Posts by DustyBoots | Spruce Hill Homestead

Beginner Preparedness Vol. 4: Evacuating Livestock & Horses

The time to begin thinking about how you would get off your property safely with your large animals and livestock is well in advance to any disaster that may strike. Large animals take extra thought and planning, as well as a fair amount of equipment to get moved to a new location. We had one such occasion ourselves, when I left my husband standing in the driveway holding four horses during the Black Forest Fire. A friend was coming back with the trailer to get them…but we didn’t know if he had been held up or was unable to get through. I had no choice but to leave and hope for the best. Don’t wind up in this situation. Plan ahead and know how you will get all of your large animals and livestock to safety. Continue reading “Beginner Preparedness Vol. 4: Evacuating Livestock & Horses” »

Hey, Kids…It’ll be Alright

This morning dawned a new day, with a new President-elect, and people are really struggling to feel heard and understood…on both sides. As a family, we expose our children quite a lot to the political process. We want them to see what is happening, understand how it works, and also see how people react. But, this election has been slightly different for me. If you read my earlier post on whether or not this political climate is making us into bullies (you can find that post here), you know that in the end…one of the things that matters to me a great deal is how our children are feeling. This morning, the children are STILL watching us. What are they learning today? Continue reading “Hey, Kids…It’ll be Alright” »

How to Quiet the Noise in your Head (when the World get LOUD!)

We live in a society of information overload. Sometimes, that overload is just too much. Too much to deal with, too much to hear, and too much to wrap your head around. The perfect prescription for those moments of overload is to step away from it all…and come back to who you are at the very core. Right now, the noises in our world are very LOUD. People are overwhelmed, and a bit cranky, because of all the things happening around them. How do you quiet those noises? These steps can help. Continue reading “How to Quiet the Noise in your Head (when the World get LOUD!)” »

Brother Luck’s Street Eats: Local & Amazing

If you have read this blog much at all, you know that I am slightly OBSESSED with real food. I go out of my way to find it, and it is rare that a restaurant leaves my heart (and stomach) singing. Generally speaking, I am fussy about what we eat, so it’s hard for a chef to produce food where I don’t find a fault. I’ll admit it: I’m kind of a pain. Enter Brother Luck’s Street Eats in Colorado Springs. I have followed Brother Luck a bit in the last few years, always interested on his take on seasonal cuisine. But, I waited to visit until I had guests in town to appreciate it with me. That was a mistake. I am now mourning the meals I have missed in his fabulous establishment. Here’s my take on our visit, and all the reasons I’ll be back! Continue reading “Brother Luck’s Street Eats: Local & Amazing” »

25 Great Holiday Gifts for Preparedness

I am a BIG fan of practical gifts. I love things that I can use every day, as well as things that may come in handy in a situation where we need to be prepared. These twenty-five gifts are great for preparedness, but also would be a big hit for the hikers, campers, fisherman, and hunters in your life. Why not give the gift of preparedness this holiday season? Your gift will be far less likely to be discarded or tossed aside after the “glow” of the holidays wears off. In fact, your family and friends may someday thank you! Continue reading “25 Great Holiday Gifts for Preparedness” »

Food Fun Facts: Fast

food-sourcing

Is Today’s Political Climate Making Us Bullies?

This election has been tense, and filled with all kinds of emotion. As parents, we work hard every day to teach our children to be kind and thoughtful. We ask them not to speak disrespectfully. We talk to them about being fair and hearing the other person’s side of the story. But, as parents, are we struggling to do the same in a political climate that is making us all feel a little self-righteous? Continue reading “Is Today’s Political Climate Making Us Bullies?” »

6 Quick Tips for Trick or Treating Safely

If you are heading out with your child tonight for a little fun, keep safety in mind! These six tips are easy to do, and can be done in a flash this afternoon before you head out. Stay aware of your surroundings to make sure tonight is filled with fun and laughs, not tears and tantrums! Continue reading “6 Quick Tips for Trick or Treating Safely” »

Sentimental Sunday Recipe: Loretta’s Raspberry Pretzel Dessert

I grew up in the Midwest, and potlucks were a regular part of our lives. Everyone had a specialty that they were known for. My brother-in-law’s Mother, Loretta, often made this dessert and as a kid I was so happy when she showed up toting this dish. It is the perfect mix of sweet, salty, creamy, and crunchy. This recipe is really very simple, but Loretta had a way of making everything very special. I have no idea where this recipe originates, though I suspect it may have been an old magazine. What I do know is that it is a wonderfully satisfying way to end a meal. Your kids will love it…and so will you! Continue reading “Sentimental Sunday Recipe: Loretta’s Raspberry Pretzel Dessert” »

10 Must-Make Fall Comfort Foods

As fall hits, we all crave warm and delicious comforting meals. Here in Colorado, our weather is very changeable, so it may be warm and sunny one day and then freezing cold the next. I love to keep ingredients on hand for some delicious meals that fill the tummy and warm the heart. As we begin the process of hunkering down for winter on the homestead, these warm meals sure do the trick! Continue reading “10 Must-Make Fall Comfort Foods” »