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July 28, 2006
Reflections on Self Sufficiency
The recent upsurge in Middle East conflict and the possibility for escalation, potentially into a world war, has caused us to reflect on self-sufficiency. Imagine an economy in which food, fuel, and raw materials are in short supply. Too far fetched? Ask those who remember rationing during WW2.
In any case, we find ourselves reflecting more on how to be self-sufficient. These experiments in canning were a beginning: Strawberry-Lemon Marmelade, Jalapeno Jelly, Orange Marmelade (from oranges gown by a client in malibu), pickled radishes (home grown), and pickled peppers. (Suellen made the bonnets.) I've got a batch of sauerkraut going, and time will tell if it comes out right.
Yet think about what it takes just to put together one home-grown meal. Not just vegetables, but protein, whether meat, dairy, or soy. Starch-- who can grow & make their own flour? Butter or olive oil to put on it?
Take it a step further: dog food and cat food. Clothing. Fuel. Electricity.
Some of these may be attainable. Suellen & I hope to put in a solar/wind system this year, and we're discussing raising chickens. But I doubt we'll be distilling ethanol any time soon to put in our gas tanks, or spinning & weaving cloth, or even making bread and pasta from home-made flour.
I think about the pioneers who settled this land, and I am awed by what they accomplished in just putting food on their table. Being self-sufficient is no easy task!
Posted by DJSueellen at July 28, 2006 08:05 PM
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