I started this last year after abit of research. I tried to maximise success without purchasing anything for this. I started with a insulated tub and a reflector. To tilt it to optimize the sun's rays, I used a block to prop one side.
This did seem to work well, but I decided to use the broken Foosball table as a base for it. This also leaves space for a plate or tray for drinks. It needs constant attention to turn or tip it toward the sun. I like to get out the wading pool for the kids and enjoy something cold to drink.
This year I decided it needed a little love. I replaced the flimsy acrylic window with leftover Plexiglas, spray painted the inside of the table, added a utensil holder and a rod for tilting the cooker. I added taller temporary legs, but need more screws and my drill to finish them. I also need these for a better fix for the window.
The reflector still needs some love. I need to replace two sides. It should be functional at this point though. I had used cardboard for the reflector as it is cheep, but also because it is light weight and it can fold flat for storage.
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I have been crocheting more lately. I have found eco fibers that are sustainable but not exactly frugal. They are lovely and nice though. I do love my natural fibers. I bought some wool, bamboo, and bamboo/silk blends. I more recently found a recycled yarn that is made from soda bottles and is frugal as well. They are acrylic so they don't have the lovely hand, but will make a nice afgan. I am also working on spinning my own wool. Some from purchases roving and some from wool from my sisters sheep. She just throws it away. It does require more work though. I have been working towards this goal for some time. I am doing this to reduce wastes and polution, and to save money. Eco and frugality go hand in hand. It hasn't been easy. I have made a few strides. Last year I made several fabric shopping bags, fabric napkins, and a solar cooker. We also bought water bottles. When I came home today, I found that someone had been there rifling through my stuff. Alex and Charles are at church camp this week. I had noted that the kids had been playing with the boy there are forbidden to be around. He actually called right before I left for work and asked for Charles. I informed him that all the kids would be away at camp for a week, just a small lie. I had Danny staying with Joyce last night. I guess he decided that since no one was going to be home, he could come in and make himself at home. Apparently there is nothing the police can do. I can't prove it was him. He did not take anything. He just rifled through my stuff and unpacked and unwrapped a swap package I had ready to send to someone. I pressed some bleeding hearts and used them to decorate a journal and some glass slides. I also made a glass slide pendant with a four leaf clover that we found at Pennsic 2002. I finished the journal with silk, a leaf skeleton, lace, copies of old photos and simple sketches. |
AuthorThe person behind the persona... I am a single mother of three teenagers and a Respiratory therapist. Although I get bored with domestic chores, I have several domestic hobbies. I enjoy all the fiber arts and crafting. I enjoy cooking challenging new dishes. As long as I have fresh ingredients and a clean kitchen. Archives
November 2012
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