What's in the box?

It's been raining so much is my area, I've decided to start an indoor series focusing on non-conventional uses of household items. I get bored a lot. Special thanks to S.B., R.B., C.B. and B.N. for helping me figure this one out.

Three stick deadfall trigger - balance is everything

These were poplar sticks I had squared with my table saw for another project. A lot of the most common triggers are reliable but require multiple notches. This simple example was probably an ancestor of the more complicated varieties.

Plant profile - Winter Hardy Kiwi

These are Russian cousins to the larger kiwifruit we are used to eating at restaurants and catered events. The taste is quite similar. Those bigger ones originated in southern China, were carried to New Zealand and are now grown commercially in California. You can grow your own winter hardy kiwis in north Georgia (zone 6) and further south.

Improve your chances, tip # 1

My maternal grandfather always carried a hanky. The accessory fell out of fashion in my parents' generation, but I tolerated teasing from kids in school to be like Papaw. Over the years, the standard piece of white linen in my pocket has evolved into bandanas running the color gamut. I don't leave home without one. The uses are myriad; hygiene, food processor (crushing, soaking, straining), water filter, first aid (tourniquet, bandage, sling), hat, sleep mask, storage (hobo bundle), germ/pollution protection, glove/wrist guard, sweat band, identity concealment, fire assist (char cloth, cotton fire roll), binding/cordage... why aren't you carrying one too?

Four block rocket stove

In the event of an extended power outage, it helps to have multiple means to cook meals and sanitize water. This is a cheap, easy stove that sets up in seconds.

Plant profile - Goji Berry

Goji is a Chinese native that enjoys popularity in American health food stores. It is often called Wolfberry in the states and is typically sold dried like raisins. Fresh berries and leaves have superior nutrition and higher antioxidant levels, so why not grow your own?

Plant profile - Black Walnut Tree

Learn to identify this important tree. The nuts are delicious and can be pressed for a healthful cooking oil. Iodine in the hulls is medicinal, a curative for fungal skin infections and an antiseptic. Watch for brief discussions of the tree's value during atomic emergencies and its place in appalachian folklore.