Season Your Cast Iron in 5 Easy Steps

These are the three pans I purchased at an antique store
before cleaning and seasoning.

I have heard and read some really negative information about health risks associated with using aluminum (thought to contribute to Alzheimer's) and non-stick coated pans (off-gassing and carcinogens). My research led me to choosing to go back to traditional cast iron and porcelain-on-steel pots and pans. My quest to find high-quality, low-cost cast iron led me to search for vintage cast iron pans as opposed to purchasing newer machined and imported pans. Buying new Lodge pans is an option, but they are somewhat expensive, so I began keeping an eye out for vintage pans at antique stores.

I purchased some really great vintage cast iron pans at an antique store while on vacation for under $20 each. They had so much carbon build up on the them that I couldn't read the maker on the bottom. When I got home and examined them closer, the thought actually crossed my mind that these may have been beyond saving. I took a gamble and I put the pans through 5 easy steps to restore them. Guess what? I couldn't be more pleased. They are wonderful!

This Police Officer is a Genuinely Nice Guy

Edmond, Oklahoma police officer goes out of his way to reassure two girls who were worried. Just goes to show you that there are still kind people in the world that go out of their way to do good deeds. I read/watched this on Yahoo this morning and thought I would share. Enjoy! 

Now How Did I Do That?

Ugh. I messed up my blog somehow. I managed to screw up the "comments" on here and I have NO IDEA how the hell I did it. To top  it off, I have been so busy lately I have not had time to sit down and problem solve. I am behind on so much.*

I thought I would give a brief update on my Shouse and homestead progress just to remind myself that all this craziness is for a good purpose. So here is what has been going on around the farm lately:

Rancho No Dinero Podcast #10 Closings, Cars, and More!

Get an update on the latest progress here on the farm: Closings, cars, appliances, site layout, and other bits of progress. Welcome to Rancho No Dinero!

Check out this episode!

Update on Progress

Feed Sack Totes: A Great Way to Recycle

This past weekend had it share of ups and downs. First for the down: My radiator blew. It was sort of my fault and sort of not. We noticed the clip for the fan (the fan is electric) was broken when we were replacing the water pump. We should have taped it to ensure its connection, but we didn't. Anyway, I was waiting for someone so we could leave for a weekend trip. While waiting, I left the car idling. Evidently the fan had disconnected and the car overheated. The next thing you know, steam was pouring out from under my hood. $145 later, I have a new radiator installed and need to purchase a new front grill. Yes, my luck was doubly bad when the hood release failed. In order to get the latch open, we had to bust in through the front grill. Replacing that part should be another $100. Meanwhile, my Jeep has a big, black smile.

USB Electrical Receptical - Reduce Recharging Clutter and Cords

Leviton USB Receptacle

I hate the amount of charging cords that I have plugged in around my house. Of course, like you, I plug my iPod, cell phone, camera, etc. in where it is most convenient, which means that the most convenient plug on my kitchen counter is always full and the counter always a mess. I need to reduce this clutter and find a more viable solution. My answer is USB electrical receptacles.

Homestead Ready Vehicle

The time finally arrived for me to sell my BMW and buy something more practical for use on a homestead in the sticks. I was glad to see her go in a way, but sad in another. She had high mileage and her starter was going. However, she was still a zippy little car and fun to drive.