Over the next few days, I’ll be making some changes to my website. One of those changes is to, finally, move my website to the chickensintheroad.com domain. I’ve used suzannemcminn.com ever since my salad days on the internet, lo these many years ago. (This website has existed since around 1996 or 1997, I can’t even remember anymore.) I used to run this site for information and promotion about my books. Near the end of 2007, I launched Chickens in the Road and I bought the chickensintheroad.com domain at that time but never actually switched over from the technical standpoint. (That URL works now and always has–as a redirect to suzannemcminn.com.) To make it simpler to find my site, I’ll be moving to that domain, but never fear, your old links and bookmarks will still work. (I’ll be using a global redirect for all suzannemcminn.com links.)
I’m also making some navigational changes that will make it easier for you to find posts in categories you’re interested in. And easier for my male readers to pretend that knitting doesn’t even exist. One of my male readers told me recently that he almost fell into a coma whilst reading one of my crochet posts then a few minutes later his secretary, who also reads my site, told him that was her favorite post ever! (Don’t worry, that wasn’t said to me in offense, it was funny.) I think the new navigation will help please more people more of the time.
The new set-up will also make it possible for me to sometimes post twice in a day and also make room for the big Big BIG surprise I’ve been telling you about for awhile. (That’s coming soon, too! But not quite yet.)
What isn’t changing is everything else. I’ll still be here every day posting about old-fashioned recipes and crafts, my observations of other people doing my hoeing for me, and lots of lazy chickens and cookies for Clover.
Hopefully, the technical work will cause minimal interruption in service, but if you should visit over the next few days and find things wonky, or if my site is offline, know that it’s temporary and shouldn’t last more than a few minutes. Please bear with me. I have exciting things in store! Thank you so much for being here. The most important part of this website is you!
It’s a Ball Blue Book Project day! Today’s Ball Blue Book is sponsored by pamb.
To win: Leave a comment on this post and let me know you want it. You can just put (BBB) at the end of your comment or otherwise note that you want to be in the draw. One winner will be drawn by random comment number to receive a Ball Blue Book. Eligible entry cut-off is midnight Eastern (U.S.) time tonight. This post will be updated with the winner no later than 9 AM Eastern (U.S.) time tomorrow. Return to this post to see if you won.
Find out more about the Ball Blue Book Project and become a sponsor.
UPDATE: 02/13/10: The winning comment number is 25–Leah. Email me with your full name and address for shipping!
THIS CONTEST IS CLOSED TO ENTRY.
Thunja says:
I have not done a bit of canning since I lived in WV. I want to do some canning.
On February 12, 2010 at 1:12 am
Mariah says:
Me, me! Pick me! I would like to get back to canning. Funny thing is, I used to have this book (or an edition that was current at the time) but years ago in a fit of clearing out it got passed along. I wish I still had it but I hope whoever does is still enjoying it!
On February 12, 2010 at 1:20 am
Linda G near the beach says:
I would love a copy of this book. Canning is something I want to start doing.
On February 12, 2010 at 1:37 am
Mel Meister says:
Well, since I found out tonight that without the Unemployment Extension that the government is honking around with, my benefits will expire in March…which means I really need to can and preserve to take care of my family.
So, please enter me in the BBB.
Thanks!
Mel
On February 12, 2010 at 1:39 am
mommafox says:
Did I read somewhere that 2010 would be your year? Sounds like you are going to make that happen. In a BIG way. You go girl :snoopy: Would like to be a winner of the BBB.
On February 12, 2010 at 1:39 am
LaVonna Gates says:
Love your site. Please put me in the drawing for the book.
LaVonna
On February 12, 2010 at 1:52 am
Blessings says:
PLEASE A BBB!
Hope the switch goes smoothly and can’t wait for the BIG news!!!
On February 12, 2010 at 1:58 am
Lacey says:
I love surprises. I would love the BBB!
On February 12, 2010 at 2:03 am
Aedrielle says:
Well I’m looking forward to seeing your site changes! That’s exciting. Can’t wait to hear about your BIG surprise!! When do we get to know?!?!??!?! :hissyfit:
BBB me, please. 🙂
On February 12, 2010 at 3:10 am
Nikki Lawson says:
It sounds like you are moving forward into the big bad year of 2010 with a bang! Go forth and cook new things and show us all how to do things free(or very cheap)! Thanks for keeping us all in the loop.
BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 3:24 am
Rose H says:
Iam really glad I found your siteand look forward to reading it each day. The site improvements sound good, thought I thought it was good anyway 8)
I would love to be in the BBB draw.
On February 12, 2010 at 4:33 am
debbie says:
As long as you can talk me through navigating the thing, change what you like. I am just learning to get through the forum, so if that’s going to change, change it quick before I get too set in my ways.
BBB,please.
On February 12, 2010 at 4:34 am
Debbie in Memphis says:
I’m so excited to see changes and find out what the surprise is. Thank you so much for all your wonderful posts. I’m not sure my husband would think I could cook without all the great recipes I’ve gotten from you and the forum 🙂 (BBB)
On February 12, 2010 at 4:50 am
Michele Messier says:
Can’t wait for the big surprise on your website! I didn’t know it could get any better. BBB! :duck: :duck: :duck: :duck:
On February 12, 2010 at 5:07 am
Wendy says:
Upward and onward! :shimmy: It’s been fun to watch your progress and be a part of your site.
Congrats on the big changes! Good things are coming your way!
On February 12, 2010 at 5:32 am
Box Call says:
I agree with Wendy, thank you Suzanne. Love the little bird looking so forlornly on top of the feeder.
On February 12, 2010 at 5:50 am
Laura B. in Greenwood, IN says:
Wooo Whooo!! So exciting! What is the big surprise? It is killing me, what is it? Pleeeeeeeease!! :hissyfit: Oh, yeah, BBB.
On February 12, 2010 at 6:25 am
Roz says:
I want to be in the BBB drawing!!
But really, I wondered what recipes are out there to use my Suzanne’s homemade cream of beef mix in…I’ve used the original cream of chix mix and had to make more several times, but never the beef! Any suggestions, anyone?
On February 12, 2010 at 6:27 am
Suzanne McMinn says:
Roz, re the cream of beef soup mix, I use it to crock pot roast all the time!
On February 12, 2010 at 7:30 am
Tracey In Paradise,Pa. says:
:snoopy: Just as long as I can find you!! My bright beginning to my day!! Can’t wait for the big surprise!!
I will can this year..My garden is going to overflow!! Please pick me for the BBB!!
Hugs Granny Trace
On February 12, 2010 at 6:35 am
Jan says:
Very 21st century for your rural WV location. Maybe Goldenseal or WV Living Magazine could do a spread on you.
Yes I would love the BBB books!
Jan
GDP
On February 12, 2010 at 6:37 am
Kelly Walker says:
Thanks for keeping us entertained and inspired in this snow storm. I am still crocheting and have made lots of new things that are posted on my blog. Hope you’ll show more crochet soon. I’ve given up on ever knitting. BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 6:39 am
Patty in Bethlehem Pa says:
Looking forward to the changes. You make my day a little brighter with your stories of farm life. I would love to get the BBB.
On February 12, 2010 at 6:39 am
peggy says:
My handy dandy Blue Ball Book is back at the farm and I would love to have another as I help my daughters with their first big gardens and lots of canning.
On February 12, 2010 at 6:43 am
Maureen says:
I’ll be looking forward to seeing your changes. BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 6:49 am
Leah says:
Wendy did say it well,I look forward to the changes and have always loved being here!
BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 6:52 am
Laura says:
woo hoo blue book day!!! :sheep:
On February 12, 2010 at 6:52 am
NorthCountryGirl says:
I look forward to your big surprise. Your site is exciting, informative, and down-right entertaining already. How could you possibly make it better? I know you will find a way. BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 6:54 am
Johanna says:
It’s a sure sign of spring — you’re doing spring cleaning! Yippee!
On February 12, 2010 at 7:05 am
Nicolezmomma says:
https://chickensintheroad.com/wp-includes/images/smilies/chef.gif
Please enter me in your BBB drawing. Then I will have run out of excuses to learn how to can. My cooking is as good as my gardening thumb.
On February 12, 2010 at 7:11 am
Patty says:
I would love to win the BBB, we are planning a big garden this year & I hope to can many things. We have been unemployed for awhile now and looking for work, so the garden is a necessity!
I can’t wait for the BIG surprise!
On February 12, 2010 at 7:15 am
mrnglry says:
Change is always good – looking forward to your Big Exciting News!!
Please enter me in the BBB drawing.
Thanks!
Grace in CA
On February 12, 2010 at 7:19 am
Diane says:
Hi. BBB Please!!!
I love the bird picture. That one is my favorite so far. Love to hear you are making some changes for the good. Cant wait to see what you are doing.
On February 12, 2010 at 7:27 am
Laurie from Wisconsin says:
I am excited! You make frugal living fun. I hope to be a better gardener too in the years to come. Have a great day!
On February 12, 2010 at 7:31 am
Sarah says:
Can’t wait to see the new! (BBB) :hug:
On February 12, 2010 at 7:35 am
BethAnn says:
Please enter me in the BBB give away. Love your site Suzanne.
On February 12, 2010 at 7:50 am
MrsObe says:
Best of luck for an easy transition. Change is never easy, but most of the time very worth it. Looking forward to the new format.
I made the pear dessert and it was DELICIOUS!
Please enter me in the BBB drawing.
On February 12, 2010 at 7:50 am
Susan at Charm of the Carolines says:
Can’t wait for the big surprise. You are such a tease!!!!
Susan
On February 12, 2010 at 7:57 am
5kathleen2 says:
YEAH for change!!!! I would love the BBB. :duck: :duck:
On February 12, 2010 at 7:59 am
Kari says:
Such a tease with the big news tidbit! 🙂 BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 8:00 am
Amanda says:
Woohoo exciting stuff ahead! BBB please.
On February 12, 2010 at 8:03 am
Stargirl Heuser says:
I love surprises!!! BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 8:03 am
Wildcat says:
I wonder what the BIG SURPRISE could be? We’re all dying to find out!
BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 8:06 am
Leanne says:
Love your blog!! coffee and chickens in the road every morning! BBB please!!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:07 am
Mim says:
Can’t wait to see the “new” you…Please enter me in the drawing.. :pawprint: :snowman:
On February 12, 2010 at 8:08 am
christina hochschild says:
Id LOVE LOVE LOVE to win a copy!!!!! This will help me learn to preserve our foods!!!!! Please pick me, pick me. ::::stands on tippie toes with hands in the air:::: :woof: :shimmy: :dancingmonster: :sheep:
On February 12, 2010 at 8:09 am
WolfWalker says:
tsk, tsk trying to improve on perfection (well in my humble opinion anyway lol). Hope the move goes well and without a hitch. Can’t wait for the surprise, i love surprises. (BBB)
On February 12, 2010 at 8:10 am
kerri says:
Good luck with the changes.
I love surprises!
Please enter me in the BBB.
Have a great weekend, Suzanne!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:11 am
Krystie says:
Thanks again for the opportunity for the BBB! Happy Friday
On February 12, 2010 at 8:14 am
Miss Kitty says:
You could have titled this Feathering the Net! Thanks for making my day. BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 8:15 am
Vera says:
Oooh, yes, please enter me in the drawing for the BBB! It’s been about 30 years since I canned and boy, do I need help! I’ve forgotten more than I ever knew LOL!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:19 am
Becky M says:
Love your blog and am excited about the surprise coming! I would love a BBB too!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:23 am
CindyP says:
Changes are good! Can’t wait to see everything!!
Roz — use the homemade cream of beef soup mix anywhere you’d use cream of mushroom……….and if you want cream of mushroom, chop up some mushroom and add to it!
BBB Please! Thank you pamb for sponsoring it!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:23 am
Abiga/Karen says:
I can’t wait to see the changes and the surprise! I also want a chance to win the canning book. Blessings!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:24 am
joycee says:
High tech and old-fashioned all in one site, sounds great! Have a good weekend…
On February 12, 2010 at 8:25 am
Phyllis says:
Pleeze, pleeze, pleeze!!! I want one. I really do. My mom used to have an old canning book but I don’t know what happened to it. I’m pretty sure it was a BBB. I would love to have one. Thanks!!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:30 am
Townie Farm Girl says:
I am impressed with all you can accomplish and now something new! BBB please.
On February 12, 2010 at 8:30 am
nikki says:
Sitting here in a foot of snow already planning my garden!! love this time of the year to plot and plan. BBB me please!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:35 am
Therese says:
I would love a copy, and I love your website! I really enjoy all your posts. Thank you.
On February 12, 2010 at 8:36 am
dorothy says:
:shocked: I can’t think of how you could improve this site – it’s perfect already. :chicken: BBB please, and Thank You!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:47 am
Chic says:
I love your Blog Suzanne and I’ll be watching to see what you do to make it even better…hard to believe that it can get better than it already is! Please put me in for the BBB. Thanks! :hungry2:
On February 12, 2010 at 8:50 am
Lisa Atkins says:
Yes I would love a BBB. Since I found you I check your site out everyday. It is just puts a smile on my face. Can’t wait to see the suprises coming up. Thanks so much.
On February 12, 2010 at 8:52 am
heathermarie says:
Hey, a surprise! I LOVE surprises!!! I also love this little furry animal that appears to be poppin’ and lockin’ like a Run DMC video :dancingmonster:
Put me in for the BBB please! I’m trying to channel my inner domestic goddess. BTW, I make grandmother bread at least once a week now. We’re hooked.
On February 12, 2010 at 8:56 am
Nancy says:
Today is the day I try to make the Farmhouse Cheddar Cheese, so a Blue Book reward would be great!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:56 am
rain says:
:snoopy: :snoopy: :snoopy: :snoopy: :snoopy: want to win :snoopy: win to win :snoopy: want to win :snoopy: :snoopy: :snoopy: Really love you & your site keeps me sane in the winter! Back in Maine woods now-and its beautiful-my chickens are outside and the snow is beautiful!! Glad to be with my family too!! Rain
On February 12, 2010 at 8:59 am
Anke says:
Coming here every morning before I head out to work always puts a smile on my face. Can’t wait to see the changes…
BBB, pretty please.
On February 12, 2010 at 9:00 am
CrystalGB says:
I would love to have the BBB book. I am hoping to do a lot of canning this year.
On February 12, 2010 at 9:02 am
Debnfla3 says:
Oh my…I hate waiting for surprises…LOL I guess I am impatient for goodies…hahahahaha
Change can be good…as long as it isn’t to dramatic! hahahaha
We’re supposed to get SNOW today! Isn’t that something…in Florida!
On February 12, 2010 at 9:15 am
Marymac says:
Well i think you have everyone’s curisoty up Suzanne!!!! Please put me in for the BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 9:16 am
SuseM says:
Can’t wait to see the changes and “improvements” (your site is awesome already)!
Please enter me in the BBB giveaway!
On February 12, 2010 at 9:19 am
Jo says:
Can hardly wait to see the changes….especially the BIG one. :shimmy:
On February 12, 2010 at 9:22 am
Emily says:
BBB please.
You know what I hope the suprise is? A barnyard webcam!
On February 12, 2010 at 9:25 am
Bonnie says:
Can’t waite to see whats up, but did no think it could be better.Would love the BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 9:39 am
Brenda says:
Would love to win a BBB… I have canning dreams this year.
On February 12, 2010 at 9:41 am
Shirley Corwin says:
Yes, I want to be entered in the BBB. The main reason being, I live in the country with a big garden, well big just for me. It’s 20′ X 30′. I have never learned how to can. The biggest reason being I’m afraid I’ll poison myself!!!!!!!!! Botulism in green beans is what I always heard when I was growing up!!!!!!!!!!!! I’m going to have this wonderful kitchen, I’m going to learn how to bake bread (without my bread machine!) and I need to can!!!!!
On February 12, 2010 at 9:43 am
Leisha says:
The anticipation is almost TOO MUCH….can’t wait to see what you have up your sleeve!!! :snoopy:
BBB Please and Thank You
On February 12, 2010 at 9:44 am
Lisa in California says:
Please enter me in the giveaway.
I made the beer bread the other day with Guiness. Yummy! It’s best warm and not nearly as good the second day. Guess I’ll just have to eat it all in one sitting…no problem!
On February 12, 2010 at 9:44 am
Rys says:
I hope you don’t experience any “growing pains” and the transition goes smoothly.
Please add me to the BBB list.
Rys
On February 12, 2010 at 10:05 am
Rhonda says:
I would love a Blue Ball Canning book. I have checked out the library copy more times than I can count.. but it would be a true blessing to own one.
On February 12, 2010 at 10:06 am
Dixie Lee says:
I would like very much to be in the drawing.
On February 12, 2010 at 10:08 am
Gini says:
I’m excited to see the new changes!
On a BBB note, 🙂 I have been canning more, and found some success with a new strawberry and balsamic vinegar jam, as well as successfully canning clementines to make mandarin oranges. Very pleased! I wonder what I should can for March?
On February 12, 2010 at 10:11 am
geena says:
Can’t wait to see the changes 🙂 would love to have BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 10:16 am
Kelley says:
BBB please…. 🙂 k
On February 12, 2010 at 10:16 am
Carol says:
I discovered your site a couple of months ago and think it is the very best. I read it every day–at least once. Great job Suzanne!
Website changes: I would follow you anywhere.
On February 12, 2010 at 10:21 am
Cathy Wright says:
Please enter me in the BBB drawing. Still trying to work that book for a co-worker! Good luck in your transition. I hope it goes smoothly. Cate
On February 12, 2010 at 10:21 am
anne says:
BBB Please. thanks. Have a great weekend.
On February 12, 2010 at 10:35 am
Laura says:
Stay warm!
BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 10:38 am
Shirley says:
I would love to win the Ball Book.
On February 12, 2010 at 10:39 am
Cindy says:
I would love to win a BBB – my mom still cans up a storm every summer, but not being near her, I would really like to do some more of my own, and stop counting on her largesse. Your site finally got me baking my own bread again – maybe you can convince me to can again, as well! Thanks………
On February 12, 2010 at 10:44 am
Runningtrails says:
The switch makes sense. If I were looking for a Chickens In The Road Blog I would look first at chickensintheroad.com. I hope the change goes well!
I would love the Blue Ball Book of Canning!
On February 12, 2010 at 10:53 am
Donna says:
More than 1 post a day! Be still my beating heart! Include me for BBB please!
On February 12, 2010 at 10:56 am
Miss Becky says:
oh, this is exciting Suzanne! I am anxiously awaiting the coming Big changes, and would also love a Ball Blue Book of Canning!!! :woof:
On February 12, 2010 at 10:57 am
Marianne G says:
With the help of your site and many others, I have become quite the homemaker. I have been unemployed since November and have saved quite a bit by making things myself. Thanks Suzanne for the inspiration!
BBB please.
On February 12, 2010 at 11:01 am
MMT says:
BBB please! Planning to start a garden this year. Plant tomatoes each year, but haven’t had a real garden since I was a kid. We always had a big garden and a cellar full of everthing my Mom could can and would like to get back to that. I think my Mom will be so impressed and happy to see me do this. Love your site and looking forward to the changes.
On February 12, 2010 at 11:21 am
Jessica says:
I hope your site moving goes smoothly! :duck:
On February 12, 2010 at 11:22 am
jan-n-tn says:
My ‘puter is having a hissy-fit this morning. Couldn’t hardly get down here fast enough!
We all love your surprises (do it now, do it now).
‘Improving on Perfection’ folks, only Suzanne could do that.
Love this place- my day is not the same if I don’t start here.
Someone else commented that we will ‘follow you anywhere’..DITTO
Thank you pamb
BBB would be greatly appreciated.
On February 12, 2010 at 11:27 am
Heather from KY says:
Made your icedd oatmeal raisin cookies the other day, minus the icing. I added some milled flax seed to boost the nutritional value and they were the best oatmeal raisin cookies I’ve ever had. The next day I made them with chocolate chips instead of raisins, and they were to die for! I love you, Suzanne!
BBB!!!
On February 12, 2010 at 11:38 am
Valerie says:
I think having the domain name change will be a good thing for you. A catchy name like CITR MAY make your blog stand out more next year when you try for the bloggies again.
I have in my mind that you will be writing and publishing books based on your new farm life. OR since you have planted fruit trees and grapes and all, you will can and market your goodies to little B&Bs or romantic inns all around WV. How close am I?
On February 12, 2010 at 11:38 am
MMHONEY says:
CHANGE??????
I MAY NED HELP. IT IS NOT THAT I AM A SLOW LEARNER….I JUST DON’T KNOW. HA HA
BLESS YOU FOR ALL YOU DO.
On February 12, 2010 at 11:51 am
Mary from Baton Rouge says:
I discovered your site while searching google for bread recipes. I love your posts and the antics of your animals. Can’t wait to see the new website!
Pick me for the BBB
Thanks
On February 12, 2010 at 11:51 am
MrsC says:
Congrats on the website improvements – everything sounds great! I love it now and I’m sure I’ll love it even more with all the improvements.
Happy farming,
Kelly
BBB entry please!
On February 12, 2010 at 11:52 am
KP says:
Of course I want a BBB! :sheep:
On February 12, 2010 at 11:59 am
Euni Moore says:
I agree that it is difficult to improve on perfection. You are my go to site for all the canning questions that arise. Made the dishcloth, make grandmother bread, laundry soap, etc. Yesterday made marmalade and it is delicious. Never made jam/jelly/preserves before and let it cook to lont trying to get it thickened. Well, I accomplished that – takes a jackhammer to get it out of the dish. LOL. But it is delicious. Would love to have the BBB. Thanks and can hardly wait for the changes.
Euni :woof: :woof: :woof:
On February 12, 2010 at 11:59 am
~ Jackie says:
Change is good…..um, sometimes. Good luck on the transition.
I’m curious to see what changes are in the Big Blue Book compared to the tattered and torn version that I use…it was my mother’s and its nearly 50 years old……
On February 12, 2010 at 12:13 pm
Amy Price says:
I found your site when I was googling recipes. LOVE IT!!!!! Can’t wait to see the big surprise. BBB PLEASE!!!!!!
Amy in NC
On February 12, 2010 at 12:20 pm
Stephanie Schiltz says:
Can’t wait to find out what the BIG BIG Surprize is! Please put me in the drawing for the BBB. I want to learn to can :dancingmonster: :shimmy: Stephanie
On February 12, 2010 at 12:26 pm
Debbie in PA says:
I was eating an orange at the time I read the comment about falling into a comareadingthe crochet article–I nearly choked! LOL!
Love the picture–aren’t even the plainest birds lovely? They glow this time of year against the snow.
And yes….I would love a BBB!!!
On February 12, 2010 at 12:34 pm
Debby says:
BBB sounds really good, my husband wants to try canning, but I might give it a shot too!!
On February 12, 2010 at 12:42 pm
Barbee' says:
I can’t imagine what it will be. A new barn is BIG, but I don’t think it will fit on the website. I’m not getting any younger; I hope it’s soon! :help:
On February 12, 2010 at 1:32 pm
snobound says:
Gosh, I’d love to have the BBB! Thanks for the giveaway.
On February 12, 2010 at 1:35 pm
Melanie says:
BBB, please! Thanks for all you do. : ) :wave:
On February 12, 2010 at 1:37 pm
carol bellamy says:
Please put my name in for the BBB.
thanks for your wonderful site!
On February 12, 2010 at 1:46 pm
DeWanna Dial says:
I would love to get this for my Dad who is our family canning expert.
On February 12, 2010 at 2:12 pm
Gert Hubbard says:
My heart about sank as I first started to read… I thought I was gonna loose this sight……. :hissyfit: I so much enjoy your sight and reading all the posts…..I dont post ofen but I sure do tune in everyday to read yours…….
Awaiting all the new things ……..
:wave:
On February 12, 2010 at 2:17 pm
Darlene in North Georgia says:
For those who do not win a BBB:
I bought a copy of the BBB for $5 at my local Ace Hardware store. However, sometimes, even $5 is precious. In that case you can go on-line to https://www.uga.edu/nchfp/ and find recipes and instructions for canning, freezing, dehydrating, smoking, etc. The website belongs to University of Georgia and it is also the “The National Center for Home Food Preservation”. Or just Google
“canning uga” (minus the quotation marks) and it will pop right up for you.
I was told about this site by the “home ec” agent at my local Extension Agent’s office. Actually, they’re not called Home Ec agents any more, but I’ve forgotten what the new title is. But if you call the office, they will know which agent you’re talking about (and correct you! lol). They can also check your pressure canner lid to make sure it’s still accurate. I have to have my dial reading 4 degrees higher than what is called for because my gauge is inaccurate – but not so much that it needs replacing yet. Each year you should take your lid with it’s dial gauge on it to be tested. It’s a free service!
And she also has other advice – sewing, knitting, crocheting, etc and I think they have pamphlets or booklets for these topics too. The original idea was that she was to be a community resource for all things domestic. If you have a question, call her.
For the guys, the Agricultural agent served the same purpose for all things farming – animal care, gardening, pests, nursery, soil testing, water testing, etc.
They also offer Master Home Preserver and Master Gardener certificate programs. I did both programs. At the time, they were free, but you agreed to then spend about 10 hrs at the office helping with people’s calls.
Both courses were a once a week, 8 hrs, 6-8 week course. When you were done, you were pretty well an “expert” in that field. They gave a LOT of reference info and of course, the agent was there to field any question that you didn’t know the answer to.
Not all counties have have both agents available. I have to go to the next county down (about 20 mins away) to have my pressure canner lid tested because my county doesn’t have a home ec agent, though the local male agent does have all the pamphlets and booklets available and what they don’t have, they can order for you. Best thing of all about the gardening info is that the info is for your state and not just generic and your agent will know what is going on in your county.
And setting all the “Green Acres” bumbling agent Mr. Kimble aside, the guys I’ve dealt with really know their stuff.
Look under your county name in the phone book.
On February 12, 2010 at 2:17 pm
Sally says:
Love your blog ! BBB please
On February 12, 2010 at 2:30 pm
Betty Moore says:
I enjoy your daily blog very much. Would love to win the BBB.
On February 12, 2010 at 2:47 pm
Natalie O. says:
Love this site more and more every day!
I would really love one of those BBB’s!
On February 12, 2010 at 4:02 pm
Lauren says:
Can’t wait to see the new changes! Thanks for all the great stories and info! (BBB)
On February 12, 2010 at 4:03 pm
Sunday Rain says:
BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 4:18 pm
JoJo says:
Please enter me in the BBB drawing! I love your site and miss it when you are snowed in with no power. :happyfeet:
On February 12, 2010 at 5:21 pm
Angela says:
Hey Suzanne!
I can’t wait to see your new web page! :happypuppy:
😆 You said wonky! 😆 Granny is the only person I’ve ever heard that word from and she is 87!
Angela :wave:
On February 12, 2010 at 5:39 pm
Mimi says:
Good luck with the move, hope you aren’t off-line for very long!
BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 5:56 pm
Kat says:
I haven’t canned since I was a child visiting my aunt on her farm. I would love to start back up again! BBB!
On February 12, 2010 at 7:45 pm
Glenie says:
I hope I will still be able to find chickens in the road. I love it.
BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 8:28 pm
diane says:
BBB please cuz I wanna be like you!!!! Tell me PLEEEASE that a barn yard web cam aint true. I don’t think I could take Clover and noises. That goat needs to learn modesty.
On February 12, 2010 at 8:28 pm
Denise says:
I am relatively new to canning and would love to have th Ball Blue Book BBB
I Love your site!!!
On February 12, 2010 at 8:47 pm
Connie Trippett says:
Love the site and can’t wait to find out what the surprise is!!
Please put me in for the BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 8:47 pm
Pat says:
cant’ wait to see the changes and I would like to win the BBB 🙂
On February 12, 2010 at 9:10 pm
BarbaraB says:
Since I have had the good fortune to come across your blog, I have been inspired to try to do more “home styled” cooking and thinking. I haven’t canned veggies or fruits in more than twenty years and I think this might be my year to rediscover the beauty of food I “put up” myself.
Thank you for reminding me of this.
On February 12, 2010 at 9:55 pm
Beth says:
Yay!! I love surprises! :snoopy:
BBB
On February 12, 2010 at 11:43 pm
SuzieQ says:
Have a great Valentine’s Day!! Hoping the surprise might be some new books with the animals. BBB :dancingmonster:
On February 13, 2010 at 12:28 am
Cathy L says:
Moving is such a pain,,all that packing, unpacking and organizing once you’re at the new place …:-D Hope your move goes smoothly and nothing gets lost on the way! LOL
Oh and BBB!!
On February 13, 2010 at 8:23 am
Vicki (stickhorsecowgirl) says:
Making my own jellies, jams, etc. is one of the things I want to learn this year! Appreciate your posts on cooking, country living, crafts, etc. Love it all!
On February 13, 2010 at 10:49 am
Carolyn Spillers says:
I am finally delurking to tell you how much I have been enjoying your site. Your animal stories especially have made me laugh out loud so many times. Your current life brings back sweet memories of our 1975-1988 “farm” years, raising 3 boys on approx. 2 acres—gardening, building a barn from a Rodale book, enjoying two ponies and then my own horse (purchased the year I turned 40), raising chickens, rabbits, enjoying our cats and dogs (most rescue missions by our middle son). One day, my husband was staring out into our pasture after building yet another rabbit hutch, and said, “I think we might have room to fit a giraffe in that corner over there.” I started graduate school in social work the year our first son started college -1988 -(and the year my horse had to be put down due to an inoperable tumor). We all entered new life stages and our “country” life ended completely in 2003 when our home was destroyed by fire (electrical). I have been a retired child and famiy therapist for 4 years, my professor husband will retire this summer – we have just turned 70 (unbelievable) and your blog allows me to relive some precious years of our lives. Thank you.
On February 13, 2010 at 4:23 pm