This past week I spent more hours than I care to admit tending to our smokehouse. I had three hams going and the old wood box needed some repair after a raccoon tried to help himself. Between hauling firewood, checking the dampers, and keeping the temperature steady, I felt like I barely sat down. My knees are barking at me today, so I promised Darlene I would take a few days to recharge. That means a shorter note this week, but I still want to pass along a couple of practical reminders before I put my feet up.

Check Your Water Jugs
If you have those big blue or clear five gallon jugs sitting around, give them a look today. Plastic gets brittle in Missouri’s temperature swings, especially if you keep them in a garage or shed. I found one with a tiny crack along the bottom seam last week and it was slowly leaking onto my workbench. Better to catch it now than have a surprise puddle when you actually need it.

Rotate Dry Goods the Lazy Way
I get it, sometimes the thought of pulling every bucket and bag out of storage just to rotate is overwhelming. What I have been doing is this. Anytime I cook rice, beans, or flour based meals for the week, I pull from the oldest bucket first and then refill that one immediately with new stock. It keeps me from making a big production out of rotation and it ensures nothing gets too old.

One More Glove Reminder
Gloves disappear around here like socks in the dryer. If you think you have enough work gloves, you don’t. I bought a bulk pack of leather gloves last month and already had to open a new pair after mine got too stiff from smokehouse duty. Keep extras in the truck, the shed, and the kitchen drawer. You will thank yourself when your hands are dry, cracked, and you still need to split kindling.

That is it for me this week. I am keeping it short so I can sit with Darlene and maybe even sneak in a nap. I will be back next Monday with a full issue, rested up and ready to share more.