This final Blog in my "Creating Satisfaction" Series covers a mishmash of different things we can do to live more sustainably and interact with one another in positive ways. I will also cover some of my personal thoughts on a couple of topics that are important to me. I hope some of these and previous items have been helpful in demonstrating the point I am trying to get across. It has been a pleasure compiling these together into a reference source for use and enjoyment...
Wild and Perennial Edibles
To begin, it may be surprising to know that there are many edible plants that grow all around you that most of us look at as weeds. However there are many natural edibles all around you if you can identify and take the time to look around. I have friends in Stelle who have picked dandelions and, as a matter of fact I will be helping bottle wine made from these dandelions today! Making dandelion wine is easy and a good way of putting to use what we think of as something that is invasive to our properties. If you don't have a bucket and airlock, you can use a gallon jug and balloon.
When I was a kid we would eat what we called "sour grass". It is very small with shamrock shaped leave and little yellow flowers. Actually "sour grass" is wood sorrel and has medicinal benefits.
The following according to Botanical.com: "Wood Sorrel is more effectual than the true Sorrels as a blood cleanser, and will strengthen a weak stomach, produce and appetite, check vomiting, and remove obstructions of the viscera."
This is just one example of the benefits of one wild edible plant. I have inserted a link below that will give you a list of wild edibles and you can cross reference it with Botanical.com to find out what each edible has to offer.
When I was a kid we would eat what we called "sour grass". It is very small with shamrock shaped leave and little yellow flowers. Actually "sour grass" is wood sorrel and has medicinal benefits.
Wood Sorrel |
This is just one example of the benefits of one wild edible plant. I have inserted a link below that will give you a list of wild edibles and you can cross reference it with Botanical.com to find out what each edible has to offer.
Link: A list of wild edibles of the Midwest |
Wild Asparagus Spear |
Wild Asparagus Fern |
Link: Perennial Edible Plants
On to other things. I think there are some fairly important ideas to address and grasp to continue on the road to Satisfaction...
Community
There is always a fish fry going on. There is always a fundraiser happening. There is always a local sporting event to go to. There are Euchre tournaments, softball leagues and community garage sales. Get out and about in your local surroundings and enjoy yourself in an atmosphere that isn't your local gin mill. Going to the pub is fun, but are you building relationships with a clear head? You work hard and deserve some good, clean leisure to unwind from all that work you do.
Charity
We don't give because it makes us feel good. We give because it is necessary to do. Don't be reactive in your giving; be preemptive. Even going to the local Red Cross and getting your CPR and First Aid Certification prepares you to give in a way that when help is needed, you are ready for it. Volunteering and community service should not be mandatory, but we have all had times that were rough enough that others have given to us, so we should understand the importance. We must not look at it as paying back, but a necessary function within his social system.
Homemade Gifts, Crafts and Services
My Pine Cone Sherlock Holmes |
My Pine Cone Soldier Complete With Acorn Gas Mask |
Transportation
Nearly 50% of our energy consumption comes from homes and transportation. |
About 85% of our energy usage comes from fossil fuels. Let's make that 1% pie slice grow exponentially. |
I thank you for reading and considering these ideas. They are not at all original. I just feel they need to be shared with those who have not yet been exposed to them. Good luck in your travels and the journey toward your own independence and remember that we don't need to compromise comforts to live responsibly.
JC
Coming Up...Truths and Fiction About Solar and Wind Energy...Plus, the Choice Between High Speed Rails and Alternative Energies.