contain caffeine and theobromine, a caffeine metabolite that has some unpleasant effects. It is also the reason why chocolate is poisonous to dogs. It sounds like it would be difficult to isolate that perfect amount of berry that would grant a caffeine boost without also granting theobromine poisoning to humans, which causes seizures and death.

     That being said, hollies are beautiful in the winter.

Why I Switched Credit Cards Like Leaving a Bad Job Behind, and Haven't Looked Back

     Not long ago I did something I never do, specifically, I got a new credit card. Previously for most of my adult life I had been using credit cards that gave reward points, which I had used to buy Christmas presents with. 

     Fueled by a head spinning with ideas about travel reward hacking, I decided that it was silly to get reward points. I don't travel much, but the idea of shopping around for cards is a good one. 

     So I applied for a credit card that gives 1.5% cash back. I know that's pretty common, but the credit limit on this card is about 10 times higher than on my previous cards. More importantly, this 1.5% is deposited into an investment account, which I could transfer to my checking account to pay for Christmas presents with. Or could invest the money.

     If you are interested in this card, email me, and I will send you a link to it. Tentance  at gmail.

Duck Potato, Sagittaria platyphylla, Delta Arrowhead

     I once stole this plant from a ditch at the community College. No really,  I really did do that. I wasn't arrested either. It almost tops the time I took cattail from the ditch at the hospital. I wasn't arrested then either. 

     Actually I didn't know what this was until it made a pretty white flower, and now I love it. I had wanted to buy duck potato because I had read that it's edible to, well, ducks. Possibly rabbits? Not sure. But now that I have this plant, all I have to do is propagate it, and I will have unlimited duck food! Mwa haha.

     Supposedly the underground tubers are eaten by ducks and snapping turtles. It sounds like a great plant to grow. Supposedly it can be propagated by transplanting the tubers. Also supposedly, it was a major food source for the Native Americans that lived in the Okeechobee area. 

Schwab and SCHD, Amongst Other Things

     So you probably already know that ETFs, or Exchange Traded Funds, are groups of investments that are sold on the stock market like individual stocks. But they are managed funds, usually with low costs, and are particularly helpful for adding diversity to investments. 

     SCHD is one of my two favorite ETFs. It has holdings in a large number of diverse companies that are reasonably well protected from recession. It has extremely low expenses at 0.060%. And if you were to invest $100k you would get back over $3k a year in dividends. That's not bad. 

     Did I mention that having a gamut of stocks that pay dividends is my personal investment strategy?

How to Deal with Bare Gray Sand

Also, why people say they can't grow anything in Florida.

Florida is known for its beautiful beaches and sunny weather, but its soil is sandy and often nutrient-poor. This can make it difficult to grow certain plants in Florida, but there are a few things that you can do to improve the soil quality of your garden.

One of the best things that you can do is to add organic matter to the soil. Organic matter helps to improve the drainage of the soil and makes it more fertile. You can add organic matter to the soil by adding compost, manure, or leaf litter. If you want to really nerd this up, try growing some duckweed or water hyacinth in small ponds and turning it out onto the sand as a mulch. You can get some from my Etsy shop here.

Another way to improve the soil quality of your garden is to add mulch. Mulch holds moisture at the soil level where plants use it and it keeps the soil cool, preventing evaporation. Also, mulch prevents soil hardening. Some counties offer free mulch created from yard waste, this is a superior source of mulch because it comes from shredded tree branches which rarely have chemicals on them.

The lasagna method of gardening, which is layering organic and inorganic materials, also advocates the use of mulch for these reasons. I find the lasagna method particularly helpful for container gardening.

If you have a sandy soil, it is important to water your plants regularly, especially in the dry springtime. Sandy soil dries out quickly, so you will need to water your plants more often than you would if you had a clay soil. You can also use a drip irrigation system to help water your plants more efficiently.

Doing these things will help you grow a wide variety of plants in your garden.

In addition to the tips above, here are some other things you can do to improve the soil quality of your Florida garden:

Test your soil. Before you start making any changes to your soil, it's important to test it to see what nutrients it needs. You can do this by sending a soil sample to a lab or by using a home soil test kit. But before you spend good money on a soil test, I ca already tell you that almost all Florida soil is deficient in calcium and magnesium in addition to all the major nutrients such as NPK.

Add mulch. Mulch helps to improve the soil quality by adding organic matter, suppressing weeds, and retaining moisture. You can use any type of mulch, but wood chips, straw, and leaves are all good options.

Plant native plants. Native plants are adapted to Florida's climate and soil conditions, so they will be less likely to suffer from nutrient deficiencies or other problems.

Avoid overwatering. Overwatering can leach nutrients from the soil and make it difficult for plants to grow. Water your plants deeply and infrequently, and allow the soil to dry out between waterings.

Fertilize regularly. Fertilizing your plants will help to replenish the nutrients that they need to grow healthy and strong. Use a balanced fertilizer that is specifically designed for Florida plants. Or use rabbit or duck manure.

By following these tips, you can improve the soil quality of your Florida garden and make it a more productive and beautiful place.

The Case Against ETFs, or Why ETFs Are Stupid

     Perhaps you may or may not have ever thought about investing in Exchange Traded Funds, which are groups of investments managed by professional investors who earn money on the investments. These funds are rarely part of the offerings of 401ks, perhaps because of their inherent expenses. But they are certainly interesting groups of investments and can help a person diversify or target what they have invested in, for example, zeroing in on a section of the economy like real estate or energy, or choosing a specific goal for the investments, such as dividend investing.

     With the internet becoming what it is, and with apps available readily for pickup investing on the fly, and investing/economic news being readily available, it may seem silly to pay professional investors to manage investments for you. For example, Schwab and JP Morgan both have free brokerage accounts that link to your bank account that will execute trades for you for no fees. 

     The case for ETF buying is that, well, it's easy. If you find an ETF that meets your needs, it's pretty easy to buy a number of shares and then forget about it. Say you want to buy some stocks in renewable energy, but don't feel like doing the research on your own? Just buy some shares in a renewable energy ETF and call yourself diversified. They can also do some interesting trading things, like using options to grow the investments.  

     The case against buying ETFs is a big one. It's fees. All the ETFs that I have been learning about have fees, the best ones are less than 0.40 percent, but it still could end up being a lot of money every year. The more you have invested the more you pay in fees.

     How can you avoid fees and still make great diversified investments? That's a good question. The best way that I can see is to see what the ETFs are holding, do research, and buy the individual stocks in the ETFs that you prefer.

Luna Moth, Actias luna

     Native to the United States, the larval form of Luna moths eats leaves from broad leafed trees such as persimmon, walnut, hickory, and birch.

Permaculture in Florida: What Should I Do With All These Sticks?

      Have you ever felt like winter has left your place a mess and you don't know what to do with all of the sticks and leaves? 

     The permaculture thing to do would probably be to let the sticks and leaves stay where they fell and fertilize the soil. While I would agree that this is a good idea, it can be a  little bit unsightly in the front yard gardens. Then there is the problem of palm trees and them leaving their fallen branches on top of other plants. 

     These extra branches and leaves do have a purpose in the permaculture garden. Believe it or not, fallen leaves can be fed to livestock. My rabbits eat sycamore leaves and palm leaves, but neither are their favorite. Any amount they can mulch for me is appreciated, and the uneaten leaves are put onto the garden pathways as a mulch layer. Sometimes I also put fallen leaves and rabbit manure around new plantings.

     Large branches and sticks are a whole nother problem. They take years to break down, even here in the South. So I have found a solution, and that is to cut all branches to the desired widths of the paths, and then to stack similar width sticks horizontally to create a path. This is imperfect at times, because the branches often roll, and they also can make a person trip. But I am confident that digging in the logs a little bit will prevent this problem.

The Kobold in the Cellar

     This is the first installment in a series of adventures specifically written by Chrissy for the purpose of playing with children. Min maxers are not welcome here.

     The Kobold in the Cellar is perfect for first level characters.

     Start with this music

     The story takes place in the Red Dragon Inn, a small place in a little village called Willow Creek. The village has many houses, a few businesses, and a small creek that flows all year long.

     The characters are in the tavern doing their thing, when they hear word that the innkeeper has some work for them.

     But the innkeeper isn't behind the bar, instead his wife Becky is there, an overweight and overworked woman with long hair pulled into a bun.

      Sitting at the bar is a young man named Leif. He's unshaven and unkempt, and drinking the cheapest beer dregs the Inn has to offer. Leif hears things at the bar and is a good source of rumors. He will accompany the characters if they need some help, is a level 1 fighter that wields a dagger and a shortsword. He wears no armor, as he lost some of it gambling and sold the rest for beer money.

      Becky shouts rudely for her husband when the characters ask her about the work that needs to be done, and Mr. Henderson appears from the kitchen. He is a very large man wearing a big greasy apron, which he dries his hands on. He tells the characters that he has a theft problem in the cellar of the inn,  and he thinks it might be rats. He wants the characters to go take care of them, and will pay a reward.

     The cellar of the Inn is a large rectangular room. On the left are bags and bags of flour, dried fruit and vegetables,  and beyond that a large rack spanning the wall of wine and mead of different ages. On the right are boxes in disarray, and beyond that many barrels of beer. 

     As the characters round the corner they are attacked by three kobolds.

      After the battle, spot check (8), if successful there is a tunnel behind the far side of the wine rack where the kobolds came in.

     The characters tell Mr. Henderson what they found. In return, he pays them three silver for each kobold killed. If Leif is with the party, Leif takes 4 silver from the loot and heads to the bar.

     The next day, the town magistrate finds the party. His name is Oglethorpe, and you get the impression that he is not just an elected official, but rather, a resident who genuinely cares about the community. He tells the party that later on the evening Mr. Henderson discovered that the inn's savings box had been stolen,  presumably by the kobolds, and could the characters find it? Oglethorpe says that Mr. Henderson has offered a magic item as a reward, and that the town will give them a place to live if the characters can take care of the kobold threat permanently.

     The adventurers set out to find the kobold nest, following a trail of destruction through the tunnel under the inn. After an hour of travel, some of which was crawling throigg the tunnel, they come upon a narrow entrance to a cave. The sounds of kobold activity can be heard echoing from within.

     Play this music 

     The Nest: As the adventurers enter the cave, they find themselves in a large chamber filled with kobolds. The creatures are armed and dangerous, and they immediately attack the intruders. The adventurers must fight their way through the kobold forces, facing traps and obstacles along the way.

 

    The Boss Battle: 

Play this music 

     At the back of the chamber, the adventurers face off against the kobold leader, a cunning and powerful foe. The battle is intense, but the adventurers ultimately emerge victorious. With the kobold leader defeated, the rest of the nest scatters, and the adventurers are free to search the cave for any valuable treasures.

     The Reward The adventurers return to Willow Creek and present their victory to the village elder. He thanks them for their bravery and offers them the promised reward. The village is now at peace, and the adventurers have made a name for themselves as the heroes of Willow Creek.

      From here, there are some additional rumors about a wizard in a tower who has been performing experiments on young people that he charms to his tower.

     Only to find out that he was trying to create a slave to pilot a spelljammer he acquired.

Where did all the Supermoms go?

Last week I was at the park with the youngest one. He needs exercise, and he loves to play with rocks and sticks. So the park is a natural outlet for him. 

It was a nice day, about 78 degrees, sunny, and clear. It was early in the morning, but after I had taken all the older kids to school, so not too early. Here in Florida you have to hit parks early in the day before it gets too hot, and we have been going to the park early for years and years, since the oldest was a tot.

But we were there all alone. No other kids at all. Just older adults playing tennis or giving out religious pamphlets.

Do you think the parents and grandparents were all working? It seems odd that over the years there went from some kids at the park to none at this time of day. They say the unemployment rate is very low nowadays. Do you think that's the reason?

Are the kids better off for that, or not?

Overnight Ferment (Fake) Sourdough Dill Bread

         The best thing about this bread is that it has all the benefits of being sourdough bread without the necessity and mess of maintaining a starter, something that I did for years. What are the benefits of sourdough? Better gluten for a better structure, better taste. To make this bread, you mix some of the ingredients together the day before you make the bread, let it sit out overnight on the counter, and then add the rest of the ingredients for the loaf. This is called making a poolish. Dill bread is exceptionally tasty and makes for a mean grilled cheese sandwich.

For day one:

One cup of water

One teaspoon yeast

One cup of flour

For day two:

Take the day one ingredients and add:

2 1/2 cups of flour

Three tablespoons water

2 teaspoons of dill

1 teaspoon of sugar

1 teaspoon of salt

2 or 3 tablespoons of oil, I use lard

Put into the breadmaker on 1.5 pound setting.

This State Park is the Perfect Zombie Apocalypse Survival Location

      Have you ever considered what you would do to survive the coming zombie apocalypse? That's a loaded question, because it implies that there is going to be a future apocalypse requiring survival. Still, it's a fun thought experiment, and I have often wondered what would happen if there was a societal reset. Who would be the survivors and would they prosper?

     Ellie Schiller State Park in Homosassa Springs is my go-to for a survival situation. Clean water, mostly gated park, with the possibility of growing an abundance of land-based food. In the coldest part of winter, manatees float lazily around. During the warmer months, the place is teeming with fish. Not that I'm saying I would eat the manatees, but in a survival situation who knows what would be on the table.

     I would bring my rabbits with me and some of the water hyacinth. Water hyacinth is a survival food for sure. I would probably bring the cannas too. They grow in water pretty well.

Early Retirement Extreme

 

    

     I finished reading all of the blog posts from one of the first financial independence blogs, called early retirement extreme. Jacob, the author, does a fairly decent job of pointing out one way to get financial independence, which is to slowly adjust your lifestyle expenses downward so that your investments can support your life. 

     While he never really gets into the meat and potatoes of his investments, he does state that they are all financial and from earned income, rather than inherited or heavily real estate based, which I appreciate. He speaks a lot about his journey, with his wife, as they move from an expensive apartment into an RV, which I appreciate.

     And then things go sideways.  He gets a lot comments from people that he is not really retired because he does things that he wants to do that also earn money, like editing specialized scientific texts and writing online for cash. Then the posts slow down, and Jacob sells the website. He later writes to sat that he and his wife have moved into a real house and he found an amazing dream job.

     So all the posts have a happy ending, whether true or half true. 

     I have no doubt that all the wussipants naysayers on the internet cajoled Jacob into retreating from writing, sadly. Or perhaps he came to the end of his inner content, which, if true, is fine. I would like to read his book sometime when I get the chance.

     That being said, this website is about one man's journey with financial independence. It does not really talk about investing other than to stay heavily stock invested.  

     One thing Jacob doesn't talk about much is that he retires from working but his wife still works. She splits all the bills with him and does half of the shopping and cooking. While I think that is admirable and something we should all aspire to, it decreases his cost of living by half. Or it increases his cost of living due to needing to be near her job. It's unclear what the case is with them during the time of the writings, but it is interesting.