When we ditched MSG laden products I was desperate for a ranch dressing. After many months and countless failed attempts I found a ranch seasoning mix that I love even more than the store ranch I used to adore! What makes this recipe great is the organic spices I buy from Azure Standard. There is a remarkable difference in the flavor and I don’t patronize the commercial, irradiated spice market. Continue reading “Dry Ranch Seasoning Mix”
Farm Happenings
A Taste of Spring
By Kailey Mentink,
What beautiful weather for the beginning of February! The weather is surprisingly warm and the geese have begun to fly. The unexpected
weather gave us opportunity to clean up around the farm. At the end of January, we had a pig go into the locker at Brainard. After it was processed, we enjoyed sausage patties for supper. We were astounded at the marvelous flavor of the pork! The lard was a wonderful treat as well. Mom fried some homemade potato chips with dry ranch seasoning mix. The ranch seasoning gives the chips so much flavor! Continue reading “A Taste of Spring”
Winter Days on the Farm
As the winter days slide past us here on the farm, our days have settled into a routine. We have been taking advantage of the colder weather by working hard on school and doing extra when we can. It is a lot easier to work on school in the house, and everyone has enjoyed being able to spread out. In the afternoon, we spend time outside after reading. Continue reading “Winter Days on the Farm”
All About Soap
Benefits of Our Handmade Soap
*Unlike most soaps at the store, our soap still contains the glycerin (a natural skin softener), so it’s very moisturizing!!
*We avoid preservatives, colorants (even minerals), synthetic dyes, and fragrances in our soap.
*We keep the ingredients simple to ensure a great quality product at a great price
*This is the same soap I make for our family and I have very high standards.
*People often comment “I feel really clean after using your soap.” Continue reading “All About Soap”
Another Exciting Week
By: Kailey Mentink
It has snowed!
On Tuesday afternoon it snowed. We were all very excited, especially the boys. That afternoon they had just received ski-scooters from Grandma. A ski-scooter is something like a scooter and a snowboard. After school, the boys hastily took the ski-scooters down the hill, despite the fact that there wasn’t even enough snow to cover the ground. Usu
ally, they made it half-way down the hill before the scooter flipped, sending the unfortunate boy sprawling onto the ground. Alena and I have also done some sledding. I have broken the most sleds so far this year. On Saturday, Caleb and I were eagerly getting ready to go sledding when Annika came up and asked excitedly, “Can I go sledding too? I’ll go get my coat!” She was ready to go and we ran to the sledding hill. Annika and Caleb hit several bumps and a log that sent Annika flying out of the sled. Though we all expected her to cry she didn’t, instead, she started laughing and insisted on riding with Caleb again. Presently, Annika’s gloves kept falling off and we had to go inside to warm up. Annika is very intent on going again. Annika took off her coat as she bubbled to Asher how fun it was. Now Asher says he is going to go too. Continue reading “Another Exciting Week”
A Fresh Beginning to a New Year
By Alena Mentink
12-26-16 to 1-1-16
Outside, the temperature has steadily been dropping for the past week. The wind has a sharp sting to it, and despite layers of bundles, it is difficult to keep the cold at bay. But looking outside from our cozy, new house, the cold is kept outside, and we can look at the beautiful view without taking so much as a step outside our door. Continue reading “A Fresh Beginning to a New Year”
Christmas Week
By Angie Mentink
We all enjoyed the mild weather this last week. It allowed us to work on some outside projects and made the outside chores more enjoyable. Our week started as usual. Our daily routine includes Continue reading “Christmas Week”
Moving Day!!
After working last Saturday and many late evenings during the week, we were able to finish the living room floor, hallway, and the new sheeting that goes under the vinyl. The flooring crew arrived on Wednesday morning and surprised us when they said they were done on Thursday. We all loved the way the floor turned out! Continue reading “Moving Day!!”
Approaching Moving Day
The brisk Nebraska temperatures this week are making it feel more like winter than fall. Other than some outside chores we have been able to work on painting in our cozy new house this week. When I glance out our big picture window I’m thankful for the warmth from the furnace and the blessing of inside work. Continue reading “Approaching Moving Day”
Why Our Family Avoids MSG
By Angie Mentink
Growing up, some of my absolute favorite foods were Doritos and Jalapeno Cheese Dip, Tombstone Pizzas, and boxed Macaroni and Cheese. Most of the foods I loved came in a box or plastic container. After most meals I would feel tired, lazy, and unsatisfied. Little did I know at the time, that those foods I loved would cause some minor health problems that would lead to a completely different way of thinking, lifestyle, and cooking routine. Continue reading “Why Our Family Avoids MSG”