Natural bug repellents

As buzzing pests tuck themselves in for winter, here are some landscaping suggestions for those who wish to cultivate allies in the fight against spring stings.

Plant profile - Comfrey

Comfrey is also called boneset or bone knit, and does just that. For centuries, folks in the know have used the leaves and root as a poultrice for sprains, breaks and inflamation. A substance in the plant has been proven (anecdotally and scientifically) to enhance cell regeneration. It might not make you Wolverine, but you will heal drastically quicker.

Make an antler and penny bearing block for your fire drill.

This is a way to reduce friction on the bearing block of your bow drill set. All of the heat creation needs to occur on the hearth board to make an ember more efficiently. It is also an attractive, permanent improvement to your fire kit.

Fire from a deer antler

I'm in a pyro phase. Here, I'm trying to push the envelope on ways to construct a bow drill kit. Using antler greatly extends the life of your fireboard (you may never need to replace it). It also improves functionality in wet environments.

Corn Husk Dolls

Thanks to my mother, this fall tradition will survive another couple of generations. She taught me when I was a child and I will show my son when he gathers a few more years. Making these for video, I remembered all the neat things we learned together. What a genius, my mother, and one of the best people I'll ever know.

Fire from a broken computer

When your high tech gadgets die in the unavoidable apocalyptic collapse, consider the possiblity of making more reliable primitive tools from their pieces parts.

Campfire ramble (and a ghost?)

Watch the fire early on as I am talking, then look over my head about midway through. Any ghost hunters out there?