DIY Steam Engine Boiler

Posted on February 9, 2012 by David Nash

Steam BoilerFirst off, playing with steam – especially under pressure is a dangerous thing. Failure to use common sense and a healthy dose of caution can melt the flesh from your bones.

However, if channeled properly steam can transmit a lot of power and turn heat to torque.
I have already shown you my weed-eater conversion to a basic single acting steam engine, now I will show my home workshop boiler. This portion of the project caused me the most sleepless nights and research, and I fully expect you to do your own research if you plan to create your own boiler. As I am not there to ensure you take the necessary precautions, I cannot be held liable for your actions. Continue reading →

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How to Eat Acorns

Posted on February 6, 2012 by David Nash

acornAcorns are not something most of us think about as food, however, Acorns were a staple of many Indian tribes and were used as a primary foodstuff from one coast to another. According to Jackie Clay (of Backwoods Home fame)

Acorns have been tested and found to be possibly the best food for effectively controlling blood sugar levels. They have a low sugar content, but leave a sweetish aftertaste, making them very good in stews, as well as in breads of all types.

The only two problems I have with eating acorns are I am too lazy to pick them up quick enough to prevent worms from ruining them, and the bitter taste the tannins give them. Luckily there are solutions to both problems, and this article and accompanying video will show them. Continue reading →

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27 Prepper Precepts #16

Posted on February 3, 2012 by David Nash

preceptBe balanced in your plan. All food no gun, makes you vulnerable to those with all gun and no food. It’s better to have a lower level of prep that is more versatile and covers water, food, shelter, defense, communications, and medical, than a extremely high level of preparedness that covers only one or two areas. Continue reading →

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Beekeeping: Varoa Mite Control Using Powdered Sugar

Posted on February 2, 2012 by David Nash

Varroa MiteVarroa mites are an external parasite that can kill honey bees. It is one of the contributing factors in colony collapse disorder, as well as spreading viruses such as the deformed wing virus.

We use small cell bees as a method of controlling mite population as well as using a screened bottom board in out hives to allow mites to fall down and be removed from the hive.  However, we still need to check for mites in the fall before we close the hives for the winter, and there is a very simple method of doing that. Continue reading →


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How to Can Homemade Salsa

Posted on January 30, 2012 by David Nash

SalsaIf you believe the marketing, salsa should not be from New York City, as it does not taste as good as salsa from Texas. Well, homemade salsa makes Texas salsa look like it was born in Manhattan. Homemade salsa tastes great, is easy, and gives you bragging rights you just cannot get from a store. If you want pictures of the process, www.pickyourown.com has a great article on this. When I got started they were my first resource. Continue reading →

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27 Prepper Precepts #15

Posted on January 27, 2012 by David Nash

preceptBe balanced in your life. You cannot be a superman 24-7-365. You have to take time to make connections with your family, to rest, to play. Sprinting is healthy in short durations, but prepping is a lifestyle not a race. 

(Easier said than done, I have the most problem with this one.) Continue reading →

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