Tina's PEP Journal

Wanted to record my PEP Journey like so many others.

Well, I would love to inherit property!  That would be amazing.  That being said, I also love having skills!  Glad for this program!

So, my motivation for beginning this journey is to get to know this site and develop skills.  Inheriting property is a bonus.

It is a slow period in my work year so I'm knocking these out.  Keeps me busy, productive, brain active and I'm learning new skills.

I began by looking around.  It took a bit to find the list of BB's for each Badge but once I did, I began shopping which I wanted to do and taking notes on when I could do them.  Also found the list wasn't as accessible on my phone so I created a post that I could access all Badge BB's from my phone.   This is handy when I'm not at my computer but still want to shop BBs.  Waiting in line somewhere, etc.
PEP Badge BB Lists

My method for logging the badge bits is explained in this post:
Recording / Submitting my Badge Bits Efficiently

My todo list of badge bits is constantly changing, as you would expect.  Will post updates on my list as they happen or later.

I just wanted to express my personal inspiration from the work that you are doing.

You are really cranking out these BBs and putting in really good work. As someone who is trying to get back on the BB completion horse as well as processing some of these BBs, you are rocking it.

Thank you also for streamlining your submissions, it makes processing them for me really easy.

To-do List:  Organized list to put most likely to do first at top and ones to do later at the bottom.

Earthworks bb - Seal 2'x1' tiny pond, fill with 5 gal, watch perc rate before compact, refill and watch perc rate after compact.
Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  If rose bush next door is blooming, I'll harvest rose pedals.
Community bb – create and lead a work party of 4.  One of my upcoming jobs should suffice.
Rocket bb - Boil water on a j-tube rocket stove made of stone.  Will buy materials to build a j-tube core according to walkerstoves.com plans later.
Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit for.
Nest BB - Weave a belt for...Working on it.
Electricity BB - Charging 3 batteries for.  Charging 2.
Tool Care BB - Grab a file and ax to sharpen ax.
Round Woodworking BB - Carve a First Timer Wooden Spoon.
Homesteading BB - Setup safety gear for work site forB.
Food Prep bb - pickle something in Vinegar Brine.
Food Prep bb - Ferment/pickle something is Salt Brine.
Tool Care BB - Sharpen, clean and oil a shovel.  Found a great candidate that was left outside in
       the elements.
Metal working BB - Kindling Cracker.  Borrowed Welder.  Will use upcycled old
      lawn mower blade to make sharpened cutter.  Found rebar to use.  Studying how to use welder.
Electricity bb - Put a new end on an extension cord...need to buy new end.
Homesteading bb - Check pictures on Game Cam.
Textiles BB - Repair my truck seat...it has had a huge chunk out of the driver's seat since I bought it (second hand).  
    Bought upholstery material and new foam for repair.
Textiles BB - Weave seat of chair -waiting to see if macrame ok to use.  
Textiles BB - Planning the repair of some cigarette burns in an old, upholstered chair I bought second hand.
Textiles BB - Make wax wraps for food.  I need to see if I have Jojoba oil…I believe I do but have to find it then I’ll make these.
Textiles BB - Assemble yarn and needles to knit socks.  Have needles must buy yarn...maybe an old thrift store sweater unraveled.
Nest BB - Sew a Pressing Ham - print pattern, cut out material from jeans buy wool and cotton material, buy wood shavings bedding from Tractor Supply (will use additional from 40lb bag as cat litter), sew Pressing Ham, pics, submit & record BB.
Community BB - Make wood sign to brand a location with a wood burned sign.
Make wood burned sign to mark my house street numbers for emergency responders to find it easier.
Buy cheapest metal stamps to sign my name to my Kindling Cracker from Harbor Freight.
Oddball bb - Replace gas tank on my truck.  Already have new gas tank and Fuel Pump...replace it, too.
Animal bb - Build a Manual Hay Baler for Animal bb to use for other, make bale of hay.  I will recycle pallets I have.
Oddball bb - Add tow hitch and electrical to my truck.
Homesteading BB - Once truck is running, properly lash 12' pvc on top.
Homesteading BB - Mend a window screen.
Textiles BB - Looking for Merino Cotton yarn to crochet me an oversized cardigan...can't wait...so comfy!
Textiles BB - Looking for Merino Cotton yarn to crochet a blanket for a Full-sized bed...again, can't wait...so comfy!
Textiles BB - Make a simple drop spindle - need this to organize weave material.
Look for more badge bits to begin working on.

I do have a job as an Irrigator/Landscaper/Drainage/Lighting person, but business is slow.  I'm not out in the field much right now but, am on the phone and computer for my website/advertising and studying ponds to add that to our services this year.

Timothy Norton wrote:I just wanted to express my personal inspiration from the work that you are doing.

You are really cranking out these BBs and putting in really good work. As someone who is trying to get back on the BB completion horse as well as processing some of these BBs, you are rocking it.

Thank you also for streamlining your submissions, it makes processing them for me really easy.

Hi Timothy,   Thank you!  Feel Free to leave your post...it is encouraging.  

I'm working on making all my stuff clearer and easier to approve.  I'm normal and don't like BBVs nor wasting others' precious time!  I love community and sharing so I also try to share all my "tips and tricks" so others can benefit!

Make Twine - Yesterday I made the twine from grasses.  It was kind of fun, although tough on my thumbs.  I used solid Gulf Muhly Grass.  It was a 4-strand twine.  I began by tying the 4 pieces in a knot at one end.  The beginning of my twine was very amateur looking but by the time I had done 5 ft I had a rhythm.  This is how I got my twine to look, and be, strong and nice looking.  I took 2 pieces in each hand and twisted them in the same direction by sliding them between my thumb and forefinger.  After 1 "swipe", I'll call it, I would swap the lines in the direction of the twist.  That last bit I discovered around the 5 ft mark because my twine kept and trying to unravel.  I sat on the ground to do this and used a heavy stone to hold down the finished part, moving the stone towards me as I finished.  I finished in one sitting because I want my Textiles Sand Badge.

Weave a Basket - Contemplated the "Weave a Basket", which is my final bb for the Textile Sand Badge.  It is December 1st, 2023 so the only dependable material that is still green is either willow from the tree next door or the same Gulf Muhly I used to make my twine.  Well, I can use the twine to "sew" my grass basket like a video I watched.  I'm trying without the twine first.  The cats really like the twine.  Gave it to them when the BB was approved...they were very patient as I wove...and I did promise it to them.  Lol.

Kindling Cracker - check that I have materials...look for something to use as the cutter.

Knit Socks - I was going to reuse the wool yarn to make them but not a fan of wool...unless it's Merino.  So, I'll either buy some later or see if some of my cotton macrame rope will unravel well enough to use.  I really want to be able to wear these socks if I go to all the trouble to make them.  I have a number of knitting needles because this has been on my bucket list for awhile.

Weave a Belt - Let me preface with the fact that I haven't taken the time to setup a sturdy, secure place to wrap my warp.  Yesterday, I prepped my warp for the second half of my belt (sigh, first half wasn't long enough so I'm doing a second half and connecting with a metal circle in the middle) and felt like a comedy episode!  I was looping it around a dowel (obviously) not properly secured to a bicycle handle.  I have my bike setup as a stationary bike in the front room...no, I don't use it as much as I could...lol.  Anyway, the handle kept turning and the loop(s) kept falling off.  I swore like I was working on my truck!  Took a few deep breaths, recentered, secured the handle bars of the bike and finished.  By the time I had everything reconnected to my lap-loom I needed to walk away.  Lol.  Came back later and did some but will need to finish tomorrow...work popped up.  I'll be investing in a small portable loom for any future weaving projects.  I understand and like the cards but need a loom to secure everything better.

Restock a first aid kit - This is for the Homesteading BB.  I need to restock our work first aid kit anyway so I'll probably do this between other bbs today.

Repair on my truck seat - for Textiles BB...it has had a huge chunk out of the driver's seat since
      I bought it (second hand).  Bought upholstery material and new foam for repair.

Planning the repair of some cigarette burns in an old, upholstered chair I bought second hand.  Maybe today, maybe tomorrow.

Grab a file and ax...I have an ax to grind...lol.  Maybe today, maybe tomorrow.

Sharpen, cleaning and oiling a shovel.  Found a great candidate that was left outside in the elements for Tool Care BB.  Maybe today, maybe tomorrow.   Need to find the wire brush for my drill to make this go faster.

Replace gas tank on my truck for Oddball badge.  Already have new gas tank and Fuel Pump...replace it, too.  Need to work on this today.  At least remove bolt that is stripped.  Need to use bolt cutters because all my "spark creating" tools won't work near gas, liquid or fumes.  Once that's done everything goes faster.

Charging 3 batteries for Electricity badge bit.  Charge 1 battery today for a mower.

Check pictures on Game Cam for Homesteading badge bit.  Maybe today, maybe tomorrow.

Mend a window screen for Homesteading Badge bit.  Maybe today, maybe tomorrow.

Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted - Oddball bb.  Maybe get started today, maybe finish tomorrow.


I do have a job as an Irrigator/Landscaper/Drainage/Lighting person, but business is slow.  I'm not out in the field much right now but, am on the phone and computer for my website, advertising and studying ponds (I have another mentor) to add that service in 2024.  

Tina Wolf wrote:
Weave a Basket - Contemplated the "Weave a Basket" … I can use the twine to "sew" my grass basket like a video I watched.  

Knit Socks - I was going to reuse the wool yarn to make them but not a fan of wool...unless it's Merino.  So, I'll either buy some later or see if some of my cotton macrame rope will unravel well enough to use.

Please make sure your basket is woven.  Stitched baskets are not what this bb is about.

Yarn: I like to find sweaters at thrift stores and unravel them. It may or may not be ideal for socks but I like knowing what the fabric will feel like.

Hi Opalyn, I figured it needed to be a weave.  I am trying to use clumps of the grass and weave the twine through it.  Not sewing, weaving.  It looks really awful so I'll finish and see if I want to submit it.  Might just stick with willow.  Thank you for making sure I understand!

Went to pickup the Welder and Mentor Max was using his backhoe.  I got to drive it and use it.  Need practice.  
    Dug out a hole and moved some logs.  I need this skill for pond building.

I have much done for the Textile Straw badge so researching what else needs doing.  
 
Weave chair seat.  There is a video of a woman using macrame to weave the chair.  Left msg
      Asking if this is acceptable.  

Weave a Basket done and approved so submitted my bits for the Textile Sand Badge.  Yay!
Weave a Basket - Checked all the baskets in this BB and none were sewn so figured it needed to be woven.  Opalyn confirmed it needs to be woven.  Tried weaving grass clumps with grass clumps and decided not to after a few choice words.  Used the twine from the other BB to weave the grass clumps together.  Submitted BB.  When that's approved (or not), I'll either weave another basket or submit for my Textile Sand Badge.

Kindling Cracker - Stopped thinking about it and realized I have some old lawnmower blades I can use.  Still need to check if have rebar.

Charging 3 batteries for Electricity badge bit.  1 battery charging.  Removing 1 or 2 more batteries to charge today.  I can put one on my other charger.

Weave a Belt - Working on the belt some today.  This second section of the belt looks better...like I'm improving.  Still acquiring a loom...lol.  Lap weaving isn't my fav.  Huh...I can use my macrame work station!

Restock a first aid kit - This is for the Homesteading BB.  I need to restock our work first aid kit anyway so I'll probably do this between other bbs today.  I believe bandaids are all that needs adding as I keep it pretty up to date for safety. Maybe today, maybe tomorrow.  

Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted - Oddball bb.  Need to finish this.  Tired of my shower stuff in the floor.

Grab a file and ax...I have an ax to grind...lol.  I might need it to remove some roots tomorrow for work or just use the reciprocating saw.

Sharpen, clean and oil a shovel for Tool Care BB.  Found a great candidate that was left outside in the elements.  Need to find the wire brush for my drill to make this go faster.

Replace gas tank on my truck for Oddball badge.  Already have new gas tank and Fuel Pump...replace it, too.  Need to work on this today.  At least remove bolt that is stripped.  Need to use bolt cutters because all my "spark creating" tools won't work near gas, liquid or fumes.  Once that's done everything goes faster.

Check pictures on Game Cam for Homesteading badge bit.  Idk but this is a fun one.  

Mend a window screen for Homesteading Badge bit.  Not sure when because business is picking up.

Planning the repair of some cigarette burns in an old, upholstered chair I bought second hand.  Maybe today, maybe later.

Repair on my truck seat - for Textiles BB...it has had a huge chunk out of the driver's seat since
     I bought it (second hand).  Bought upholstery material and new foam for repair.  Probably fix the gas tank first.

Knit Socks - Buy merino wool or unravel a thrift store sweater if I can find one.

Working tomorrow and studying pond making so a little less time to devote to BBs but will keep going.

When I used the Backhoe yesterday, I also got to backup a trailer but didn't get pics of hitching it up (unexpected task and I hadn't read the reqs in awhile).  Will do this again later.

Since I'm getting into pond building, I looked and found a couple bbs for this in Earthworks.  I'll do the hole/tiny pond first.

Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to attain this badge.

Textile bb - Weave chair seat.  Waiting for answer about using macramé to weave chair seat.  

Kindling Cracker - Cleaned up next door after someone moved an RV.  Found a number of 2' pieces of rebar to use.  
Will begin studying how to use a welder.

Charging 3 batteries for Electricity badge bit.  2 batteries trickle charging today.

Weave a Belt - Working on the belt some today.  Next weaving project I'll use my macrame work station.

Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  I need to restock our work first aid kit anyway so I'll probably do this between other bbs today.  I believe bandaids are all that needs adding as I keep it pretty up to date for safety. Maybe today, maybe tomorrow.

Homesteading BB - setup safety gear for work site.

Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  Cut off rusted ends, fit everything back together but there is a seal that I need to move in the topmost pipe.  It secures the small adjustable extension so the rod will secure in the shower.

Tool care bb - Grab a file and ax to sharpen ax.

Tool Care BB - Sharpen, clean and oil a shovel.  Need to find the wire brush for my drill to make this go faster.

Oddball badge - Replace gas tank on my truck.  Already have new gas tank and Fuel Pump...replace it, too.  Need to work on this.  Remove bolt that is stripped.  Need to use bolt cutters because all my "spark creating" tools won't work near gas, liquid or fumes.  Once that's done everything goes faster.

Check pictures on Game Cam for Homesteading badge bit.  Idk but this is a fun one.  

Mend a window screen for Homesteading Badge bit.  Not sure when because business is picking up.

Planning the repair of some cigarette burns in an old, upholstered chair I bought second hand.  Maybe today, maybe later.

Repair on my truck seat - for Textiles BB...it has had a huge chunk out of the driver's seat since
    I bought it (second hand).  Bought upholstery material and new foam for repair.  Probably fix the gas tank first.

Knit Socks - Buy merino wool or unravel a thrift store sweater if I can find one.

Working in the field today and studying pond making so a little less time to devote to BBs but will keep going.

Earthworks bb – tiny hole/tiny pond dig hole fill, check percolation rate, fill again.  Check hole specs before beginning.

Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  Cut off rusted ends, fit everything back together but there is a seal that I need to move in the topmost pipe.  It secures the small adjustable extension so the rod will secure in the shower.

Weave a Belt - Working on the belt some today.  Next weaving project I'll use my macrame workstation.

Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.

Community bb – create and lead a work party of 4.  One of my upcoming jobs should suffice.

Rocket Sand bb – Boil water on a j-tube stove.  Asked if could build a j-tube rocket stove for this bb out of stones.  If not, buy materials to build a j-tube core according to walkerstoves.com plans.

Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to attain this badge.

Textile bb - Weave the seat of a chair.  Waiting for answer about using macramé to weave chair seat.  

Kindling Cracker - Cleaned up next door after someone moved an RV.  Found a number of 2' pieces of rebar to use.  Studying how to use a welder.

Charging 3 batteries for electricity badge bit.  2 batteries still trickle charging today.  I have old trickle chargers so only have them on when I’m home and awake.

Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  I need to restock our work first aid kit.  I believe band aids are all that needs adding as I keep it pretty up to date for safety.

Homesteading BB - setup safety gear for work site.

Tool care bb - Grab a file and ax to sharpen ax.

Tool Care BB - Sharpen, clean and oil a shovel.  Need to find the wire brush for my drill to make this go faster.

Oddball badge - Replace gas tank on my truck.  Already have new gas tank and Fuel Pump...replace it, too.  Need to work on this.  Remove bolt that is stripped.  Need to use bolt cutters because all my "spark creating" tools won't work near gas, liquid or fumes.  Once that's done everything goes faster.

Check pictures on Game Cam for Homesteading badge bit.  Idk but this is a fun one.  

Mend a window screen for Homesteading Badge bit.  Not sure when because business is picking up.

Planning the repair of some cigarette burns in an old, upholstered chair I bought second hand.  Maybe today, maybe later.

Repair on my truck seat - for Textiles BB...it has had a huge chunk out of the driver's seat since
   I bought it (second hand).  Bought upholstery material and new foam for repair.  Probably fix the gas tank first.

Knit Socks - Buy merino wool or unravel a thrift store sweater if I can find one.

Working in the field today and studying pond making so a little less time to devote to BBs but will keep going.

Earthworks bb – tiny hole/tiny pond dig hole fill, check percolation rate, fill again.  Has to be 2’ wide and 1’ deep minimum.  Before compact - see how long it takes to drain 5 gals of water.  Compact with a concrete tamping bar.  See how long it takes to drain 5 gals of water.

Rocket Sand bb – Boil water on a j-tube stove.  Building a j-tube rocket stove for this bb out of stones/bricks.  Making sure it’s a j-tube style rocket stove.

Textile bb – make a drop spindle. I have part of a dowel and a cutout of a piece of wood.  Need to sand them to smooth them out, put a hook on the top of the dowel, drill a hole in the wood and put on the dowel.  Currently, at the sanding stage.

Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  Cut off rusted ends, fit everything back together but there is a seal that I need to move in the topmost pipe.  It secures the small adjustable extension so the rod will secure in the shower.  Currently, put wd-40 on seam to loosen.  Will bring channel locks to pry it apart so have closer access to the troublesome seal.

Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  There’s a wild rose bush growing next door…it was abandoned.  If it’s blooming I’ll forage from it for tea.

Community bb – create and lead a work party of 4.  I’ll know Saturday if I got the large pond job (I’ll be general manager and have subcontractors and a Pond Consultant.) so that will qualify.

Community bb – Teach a 1 hour class to 8 students.  Been asked to teach boy and girl scouts about pollinators and permaculture.  Sometime in 2024.

Community bb – Give a 1 hour presentation to 8 students.  Been asked to teach boy and girl scouts about pollinators and permaculture.  Sometime in 2024.

Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to attain this badge.

Textile bb - Weave the seat of a chair.  Waiting for answer about using macramé to weave chair seat.  

Metalworking bb - Kindling Cracker - Cleaned up next door after someone moved an RV.  Found a number of 2' pieces of rebar to use.  Studying how to use a welder.

Electricity bb - Charging 3 batteries.  2 batteries still trickle charging today in the garage.  I have old trickle chargers so only have them on when I’m home and awake.

Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  I need to restock our work first aid kit.  I believe larger band aids are all that needs adding as I keep it up to date for safety.

Homesteading BB - setup safety gear for work site. I’ll set it up for my garage.  I do many projects from there.

Tool care bb - Grab a file and ax to sharpen ax.  I set it near where I work at home so I remember.

Tool Care BB - Sharpen, clean and oil a shovel.  Need to find the wire brush for my drill to make this go faster.

Oddball bb - Replace gas tank on my truck.  Already have new gas tank and Fuel Pump...replace it, too.  Need to work on this.  Remove bolt that is stripped.  Need to use bolt cutters because all my "spark creating" tools won't work near gas, liquid or fumes.  Once that's done everything goes faster.

Homesteading bb - Check pictures on Game Cam.  Idk but this is a fun one.  

Homesteading Badge bitMend a window screen for.  Not sure when because business is picking up.

Textiles BB - Planning the repair of some cigarette burns in an old, upholstered chair I bought second hand.  Maybe today, maybe later.

Textiles BB - Repair on my truck seat...it has had a huge chunk out of the driver's seat since
  I bought it (second hand).  Bought upholstery material and new foam for repair.  Probably fix the gas tank first.

Textiles BB - Knit Socks - Buy merino wool or unravel a thrift store sweater if I can find one.

Worked yesterday so took a break last night.  Today will knock out an article or two and a bb or two and study ponds.

Textile bb - Weave a Belt - Working on the belt some today.  Need to get this done!  If I can soon, then I’ll have 60 BBs!  Yay!

Tool care bb - Grab a file and ax to sharpen ax.  I set it near where I work at home so I remember.

Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  There’s a wild rose bush growing next door…it was abandoned.  If it’s blooming I’ll forage from it for tea…gotta check.

Earthworks bb – tiny hole/tiny pond dig hole fill, check percolation rate, fill again.  Has to be 2’ wide and 1’ deep minimum.  Before compact - see how long it takes to drain 5 gals of water.  Compact with a concrete tamping bar.  See how long it takes to drain 5 gals of water.  This is easy, peasy…need to knock it out!

Rocket Sand bb – Boil water on a j-tube stove.  Building a j-tube rocket stove for this bb out of stones/bricks.  Making sure it’s a j-tube style rocket stove.  Layed down a layer of brick and will be building it up today.  Yay!

Textile bb – make a drop spindle. I have part of a dowel and a cutout of a piece of wood.  Need to sand them to smooth them out, find and put a hook on the top of the dowel, drill a hole in the wood and put on the dowel.  Currently, at the sanding stage…lost my sandpaper!  Lol

Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  Cut off rusted ends, fit everything back together but there is a seal that I need to move in the topmost pipe.  It secures the small adjustable extension so the rod will secure in the shower.  Currently, put wd-40 on seam to loosen.  Will bring channel locks to pry it apart so have closer access to the troublesome seal.


Community bb – create and lead a work party of 4.  I’ll know Saturday if I got the large pond job (I’ll be general manager and have subcontractors and a Pond Consultant.) so that will qualify.

Community bb – Teach a 1 hour class to 8 students.  Been asked to teach boy and girl scouts about pollinators and permaculture.  Sometime in 2024.

Community bb – Give a 1 hour presentation to 8 students.  Been asked to teach boy and girl scouts about pollinators and permaculture.  Sometime in 2024.

Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to attain this badge.

Textile bb - Weave the seat of a chair.  Waiting for answer about using macramé to weave chair seat.  

Metalworking bb - Kindling Cracker - Cleaned up next door after someone moved an RV.  Found a number of 2' pieces of rebar to use.  Studying how to use a welder.

Electricity bb - Charging 3 batteries.  2 batteries still trickle charging today in the garage.  I have old trickle chargers so only have them on when I’m home and awake.

Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  I need to restock our work first aid kit.  I believe larger band aids are all that needs adding as I keep it up to date for safety.

Homesteading BB - setup safety gear for work site. I’ll set it up for my garage.  I do many projects from there.


Tool Care BB - Sharpen, clean and oil a shovel.  Need to find the wire brush for my drill to make this go faster.

Oddball bb - Replace gas tank on my truck.  Already have new gas tank and Fuel Pump...replace it, too.  Need to work on this.  Remove bolt that is stripped.  Need to use bolt cutters because all my "spark creating" tools won't work near gas, liquid or fumes.  Once that's done everything goes faster.

Homesteading bb - Check pictures on Game Cam.  Idk but this is a fun one.  

Homesteading Badge bit - Mend a window screen for.  Not sure when because business is picking up.

Textiles BB - Planning the repair of some cigarette burns in an old, upholstered chair I bought second hand.  Maybe today, maybe later.

Textiles BB - Repair on my truck seat...it has had a huge chunk out of the driver's seat since
 I bought it (second hand).  Bought upholstery material and new foam for repair.  Probably fix the gas tank first.

Textiles BB - Knit Socks - Buy merino wool or unravel a thrift store sweater if I can find one.

Worked yesterday so took a break last night.  Today will knock out an article or two and a bb or two and study ponds.

Textile bb - Weave a Belt – Done

Homesteading bb - Check pictures on Game Cam.  Done

Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  I need to restock our work first aid kit.  I believe larger band aids are all that needs adding as I keep it up to date for safety.

Homesteading BB - setup safety gear for work site. I’ll set it up for my garage.  I do many projects from there.

Tool care bb - Grab a file and ax to sharpen ax.  I set it near where I work at home so I remember.

Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  There’s a wild rose bush growing next door…it was abandoned.  If it’s blooming I’ll forage from it for tea…gotta check.

Earthworks bb – tiny hole/tiny pond dig hole fill, check percolation rate, fill again.  Has to be 2’ wide and 1’ deep minimum.  Before compact - see how long it takes to drain 5 gals of water.  Compact with a concrete tamping bar.  See how long it takes to drain 5 gals of water.  

Rocket Sand bb – Boil water on a j-tube stove.  Building a j-tube rocket stove for this bb out of stones/bricks.  Making sure it’s a j-tube style rocket stove.  Layed down a layer of brick and will be building it up today.  Yay!

Textile bb – make a drop spindle. I have part of a dowel and a cutout of a piece of wood.  Need to sand them to smooth them out, find and put a hook on the top of the dowel, drill a hole in the wood and put on the dowel.  Currently, at the sanding stage…lost my sandpaper!  Lol

Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  Cut off rusted ends, fit everything back together but there is a seal that I need to move in the topmost pipe.  It secures the small adjustable extension so the rod will secure in the shower.  Currently, put wd-40 on seam to loosen.  Will bring channel locks to pry it apart so have closer access to the troublesome seal.

Plumbing bb – Install Hydrant.  I’ve done several of these but didn’t document.  Will document next one.
Plumbing bb – Berkey filter – researching.

Community bb – create and lead a work party of 4.  I’ll know Saturday if I got the large pond job (I’ll be general manager and have subcontractors and a Pond Consultant.) so that will qualify.

Community bb – Teach a 1 hour class to 8 students.  Been asked to teach boy and girl scouts about pollinators and permaculture.  Sometime in 2024.

Community bb – Give a 1 hour presentation to 8 students.  Been asked to teach boy and girl scouts about pollinators and permaculture.  Sometime in 2024.

Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to attain this badge.

Textile bb - Weave the seat of a chair.  Waiting for answer about using macramé to weave chair seat.  

Metalworking bb - Kindling Cracker - Cleaned up next door after someone moved an RV.  Found a number of 2' pieces of rebar to use.  Studying how to use a welder.

Electricity bb - Charging 3 batteries.  2 batteries still trickle charging today in the garage.  I have old trickle chargers so only have them on when I’m home and awake.


Tool Care BB - Sharpen, clean and oil a shovel.  Need to find the wire brush for my drill to make this go faster.

Oddball bb - Replace gas tank on my truck.  Already have new gas tank and Fuel Pump...replace it, too.  Need to work on this.  Remove bolt that is stripped.  Need to use bolt cutters because all my "spark creating" tools won't work near gas, liquid or fumes.  Once that's done everything goes faster.

Homesteading Badge bit - Mend a window screen for.  Not sure when because business is picking up.

Textiles BB - Planning the repair of some cigarette burns in an old, upholstered chair I bought second hand.  Maybe today, maybe later.

Textiles BB - Repair on my truck seat...it has had a huge chunk out of the driver's seat since
I bought it (second hand).  Bought upholstery material and new foam for repair.  Probably fix the gas tank first.

Textiles BB - Knit Socks – Have to wait to buy wool but…I have a children’s knitting book that I’m studying.

Studying ponds and working on bbs.

Earthworks bb – tiny hole/tiny pond dig hole fill, check percolation rate, fill again.  Has to be 2’ wide and 1’ deep minimum.  Before compact - see how long it takes to drain 5 gals of water.  Compact with a concrete tamping bar.  See how long it takes to drain 5 gals of water.  Hole dug, 5 gallons draining. – 3 hrs draining at 7pm...hardly drained at all.

Tool care bb - Sharpen ax.  Filing the ax by hand as my workshop is so cluttered I can’t get to my sander.  Still needs more filing.

Textile bb - Weave the seat of a chair.  I have a stool in the garage so I’ll use it and macrame the seat.  😊

Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  I need to restock our work first aid kit.  I believe larger band aids are all that needs adding as I keep it up to date for safety.

Homesteading BB - setup safety gear for work site. I’ll set it up for my garage.  I do many projects from there.

Homesteading Badge bit - Mend a window screen for.  Not sure when because business is picking up.  already have materials and equipment.

Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  There’s a wild rose bush growing next door…it was abandoned.  If it’s blooming I’ll forage from it for tea…gotta check.

Rocket Sand bb – Boil water on a j-tube stove.  Building a j-tube rocket stove for this bb out of stones/bricks.  Making sure it’s a j-tube style rocket stove.  Need to build up the stove on the bricks.

Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  Cut off rusted ends, fit everything back together but there is a seal that I need to move in the topmost pipe.  It secures the small adjustable extension so the rod will secure in the shower.  Currently, put wd-40 on seam to loosen.  Will bring channel locks to pry it apart so have closer access to the troublesome seal.

Plumbing bb – Install Hydrant.  I’ve done several of these but didn’t document.  Will document next one.

Plumbing bb – Berkey filter – researching.

Community bb – create and lead a work party of 4.  I’ll know Saturday if I got the large pond job (I’ll be general manager and have subcontractors and a Pond Consultant.) so that will qualify.

Community bb – Teach a 1 hour class to 8 students.  Been asked to teach boy and girl scouts about pollinators and permaculture.  Sometime in 2024.

Community bb – Give a 1 hour presentation to 8 students.  Been asked to teach boy and girl scouts about pollinators and permaculture.  Sometime in 2024.

Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to attain this badge.

Metalworking bb - Kindling Cracker - Cleaned up next door after someone moved an RV.  Found a number of 2' pieces of rebar to use.  Studying how to use a welder.

Electricity bb - Charging 3 batteries.  2 batteries still trickle charging today in the garage.  I have old trickle chargers so only have them on when I’m home and awake.

Tool Care BB - Sharpen, clean and oil a shovel.  Need to find the wire brush for my drill to make this go faster.

Tool Care BB - Clean workshop for an hour.

Oddball bb - Replace gas tank on my truck.  Already have new gas tank and Fuel Pump...replace it, too.  Need to work on this.  Remove bolt that is stripped.  Need to use bolt cutters because all my "spark creating" tools won't work near gas, liquid or fumes.  Once that's done everything goes faster.

Textiles BB - Planning the repair of some cigarette burns in an old, upholstered chair I bought second hand.  Maybe today, maybe later.

Textiles BB - Repair on my truck seat...it has had a huge chunk out of the driver's seat since
I bought it (second hand).  Bought upholstery material and new foam for repair.  Probably fix the gas tank first.

Textiles BB - Knit Socks – Have to wait to buy wool but…I have a children’s knitting book that I’m studying.

Studying ponds and working on bbs.

Earthworks bb – tiny hole/tiny pond dig hole fill, check percolation rate, fill again.  Before compacting, the hole took 24 hours to drain.  Compacting and testing

Tool care bb - Sharpen ax.  Filing the ax more.  Sanded and oiled it to clean it up.

Textile bb - Weave the seat of a chair.  Brought the stool in to look at it.  Needs sanding and painting before the seat is woven.

Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  I need to restock our work first aid kit.  I believe larger band aids are all that needs adding as I keep it up to date for safety.

Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  There’s a wild rose bush growing next door…it was abandoned.  If it’s blooming, I’ll forage from it for tea…got to check.

Rocket Sand bb – Boil water on a j-tube stove.  Building up the stove on the first layer of bricks.  Making sure it’s a j-tube style rocket stove.  

Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  Cut off rusted ends, fit everything back together but there is a seal that I need to move in the topmost pipe.  It secures the small adjustable extension so the rod will secure in the shower.  Currently, put wd-40 on seam to loosen.  Will bring channel locks to pry it apart so have closer access to the troublesome seal.

Electricity bb - Charging 3 batteries.  2 batteries charged.  Need to charge the third battery.

Textiles BB - Knit Socks – Have to wait to buy wool.  I have a children’s knitting book that I’m studying.  Plus, I'm practicing with other yarn.

Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to attain this badge.

Nest Straw Badge - planning what's left to attain this badge.

Foraging bb - pellets - submitted bb for approval.
Earthworks bb – Tiny pond - submitted bb for approval.

Tool care bb - Sharpen ax.  Filing the ax more as one side is more sharpened than the other.

Rocket Sand bb – Boil water on a j-tube stove.  Building up the stove on the first layer of bricks.  Making sure it’s a j-tube style rocket stove.  Experimenting with which bricks to use.

Textiles bb - Weave the seat of a chair.  Brought the stool in to look at it.  Sanding this to prep for paint.

Textiles bb - Prepare 8 ounces of raw sheep wool.  Ordering some raw sheep wool to prepare then, spin on my new drop spindle for another bb.

Textiles BB - Knit Socks – Read the children’s knitting book I have.  Practiced with other yarn. Started a sock on round needles.  Don’t have double pointed needles.  I think they may be easier.

Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  I need to restock our work first aid kit.  I believe larger band aids are all that needs adding as I keep it up to date for safety.

Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  Need to check wild rose bush for pedals for tea.

Textiles bb - Check willows, trim for basket weaving branches.

Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  Cut off rusted ends, fit everything back together but there is a seal that I need to move in the topmost pipe.  It secures the small adjustable extension so the rod will secure in the shower.  Wrestling with this with the channel locks.

Electricity bb - Charging 3 batteries.  2 batteries charged.  Disconnecting the third battery from vehicle.

Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to earn this badge.

Nest Straw Badge - planning what's left to earn this badge.

Earthworks bb – Tiny pond - failed so thought about putting in my front landscape bed.  I have a couple spots that could feed it from the roof
     and a horsetail plant that would enjoy the water.
Tool care bb - Sharpen ax.  Filing the ax more.
Rocket Sand bb – Boil water on a j-tube stove.  Building up the stove on the first layer of bricks.  Making sure it’s a j-tube style rocket stove.  
Textiles bb - Weave the seat of a chair.  Brought the stool in to look at it.  Sanding this to prep for paint.
Textiles bb - Prepare 8 ounces of raw sheep wool.  Awaiting delivery of raw sheep wool to prepare then, spin on my new drop spindle for another bb.
Textiles BB - Knit Socks – Read the children’s knitting book I have.  Practiced with other yarn. Started a sock on round needles.  Knitting.  
Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  I need to restock our work first aid kit.  I believe larger band aids are all that needs adding as I keep it up to date for safety.
Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  No rose pedals.  Maybe horsetail.  This will wait if I don't have enough.

Textiles bb - Check willows, trim for basket weaving branches.

Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  Cut off rusted ends, fit everything back together but there is a seal that I need to move in the topmost pipe.  It secures the small adjustable extension so the rod will secure in the shower.  Spplying another layer of wd-40 and considering what else could be used instead...or where to buy a replacement.  Might be able to retrofit an old spring from a broken sprinkler.

Electricity bb - Charging 3 batteries.  2 batteries charged.  Disconnecting the third battery from vehicle.

Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to earn this badge.

Nest Straw Badge - planning what's left to earn this badge.

Food Sand Badge - Planning what's left to earn this badge.

Last couple days I've been working in the mud...in the cold...not much energy left to do bb's.  Lol
It's a rainy day so I'll only be working inside.

Tool care bb - Sharpen ax.  Filing the ax more.
Textiles bb - Weave the seat of a chair.  Sanding then painting then weaving seat.
Textiles bb - Prepare 8 ounces of raw sheep wool.  Awaiting delivery of raw sheep wool to prepare then, spin on my new drop spindle.
Textiles BB - Knit Socks – Read the children’s knitting book I have.  Practiced with other yarn. Started a sock on round needles.  Knitting.  
Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  Working on this
Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  No rose pedals.  Maybe horsetail.  Not much horsetail so I'll wait.
Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  Cut off rusted ends, fit everything back together but there is a seal that I need to
   move in the topmost pipe.  It secures the small adjustable extension so the rod will secure in the shower.  Applying another layer of wd-40
   and considering what else could be used instead...or where to buy a replacement.  Might be able to retrofit an old spring from a broken sprinkler.
Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to earn this badge.
Nest Straw Badge - planning what's left to earn this badge.
Food Sand Badge - Planning what's left to earn this badge.
Looking for more bbs.

I have graduated to be able to approve some BBs!  I get a +1 point for each.  Soooooo...my -bbs are going away.  Yay!

Last few days I've been studying ponds, moving water and moving earth.  I also am studying a plant a day for foraging.  Pond Cattails were super interesting, yesterday!  Love those things, they are so pretty...didn't realize they were edible.  I'm focusing on water plants...so Horsetail is today.

Tool care bb - Sharpen ax.  
Textiles bb - Weave the seat of a chair.  I have the sandpaper sitting on the frame and pass it each time I go down the hall.  I have to do this for motivation.  I'll tire of looking at it soon, then will get to work.  Lol.
Textiles bb - Prepare 8 ounces of raw sheep wool.  This has been delivered to my mailbox in town.  I am pondering going to get it and found myself thinking of a glob of fur.  If I had seen a mess like that earlier in my life it would have been thrown away as trash.  Now, I'm eyeing my "not furry enough" dog for fur to weave.  Lol.
Textiles BB - Knit Socks – I'm working on this but it isn't my favorite so it is the. last. thing. on. my. list.  Lol...I'll figure out how to motivate myself to get this done.
Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  Brought the first aid kit in...just need to collect everything and take pics.  
Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  Maybe horsetail.  I have some dry horsetail by the live stuff.  I'll check if this is "legal".  Lol
Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  I poke at this every couple days.  Will focus on it this week.
Textile Straw Badge - planning what's left to earn this badge.
Nest Straw Badge - planning what's left to earn this badge.
Food Sand Badge - Planning what's left to earn this badge.
Looking for more bbs.

Still studying ponds, moving water and moving earth.  I'm researching water plants.  Not sure if I'll study Horsetail today.  Yesterday, studied Sumac.  Staghorn Sumac tree isn't suited for N Texas.  Flameleaf looks more suitable for my climate.  Love the red berry tea.  Helps me with poison ivy.  Need to study poison ivy too.

Tool care bb - Sharpen ax a hatchet.   I setup my anvil/brace and placed the hatchet in it.  Charged the angle grinder battery yesterday, found better sander and wire brush attachments to clean and sharpen hatchet.

Homesteading BB - Restock a first aid kit.  Brought the first aid kit in...just need to collect everything and take pics.  
Foraging sand bb - forage a cup of tea.  Didn't see Horsetail in the list.  I'll look for some Dandelion.
Oddball bb - Fix metal pole on shower caddy that rusted.  I poke at this every couple days.  Will focus on it this week.

Still studying ponds, moving water and moving earth.  I'm researching water plants.   Also, studying VA stuff to work on it.

I had an extra button to sew into the inside of a new flannel hoodie my son got for Christmas.  Stopped, ran to the computer to check if was a BB I haven't done, yet!  Lol. I'm like that with all tasks now!

Oddball bb - got to get the gas tank replaced on my truck.

Textile bb - need to sew up the seat on my truck.

Oddball bb - shower holder - am using an extra shower curtain rod temporarily in lieu of the post while I fix it.  Can see the piece I want to remove just haven't gotten to it yet.

Tool Care bb - sharpen a hatchet - ready, just haven't done this yet.

Textiles bb - have raw wool - need to clean for bb and then spin on my drop spindle.

Textiles bb - knitting socks - ordered cotton yarn - need another round set of needles...using only 1 and it's pretty difficult.  We'll see.