tag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:/blogs/how-to-give-wood-a-weathered-look?p=1AVF Blog2023-10-20T12:36:55-04:00Apple Valley Farmfalsetag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72907752023-10-20T12:36:55-04:002024-03-04T17:36:16-05:00Ten Ways to Freshen Up Your Vendor Booth<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/98550ea221db8816cd64b53f31c702b99b44ceec/original/b52c9402.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_right border_" />As a reseller or antique and collectibles vendor, it’s essential to stand out in a crowded market. You're limited to a 10X10 space in a building full of, well...lots of other 10X10 spaces. And they're all doing similar things. You need to attract customers and keep them coming back to your booth, so the last thing you want is to look like everyone else.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Here’s where some creative thinking will help you spruce up your vendor booth. With these </span><strong>Ten Simple Adjustments</strong><span>, you can have a space that stands out from the competitors, making it more inviting for potential buyers.</span></p><p dir="ltr"> </p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Add Some Greenery</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Don’t underestimate the power of plants. Adding some seasonal greenery to your booth will naturalize the environment and help your customers relax. Plants are an inexpensive way to decorate your booth, and they help to clean the air while they’re at it. Put some plants in and around your booth, and your customers will appreciate that refreshing feel.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Lighting</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Lighting is another key way to freshen up your vendor booth. Great lighting makes your merchandise pop, and it gives shoppers the opportunity to see your products in the best light. Get some LED lights to direct attention to particular products. Here's a great example of a </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://" rel="noreferrer"><span>Battery Powered LED Spot Light on Amazon</span></a><span>.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/152dfecf2773d7e1cf4e54ac9ba5da4e69f09787/original/photo4jpg.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_left border_" />Signage</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Make sure you have signs on your booth. Your signage should reflect your brand and be clearly visible. A great sign will help attract shoppers to your booth and make it more visible to those who are passing by. You can order signs from any number of places online, like </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.vistaprint.com/" rel="noreferrer"><span>VistaPrint</span></a><span>. You can create something in </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.canva.com/" rel="noreferrer"><span>Canva</span></a><span>. Or you can have a local printer create on for you.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Creative Displays</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>With creative displays, you can showcase your products without making the booth look messy. Creativity is essential here. Try something unique, but don’t overdo it. One excellent way to achieve this is by draping your products with fabric. Also, learn to love </span><strong>Pinterest</strong><span>. Regularly peruse their app to get inspiration for new ideas.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Color</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Bright, bold colors can attract a customer’s attention. If you’re looking for something new, try changing the booth’s color scheme. Ideally, you want the booth to “pop” without being too bright. Also consider Seasonal colors, like reds and greens around the Holidays, or pastels in the Spring. One easy way to add color is with </span><strong>floral arrangements</strong><span> or an area or </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://" rel="noreferrer"><strong>welcome rug</strong></a><span>.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Rent Additional Items</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Many vendors don’t realize that with some venues, they can rent tables, easels, or other merchandising items. Renting additional items can help boost sales and sharpen up your display or give you additional display space. They may also offer Seasonal decor. But you may never know until you ask.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Create a Comfortable Seating Area</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Having a comfortable seating area in your booth is a great way to engage people. People stay longer and are more<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/d39b54ebe6aa16cf4e5d5038104ebeeedeb3446a/original/eastonantiquecoop07-discoverlehighvalley-lr-a799c72c-e4a2-4839-9082-39257c5d97c0.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_right border_" /> likely to buy when they’re enjoying their time. Add some chairs or a bench and encourage people to sit down and relax. You might think you want customers to browse quickly, grab their items and move along to the checkout. But that's rarely the case.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Professional and Polished Display</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Make sure all of your products are properly presented and that your booth appears neat and tidy. Most shoppers appreciate a professional-looking display. Merchandise your booths in a way that looks polished and well-organized. Cleanliness matters. And a pleasing fragrance (not overpowering) can be soothing...just be aware that not everyone will appreciate your sense of smell. If you don't have "an eye" for decorating, then shop it out. Ask around and there will certainly be a local someone who can work wonders.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Offer Promotions</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Offering deals for customers is a fantastic way to get them to stop by your booth. It creates a sense of urgency and incentivizes buyers who might be shopping around before making a purchase. Create a theme for your specials...like Christmas or Valentine's Day or Black Friday. And don't forget to </span><strong>promote </strong><span>your promotion!</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Add a Personal Touch</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Lastly, adding some personal touches makes your booth feel unique. Consider customized bags, name tags, or banners or even photos of you and your family make your booth look like it's authentic and different from every other vendor booth.</span></p><p> </p><p dir="ltr"><span>Freshening up your vendor booth requires some creativity to draw in buyers. From lighting to plants, there are many ways to keep your booth interesting. By incorporating some of these simple ideas, you can attract potential buyers, maximize sales, and create a one-of-a-kind experience for your customers. Just remember, your booth’s presentation matters, and small changes can make a big difference.</span></p><p><span>###</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span> Also, many of the links we use are </span><strong>Affiliate Links</strong><span>. That means when you click on them and buy a product via that link, we get a small commission on the sale. It doesn’t cost you any more, it just helps us a little.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span> We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or</span><br><span>feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!</span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72900262023-10-19T10:54:06-04:002023-10-19T10:57:48-04:00How Tony Robbins Gave Me Business Advice<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/6e13d55276f6f017f1e9cc4f12a68a1fcbf8df88/original/c870x524.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_left border_" />This morning, I logged into my </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.jasper.ai/" rel="noreferrer"><span>Jasper AI page</span></a><span>, intending to start researching a new blog series.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>But as I stared at the blank screen, my thoughts began to drift towards our business. I thought about our processes and the possibilities for improvement and growth. I started to think about ways to improve our customer service and enhance our product offerings. But frankly, I've felt stuck lately.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>I realized the necessity of tapping into the mind of someone or something greater than myself - a business expert. A </span><i><strong>change </strong></i><span>expert. I knew it was time to learn from someone who had mastered the art of business and personal transformation, and who understood the intricate dynamics that underpin success. I knew I needed to talk to...</span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://tr.tonyrobbins.com/" rel="noreferrer"><strong>Tony Robbins!</strong></a></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Then I realized that Tony might be a little busy this morning. No problem. I could grab one of my TR books. Or Google one of thousands of potentially helpful talks from him. But I wondered if I could use </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Artificial_intelligence" target="_blank" data-link-type="url"><span><strong>AI Technology</strong></span></a><span> this morning, and have him "talk to me" in that typical, empowering Tony Robbins kind of way. Hmmm...</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>I went to the screen and typed: </span><i><span>"Please write a paragraph that gives me practical advice about my business, in the style and voice of Tony Robbins."</span></i></p><p dir="ltr"><span><ENTER></span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>And about three seconds later, this is what I read.</span></p><blockquote dir="ltr"><p><i>Embrace the journey that is your business with a fervor and a tenacity that rivals the world's greatest entrepreneurs. Yes, challenges are inevitable, but remember, as I often say, <strong>"Every problem is a gift—without problems we would not grow.”</strong> Conduct your business with an unwavering commitment to delivering value. Set your standards high and don't settle for anything less. Be proactive about seeking the best deals, negotiating effectively and reselling for profit. With clear goals, relentless pursuit, and an unquenchable thirst for growth, you have the power to shape the landscape of your business and create a legacy of success. Harness the power within you, and remember, <strong>"The only impossible journey is the one you never begin."</strong></i></p></blockquote><p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/fef693257725601745349d56c7e417f245911275/original/whats-the-impact-of-artificial-intelligence-and-technology-on-society.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_right border_" />Wow. That was cool.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>And oddly enough, I could totally see (or hear) Tony saying something </span><i>exactly </i><span>like this. This was good stuff. I was pumped.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Hey, I get it: All the controversy and hype associated with AI is nuts right now. But all that aside, isn't this an incredible technique for not just motivation, but for finding answers? Seeking the guidance and advice from the people you respect has always been a wise decision, but what if they aren't available or convenient or even alive? Could advances in AI technology help us in this?</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>The answer you're looking for is "yes". Let me hear everybody shout "YES!"</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>AI will </span><strong>never </strong><span>be able to replace Tony Robbins. Or </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Albert_Einstein" rel="noreferrer"><span>Albert Einstein</span></a><span>. Or </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Martin_Luther_King_Jr." rel="noreferrer"><span>Martin Luther King Jr.</span></a><span> Or your dad or grandfather. But to draw on the body of work that they may have publicly created, to discern their thoughts on something current or personal...that's a powerful alternative. That's a possible pathway to change.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>And </span><i><span>that </span></i><span>is how Tony Robbins gave me business advice this morning.</span></p><hr><p><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want. </span></p><p><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!<o:p></o:p></span></p><p dir="ltr"> </p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72876862023-10-14T01:10:49-04:002023-10-16T10:57:46-04:00Is Self Storage a Waste Of Money?<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/79c9091335df2abc7ed74c7156fb8d3ffb4a1666/original/18-1024x683.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" />There comes a time in every person's life when they need extra space. Maybe you're moving houses, storing seasonal clothing, or simply need to declutter your house. Self-storage units are popular storage solutions that allow you to store belongings in a secure and convenient location. But, whether you're renting a small storage space or a large storage unit, you may be wondering if self-storage is a waste of money.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>There are several cost-effective alternatives to traditional self-storage units. One option is to utilize your own home by maximizing space through decluttering and organizing. For larger items, you may consider </span><strong>renting a portable storage container</strong><span> that can be delivered and picked up at your convenience.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Another alternative is </span><strong>peer-to-peer storage,</strong><span> where you can rent space in someone else's home or garage. This usually comes at a fraction of the cost of traditional self-storage units.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>You might also consider </span><strong>sharing a storage unit</strong><span> with friends or family, splitting the cost and space evenly. Finally, </span><strong>donating or selling items</strong><span> you no longer need can free up a significant amount of space, eliminating the need for a storage unit altogether.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>With these thoughts in mind, we'll discuss whether self-storage is worth the investment and how to decide if self-storage is the right choice for you.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Self-Storage Costs</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>One of the main concerns of self-storage is the cost. While the monthly fees may not seem expensive at first, they can quickly add up over time. However, if you're paying for a storage unit for items you don't need or want, then self-storage is indeed a waste of your money. On the flip side, if you're paying for a self-storage unit to protect and store valuable items like antiques, collectibles, or inventory, then self-storage can be a great investment.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Storage Unit Size</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Another factor to consider when deciding if self-storage is a waste of money is the size of the storage unit. If you're paying for a large storage unit when you only need a small space, then you're wasting your money. On the other hand, if you're paying for a small storage unit when you need a larger space, you're also wasting your money, as you'll need to rent another unit or keep your belongings elsewhere. Consider what you're storing, and choose the right-sized storage unit to help keep costs down.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Convenience</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Self-storage is a convenient solution for people who need to store items but don't have space at home. The location of a storage facility can also play a role in how convenient it is for you to access your belongings. If your storage unit is close to your home or business, then it's a convenient option. On the other hand, if you need to travel a long distance to access your storage unit, then the time and expense involved may negate any financial benefits of using self-storage.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Security</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>One of the most significant advantages of self-storage is security. When you rent a self-storage unit, you're trusting the facility to safeguard your belongings. However, some facilities have high-security standards, while others have more basic security measures. If you're storing valuable or sentimental items, then it's essential to choose a storage facility with high-security standards and excellent reviews. By doing so, you can rest assured that your belongings will be secure and protected from theft and damage.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Usefulness</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Ultimately, determining whether self-storage is a waste of money will depend on your circumstances. If you're using self-storage to store items you don't need or want, then you're wasting your money. However, if you're using self-storage to store valuable or sentimental items, then it's a worthwhile investment. Consider the cost, size of the unit, convenience, security, and usefulness of self-storage before making a decision.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Conclusion</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Self-storage can be a great solution for people who need extra space. Whether you're moving, decluttering your home, or storing valuables, self-storage units offer secure and convenient storage options. However, if you're renting a storage unit for items you don't need or want, then self-storage is indeed a waste of your money.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Make sure to consider the cost, size, convenience, security, and usefulness of the storage unit when deciding if self-storage is a waste of money.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>With the right decision, you can save money while keeping your belongings safe and secure.</span></p><hr><p>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want. </p><p>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!<o:p></o:p></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72876852023-10-14T01:01:33-04:002023-10-14T01:01:33-04:00How to Properly Prepare Major Appliances for Self-Storage<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/a17dcb1833c9f4371eedaff32fa4db3c111e089b/original/how-to-store-appliances-in-self-storage-storage-solutions.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_right border_" />When it comes to self storage units, if you need to store home appliances, such as a refrigerator or washing machine, there are specific steps you should follow to ensure they remain in good condition. In this blog post, we'll discuss some ways to prepare major appliances for self-storage.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>A brief list of common major appliances includes:</span></p><ol>
<li value="1"><span>Refrigerator</span></li>
<li value="2"><span>Washing Machine</span></li>
<li value="3"><span>Dryer</span></li>
<li value="4"><span>Dishwasher</span></li>
<li value="5"><span>Stove</span></li>
<li value="6"><span>Oven</span></li>
<li value="7"><span>Microwave</span></li>
<li value="8"><span>Air Conditioner</span></li>
<li value="9"><span>Heater</span></li>
<li value="10"><span>Freezer</span></li>
</ol><h2><span>Clean the Appliance</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Before storing any appliance in a self-storage unit, it's crucial to clean it thoroughly. Remove any dirt, grime, or food residues, and dry it meticulously. It's also advisable to unplug the appliance before cleaning it. When cleaning your refrigerator, defrost it first, wipe down the interior, and let it dry before storing it.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Leave Doors Open</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>A critical consideration when prepping your major appliances for self-storage is air circulation. Leaving the appliance's door or lid open is crucial to prevent the buildup of moisture and mold growth. This is particularly important for refrigerators, as leaving them shut can cause condensation to build up, leading to mildew, mold, and unpleasant odors.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Secure the Door</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>When transporting or storing any appliance, ensure that the moveable parts are secured. Use straps or ropes to hold the appliance securely in place. Additionally, you should also consider locking the appliance's door to prevent any tampering or damage.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Protect the Appliance</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>To ensure that your appliance remains in good condition, it's crucial to protect it from any damage, scratches, or dents. You can use bubble wrap, blankets, or moving pads to wrap the appliance before moving it to the storage unit. You should also avoid stacking any boxes or items on top of the appliance, especially with something like a stove with a glass cooking surface.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Keep the Appliance Upright</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Appliances such as refrigerators, washing machines, and dishwashers must always be stored upright. Leaving them on their sides can displace any fluids or oil, which can lead to malfunctions or leaks. Additionally, securing the appliance tightly in an upright position can prevent it from tipping over and causing damage.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Temperature and Humidity Control</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>When storing appliances, it is imperative to consider the role of temperature and humidity. Extreme temperatures, both hot and cold, can have detrimental effects on the functionality and longevity of your appliances. Prolonged exposure to high heat can damage electrical components, while freezing temperatures can cause parts of the appliance to crack or warp.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Humidity is another crucial factor to consider. High humidity levels can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, especially in appliances like refrigerators and washing machines where residual moisture might be present. On the other hand, very low humidity can cause materials to dry out, crack, or warp.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Therefore, it's advisable to store your appliances in a climate-controlled environment where both temperature and humidity levels are kept consistent. This will help to preserve the condition of your appliances, ensuring they remain functional and ready for use when you need them again.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Conclusion:</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Storing major appliances in a self-storage unit is a great way to keep them safe and secure. However, proper preparation is essential to ensure that they remain in good condition. By following the tips mentioned above, you can make sure that your appliances remain functional and intact while in storage.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Remember, a little preparation can go a long way in protecting your valuable belongings.</span></p><hr><p>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want.</p><p>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!<o:p></o:p></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72876842023-10-14T00:51:12-04:002023-10-14T00:51:12-04:0010 Ways to Organize Your Storage Unit Like A Boss<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/66a683534f1246b82290244791d7da0d2bcece78/original/storage-shelves.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Whether your a storage buyer who uses self storage to warehouse inventory, or a consumer who stores their overflow belongings, a cluttered storage unit can be a source of frustration, not to mention a waste of space and money.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Organizing your storage unit can be a daunting task, especially if you have accumulated a lot of items over time. But with a little creativity and planning, you can make the most of your storage space and create an organized and functional environment.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>In this blog post, we will share 10 creative ideas to help you organize your storage unit and keep your belongings safe and easily accessible.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Use Shelving Units</strong><span> – Instead of piling boxes and items on the floor, consider installing shelving units to maximize your storage space. Use the shelves to store boxes, bins, and other items, and label them for easy identification. You can also use adjustable shelves to accommodate items of different sizes. If you're thrifty, you can probably find cheap shelves, or possibly even, free on things like the <strong>Facebook Marketplace</strong>, <strong>Craigslist </strong>or at local <strong>Thrift Stores</strong>.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Hang Tools and Equipment</strong><span> – Hang tools and equipment on pegboards or wall-mounted racks to free up floor space and keep them organized. You can also use magnetic strips or hooks to secure smaller tools and garden equipment. And if your storage unit has a "fenced in" ceiling, you can hang light to medium weight items from there.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Group Similar Items Together </strong><span>– Grouping similar items together makes it easier to find what you need when you need it. For example, store all your camping gear in one area of the unit, and all your holiday decorations in another. Label each group for easy identification.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Use Clear Plastic Bins </strong><span>– Clear plastic bins are a great way to store small items and keep them visible and accessible. Use them to store holiday decorations, toys, craft materials, and other small items. Label each bin for easy identification.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Create Zones </strong><span>– Create zones within your storage unit to keep different categories of items separate. For example, you can create a zone for sports equipment, a zone for household items, and a zone for tools and equipment. Use shelves, racks, and hanging storage to create the zones.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Use Vertical Space </strong><span>– Use vertical space to your advantage by stacking boxes and bins on top of each other. You can also use hanging storage systems to make the most of your vertical space. Just make sure not to stack items too high and make them unstable.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Store Seasonal Items Separately </strong><span>– Store seasonal items separately to keep them out of the way during the off-season. For example, store your winter clothes and boots in a separate area during the summer. Label each container for easy identification.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Use Furniture for Storage </strong><span>– Use furniture with hidden storage compartments, such as ottomans, benches, and cabinets, to store items in plain sight. This is a great way to keep smaller items close at hand while keeping your storage unit organized.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Install a Workbench </strong><span>– Install a workbench in your storage unit to create a dedicated work area. This is a great place to store tools and equipment and to work on projects without cluttering up your home.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Use Hanging Storage </strong><span>– Install hanging storage systems to keep items off the floor and easily accessible. Use hanging storage for bikes, kayaks, and other large items.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>BONUS - </strong><span>Develop an Inventory System to log each item and where it is. If in a plastic tote, then number the tote and use that location in your system. Don't make it harder than it has to be...an Excel spreadsheet works just fine for us.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Conclusion:</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Organizing your storage unit doesn't have to be a chore. With these creative ideas, you can make the most of your storage space and keep your belongings safe and easily accessible. Whether you're a storage unit buyer or reseller, implementing these organizing tips can help you create a functional and efficient storage environment.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>So, start organizing your storage unit today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with a clutter-free space.</span></p><hr><p>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want. <o:p></o:p></p><p>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!<o:p></o:p></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72876792023-10-14T00:37:16-04:002023-10-14T00:37:16-04:0010 Ways to Use Self Storage to Increase Your Living Space<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/26fe8faa1865dd163c65bfd826c0e47fc8c9d517/original/mary-b-4b.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Living in a small space can be challenging. However, with a little creativity and some help from self storage, you can maximize your living space without sacrificing your comfort. According to the </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.census.gov/" rel="noreferrer"><span><strong>U.S. Census Bureau</strong></span></a><span>, a significant number of Americans live in small spaces, including apartments, tiny houses, or shared living arrangements.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>While exact numbers vary, studies suggest that up to 30% of Americans live in spaces <strong>less than 1,000 square feet.</strong> This trend of compact living emphasizes the importance and potential benefits of utilizing self-storage to maximize available space.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Self storage units can be used for many things, from storing your seasonal items to keeping your personal belongings safe while you move. In this blog, we will explore 10 ways to use self storage to <strong>increase your living space</strong> and improve your quality of life.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Seasonal Items: </strong><span>Every season brings new decorations and clothing. However, these items can quickly take up valuable space in your home. A self storage unit is an excellent place to store your seasonal items when they are not in use. This way, you can keep your living space organized and clutter-free. Seasonal items typically vary depending on the time of year and can include both decorations and clothing.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>During the winter months, these items might encompass Christmas decorations, heavy coats, snow gear, and holiday-themed kitchenware. In contrast, summer months would call for items such as beach gear, patio furniture, BBQ equipment, and light, airy clothing. Autumn could signify the storage of Halloween decorations, fall-themed linens, and warm sweaters, while spring might involve Easter decorations, gardening tools, and rain gear.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Hobby Equipment: </strong><span>Hobbies can take up a lot of space. If you are into art or music, you probably have equipment that takes up valuable space in your home. By storing your hobby equipment in a self storage unit, you can create more space to enjoy your hobbies and be creative.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Home Office:</strong><span> If you work from home but don't have enough space to set up a home office, a self storage unit can be the solution. You can actually create a home office in your storage unit and still have the comfort of working from home. Plus, there's the added benefit of saving on the typical cost of leasing office space as compared with your storage space.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Extra Furniture: </strong><span>If you have furniture that you don't use often, storing it in a self storage unit can free up space in your home. You can also use a self storage unit to store extra furniture for when you have guests staying over.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Personal Belongings: </strong><span>If you are moving, a self storage unit is a great place to store your personal belongings. This way, you can keep your items safe and secure while you look for a new home.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Extra Clothing: </strong><span>If you have a large wardrobe, storing your seasonal clothing in a self storage unit can be a great way to free up space in your closet. You can switch out your clothing every season to keep your wardrobe organized and clutter-free.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Sports Equipment:</strong><span> If you love playing sports, chances are that you have a lot of equipment. Storing your sports equipment in a self storage unit can be a great way to keep your equipment organized and readily accessible.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Children’s Toys:</strong><span> Children's toys can take up a lot of space in your home. A self storage unit can be a great place to store your children's toys when they are not in use. This way, you can create more space for your children to play and be creative.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Business Storage:</strong><span> If you run a business from home, a self storage unit can be an ideal place to store your inventory and equipment. This way, you can free up space in your home and keep your work materials organized.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><strong>Vehicle Storage: </strong><span>If you have a car that you don't use often, storing it in a self storage unit can be an excellent way to free up space in your garage. You can also store other vehicles, such as boats or motorcycles, in a self storage unit.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>In conclusion, self storage units can be used in many ways to increase your living space and improve your quality of life. Whether you need extra space for seasonal items, hobby equipment, or personal belongings, a self storage unit is a great solution. By using self storage, you can keep your living space organized and clutter-free while still enjoying the things you love.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>So, if you are looking for ways to increase your living space, consider using a self storage unit.</span></p><hr><p dir="ltr"><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span> We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!</span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72876782023-10-14T00:22:54-04:002023-10-14T00:22:54-04:005 Ways To Prevent Mold and Mildew Growth In Your Storage Unit<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/88f7a9f7e8d86441fc53ae57603dcbf4fb62e7bc/original/moldlook.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_right border_" />When you rent a storage unit, you want to make sure your belongings are safe and secure. However, one issue that can arise is the growth of mold and mildew. Not only can mold and mildew damage your belongings, but it can also pose health risks for you and anyone who comes into contact with it.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>In this blog post, we’ll discuss five ways to prevent mold and mildew growth in your storage unit.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>1 - Clean and Dry Your Belongings Before Storing Them</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Before storing your belongings in your storage unit, make sure they are clean and dry. Any moisture or dirt left on your items can contribute to mold growth. Wipe down any surfaces and let them air dry completely before packing them away. This will also help prevent any unpleasant odors from developing.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>2 - Use Climate-Controlled Storage Units</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>If you have items that are susceptible to mold and mildew, such as textiles or electronics, consider renting a climate-controlled storage unit. These units regulate the temperature and humidity levels, which can help prevent mold growth. Plus, they can also protect your belongings from other types of damage caused by extreme temperature fluctuations.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>3- Use Protective Coverings</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Covering your belongings with protective coverings such as plastic sheeting or waterproof covers can also help prevent mold growth. However, it’s important to make sure your items are completely dry before covering them. Otherwise, any moisture trapped inside the coverings can contribute to mold growth.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>4 - Place Desiccants in Your Storage Unit</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>Desiccants, such as silica gel packs, can help absorb excess moisture in your storage unit. Place these packets throughout your unit to help prevent mold growth. Just make sure to replace them periodically, as they can become saturated with moisture over time.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>And in case you're wondering...a </span><strong>desiccant </strong><span>is a substance that is used to induce or sustain a state of dryness (desiccation) within its vicinity. They are commonly used in a number of applications, including food preservation, electronics manufacturing, and, as in our context, maintaining a dry environment in storage units to prevent mold growth.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>5 - Check Your Storage Unit Regularly</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>When you rent a storage unit, it’s important to check on it regularly. This will not only give you peace of mind that your belongings are safe, but it will also allow you to catch mold growth early. If you notice any signs of mold or mildew, such as a musty smell or visible growth, take immediate action to address the problem.</span></p><p> </p><p dir="ltr"><span>By following these five tips, you can help prevent mold and mildew growth in your storage unit. Remember to keep your belongings clean and dry, use climate-controlled units for more susceptible items, use protective coverings, place desiccants throughout your storage unit, and check on your unit regularly.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>With these strategies in place, you can rest easy knowing your stored items are safe and well-protected.</span></p><hr><p dir="ltr"><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span> We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!</span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72876762023-10-14T00:10:36-04:002023-10-14T00:10:37-04:0010 Concerns When Cleaning Out Storage Lockers and What to Do About Them<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/c7dbe0694d700bc7b235c42e22d278057914a4d0/original/what-not-to-store-storage-unit.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Cleaning out a storage locker can be an exciting and rewarding experience, especially for small business resellers and storage auction buyers. However, it can also be a daunting task, with many potential pitfalls and challenges along the way. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>In this blog post, we'll explore <strong>10 things</strong> that you should be concerned about when cleaning out a storage locker, and provide guidance on what to do about each of them.</span></p><ol>
<li value="1"><span><strong>Hazardous Materials</strong> - It's not uncommon to find hazardous materials in storage lockers, such as chemicals, asbestos, or other potentially dangerous substances. Be sure to wear protective gear, such as gloves and a mask, and properly dispose of hazardous materials in accordance with local regulations.</span></li>
<li value="2"><span><strong>Vermin and Pests</strong> - Storage lockers can attract vermin and pests, such as rats, mice, and cockroaches. Protect yourself by wearing gloves and long sleeves, and consider using traps or calling in a professional exterminator if the situation is severe.</span></li>
<li value="3"><span><strong>Mold and Mildew</strong> - Moisture can build up in storage lockers, leading to the growth of mold and mildew. Be sure to wear protective gear and properly ventilate the space before starting work, and consider using a mold-killing cleaning solution to prevent the spread of mold spores.</span></li>
<li value="4"><span><strong>Heavy or Bulky Items</strong> - It's not uncommon to find heavy or bulky items, such as furniture or appliances, in storage lockers. Be sure to have a plan for how to safely remove these items, and consider using a dolly or other moving equipment as needed.</span></li>
<li value="5"><span><strong>Valuable or Fragile Items</strong> - Storage lockers can contain valuable or fragile items, such as antiques or artwork. Be sure to handle these items with care, and consider using soft packing materials or bubble wrap to protect them during transport.</span></li>
<li value="6"><span><strong>Personal Information</strong> - Storage lockers may contain personal information, such as bank statements or identification documents. Be sure to properly dispose of these items to protect yourself and others from identity theft.</span></li>
<li value="7"><span><strong>Expired or Perishable Items</strong> - It's not uncommon to find expired or perishable items, such as food or medication, in storage lockers. Be sure to properly dispose of these items to avoid health hazards and unpleasant odors.</span></li>
<li value="8"><span><strong>Electronics </strong>- Electronics can be sensitive to temperature and humidity fluctuations, so it's important to handle them with care. Be sure to turn off and unplug electronic devices before removing them from the locker, and consider using anti-static packing materials to protect them.</span></li>
<li value="9"><span><strong>Broken or Sharp Objects</strong> - Storage lockers may contain broken or sharp objects, such as glass or metal shards. Be sure to wear protective gear and handle these items with care to avoid injury.</span></li>
<li value="10"><span><strong>Legal Considerations</strong> - Some storage lockers may contain items that have legal implications, such as firearms or illegal drugs. Be sure to follow local laws and regulations and properly dispose of any illegal items found.</span></li>
</ol><p dir="ltr"><span>Cleaning out a storage locker can be a fun and exciting adventure, but it can also pose a number of challenges and potential hazards. By being aware of the risks and taking steps to protect yourself and others, you can ensure a safe and successful storage locker cleanout.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We hope these tips and guidelines have been helpful in preparing you for your next storage locker adventure!</span></p><hr><p dir="ltr"><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!</span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72873262023-10-13T12:19:43-04:002023-10-13T12:19:43-04:00The Pros and Cons of Bidding on Storage Units Online Versus In-Person<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/d1deff7da531a82144a8fb2fac4f21b93f3a776b/original/gavel-bid.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Are you a small business reseller or a storage auction buyer looking to expand your inventory? If so, you're likely torn between bidding on storage units online or in person. Both options have their pros and cons, and it can be difficult to decide which is the best choice for you.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>In this blog post, we'll take a look at the advantages and disadvantages of each and help you make an informed decision.</span></p><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Advantages of Bidding on Storage Units Online:</span></h2><ul>
<li value="1"><span>Convenience - One of the most significant benefits of bidding on storage units online is the convenience it provides. You can bid from the comfort of your home or office, without having to physically be at the storage facility. This is particularly helpful if you're bidding on units located in different cities or states.</span></li>
<li value="2"><span>Larger Selection - Online storage auction sites typically have a more extensive selection of units than those held in-person. This is because storage facilities from various locations can auction their units on a single online platform, providing buyers with a wider range of options.</span></li>
<li value="3"><span>Flexibility - Online storage auctions usually allow for more flexibility when it comes to bidding. You can set a maximum bid and automate your bidding process so that you don't have to constantly monitor the auction.</span></li>
</ul><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Disadvantages of Bidding on Storage Units Online:</span></h2><ul>
<li value="1"><span>Limited Inspection - Bidding online means that you won't be able to physically inspect the unit before placing your bid. You'll only have access to photos and a brief description, which may not provide all of the information you need to make an informed decision.</span></li>
<li value="2"><span>Additional Fees - Online storage auction sites may charge additional fees, such as a buyer's premium, that you wouldn't incur if you were bidding in person.</span></li>
<li value="3"><span>Shipping Costs - If you win an online auction and the storage unit is located outside of your area, you'll need to factor in shipping costs to get it to your location. This can significantly increase the overall cost of the unit.</span></li>
</ul><h2 dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/0484f584d3185efbcd8c0321a9c0d7740a7be4e1/original/storage-auction-bugyers.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Advantages of Bidding on Storage Units in Person:</span></h2><ul>
<li value="1"><span>Physical Inspection - When you bid in person, you have the opportunity to physically inspect the unit before placing your bid. This can give you a better idea of the unit's contents, condition, and potential resale value.</span></li>
<li value="2"><span>No Additional Fees - When you bid in-person at a storage facility, you won't be charged any additional fees. The only cost you'll need to pay is your winning bid price.</span></li>
<li value="3"><span>Networking Opportunities - Bidding in person provides networking opportunities with other buyers, sellers, and industry professionals, which can be useful for expanding your contacts and learning about new opportunities.</span></li>
</ul><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Disadvantages of Bidding on Storage Units in Person:</span></h2><ul>
<li value="1"><span>Limited Selection - The storage units available for bidding in person are typically limited to those within your local area. This can be a disadvantage if you're looking for a specific type of unit that isn't available nearby.</span></li>
<li value="2"><span>Time-Consuming - In-person auctions can be time-consuming, and you may need to attend several auctions before finding the right unit. This can be a challenge if you're working with a tight schedule.</span></li>
<li value="3"><span>Competition - Bidding in person means that you're competing against other buyers who are physically present at the auction. This can lead to higher bids and a lower chance of winning the unit you're interested in.</span></li>
</ul><h2 dir="ltr"><span>Conclusion:</span></h2><p dir="ltr"><span>In conclusion, the decision to bid on storage units online or in person ultimately comes down to personal preference and priorities. If convenience and flexibility are essential, online bidding may be the best choice, while if physical inspection and networking are more important, in-person bidding may be the way to go.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Ultimately, success in the storage auction business requires a combination of knowledge, skills, and experience, so take the time to familiarize yourself with both options and choose the one that aligns best with your goals. Happy bidding!</span></p><hr><p dir="ltr"><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!</span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72870122023-10-12T20:49:22-04:002024-02-01T05:24:00-05:0010 Resources to Help You Become a Better Small Business Owner<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/8d0fd8534ccad5a500ed6ad73ccb3b90cea7e5e2/original/increase-business-value.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Running a small business is a challenging endeavor, but fortunately, an array of resources is available to help you navigate the path to success. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Here are ten resources(with links) that can enhance your skills and knowledge as a small business owner.</span></p><ol>
<li value="1">
<strong>Small Business Administration (SBA):</strong><span> The SBA offers a wealth of resources for small business owners, including training programs, funding options, and guidance on legal regulations. - </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.sba.gov/"><span>https://www.sba.gov/</span></a><span> </span>
</li>
<li value="2">
<strong>SCORE:</strong><span> A nonprofit association partnered with the SBA, SCORE provides free business mentoring and education. - </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.score.org/"><span>https://www.score.org/</span></a><span> </span>
</li>
<li value="3">
<strong>Entrepreneur Magazine:</strong><span> This publication offers insights into the latest market trends, tips for business growth, and inspiring success stories. - </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.entrepreneur.com/magazine"><span>https://www.entrepreneur.com/magazine</span></a><span> </span>
</li>
<li value="4">
<strong>LinkedIn Learning:</strong><span> Here, you can access courses on a wide range of business topics, from marketing to finance. - </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://learning.linkedin.com/"><span>https://learning.linkedin.com/</span></a><span> </span>
</li>
<li value="5">
<strong>Google My Business:</strong><span> Utilize this tool to increase your visibility on Google Search and Maps. - </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.google.com/intl/es/business/sign-up/"><span>https://www.google.com/intl/es/business/sign-up/</span></a><span> </span>
</li>
<li value="6">
<strong>QuickBooks:</strong><span> This software simplifies financial management for small businesses, helping you keep track of your finances. - </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://quickbooks.intuit.com/"><span>https://quickbooks.intuit.com/</span></a><span> </span>
</li>
<li value="7">
<strong>HubSpot Blog:</strong><span> A go-to resource for marketing, sales, and customer service insights. - </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://blog.hubspot.com/"><span>https://blog.hubspot.com/</span></a><span> </span>
</li>
<li value="8">
<strong>Canva:</strong><span> This design tool helps you create professional-looking marketing materials, even without design expertise. - </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.canva.com/"><span>https://www.canva.com/</span></a><span> </span>
</li>
<li value="9">
<strong>Slack:</strong><span> A communication platform that can enhance collaboration within your team. - </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://slack.com/"><span>https://slack.com/</span></a><span> </span>
</li>
<li value="10">
<strong>Meetup:</strong><span> Search for local business networking events to connect with fellow entrepreneurs and potential customers. - </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.meetup.com/"><span>https://www.meetup.com/</span></a><span> </span>
</li>
</ol><p dir="ltr"><span>Each of these resources offers unique benefits to small business owners. By leveraging them, you can augment your business savvy, streamline operations, and ultimately, enjoy a more prosperous entrepreneurial journey.</span></p><hr><p><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want. </span><o:p></o:p></p><p><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!<o:p></o:p></span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72870022023-10-12T20:39:54-04:002023-10-12T20:39:54-04:005 Great Ways to Scale Your Storage Auction Reselling Business<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/1ff7420674a20b4981e1481a0760ac4f490b4ae7/original/scaling.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Scaling your Storage Auction Reselling Business can seem daunting, but there are effective strategies that can significantly boost your profits, streamline operations, and set you on the path for long-term success. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>Here are five great ways to scale your business:</span></p><ol>
<li value="1">
<strong>Invest in Inventory Management Software:</strong><span> Leveraging technology is a game-changer for any reselling business. Inventory management software can help you track your products, manage your listings, and analyze your sales patterns, enabling you to make data-driven decisions.</span>
</li>
<li value="2">
<strong>Build a Network:</strong><span> Networking with other resellers and industry insiders can provide valuable insights, potential partnerships, and opportunities for bulk purchases. Attend industry meet-ups, engage in online forums, and don't shy away from asking questions.</span>
</li>
<li value="3">
<strong>Specialize in a Niche:</strong><span> Specializing in a specific type of item or category can help you become an expert in that area, attract a dedicated customer base, and allow you to charge higher prices for your specialized knowledge.</span>
</li>
<li value="4">
<strong>Expand Your Sales Channels:</strong><span> Don't limit yourself to one platform. Consider selling on multiple online marketplaces such as eBay, Amazon, and even social media platforms. This diversification can reduce risk and increase your customer reach.</span>
</li>
<li value="5">
<strong>Customer Service Excellence:</strong><span> Never underestimate the power of excellent customer service. A satisfied customer is more likely to repeat business and refer others. Strive to provide quick responses, easy transaction processes, and hassle-free returns.</span>
</li>
</ol><p dir="ltr"><span>Remember, scaling a business doesn't happen overnight. It takes time, effort, and a lot of learning along the way. But with these strategies in place, you'll be well on your way to scaling your Storage Auction Reselling Business to new heights.</span></p><hr><p><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want. </span><o:p></o:p></p><p><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!<o:p></o:p></span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72869772023-10-12T20:29:19-04:002023-10-12T20:29:20-04:0010 Ways to Better Organize Your Storage Auction Purchases<p dir="ltr"><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/69569f38a59279d4fe2f47aebe2a966621674c35/original/storage-6.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Purchasing items from a storage auction can be an exciting endeavor. The thrill of the hunt, the mystery of what you will find, and the potential for uncovering hidden treasures can be an enticing prospect. However, it can quickly become chaotic if you lack a system for organizing your finds. Here are ten tips to help you better manage your storage auction purchases.</span></p><ol>
<li value="1">
<strong>Catalog Your Purchases:</strong><span> As soon as you win an item, take a moment to catalogue it. Detail what the item is, any distinguishing features, and the price you paid for it. This record-keeping will be invaluable when you resell the items.</span>
</li>
<li value="2">
<strong>Use Labels:</strong><span> Labeling your items can save you significant time and headache. Use a simple system that makes sense to you - it could be by item type, date of purchase, or potential resale value.</span>
</li>
<li value="3">
<strong>Implement a Storage System:</strong><span> Invest in shelves, bins, or storage units to keep your items organized and accessible. It will also protect them from potential damage.</span>
</li>
<li value="4">
<strong>Create an Inventory System:</strong><span> An inventory system will help you keep track of what’s sold and what’s still available. It can be as simple as a spreadsheet.</span>
</li>
<li value="5">
<strong>Clean and Repair Immediately:</strong><span> As soon as you bring your items home, clean and repair them if needed. You'll appreciate not having these tasks pile up later.</span>
</li>
<li value="6">
<strong>Photograph Items:</strong><span> Take quality photos of your items as soon as possible. This will help with online sales and insurance purposes.</span>
</li>
<li value="7">
<strong>Stay on Top of Paperwork:</strong><span> Keep receipts, contracts, and other important documents related to your purchases organized and in one place.</span>
</li>
<li value="8">
<strong>Keep a 'To Sell' List:</strong><span> Maintain a list of items you plan to sell, where you plan to sell them, and the price you hope to achieve.</span>
</li>
<li value="9">
<strong>Regularly Re-evaluate Your Inventory:</strong><span> Regularly look through your inventory to re-evaluate items. Your perspective on their value might change over time.</span>
</li>
<li value="10">
<strong>Never Stop Learning:</strong><span> Continually educate yourself about different items and their values. The more knowledge you have, the easier it will be to stay organized and make profitable decisions.</span>
</li>
</ol><p dir="ltr"><span>Remember, organization is key to making the most out of your storage auction purchases. Follow these tips, and you'll be well on your way to becoming a more efficient and successful bidder.</span></p><hr><p><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want. </span><o:p></o:p></p><p><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!<o:p></o:p></span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72869762023-10-12T20:23:49-04:002023-10-12T20:23:49-04:00Ten Things You Can Do With Your Storage Auction Treasures<p><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/1ad6b8d5416924ab3c196f08d2bc9ccaafadf7e7/original/storage-5.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" />One key to success is having a multi-faceted plan for the items you acquire in a storage auction. If not careful, inventory can become overwhelming, very quickly. </span></p><p><span>Here are <strong>10 things you can do</strong> with your storage treasures:<o:p></o:p></span></p><ol>
<li><span><strong>Repurpose Furniture:</strong> Old furniture can be given a new life with a fresh coat of paint or by being repurposed for a different use.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li>
<span><strong>Sell Items Online:</strong> Platforms like </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.ebay.com/" target="_blank" data-link-type="url"><span>eBay</span></a><span>, </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.etsy.com/" target="_blank" data-link-type="url"><span>Etsy</span></a><span>, </span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.mercari.com/" target="_blank" data-link-type="url"><span>Mercari</span></a><span>, Craigslist, or Facebook Marketplace can be great for selling unused items.<o:p></o:p></span>
</li>
<li><span><strong>Start a Vintage Clothing Store:</strong> Old clothes can be popular among vintage enthusiasts.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Donate to Charity:</strong> Less valuable items can be donated to local charities or thrift stores.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Create Art:</strong> Old items can be used to create unique pieces of art or installations. <o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Upcycling:</strong> Turn old items into something new and useful, like turning old wooden crates into a shelving unit.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Create a Rental Service:</strong> Tools and equipment left in storage lockers can be rented out to those who need them for a short time.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Host a Garage Sale:</strong> This is an easy way to get rid of a lot of items quickly while making some money.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Use Items for DIY Home Improvements:</strong> Old doors, windows, or hardware can add character to a home renovation project.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Auction Items:</strong> Rare or valuable items could potentially make more at an auction compared to a direct sale.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol><p><span>Effective organization and inventory management are crucial when dealing with items acquired from storage auctions. Without a proper system in place, it's easy to lose track of what you have, potentially missing opportunities to sell or utilize items effectively. An organized inventory allows you to quickly assess which items can be sold, donated, or repurposed, and which ones could potentially bring you a significant return on investment. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>Moreover, good inventory management ensures you don't overstock, helping to avoid storage space issues and unnecessary expenses. Beyond the financial aspect, keeping your inventory well-organized can save you time and reduce stress, making the entire process of managing your storage treasures a more enjoyable and rewarding experience.<o:p></o:p></span></p><hr><p><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want. </span><o:p></o:p></p><p><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!<o:p></o:p></span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72869752023-10-12T20:18:08-04:002023-10-12T20:18:08-04:00How To Evaluate Storage Auction Units<p><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/9be337481af4d39e6e375a27c87c90c55e66a0e5/original/person-holding-a-notepad-3614765.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Adopting effective strategies to <strong>evaluate locker contents</strong> can significantly mitigate the risks associated with storage auctioning. </span></p><p><span>First and foremost, bidders should bring a <strong>flashlight </strong>to the auction. This allows a better visual assessment of the locker contents during the brief period prior to bidding. </span></p><p><span>Secondly, the presence of <strong>dust and cobwebs</strong> can indicate that the locker hasn't been accessed for a while, which may increase the chances of finding valuable items. </span></p><p><span>Thirdly, recognizing <strong>brand names</strong> on boxes or appliances can give an indication of potential value. High-quality brands usually indicate more valuable items. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>Moreover, understanding common tells can also prove beneficial. For instance, <strong>heavy boxes </strong>suggest the presence of durable goods, while the presence of <strong>professional moving boxes</strong> may indicate a higher quality of items within. </span></p><p><span>Finally, bidders should always set a <strong>maximum bid</strong> before the auction starts to avoid getting swept away in the heat of the moment. This helps ensure they stay within their budget and increase their chances of making a profit.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>Successful bidding in storage auctions requires strategic planning and keen observation. Here are some useful tips to enhance your bidding success:<o:p></o:p></span></p><ol>
<li><span><strong>Conduct Preliminary Research:</strong> Before participating in an auction, conduct a preliminary research about the auctioneer and the auction itself. Familiarize yourself with the auction rules, and try to glean any additional information about the locker units being auctioned.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Arrive Early:</strong> Arriving early provides an opportunity to register for the auction, get a good viewing spot, and observe the crowd dynamics.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Observe Other Bidders:</strong> Pay attention to regular participants and seasoned bidders. Observing their bidding techniques and behaviors can provide valuable insights.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Start Small:</strong> If you're new to storage auctions, it's advisable to start with smaller bids to gain experience without risking substantial loss.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Stay Calm and Composed:</strong> It's easy to get caught up in the competitive nature of auctions. However, maintaining a calm and composed demeanor allows you to make clear-headed decisions.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span><strong>Bid with Confidence:</strong> When you decide to bid, do so with confidence. A confident demeanor can sometimes dissuade other bidders from driving up the price.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol><p><span>Remember, the key to successful bidding lies in patience, observation, and strategic decision-making.</span></p><hr><p><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want. </span><o:p></o:p></p><p><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!<o:p></o:p><o:p></o:p></span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72869732023-10-12T20:12:20-04:002023-10-12T20:12:20-04:00It Ain't Worth It: Storage Auction Losers<p><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/c7bf6a3b56fdbf1e954bddd5b074f1ee4aa778cb/original/storage-4.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Despite the potential for significant returns, storage auctioning does not come without risks. The most prominent risk is the uncertainty surrounding the locker contents. While a locker might contain valuable items, there's also a strong possibility that it could be filled with worthless or broken objects, resulting in a financial loss. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>This risk is further exacerbated by the fact that bidders often only get a quick glance at the storage unit before bidding, denying them the opportunity to thoroughly assess the items. Additionally, even when a locker holds valuable items, turning them into cash requires time, effort, and a willingness to navigate the second-hand market. Lastly, there is the risk of potential legal complications if the locker contains illegal items or personal documents of the previous owner.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>We like to say "Everything has </span><i><span>some </span></i><span>sort of value to it." But the reality is, some things are just beyond using. Some of the worthless things you might expect to find in your storage locker auctions include:</span></p><ol>
<li><span>Damaged Furniture: Items such as sofas, tables, or chairs that are severely worn, broken, or stained.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Outdated Electronics: Older models of televisions, computers, or other electronic devices that are no longer functional or valuable.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Expired Food and Beverages: Cans, bottles, or other food items that have surpassed their use-by date.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Obsolete Media: Formats like cassette tapes, VHS tapes, or floppy disks that are no longer in use.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Broken Toys: Pieces of games or toys that are damaged, missing parts, or no longer functional.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Worn-out Clothes: Clothing that is stained, torn, or excessively used.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Useless Paperwork: Old bills, outdated manuals, or irrelevant documents that have no value.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Damaged Books: Books that are torn, water-damaged, or have missing pages.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Spoiled Cosmetics: Makeup or skincare products that are past their expiry date or have been opened and unused for a long time.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Worthless Knick-Knacks: Decorative items that are broken, chipped, or of no particular value.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ol><hr><p><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!</span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72869702023-10-12T20:07:15-04:002023-10-12T20:07:16-04:00What Can You Expect To Find In Abandoned Storage Lockers?<p><span><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/bbc466dfc312db7a0b202c9f86a498ee527d7814/original/storage-3.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Bidding on storage lockers whose renters have defaulted on their monthly rent can potentially yield significant financial advantages. This practice, commonly referred to as <strong>storage auctioning</strong>, allows bidders to purchase the entire contents of a locker at a fraction of its potential market value. Often, these lockers contain valuable items such as electronics, furniture, and occasionally, rare collectibles which can be sold for a considerable profit. <o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>Moreover, the element of mystery associated with the contents of each locker adds an exciting risk-reward dynamic to the process. However, successful bidding requires a discerning eye, some knowledge of second-hand market values and a well-planned strategy to ensure investments yield a positive return.<o:p></o:p></span></p><p><span>Some of the things you can expect to find in most storage locker auctions include:</span></p><ol>
<li><span>Furniture: This could include a wide range of items such as antique dressers, tables, chairs, or sofas.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Electronics: Common finds might be televisions, stereos, computers, or kitchen appliances.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Collectibles: These can range from coins, stamps, and trading cards to more unique items like vintage toys or memorabilia.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Artwork: Paintings, sculptures, or prints can often be found, especially in more upscale neighborhoods.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Sports Equipment: Items like golf clubs, bicycles, or camping gear are frequently found in storage units.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Tools: Power tools, hand tools, and yard tools are common finds.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Clothing: This could include everyday wear, but occasionally, you might find designer clothing, vintage pieces, or even wedding dresses.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Jewelry: While rare, it's possible to find jewelry – both costume and fine – in storage lockers.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Musical Instruments: Guitars, pianos, or brass instruments can sometimes be found.<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span>Personal Documents: Things like photo albums, letters, or diaries often end up in storage lockers, serving as a poignant reminder of the locker's previous owner.</span></li>
</ol><hr><p dir="ltr"><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a <strong>like </strong>or <strong>share </strong>it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the <strong>comments </strong>- we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!</span></p><p><span><o:p></o:p></span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/72868892023-10-12T15:56:14-04:002023-10-12T16:03:38-04:00Ten Ways To Grow Your Storage Auction Clean-Out Business<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/392056/ee2755be8a2c457b1c1d67725b155550c1a13a6a/original/storage-2.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Storage auction clean-out businesses are a great way to make money. These businesses involve purchasing the contents of storage units, then cleaning out the unit and selling the contents for a profit. However, like any business, it takes work to build a successful storage auction clean-out business. In this article, we will go over ten ways to grow your storage auction clean-out business and increase your profits.</p><ol>
<li>Build a network: In order to be successful with a storage auction clean-out business, you need to build a network of contacts. This includes buyers, sellers, and other industry professionals. Attend auctions, trade shows, and other events to meet people in the industry and build relationships.</li>
<li>Expand your services: Don't just stick to clean-outs. Offer additional services such as appraisals, auctions, and estate sales. This will not only increase your income but also set you apart from competitors.</li>
<li>Invest in marketing: Don't rely solely on word-of-mouth. Invest in marketing to reach a broader audience. This might include social media advertising, print ads, or even a website.</li>
<li>Build a strong online presence: In today's digital age, having a strong online presence is crucial. Make sure to have a website, social media profiles, and online listings for your business.</li>
<li>Focus on customer service: Customer service is a crucial part of any business. Make sure you respond to inquiries promptly, are transparent with pricing, and treat customers with respect.</li>
<li>Streamline processes: Efficiency is key to profitability. Streamline your processes to save time and money. This might include investing in software to manage inventory or hiring additional staff to speed up clean-outs.</li>
<li>Offer competitive pricing: Your pricing should be competitive with other businesses in the industry. However, don't undervalue your services. Make sure your pricing covers your costs and provides a reasonable profit margin.</li>
<li>Stay up-to-date on industry trends: The storage auction industry is constantly evolving. Stay up-to-date on trends and changes to stay ahead of the competition.</li>
<li>Attend industry events: Attend events such as trade shows, conferences, and auctions to stay informed about the industry and to build relationships with others in the business.</li>
<li>Seek out new opportunities: Don't be afraid to seek out new opportunities. This might include expanding into new markets or services, partnering with other businesses, or even franchising your business.</li>
</ol><p>Growing a storage auction clean-out business takes work, but with the right strategies, it can be a profitable venture. Building a strong network, expanding services, investing in marketing, and focusing on customer service are just a few ways to grow your business. Remember to stay up-to-date on industry trends, streamline processes, and seek out new opportunities to continue to grow and succeed in the industry.</p><p dir="ltr"><span>We hope you have found this post informative and beneficial. This was only a brief overview but it hopefully provides an adequate foundation for further research and exploration. Hopefully the ideas shared here will be helpful for your own endeavors. We encourage you to spend time researching more detailed information or contact us for assistance if you want.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span>We'd also love to hear from you so please feel free to reach out with questions, comments, or feedback. Finally, feel free to give this post a like or share it with someone who may benefit from its contents, and if you enjoyed this post, please let us know in the comments - we really appreciate hearing from our readers! Thank you again for joining us today and have a wonderful day!</span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/71402732023-01-19T11:24:14-05:002023-05-03T11:45:25-04:00The Social Savage<p><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/1fe0e3fcde913bb78d0ef604770e22bb88a764f1/original/untitled-design.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_left border_none" alt="" /><span class="font_large">The Social Savage </span></strong></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>Has Social Media Released a Savage Beast? </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When it comes to human nature, I confess, I can be a bit of a pessimist. I’m ashamed to say that even as a Christian, I wind up letting my negative opinions get the best of me and many times, gloss right over the idea of looking at people around me through the eyes of Christ. It’s one of my biggest challenges. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">There are times when, after something encouraging happens, I’ll have a burst of positivity and think “Wow. People really are basically good.” And at my core, I do genuinely believe, or at least want to believe that. It’s a fight, for me, to find a healthy balance between optimism and skepticism. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But social media has complicated that struggle for most of us. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The social media landscape has, as many would say, pulled back the veil that separates raw human nature and the rules of appropriateness. In the words of Helen “Mama” Boucher, <em>“what they call…da social skills.” </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Imagine a scene where a man meets a woman and she asks him for his opinion on her dress. In most cases, the man would respond in an number of ways, making sure to stay within the boundaries of empathy, honesty and personal taste. These are “da social skills”, or the understanding that you can’t just say whatever you want. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/fd8ce480b0fca80c5960447ec8ca3d4d4fe6ec3f/original/social-media-image.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpeg" class="size_l justify_right border_none" alt="" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Some Social Scientists believe that it’s this fragile understanding that makes members of society able to peacefully coexist with one another. They theorize that with a lack of this understanding, people would behave in a lawless, selfish, hateful manner. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now imagine the same man and woman and the same question about her dress, only this time, the man is wearing a disguise that completely hides his identity. If he knew he could not be recognized and consequently, held accountable for the consequences of his response, would he still behave in the same manner as before? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Some believe that answer would be “no”. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If we were to shield ourselves in the cover of anonymity, would we still feel compelled to follow the typical rules of societal engagement? Or would we follow those rules to a different degree? Or would we abandon them, completely? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It seems like these are nearly impossible questions, except for the introduction of social media. The cloak of invisibility, brought to life. The perfect mask that gives us the ability to be unconforming to societal norms, without cost. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As a social media participant, many would say that we are able to be our true selves, without the lie of empathy, driven by social expectations. Basically, we can let our hair down, and nobody will know. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/949c74cfb21356a9eea46635e5621a0486043000/original/social-media-3.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpeg" class="size_l justify_left border_none" alt="" />So when we do “let it go”, what does that look like? Are we kind? Loving? Shy? Mean? Selfish? Hateful? Do we adhere to any of the rules that have formed us, or do we see what it feels like to go on a virtual bender? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We recently posted a job on one of the social media marketplaces. It was a simple job that didn’t require much and consequently, didn’t offer to pay much. What happened over the next few hours was something that I cannot understand. It has happened before, and yet, I still cannot begin to understand why. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If my posting was unappealing to you, then normally, you would see it, shake your head, then scroll on. If it was a direct attack on you or your family or friends or even a stranger that you had compassion for…then I could see the logic of you choosing to weigh in with an opinion or suggestion or even a scolding, if you felt strongly enough. That would all be, staying within the boundaries of typical, public, social guidelines. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But when you jump in with an unprovoked jab…that isn’t normal. That’s antagonistic. That’s picking a fight for no reason. That’s the equivalent of walking by a guy on the sidewalk, noticing his Nike shoes, and stopping to yell out in front of everyone, what opinions you have about said shoes. But the anonymity of social media gives us a new sense of boldness. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But it doesn’t stop there. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/3a6c809869f4272e7203c01e55edbf33fc056e14/original/social-media-image-2.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpeg" class="size_l justify_right border_none" alt="" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Being surrounded by other social media citizens who also share the virtual gift of obscurity, one by one, they begin to join the party. That’s what happened on our post. What began as a single, unsolicited opinion, turned into 5, then, 20, then a hundred. And each one, growing exponentially in bravery, until eventually their verbal jaunts became personal. Very personal. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Soon assumptions were made about my view of people. Then my financial status. Then the insults start…stupid, idiot, dumb ass. And should I <em>dare </em>to defend myself or fire back, such threats are met with immediate and brutal rebuttal. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It’s this <em>Lord of The Flies</em> mob mentality that comes over us like some dark, hungry wave that decides to destroy whatever stands in its way. It’s concerning to me, because despite my best efforts to cling to my faith and my determined belief in the decency of mankind, things like this make it hard. If not impossible. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Are we really that naturally, instinctively hateful? Are we predisposed to aggression and dominance? Are we just cannibals at heart, only denying our appetite for flesh because of the sheer curtain of our own interpersonal edicts? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Shame on us, for releasing our Krakens on one another. Surely, we are better than this. Surely we have evolved beyond the animal behavior of our ancestors. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Or has social media revealed to us, the savagery that lies within us all?</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"># # #</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><a href="https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-100765785-12351170" target="_top"><img src="https://www.tqlkg.com/image-100765785-12351170" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="120x90 logo" height="90" width="120" /></a> <a href="https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-100765778-15124817" target="_blank"> <img src="https://www.awltovhc.com/image-100765778-15124817" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="250" width="300" /></a> <a href="https://www.kqzyfj.com/click-100765778-15140453" target="_blank"> <img src="https://www.lduhtrp.net/image-100765778-15140453" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="480" width="320" /></a></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/70177822022-07-19T10:16:39-04:002022-07-30T05:16:04-04:00Why Is TikTok So Hateful?<p><span class="font_large">There’s no way around it. </span><span class="font_large">We live in a world where social media is almost inescapable. Especially if you’re using it for business. If you’re a small business owner and you aren’t exercising some level of social media power, then you’re shooting yourself in the foot. It’s a reality that we can’t ignore. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/072cdd0ca0a182f3d1503681ab9d0cd0a96450c2/original/tiktok-phone.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpeg" class="size_l justify_left border_none" alt="" />The same applies to us. Granted, I enjoy social media on a personal level. And for business, something like Facebook has been a Godsend for us. <a contents="Our YouTube channel" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKck10j6FJz8xndAJnPB9uQ" target="_blank"><strong>Our YouTube channel</strong></a> is a viable source of income. And thousands of our customers use <strong>Pinterest </strong>to inspire them for a large percentage of our custom orders. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And then…there’s <strong>TikTok</strong>. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>Holy cow. </em>It’s a whole new world over there. And for me, being a middle-aged guy, it’s hard for me to acclimate to that crowd. The typical TikTok demographic is very young, very outspoken and very liberal. <em>All the things I’m not. </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So how do I make viable use of a platform that is impossible to ignore these days? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A few weeks ago, we had <a contents="a TikTok video go viral" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.tiktok.com/@avfricky/video/7111506641089989930?is_copy_url=1&is_from_webapp=v1" target="_blank"><strong>a TikTok video go viral</strong></a>. While our typical posts got around 200 views, this one is at <strong>4.1 million views</strong>, and counting! And in the space of a few days, we went from 1,500 followers to over 20K. That’s enough to make you sit up and listen. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So my first thought was, how do I turn these viewers into potential customers? Not being impersonal, but as a small business, that’s a reasonable question. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/87e0c466cdb055407ffb9c2f85206365d2368a82/original/social-media-business.png/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.png" class="size_l justify_right border_none" alt="" />But in the course of interacting with our new group, I must say that I wasn’t prepared for the wide range of comments we received. As we sifted through tens of thousands of comments, I was caught completely off-guard at the hatefulness people threw our way. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Unfounded accusations. Personal attacks. Jokes about my voice or my hair. Assumptions about my family or my beliefs. It was just <em>horrifying</em>. I had never run into such a wave of outright meanness before. I'm not built for this. <em>I wasn't raised like this!</em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">One thing that particularly surprised me was that the TikTok world (in general) is all about inclusiveness. Acceptance. Tolerance. <em>But not here.</em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It was obvious that these were not people interested in accepting everyone or loving people as they are. But people who would destroy anyone who didn't do, say or think what they thought was appropriate.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Growing up in a fairly protected community, with a strong family and a lifelong tie to our church, this wasn't "normal" for me. This definitely wasn't what Jesus would've done!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But I found out very quickly, that those kinds of comments, even though they were hugely outweighed by positive comments, were playing right into my humanness. My personality. Which is one of a little insecurity, uncertainty and defensiveness. And so my reaction was to hit back. And I think that's part of the reason for the app's success. It knows who we are...it knows what makes us tick.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">After spending hours and hours replying to all these hateful jabs, I started to understand what was happening. It was making <em>me </em>act just like <em>them</em>. I was <strong>reacting </strong>instead of <strong>acting </strong>with logic or intention. In short, I was letting my emotions get the best of me...leading with my heart and not my head.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Of course I also received hundreds of comments that told me to ignore them or not to engage, but that’s easier said than done. In my mind, there was a digital world of new “friends” who were watching and wondering what I would say back. Or if I would be weak and just take it. It was like middle school recess all over again, only magnified, globally. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I realize the danger now, but I still don’t have the answer. No, I won’t have the will power to completely walk away, but hopefully I can temper my responses. And no I won’t let it consume me, but it does still affect me. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I’ve decided to try to respond as infrequently as possible to these insults. And when I do, not to be hateful or spiteful or intentionally mean. My goal shouldn’t be to “embarrass them back”. But I’ll try to be diffusing in my reply, either with humor or kindness. It’s hard, but I feel like it’s the only thing I can do. The only thing I can reasonably expect of myself. And I'll pray that God will create opportunities for me to redirect things with a kind word or something smartly said.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/03b7068223705d48bc80ca048e607a8bca75d693/original/kids-tiktok.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpeg" class="size_l justify_left border_none" alt="" />On a final note, this made me think about our kids on TikTok. <em>My kids</em> on TikTok. To completely ban them from the app is definitely an option, but I don’t know if that’s the wisest choice. They’re going to encounter all manner of things in life and they can’t always just ignore them or pretend they aren’t there. They have to learn to handle them. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So my goal, and maybe this is a goal other parents can adopt and adapt, is to try to ensure a constant line of communication between them and me. Something that lets them share situations or interactions with me so I can have the opportunity to weigh in. Maybe impart a little wisdom. And be heavy handed when needed. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">TikTok, IMHO is a volatile place. And for the most part, it’s not something I like. But parts of it, I do. And again, as a tool, and as a part of business and of society, it’s almost unavoidable. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Here’s looking ahead to using it in a way that is safe and beneficial, and avoiding the attraction of arguing with relative anonymity. It’s useful and beautiful and dangerous, and something to be handled with care, like any tool in our shop.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you have thoughts on this or on TikTok in general or would like to share your own social media experiences, definitely <strong>leave a comment</strong> and let us know. <strong>We'd love to hear your thoughts!</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Peace - Ricky</span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/70163872022-07-16T20:12:12-04:002023-10-29T07:45:57-04:00Paint Brush Bristles: What Kind Are Best?<h2><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/c5c0168ee2e0d7c63ccb53770926cc1b03aa6302/original/paintbrush-gf25f36285-1920.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_none" alt="" /><span class="font_large">Paint Brush Bristles: What Kind Are Best?</span>
</h2>
<p><span class="font_large">Here's a question that we received from one of our followers, RAFAJULO on YouTube.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Every time I use a finish (<a contents="Polycrylic" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.minwax.com/en/products/protective-finishes/polycrylic-protective-finish" target="_blank">Polycrylic</a>), I seem to get small air bubbles as I'm spreading. I stir slowly, I don't shake the can, I brush it on slow but I always have this problem. What am I doing wrong? </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Maybe nothing. I have learned that different bristles are better for different finishes. I use a synthetic brush and have no issues, so maybe try that. Also, when I get bubbles (and it happens often), I have to "tip off" the finish by just gently skimming over the surface. That pops out some of them. If that doesn't work, a very light pass with a butane torch will pop them out as well. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And then again, it may not be you.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I work in an open-air carport so temperature and humidity can have a dramatic affect on my finishing results. The hotter and/or more humid it is (think July here in North GA), the harder it is to get a bubble-free finish without a lot of care. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And come to think of it...having said all that, this is probably a good time for a word on paint brush bristles. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So FYI paint brushes are made with two general types of bristles. <strong>Synthetic</strong>, which are man-made, and <strong>Natural</strong>, which are made from animal hair. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>“So what are the differences?” </em>And that would be a great question. While there have been entire books written about bristles, I’ll try to answer this as simply as possible. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large"><strong>SYNTHETIC BRISTLES</strong></span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">In general, use synthetic bristle brushes for water-based finishes, such as latex or acrylic paint, water-based polyurethane (like <a contents="Polycrylic" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.minwax.com/en/products/protective-finishes/polycrylic-protective-finish" target="_blank"><strong>Polycrylic</strong></a>), or water-based stains. Natural bristles tend to soak up a lot more water than a synthetic bristle, so they can get overly soft and give you a less-than-sharp finish, over time. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Synthetic bristles are generally good for finishes that can be cleaned up with water because they don’t “pick up” paint as well as their natural counterparts…for the most part.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">What is “pick up”, you ask? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Pick up is <em>absorption</em>. Meaning, a brush with good pick up needs less dipping in the paint bucket. Its bristles tend to soak up the paint more readily, so you can paint more per stroke. And that’s a good thing…except good pick up is typically balanced out with lower durability. But I digress...</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Synthetic bristle brushes are available in either basic “synthetic” or in a variety of Synthetic Blends, such as a Nylon/Poly Blend, which uses the blend to help the brush maintain its shape over time, pick up better, etc, among other things. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A <strong>Chinex </strong>brush would be at the top end of the synthetic spectrum, and well worth the investment. Chinex brushes are touted for their ability to handle both oil and water-based finishes, hold their shape and offer excellent pick up. They're almost the best of both worlds.</span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large"><strong>NATURAL BRISTLES</strong></span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">Natural bristle brushes might also be called <strong>Black China</strong>, <strong>White China</strong>, <strong>Sable </strong>or <strong>Ox Hair Blend</strong> OR many other industry names. These guys are great for oil-based finishes, aka finishes that require something like Mineral Spirits to be cleaned. Like traditional stains, oil-based paints, polyurethanes, enamels, shellac and varnish. Natural bristle brushes also typically provide a smoother finish. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A <strong>White China</strong> brush is known for its smooth finish. And an <strong>Ox Hair Blend</strong> is prized for its <em>incredibly </em>smooth results. A <strong>Black China</strong> brush is a little stiffer than the previous two and would be a great choice when doing a large volume of painting because they’re more durable. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When painting a more textured surface though, a natural bristle isn’t a great choice because they are all relatively delicate. A rough surface (such as textured brick or stucco) will break off the ends of the bristles and give them a frayed, “fuzzy” look. That’s when you demote your brush to sawdust removal from the crevices on your table saw. </span></p>
<h3><span class="font_large"><strong>IN THE END</strong></span></h3>
<p><span class="font_large">We use our fair share of cheap brushes from <a contents="Dollar Tree" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.dollartree.com/tool-bench-paint-brushes-with-wooden-handles-2-in/195005?gclid=CjwKCAjww8mWBhABEiwAl6-2RbwOji_faMJM00tcfaVHkAZG-EFeRLZq_SrwLqx0TF3aYt1-qLJ_YRoCzd0QAvD_BwE" target="_blank"><strong>Dollar Tree</strong></a> that we use once and then throw away, but when the finish is critical, there’s nothing like a great brush to make it happen. It pays to have at least one awesome mid-sized brush hanging on the wall, just for those special projects.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A reasonable quality brush should cost you somewhere between $10-20, although some may be more, depending on the size and brand. We happen to like <a contents="Purdy Brushes" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.purdy.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Purdy Brushes</strong></a> and I can vouch for their quality after having used them for well over 20 years. IMO a <a contents="Purdy " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.purdy.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Purdy </strong></a>is a brush you hand down to your kids. They're that good.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Check out a couple of our favorite candidates for your "One Awesome Brush". Like the <strong><a contents="Chinex Elite Club 2 Inch Brush" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.purdy.com/en/products/brushes/chinex-elite-cub" target="_blank">Purdy Chinex Elite Club 2 Inch Brush</a></strong> or the <strong><a contents="Black Bristle Swan 3 Inch Brush" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.purdy.com/en/products/brushes/black-bristle-swan" target="_blank">Purdy Black Bristle Swan 3 Inch Brush</a></strong>. It would be hard to go wrong with either of them and they wont break the bank.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I hope that helps! And if you have any questions for us about woodworking projects, techniques or tools, please <strong><a contents="CONTACT US" data-link-label="Contact" data-link-type="page" href="/contact">CONTACT US</a></strong>. We'd love to see if we can answer your question in detail.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Til then...peace, love and sawdust. Ricky</span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/68166142021-11-20T18:45:50-05:002021-11-21T07:30:20-05:00Tool Review: Hyper Tough Orbital Sander<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/6cd1a3e49160fac0a826c726494c9af82842df61/original/hyper-tough-sander.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpeg" class="size_l justify_left border_none" alt="" /><span class="font_large">A sander is an indispensable part of our tool lineup here at Apple Valley Farm, and in virtually any woodworking shop. So when our old Ryobi Random Orbit Sander finally died, we had to grab a quick replacement. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We decided to try out the inexpensive <strong>Hyper Tough 2.5 AMP 5 Inch Orbital Sander</strong> from <strong>Walmart</strong>. And wow, what a surprise! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>THE DETAILS </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Hyper Tough 2.5 AMP 5 Inch Orbital Sander spins at 13,000 OBM unloaded, has a dust-protected On/Off switch, and accepts any 5 inch hook and loop style, circular sanding pad. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It also comes with a dust collection bag, external dust collection adapter and a 2-year limited warranty. It weighs in at a light, 3.9 pounds and has dimensions of 5.25L x 7.50W x 6.56H inches. This is a corded model, with a 6-foot power cord. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">While the Hyper Tough is known for its availability in Walmart stores, it is also available in a number of online retail destinations. It typically retails for aprox $19.88 in Walmart, but may vary slightly at other retailers. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">It appears to have previously come in a Red housing, but ours was Black. Many online mentions of the Hyper Tough seem to show the Red version, for some reason. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/c5e90022afc992ddcfc9aa422f1239dab101e30a/original/hyper-tough-sander-2.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpeg" class="size_l justify_right border_none" alt="" />UNBOXING </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When we unboxed the Hyper Tough, we expected a simple, straight-forward tool. And it was. No frills, but no surprises. Everything was neatly packaged and undamaged. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Without looking at the included owners manual, we easily unboxed, attached the dust collection bag and attached one of the sanding pads. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Hyper Tough felt comfortable in the hand. Not too heavy. Not too light…which we were concerned about. But it felt solid. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I did notice however, that the exhaust vents were inconveniently placed right where my thumb and fingers would be when sanding. Not a safety concerns, but a misstep in design, IMO. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I also noticed that when hooking up the dust collection adapter and inserting my shop vac hose, the connection was very “untight”. Not loose, but just not tight enough to make me feel like it would stay in place once we started working. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>SANDING</strong> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Once everything was hooked up, connected and plugged in, we hit the power switch, which operated smoothly. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We expected a loud tool. But the Hyper Tough was not abnormally loud. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We also expected a lot of vibration. Again, not at all. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We wondered if power might be a problem. But working our way through pre-surfaced pine, a rough, oak pallet board, and a 100 year-old poplar barnboard with 150 grit, those fears were definitively laid to rest. No hesitation on any of our test materials. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Smooth, adequate and relatively quiet, the Hyper Tough seemed to work as well as any higher-priced sander we’ve used in the past. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>THE NEGATIVES </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As mentioned, the dust collection adapter did not provide a very snug fit for our standard shop vac hose end. And as expected, after about 10 seconds of use, it slipped out. We eventually just gave up and went with the dust collection bag. But that was disappointing. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I mentioned the exhaust vent placement. A minor faux pas, but a ding, nonetheless. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Also, a difference in speed from my old Ryobi, seemed to be very noticeable to me. There is a marked difference, but not what I thought. The Hyper Tough seemed to spin quite slowly, but when checking the specs, it spins nearly 3,000 OPMs faster (13,000) than the Ryobi (10,200). I’ll have to dig into this more and see what the pros and cons could be for this. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/bbb7af960c69625952cfe3325133ea8ec27304e7/original/sander-patterns.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_left border_none" alt="" />Finally, you may have noticed that the Hyper Tough is an ORBITAL sander. Not a RANDOM ORBIT sander. That means the spinning motion of the Hyper Tough is not complimented by a back-and-forth motion that helps to reduce swirl marks. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For me, I rarely do fine finish work. We do mostly rustic projects, so it isn’t a big deal. But just be forewarned, if you’re going to be picky about your final appearance. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Overall, not many negatives to be mentioned here. And what a pleasant surprise. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>IN THE END </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In the end, we actually liked the Hyper Tough quite a lot. And frankly, we didn’t expect to. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I do want to revisit this tool in 3-6 months and see how it’s holding up. If it does well in the log term, then we may just have stumbled on a new best friend. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And for more on this tool review, be sure to check out our video review on our <a contents="Apple Valley Farm YouTube Channel" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/7a0C47uJ2IM" target="_blank">Apple Valley Farm YouTube Channel</a>. - <a contents="https://youtu.be/7a0C47uJ2IM&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/7a0C47uJ2IM" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/7a0C47uJ2IM </a></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But overall, a big thumbs up to Walmart and Hyper Tough for knocking our socks off with a very affordable, very impressive little sander. We’d buy it again! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">*FYI, Apple Valley Farm is not sponsored by or partners with Walmart or Hyper Tough. This is an independent tool review. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Hyper Tough 2.5 AMP 5 Inch Orbital Sander on Walmart.com - <a contents="https://www.walmart.com/ip/HyperTough-2-5-Amp-Orbital-Sander-5-Inch-Corded-AQ20036G/787255254" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.walmart.com/ip/HyperTough-2-5-Amp-Orbital-Sander-5-Inch-Corded-AQ20036G/787255254" target="_blank">https://www.walmart.com/ip/HyperTough-2-5-Amp-Orbital-Sander-5-Inch-Corded-AQ20036G/787255254</a></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Sanding Patterns image, copied from Air & Pneumatic Tools - <a contents="https://airtoolsite.wordpress.com/2016/10/28/the-difference-between-random-orbital-sander-v-s-non-orbital-rotary-sander/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://airtoolsite.wordpress.com/2016/10/28/the-difference-between-random-orbital-sander-v-s-non-orbital-rotary-sander/" target="_blank">https://airtoolsite.wordpress.com/2016/10/28/the-difference-between-random-orbital-sander-v-s-non-orbital-rotary-sander/</a> </span></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/64835932020-11-22T22:23:45-05:002020-11-22T22:25:16-05:00Cleaning Up Your Bandsaw Cuts<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/b62f74682b9c42a0b12842989aeab45d195b8689/original/band-saw-1.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_left border_" /><span class="font_large">The band saw is an almost indispensable tool in the shop. But it can be hard to use well without a little experience. If you’re like us, the band saw blade can tend to wander, especially on those tough cuts. So how can you clean up your cuts…? </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Today, we’ll be sharing <strong>two super-easy tips</strong> that are <strong>guaranteed </strong>to help you produce better results on the bandsaw. Even if you’re a novice or using “bargain” level equipment. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>RULE NUMBER ONE: Continuity is your friend.</strong> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I know you want to cut a really perfect line, but the slower you go, the more you’re going to wander. There’s a sweet spot between too slow and too fast, and I can’t tell you exactly what yours will be. But with a little practice, you’ll find it. I call it “moving with a purpose”. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Be intentional and keep moving your piece through the blade and I promise, you’ll find yourself making straighter cuts in no time at all. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>RULE NUMBER TWO: Look ahead. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Your natural tendency is going to be to look at the point where your blade is contacting your workpiece. And yeah, of course you want to do that. But to make your cuts straight and natural, you need to <strong>widen your view</strong>. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Try looking about <strong>1 inch ahead of your cut</strong>, and allow your peripheral vision to take in the surrounding areas, like where your blade and wood meet up. That, coupled with Rule #1, and you’ll find your cuts taking on a whole new level of smoothness. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Again, everyone is different, so give yourself a little time and a little practice to find your groove. Once you do, you’ll immediately feel more confident with your cuts. I promise!</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Thanks for joining and I hope these tips will help you! And by no means are these the only things you can be doing, but they’re definitely a great place to start. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let us know what you think with a <strong>comment</strong>. And definitely <a contents="JOIN US" data-link-label="Join Us!" data-link-type="page" href="/join-us" target="_blank">JOIN US</a> and <strong>share </strong>this with your circle of friends. And if you have any suggestions for us, don’t be shy! We can always use your help! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">FYI, you can also watch our <a contents="YouTube video" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/A_ooLkPyeyQ" target="_blank"><strong>YouTube video</strong></a> on this over at <a contents="https://youtu.be/A_ooLkPyeyQ" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/A_ooLkPyeyQ" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/A_ooLkPyeyQ</a> Give it a watch and for sure, <strong>SUBSCRIBE </strong>to our channel to get more of the same stuff! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Also, I’ll include a few links below, to some of the items we discussed or related items to what we do here on the AVF. FYI these are Affiliate Links so when you click on one of them to buy that product online, we earn a portion of the sale. It doesn't cost you anything extra, but it sure helps us. So thank you! :) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Til next time…</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">###</span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B01E4TCJMO&asins=B01E4TCJMO&linkId=aa2c16d072caac7945c15713450f490a&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B016VD8GAA&asins=B016VD8GAA&linkId=b3fc9b8783db04c8481094b20f783fcd&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"></iframe></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/64576662020-10-16T22:06:47-04:002022-02-25T05:35:48-05:00AVF Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/e2516edd0ffbb79cd58ac2ad10cd4ed01aff4bbe/original/laundry-detergent.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><span class="font_large"><strong>AVF Homemade Laundry Detergent Recipe</strong></span></p>
<ul> <li><span class="font_large">1 Fels Naptha Laundry Soap Bar </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">1 Cup (roughly) Powered Borax </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">5 Gallons Hot Tap Water </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">Essential Oils (optional) </span></li> <li> </li> <li><span class="font_large">1 Clean 5 Gal Bucket with Lid </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">1 Cheese Grater (any style) </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">1 Transmission Fluid Style (unused) Funnel </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">1 Measuring Cup (2 cup size is great) </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">1 Long Stirring Stick </span></li> <li><span class="font_large">10 Gallon Jugs </span></li>
</ul>
<p><span class="font_large">Using the cheese grater, grate the entire bar of Fels Naptha into your bucket. Watch your fingers! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Pour 2 Gallons of Hot Tap Water in the bucket. Stir gently but well until all is dissolved. This may take several minutes. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Add the Borax.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>NOTE: Borax will make your detergent strong and if you use a lot, if will fade colors. So if you are sensitive or have delicate clothing, you may want to omit the borax. </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">After adding the Borax, stir well. Again, this may take a while. Str until the “grit” feel is all gone. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you want to add your favorite essential oils for fragrance, now is the time to do that. See your essential oils provider for suggestions on how much to use. After adding, again, stir well. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Add the remaining 3 Gallons of hot water. Stir well. Cover with the lid and let sit overnight. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>NOTE: At this point, your detergent will seem thin. But after sitting overnight, it will thicken to a gel-like consistency. </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At this point, you’re ready to pour your detergent into gallon jugs. Fill each jug aprox half full with warm tap water. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Using the funnel and measuring cup, start transferring the detergent to the jugs with the water. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">When you’re finished, you should have10 gallons of amazing, inexpensive homemade laundry detergent. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We use aprox 1 cup of detergent per large load of laundry. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>NOTE: Just in case you’re wondering, we would not suggest using the detergent “full strength”. That is, without adding the additional water in the jugs and making only 5 gallons. The resulting mixture isn’t dangerous, but could be very harsh on your clothing.</em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And for more info on how we make our Homemade Laundry Detergent checkout our blogpost at <strong><a contents="https://applevalleyfarmga.com/avf-blog/blog/laundry-detergent-for-2-per-year" data-link-label="AVF Blog" data-link-type="page" href="/avf-blog" target="_blank">https://applevalleyfarmga.com/avf-blog/blog/laundry-detergent-for-2-per-year</a> </strong></span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0063KXEIG&asins=B0063KXEIG&linkId=b6c6617cb964104da76bf6571a32791c&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B01NBJZ2F8&asins=B01NBJZ2F8&linkId=b557cbfae142dd8c95f78f948bfce77b&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B014JYY7CE&asins=B014JYY7CE&linkId=f335c96c8d9ef6876a3f6a861424c1d7&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"></iframe></p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B01FNR4REY&asins=B01FNR4REY&linkId=635cab4ad8f0d7eb87a3edb3e7c8d3c1&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"></iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B000G7AJUS&asins=B000G7AJUS&linkId=849c221c0591b1dfe699723616f331cb&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"></iframe></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/64259432020-09-05T16:34:44-04:002021-05-12T11:35:59-04:00Top 10 Fall Gardening Chores For The Homestead<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/8a12e6c335f7ed41895b2e62d15ac38ef2309a2d/original/garden-tiller.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_left border_" />For homestead or hobby gardeners, <strong>Spring and Summer are the glory days</strong>. Everything’s blooming and growing and warming up, and it’s just a great time to be in the dirt. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Fall sort of gets a bad rap though. We tend to see Autumn as a time for winding down. The “dying” or “browning” of the agricultural world. And I get it. It sort of is. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But don’t fool yourself into thinking that <strong>Fall doesn’t require gardening work</strong>! If anything, it’s <strong>THE </strong>time for preparing and prepping for the coming Spring. Plus, just because things are cooling off, it doesn’t mean that the work of harvesting, weeding and tending your crops is over. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Here at <strong>Apple Valley Farm</strong>, we don’t have a huge gardening practice going on, but we have plenty of Fall homestead work to keep us busy on those cool mornings. Plus, the afternoons are also milder. Bugs are down. The pace is less hectic. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you also have animals on your homestead, then you know that Fall doesn’t mean you get to kick back! But even without the care of chickens or rabbits or some other animal, there’s lots and lots of gardening-only work to go around. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So here are our <strong>Top Ten Suggestions</strong> for things you can be doing in your garden as Fall comes on the scene. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>1. Keep Harvesting </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Even as I write this in the first week of September, we still have plants producing. So now isn’t the time to let up <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/190f911990625455890a88040ab0ced7d42e15ec/original/garden-wheelbarrow.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />on your harvesting. Keep picking and cutting to encourage your plants to produce as long as they can. The longer you keep the ball rolling, the longer they’ll continue to reward you. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Once you stop harvesting, many plants will think that it’s time to shut down. Many times, you can add several weeks to your growing season, just by continuing to pick. And if you’re having an extra stretch of warm weather, your plants will love the longer boost of output. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>2. Plant Fall Crops </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you don’t have your Fall crops in the ground yet, it’s not too late. Especially if you’re in <strong>Zone 7</strong> or warmer. It’s late…but not <em>too </em>late. We got our <strong>Collard and Beet seeds</strong> from <a contents="Eden Brothers" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.edenbrothers.com/" target="_blank"><strong>Eden Brothers</strong></a> a bit late, but they’ll be just fine to transplant any time during the month of September. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">You may even still have time to <strong>start your seeds</strong>, if that’s your thing. Just start them inside and get them up and strong before exposing them to the elements. Especially when you’re dealing with Fall greens, the frost only enhances the flavor, so don’t be afraid to push it a little. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/cb370d3e6b4bc0ff72e49ad01af35e176e35fe87/original/garden-okra.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_left border_" />3. Start Seed Saving </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you currently have heirloom or open-pollenating varieties, then don’t neglect to save your seeds. If you have hybrids, eh…probably not a great idea. But for traditional lines, now’s the time. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Our Okra is starting to slow down now, so we’re allowing the remaining pods to <strong>bolt</strong>. FYI, “bolting” is allowing the fruit that puts on to continue to grow on the vine (or stalk) until it naturally “goes to seed” and sort of dries out on its own. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Once we allow the okra to bolt and stay for a couple of weeks, we’ll pick it, de-seed the pods, then wash, dry and store them for next year. This is the process you can apply to most all of your remaining Summer plantings. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>4. Composting </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Fall is the perfect time of year to apply a fresh layer of compost. Regardless of your gardening method, compost is a great way to restore nutrients to the soil that your Summer crops have been depleting. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Tilling it in, after removing your Summer crops is common. But don’t disrespect some simple <strong>top dressing</strong>. Especially if you happen to utilize <a contents="no-till gardening" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/No-till_farming" target="_blank"><strong>no-till gardening</strong></a>. Top dressing your compost is probably the easiest way to re-energize your soil. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>Manure </strong>is also a great addition for your garden. Especially if you have raised beds. One note though about manure: be careful with it. Especially if you use chicken manure. It can be really high in <strong>nitrogen</strong>, which can be very tough on your plants, in excess. Try to use manure that is well-seasoned, if possible. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/5025cd5d2aaabe91e760ebe1b5946c4ce87ecb14/original/garden-rakes.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" />5. Tool Cleaning and Storage </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">All your shovels, picks, hoes, etc…many of those won’t see use through the Fall and Winter. Now is the time to show them a little TLC for all the work they’ve done for you during the main months of gardening. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We like to hose everything off well. Then once they dry, we brush any remaining dirt and funk off with a wire brush. The main thing is to ensure any buildup is gone so nothing remains to harbor any moisture that will sit there all Winter and promote rust and mildew. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">After that, we like to spray our metal parts with a rust inhibitor like <strong>WD-40</strong>. Just spray it on lightly and let it sit. You don’t need to wipe it off. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For the wooden handles, hit them lightly with some 150 grit sandpaper and wipe on a coat of linseed or tung oil. Even a coat of <strong>wipe-on poly</strong>. Anything to add an extra layer of protection from the elements. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>6. Power Tool Storage</strong> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We use hand tools here on the AVF whenever it’s feasible or possible. But we also use our fair share of power equipment. So when you’re dealing with chain saws, weed eaters, garden tillers, mowers…all those things have internal combustion engines that are going to sit for several months in the off-season. Or at least most will. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For one, if you’re not using <strong>Ethanol Free Gasoline</strong>, then start. The Ethanol additives in many of today’s gas products will literally eat away the rubber components when left to sit. So Fall and Winter can be literally <em>cancerous </em>for your gasoline-powered tools. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Aside from using Ethanol-Free Gas, you’ll want to drain all the remaining gas before cold-weather storage. Then add a <strong>Fuel Stabilizer </strong>to the equipment to help create a safe environment for them that won’t promote deterioration as they sit dormant. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/9c414661d85743a4aa808a33a6ebd506695ce50a/original/garden1.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_left border_" />7. Garden Bed Repairs </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A Summer of work has probably taken a toll on your garden beds. Raised or not. So now’s the time to make some sorely-needed repairs while you have a little slower pace in front of you. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For <strong>raised beds</strong>, shore up your corners. Add some extra screws or maybe throw some corner braces on them. Also inspect your running boards for decay, rot or damage. Repair them when you can. Replace them when you can’t. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For <strong>ground-level beds</strong>, now’s the time to “repair” their borders and tidy up your edges. If you have artificial edging, inspect it for wear and repair or replace it as needed. A little work now will make the coming Spring a lot more pleasant. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>8. Garden Trellis Upkeep </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Trellises, Cattle Panels, Fencing and any other accessories you might use in your garden for climbing or corralling your plants will undoubtedly need attention. Inspect them for loose joints and add screws. Nails are easy, but don’t provide as much of a long term fix. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Look for rust on metal components. When you find it (and you will), sand it, clean it and apply rust inhibitor like you did with your gardening tools. You may opt for a <strong>clear spray-on coating</strong>. If you do, don’t use the rust inhibitor because the clear finish won’t adhere to it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>9. Declutter Large Bushes and Trees </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now isn’t the time to prune, but decluttering will definitely be easier as growth starts to slow. All those dead and dying limbs and branches that you’ve been putting off…now you can get them out of the way. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Small ones can be great compost additions, and larger ones can go on the <strong>burn pile</strong>. We have a burn pile that we build until our local forestry folks lift the local burn bans, usually around October. And don’t forget to use the ashes (in moderation) in your compost pile and directly around your plants. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you’re already getting some falling leaves, you can get a jump start by doing some pre-raking. These first leaves can go right into your compost bin. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><strong>10. Mulching <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/1e9cb002559e0a9d0e36cbeab8f3c4a782246ca7/original/garden-roses.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsImxhcmdlIl1d.jpg" class="size_l justify_right border_" /></strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Fall is a great time to add some cold-weather mulch to your year-round plants. Trees, bushes, shrubs, vines, perennials. Weeds and invasive plants are still looking for a place to put down roots, so to speak, so a fresh layer of mulch can help discourage over-wintering of any pesty friends. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For us, this year has been particularly wet. So watering hasn’t been a concern. But if you haven’t been blessed with a lot of rain, don’t forget to water your plants. They may be getting ready to go dormant, but they still get thirsty. So water them well, and use your fresh mulch to help keep it all in. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large">Hey thanks for joining us for our <strong>Top 10 Fall Gardening Chores For The Homestead!</strong> And by no means are these the only things you can be doing, but they’re definitely a great place to start. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I’ll include a few <strong>links below</strong>, to some of the items we discussed or related items to what we do here on the AVF. FYI these are <em>Affiliate Links</em> so when you click on one of them to buy that product online, we earn a portion of the sale. It doesn't cost you anything extra, but it sure helps us. So thank you! :) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Good luck and Happy Fall! Til next time… </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"># # #</span></p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B01LZ1WS99&asins=B01LZ1WS99&linkId=ed8619750f7fcc97fe67eef03156cd16&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"> <br> </iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00125ZMD2&asins=B00125ZMD2&linkId=632ab87e6f3c928b59c3e8bc9337c11e&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"> <br> </iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B000NMA4PG&asins=B000NMA4PG&linkId=4b27abf42ff5e6dae0aaaf7e5d6cd80e&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"> <br> </iframe><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B000VZJGPO&asins=B000VZJGPO&linkId=1d96b0ea8d8aa4ce398dfcf020e93115&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"> <br> </iframe></p>
<p><a href="https://www.pjtra.com/t/SkNKSEhGR0xDSEdPSEdLQ0dJTUZNTQ"><img src="//www.pjtra.com/b/SkNKSEhGR0xDSEdPSEdLQ0dJTUZNTQ" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Shop Now!" height="60" width="468" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.gopjn.com/t/SkNIT0pOR0hDSEdPSEdLQ0dLTktLTw"><img src="//www.gopjn.com/b/SkNIT0pOR0hDSEdPSEdLQ0dLTktLTw" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Save on Seeds" height="90" width="728" /></a></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/64203212020-08-29T17:06:38-04:002024-03-04T17:36:16-05:00Turn a Storage Bin Into A Mini Greenhouse<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/92cb42cae76d6ca4f9373c1afc82b7ce57388e05/original/seed-sauna.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><span class="font_large">To recount some of the greatest moments in human history, you’d have to include the ability to start a fire. And the invention of the wheel. Maybe the development of the automobile or achieving flight. But I would also say that a required addition to that list would include <strong>learning how to start seeds</strong>. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I mean, without seed starting know-how, man would still be foraging for whatever he could gather within a reasonable distance from his home. Or he’d have to forage and live a nomadic life, going wherever the food happened to be at the time. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But we don’t do that. We have gained the knowledge of <a contents="seed germination" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Germination" target="_blank"><strong>seed germination</strong></a>, and with that, we’re able to grow all (or most) of our favorite foods, all in one place, in close proximity to our homes. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">On second thought…if I think about America in general. There is a lack of tendency for a household to grow its own food. And what foods we buy are usually shipped, trucked or flown in from miles away. I have to wonder are we devolving into a society of <em>“digital foragers”</em>, gathering food stuff from wherever we can source it, instead of producing it ourselves… </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But, I digress. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Where was I? Oh yes, seed starting. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/902afa3d71ff5c36e1015896f0ed82d542a09773/original/seeds.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Seed starting is at the very core of our <strong>gardening </strong>and <strong>homesteading </strong>activities. If you can germinate a seed, you can feed yourself. And possibly, the people around you. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Most homesteaders start at least some of their crops from seed. And we all do that on different levels and employ different methods. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Some of us have entire greenhouses that we fill with tiny little trays of seed babies. Some of us start an old cake pan in a windowsill. Many of us are somewhere in between. But we all have our own way, and we all have our own needs. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">For us here at Apple Valley Farm, we’re a homestead that runs very small. We have small garden areas and we run on a slim budget. So the idea of a full-sized greenhouse might as well be a dream of the White House for us! In short, <em>we need to improvise</em>. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/700b89509dcd068a5f5ee9ca6acbfd206d40fc21/original/beets.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />So being a little pressed for time this year, I had to come up with a way to get our seeds going quickly, and without a big cash outlay. I really needed to use what we already had, if possible. And having just a small need, I figured we could come up with something. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I just happened to run across a <strong>Clear Plastic Storage Bin </strong>that I had gotten at Walmart for less than $5. A light went on in my head and before you know it, we were off and running. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A greenhouse, no matter the size, is essentially a means for creating sort of a <strong>Seed Sauna</strong>. You need it to be protected and secure, but you mostly need it to be <em>warm and humid</em>. That’s what a germinating seed loves the most. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So we figured we could use the clear bin, turned upside down, as a great way to let the sun provide the heating, and a good moist potting mix to ensure the humidity. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">After we grabbed a few planting containers from Amazon (see the link below), a bag of Potting Mix (any brand is fine), and a few other things around the house, we were ready to see if it all worked. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We mixed water and potting mix about a 1:2 ratio in a bowl, just until it became (as our 11 year-old son said) like a <strong>dirt turd</strong>. Moist enough to squeeze water out of it, but firm enough to hold its shape. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We ordered a few seeds from <a contents="Eden Brothers" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.edenbrothers.com/" target="_blank">Eden Brothers</a> (amazing company!). Then we filled the cups, put our seeds in and covered them, according to seed packet directions. Then we used a Spray Bottle to gently mist them with one last soaking. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/1f7f7e00a93594d9a55839bea323623083b126dd/original/seed-sauna-2.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">After that, we turned the Storage Lid upside down and arranged the planting containers on that. Then we covered it all with the Storage Container (turned upside down also), tucked them all in for a cozy sleep, and snapped it into place. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Before you know it, heat was building and condensation was collecting! And now, when we lift the bin to check things, it has <strong>that amazing, earthy smell</strong> that only a greenhouse has! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><em>It’s working! Muwahahaha! </em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And we spent less than $10 for the entre thing. Who can’t afford that? Now we’ve got 72 seed cups with potential little <strong>Collard and Beet seedlings</strong>, just waiting to break out into the light and head to the garden! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In all seriousness, this was insanely simple to do. I know, if we can make it work, so can you. </span></p>
<p> </p>
<p><span class="font_large">Hey, if you have questions (or suggestions), then comment and/or let us know. We’re definitely not the experts here, so we’re always up with fresh ideas, insight or advice. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But if you need more, and you think a video will help, we’ll have one posted on our YouTube channel over at <strong><a contents="http://youtube.com/c/applevalleyfarmga" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/tqPRD-CGdb8" target="_blank">http://youtube.com/c/applevalleyfarmga</a> </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Definitely check it out. And be sure to like, comment and subscribe to our channel while you’re there. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Also, I’ll include a few links below, to some of the items we used or related items to what we do here on the AVF. FYI these are <strong>Affiliate Links</strong> so when you click on one of them to buy that product online, we earn a portion of the sale. It doesn't cost you anything extra, but it sure helps us. So thank you! :) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Peace! See y’all next time! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"># # # </span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.pntrac.com/t/SkNIT0pOR0hDSEdPSEdLQ0dLTktLTw"><img src="//www.pntrac.com/b/SkNIT0pOR0hDSEdPSEdLQ0dLTktLTw" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Save on Seeds" height="90" width="728" /></a></p>
<p> <img src="http://media.tractorsupply.com/is/image/TractorSupplyCompany/1011491/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.com/is/image/TractorSupplyCompany/1011491" class="size_s justify_inline border_" alt="" /> </p>
<div class="image-container"><p> <a class="name" href="https://www.gopjn.com/t/Qz9JS0VJP0RDS0RDRz9JS0VJ?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tractorsupply.com%2Ftsc%2Fproduct%2Fmiracle-gro-seed-starting-potting-mix-1011491%3Fcm_mmc%3DAffiliates-_-Pepperjam-_-product-_-feed%26utm_source%3DAffiliates%26utm_medium%3DPepperjam%26utm_campaign%3Dproduct-feed" target="_blank" title="Miracle-Gro Seed Starting Potting Mix 8 qt., 74978500">Miracle-Gro Seed Starting Potting Mix 8 qt...</a> </p></div>
<p> Miracle-Gro Seed Starting Potting Mix 8 qt., 74978500 <a href="https://www.gopjn.com/t/Qz9JS0VJP0RDS0RDRz9JS0VJ?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tractorsupply.com%2Ftsc%2Fproduct%2Fmiracle-gro-seed-starting-potting-mix-1011491%3Fcm_mmc%3DAffiliates-_-Pepperjam-_-product-_-feed%26utm_source%3DAffiliates%26utm_medium%3DPepperjam%26utm_campaign%3Dproduct-feed">[More]</a> </p>
<p>Price: <span>$4.49</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.gopjn.com/t/Qz9JS0VJP0RDS0RDRz9JS0VJ?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.tractorsupply.com%2Ftsc%2Fproduct%2Fmiracle-gro-seed-starting-potting-mix-1011491%3Fcm_mmc%3DAffiliates-_-Pepperjam-_-product-_-feed%26utm_source%3DAffiliates%26utm_medium%3DPepperjam%26utm_campaign%3Dproduct-feed">Buy Now</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B0149L72CE&asins=B0149L72CE&linkId=680d3648ca218f2f4016b6bd3c210a48&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"> </iframe></p>
<p> </p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/64178612020-08-26T21:04:19-04:002020-09-05T16:39:11-04:00Making Homemade Chicken Broth in the Instant Pot<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/b34b264cefc1f1f1581b848b81d2583f58654de9/original/homemade-chicken-stock.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><span class="font_large">I don’t know about you, but we use <em>a lot</em> of broth here on the AVF. Mostly chicken broth. And I confess, we buy most of it in the grocery store. (Horror!) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But after today…no more! We have made our first batch of <strong>Homemade Chicken Broth</strong> and I am sold! What a cool process, and what a delicious result. I never knew it was so easy. If I had, we’d have done this sooner, that’s for sure. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Now just so you know, for you traditional homesteaders out there, no I have not been saving all my vegetable peelings and cutoffs. (Again, horror!) But I’m going to! (As a matter of fact, I think we’ll do a whole separate blog post about that.) </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But for this adventure, we did go buy our vegetables. And they actually weren’t that expensive. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/413518f2d781361c78cec9203a0c89b94eef7d87/original/instapot-broth.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />Maybe $8 for a bag of celery, a bag of carrots, a 5 pound bag of yellow onions and a package of fresh thyme. Most of those, I’ll use several times or for other meals. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So with that in mind, it was really pretty cheap. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But onto our real big news… </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So the real kicker today was our decision to do this in the <a contents="Instant Pot" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://amzn.to/2QunZba" target="_blank">Instant Pot</a>. I know, I know…a lot of our homesteader friends are sort of Purists when it comes to doing things. And they just can’t seem to embrace the Instant Pot. But I say, “What’s the big deal?” </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The Instant Pot is essentially just a self-contained pressure cooker. I mean, yeah, it can do other things, but at its core, most of us gravitate to it because it cooks stuff fast. Translation: It’s a pressure cooker. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">With the Instant Pot, it drastically reduced our cook time. Like from 3-4 hours, to cooking, unattended, for just 2 hours, I was all over it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/0c0709c702c047471ceaf1a730de0ee64769e231/original/instapot-broth-2.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />One thing I will suggest for all you Instant Pot users. You know it comes with a 3-foot long power cord. And that’s perfectly fine for most uses. If you use yours on the counter, right by an outlet, then no problem. We use ours on the stove a lot though, so we need a little more reach. <strong>So I ordered a 6-foot cord from Amazon </strong>and it was totally worth it. I’ll add a link here, in case you want one. I highly recommend it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><a href="https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B073PYV9BV/ref=as_li_tl?ie=UTF8&camp=1789&creative=9325&creativeASIN=B073PYV9BV&linkCode=as2&tag=applevalleyfa-20&linkId=b17c5d5cb96a2250101c62b5e23f0dcb" target="_blank"><span style="color:#c0392b;">[UL Listed] 6ft Power Cord Compatible Instant Pot, Electric Pressure Cooker, Rice Cooker, Soy Milk Maker, Microwaves and More Kitchen Appliances Cable Replacement</span></a><span style="color:#c0392b;"><img src="//ir-na.amazon-adsystem.com/e/ir?t=applevalleyfa-20&l=am2&o=1&a=B073PYV9BV" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="1" style="border:none !important; margin:0px !important;" width="1" /></span></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So, with vegetables, chicken and aromatics in the Instant Pot, we sealed and dialed in the cook time. 120 minutes later, we had something that was making the house smell some kind of good! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We let it sit for another hour. Then strained everything, cooled it overnight, then wound up with a gallon of the richest, most beautiful Chicken Broth you could ask for. And not a single preservative, artificial coloring, chemical or boogeyman in the whole thing. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">At the end of the day, was it worth it? You bet it was. This was so easy. I can’t believe we hadn’t done it sooner. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">But one thing’s for sure…we are making something delicious with it tonight! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/b34b264cefc1f1f1581b848b81d2583f58654de9/original/homemade-chicken-stock.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Hey, if you enjoyed this, please let us know. Your likes and comments are like gold to us. And if you have suggestions, we probably need them! Please share your experience with us. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">You can also watch our video for Making Homemade Chicken Broth In the Instant Pot over on our YouTube channel. - <a contents="www.youtube.com/c/applevalleyfarmga&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/c/applevalleyfarmga" target="_blank"><strong>www.youtube.com/c/applevalleyfarmga</strong> </a> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And if you’d like this, or any of our other <strong>Homestead Recipes</strong>, you can have access to them all by becoming a Supporter. Visit our Patreon page and pick a Support Level that works for you. - <strong><a contents="www.patreon.com/applevalleyfarm" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.patreon.com/applevalleyfarm" target="_blank">www.patreon.com/applevalleyfarm</a></strong> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We hope you enjoyed this, learned something useful and will come see us again. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Thank you and have a blessed day!</span></p>
<p><iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B00FLYWNYQ&asins=B00FLYWNYQ&linkId=fb25abef0ac8798e6f187671cab32472&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"> <br> </iframe> <iframe frameborder="0" marginheight="0" marginwidth="0" scrolling="no" src="//ws-na.amazon-adsystem.com/widgets/q?ServiceVersion=20070822&OneJS=1&Operation=GetAdHtml&MarketPlace=US&source=ac&ref=qf_sp_asin_til&ad_type=product_link&tracking_id=applevalleyfa-20&marketplace=amazon&region=US&placement=B073PYV9BV&asins=B073PYV9BV&linkId=d188b2c7986b9fe9bfb52a8f41f61d07&show_border=true&link_opens_in_new_window=true&price_color=333333&title_color=0066c0&bg_color=ffffff" style="width:120px;height:240px;"> <br> </iframe></p>
<p><a href="https://www.gopjn.com/t/SkNJTUxMTk9DSEdPSEdLQ0dMS05NTw"><img src="//www.gopjn.com/b/SkNJTUxMTk9DSEdPSEdLQ0dMS05NTw" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="AccelaFrame Greenhouse" height="90" width="728" /></a></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/64156362020-08-23T19:27:39-04:002021-06-04T08:43:31-04:00Laundry Detergent For $2 Per Year!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/8332c3abe48f3d382f64650bd3c071edfeda8b66/original/avf-laundry-detergent.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><span class="font_large">Today, we started a little homestead project that I’ve been wanting to try for years. <strong>Homemade Laundry Detergent</strong>! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Let’s face it. Laundry Detergent is dadgum expensive! $10-15 for a gallon of some chemical-packed, perfume-laden slime in a fancy bottle and a billion dollars worth of advertising behind it. If you’re like me, then you’ve been thinking that there has GOT to be a better way to wash clothes. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I Know what you’re thinking. And I’ve thought it too. <em>“If the homemade stuff is just as good and so much cheaper, then then everyone would be doing it.”</em> And you may be right. I don’t know yet. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">I’ve already read tons of online research and opinion, and frankly, I’m not so convinced yet, one way or the other. The naysayers claim that the soap-based detergent we make at home only “moves the dirt around” instead of actually cleaning the clothes and isolating it. That sounds logically possible, but I don’t know if that’s just The Big Inc trying to throw us off course. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Nevertheless, we’re determined to try a batch of <strong>Homestead Detergent</strong> and see for ourselves. So off to the store I went. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/27919868d3c40d7a90543dd136217eec3fe6ef20/original/avf-laundry-detergent-cog.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" />I’ve got a list of expenses so we can really keep track of things. There will be the <strong>cost of goods</strong>, which relates to what it actually costs (ongoing) to make a batch. Then there’s the <strong>cost of manufacturing</strong>, or what it costs to get the stuff it takes to turn the materials into detergent. Things like buckets and cheese graters, that we’ll use over and over. You can see what we spent to get going today.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As you can see, we spent almost $15 on manufacturing. That will last us…forever. But even if it didn’t, this batch of detergent makes 10 gallons, so that’s <strong>$1.43 per gallon. </strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">The materials, or ingredients, cost us $1.44 per batch. That’s for 10 gallons. Yeah…that’s right. 10 gallons. So that’s <strong>$0.15 per gallon.</strong> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So if we don’t include the buckets and such, that pretty doggone cheap! But even if we did include the buckets, grater and cups, that’s still only a total of $15.87, or <strong>$1.59 per gallon.</strong> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">As of today (8-23-20) a typical container of regular Tide liquid laundry detergent at Walmart is $11.97. That’s for a 100 oz bottle. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">We’ll be putting ours in gallon jugs though. That’s 128 oz. So hold on to your math hat. We’ll have to break it all down into cost per ounce to really compare. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">With the Tide at $11.97/100 oz, that equals $0.12 per ounce. Sounds cheap.</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Our Homestead Detergent is $1.59/128 oz, which equals just over $0.01 (that’s a penny) per ounce. If we don't include the manufacturing items, that's a microscopic $0.001. If you "don't do" math...that's <strong>ONE TENTH OF A PENNY per ounce!</strong></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">To further drive the point home, that means the average family spends about $300/year on laundry detergent. That's roughly 2,500 ounces of detergent per year. But 2,500 ounces of our Homestead Detergent would only cost them $2.50. <em><strong>A year!</strong></em></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Wow! What a difference. So you decide if it’s worth it to pay <strong>120 times as much</strong> for the store-bought stuff. It’s going to take some mighty high convincing to sell me on it. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Be sure to join us so you can see when we post our actual wash test, and a link to our video and the recipe of how to make this. We have no idea how the test will turn out, but we can’t wait to see! </span></p>
<p><span style="font-size: 16.8px;">To get our recipe for how to make your own Homemade Laundry Detergent, go to <a contents="https://applevalleyfarmga.com/avf-blog/blog/avf-homemade-laundry-detergent-recipe" data-link-label="AVF Blog" data-link-type="page" href="/avf-blog" target="_blank">https://applevalleyfarmga.com/avf-blog/blog/avf-homemade-laundry-detergent-recipe</a> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">In the meanwhile, please head over to our <strong>YouTube channel </strong>where you can watch all sorts of woodworking and homesteading videos. And definitely SUBSCRIBE while your there! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large"><a contents="https://youtube.com/c/applevalleyfarmga&nbsp;" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtube.com/c/applevalleyfarmga" target="_blank">https://youtube.com/c/applevalleyfarmga </a></span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">Thank you, and have a blessed day!</span></p>
<p><a href="https://www.pntrs.com/t/SkNJR05JS01DSEdPSEdLQ0dMS05NTw"><img src="//www.pntrs.com/b/SkNJR05JS01DSEdPSEdLQ0dMS05NTw" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Shop ShelterLogic.com" height="250" width="250" /></a></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/64155792020-08-23T17:17:38-04:002021-09-05T07:45:30-04:00The World's Only Buckshot Distressed Sign<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/65a38065e815e9aa86d1aa96e75b4d5210593f8f/original/no-trespassing-buckshot-distressed-sign.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_none" alt="" /><span class="font_large">When we first started making hand-painted signs, back in 2015, we really didn’t have a clue. <em>I mean really.</em> We had <strong>no </strong>idea what we were doing, and we certainly had no idea about what people actually wanted. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">So part of our process was, and still is, to just make what we like! And what do you know? Folks seemed to like that. And for some reason, they still do. I don’t know if it’s because we have such great taste, or if it’s more that folks like that we like what we like. ;)</span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">One of our favorite signs is a <strong>No Trespassing sign</strong> that I got asked to make. We did it fairly standardly. Nothing fancy. But when we finished it, I decided to pepper it with a little buckshot, just to add some character. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And as it turns out, shooting that sign has been one of <em>the best</em> things we ever did! </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">A few people said we were being overly aggressive. Some said we were wasteful. Or irresponsible. But overwhelmingly, people loved it. And to this day, Apple Valley Farm is the only company on the planet that offers a “buckshot distressed” hand-painted sign. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you love the idea, (or if you just want to watch us shoot something), we’ve got several videos over on our YouTube channel. Check them out, and of course like, comment and subscribe while you’re there. – <a contents="https://youtu.be/p_TOGr4fGz4" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/p_TOGr4fGz4" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/p_TOGr4fGz4</a> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">If you’d like us to make you one, you can give us a shout at <a contents="info@applevalleyfarmga.com" data-link-label="" data-link-type="email" href="mailto:info@applevalleyfarmga.com" target="_blank">info@applevalleyfarmga.com</a> </span></p>
<p><span class="font_large">And if you’re like us and happen to be a hunter or gun owner and would like to look into setting yourself up to safely and securely store your weapons, take a look at <strong>SecureIt Defense Ultralight Gun Safe</strong>. Possibly THE best gun storage system you can buy. Click the link below and you’ll save $200 (thru 10-31-20), plus your purchase will help support what we do here on the AVF. </span></p>
<p>Save up to $200 on Ultralight Gun Safes <a href="https://www.jdoqocy.com/click-100206075-14305186" target="_top">Shop Now</a><img src="https://www.awltovhc.com/image-100206075-14305186" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" height="1" width="1" /><br><a href="https://www.anrdoezrs.net/click-100206075-14063095" target="_top"><img src="https://www.lduhtrp.net/image-100206075-14063095" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="" height="60" width="234" /></a></p>
<p><a href="https://www.pjatr.com/t/SkNJR05JS09DSEdPSEdLQ0dMS05NTw"><img src="//www.pjatr.com/b/SkNJR05JS09DSEdPSEdLQ0dMS05NTw" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="Shop ShelterLogic.com" height="60" width="468" /></a></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/62827332020-04-14T22:08:53-04:002022-07-25T06:25:37-04:00How To Build a Simple Wooden Solo Cup Holder<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/6e817cfcb00a22f516db2049304c7081d45d9858/original/solo-cup-holder-white.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" />How many times have you gotten together with friends or family, and struggled to keep everyone's plastic drink cups in order? Or worse yet, tried to keep up with a Sharpie so everyone can write their name on their cup? It's impossible! </p>
<p>Or at least, it USED TO BE. :) </p>
<p>Check out our simple <strong>Wooden Solo Cup Holder</strong>. Perfectly sized to fit a standard sized Solo-style drink cup, and a hole for your Sharpie-style marker, so it always stays with the cups. Perfect for cookouts, dinners, parties, tailgates, family gatherings or anywhere people get together. </p>
<p>We love to make these, but we wanted to show you how to do it yourself, if you have the urge. </p>
<p>Our materials and tools include: </p>
<ul> <li>2, 1X4 4 inches long sides </li> <li>2, 1X4 5 ½ inches long sides </li> <li>1, ¾” plywood 4X4” bottom </li> <li>1” brads </li> <li>Wood Glue </li> <li>Paint (your color choice) </li> <li>Brush </li> <li>3/8” Drill </li> <li>½” Drill Bit </li> <li>Chop Saw </li> <li>Sander </li> <li>Sandpaper (150 grit) </li>
</ul>
<p>Start by cutting the sides and bottom. Sand well. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/0a9030584a70c0c95629f20c5d521599b1f0b52e/original/solo-cup-holder-black.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_right border_" /></p>
<p>Now put it all together. The longer (5 ½”) sides overlap the ends of the shorter (4”) sides. Use a bead of wood glue on the ends, then secure it with a couple of brads where they all meet. </p>
<p>Now set the bottom into place and secure it with brads. Two on two opposing sides is plenty. </p>
<p>That completes the box! </p>
<p>Take your ½” bit (I prefer a paddle bit) and drill a hole aprox 2” deep, halfway across the top of one of the long sides. Be very careful to center the bit on the board. With your bit being ½” and the side being just ¾”, that doesn’t leave a lot of room for error. </p>
<p>HINT: Using a drill press for this step (above) will help ensure an accurate and straight bore. But you can easily eyeball it with a handheld drill. </p>
<p>After that, make sure everything is sanded well, wipe the dust off, then apply your paint. Don’t worry about the bottom, since it will never be seen. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/08e4bf81b1f2f629ec15299242a9faef497b8827/original/cup-holder-5.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Let it dry for a few hours. Then when everything is dry, we like to give ours a light sanding, concentrating on the corners and edges. This gives a nice worn look to things. </p>
<p>You can spray a coat of matte or gloss clear over everything, but you don’t have to. We don’t. </p>
<p>And that’s it! Put your cups in and stick the Sharpie in the hole and you’re ready for business. </p>
<p>If you want, you can apply decals. Or use stencils (or freehand) to add lettering or images to yours. Maybe your favorite team logo. Maybe a name or short quote. The rules are yours to make up! </p>
<p>And…if you’d like to buy any finished Cup Holders from us, please check them out in our online store at <a contents="https://applevalleyfarmga.com/product/549272" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://applevalleyfarmga.com/product/549272">https://applevalleyfarmga.com/product/549272</a> </p>
<p>And for even more info on how to build, check out our YouTube video at <a contents="https://youtu.be/Ejz84Vi-6A8" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/Ejz84Vi-6A8" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/Ejz84Vi-6A8</a> </p>
<p>Thanks! </p>
<p>--- </p>
<p>Hey, thanks for joining us. We hope this was helpful and informative. Please share it with your circle of friends. Pin us. Post about us. Share a link. And be sure to follow us on all your favorite social media platforms. </p>
<p>Finally, we'd love it if you <a contents="JOIN US" data-link-label="Join Us!" data-link-type="page" href="/join-us"><strong>JOIN US</strong></a> as an AVF Friend. Get updates on new blog posts, new products and special discounts, only available to our Friends. </p>
<p>THANK YOU and have a blessed day!</p>
<p> </p>
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</iframe>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/62722002020-04-04T23:26:32-04:002023-05-03T11:45:25-04:00Building A Simple Affordable Carpenter Bee Trap<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/0b1b0ea2824765dfd0e5a87059a0f31b21c344e7/original/carpenter-bee-trap-1.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" />One of my favorite things is when friends and customers send us suggestions for things to make. I don’t always trust myself when brainstorming project ideas, so getting it straight from the horse’s mouth is always best! </p>
<p>With Spring in full swing and the carpenter bees out in full force, <strong>Carpenter Bee Traps</strong> are on our minds. I know they can wreak havoc on our house and shed! So anything we can do to knock their numbers down is a plus for me. </p>
<p>Our plan for this was to use materials and tools that we already had around the house. Right now, we’re under self-quarantine, so anything we can do to reduce our going, is good. </p>
<p>This is a super easy build, so let's get started! :)</p>
<p>Our materials included: </p>
<ul> <li>A scrap 4X4 (any) </li> <li>A Pint Mason Jar, Lid and Band </li> <li>2 Deck Screws </li> <li>1 small Eye Hook </li> <li>About 18 inches of Picture Hanging Wire </li>
</ul>
<p>Our tools: </p>
<ul> <li>Chop Saw </li> <li>Cordless Drill </li> <li>Cordless Impact Driver </li> <li>Clamp </li> <li>Combination Square </li> <li>Sharpie </li> <li>Drill Bits (1/2” and ¾” paddle, and ¼” and ¾” wood/metal) </li>
</ul>
<p>Cut the 4X4 to 5” long. Then find the center of each end by marking intersecting lines from corner to corner. Then measure up 1” from one end on all sides, and find the center of each side (about 1 ¾”) </p>
<p>Using the ¾” paddle bit, drill a hole in one end, 4” deep. </p>
<p>Then using the ½” paddle bit, drilling away from the 3/4” hole end, drill at a 45 degree angle until you feel the bit break through and intersect with the center hole. </p>
<p>Be sure all drilled holes are clean and as free as possible of splinters and tear out. This ensures the bees have a clear, easy path through the holes. </p>
<p>Using the ¼” bit, drill a pilot hole on the opposite end of the 4X4, in the center. This is for the eye hook, but don’t screw it in yet. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/b4ed5fb6f3ed09a4bd1989a57127ab363fe66b68/original/carpenter-bee-trap-2.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" />Take the jar lid, turning it inside-up, mark a dot, roughly in the center of it. Clamp it to your work table, then drill a pilot hole with the ¼” bit. Then come back and drill the hole out further, using the ¾” wood/metal bit. </p>
<p>On the end of the 4X4 with the ¾” hole, take the lid and band and roughly center them over the existing hole, then using the deck screws, secure it to the 4X4, keeping in mind to place them at the corners of the 4X4, and not the faces. </p>
<p>Turn over and screw in the eye hook. Screw on the jar. </p>
<p>Now you can either hang your complete Carpenter Bee Trap on a nail with the eye hook, or using the picture wire. </p>
<p>--- </p>
<p>Thank you so much for joining us. We hope this was helpful and informative. Please share it with your circle of friends. Pin us. Post about us. Share a link. And be sure to follow us on all your favorite social media platforms. </p>
<p>And please watch the companion video over on our <strong>YouTube channel</strong>, where you can watch all sorts of similar woodworking and crafting videos. And don't forget to like, comment and subscribe to us while you're there. </p>
<p><a contents="https://youtu.be/UeSTwekT1hE" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/UeSTwekT1hE" target="_blank"><strong>https://youtu.be/UeSTwekT1hE</strong></a> </p>
<p>Finally, we'd love it if you <a contents="JOIN US" data-link-label="Join Us!" data-link-type="page" href="/join-us"><strong>JOIN US</strong></a> as an AVF Friend. Get updates on new blog posts, new products and special discounts, only available to our Friends. </p>
<p>THANK YOU and have a blessed day!</p>
<p><a href="https://www.pntra.com/t/SkNJTUxMTk9DSEdPSEdLQ0dMS05NTw"><img src="//www.pntra.com/b/SkNJTUxMTk9DSEdPSEdLQ0dMS05NTw" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="AccelaFrame Greenhouse" height="90" width="728" /></a></p>Apple Valley Farmtag:applevalleyfarmga.com,2005:Post/62712852020-04-03T22:29:23-04:002022-02-02T10:35:08-05:00How to Give Wood A Weathered Look<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/f28ff3ddd1d4fd62c0b07c25b5100b761172df99/original/wwa-boards.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" />Here at Apple Valley Farm, we use a LOT of reclaimed wood. And in case you don't know, that means we rarely have a lot of control over how it's going to look before we paint on it!</p>
<p>But one saving grace has been our <a contents="Weathered Wood Accelerator" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.varathanemasters.com/products/weathered-wood-accelerator" target="_blank">Weathered Wood Accelerator</a>. When we need to impart some extra weathering to a piece of reclaimed wood, it's the perfect tool.</p>
<p>Join us here as we take a quick look at how we use the WWA to add a few years to our boards, when the need arises. And head over to our YouTube channel to watch the companion video at <a contents="https://youtu.be/HX9Xq37-thA" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/HX9Xq37-thA" target="_blank">https://youtu.be/HX9Xq37-thA</a></p>
<p>The great thing about <a contents="Varathane's " data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.varathanemasters.com/" target="_blank">Varathane's </a><a contents="Weathered Wood Accelerator" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.varathanemasters.com/products/weathered-wood-accelerator" target="_blank">Weathered Wood Accelerator</a> is that it's water-based. Super easy to apply and super easy to clean up. We start by giving it a shake, then using a basic multi-use brush to liberally apply it to our wood. Don't be afraid to really slather it on. You want it to soak in.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/392056/e73b75bdc0e2f5800362e84d40f3788e2b3bfcb4/original/varathane-wwa.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.png" class="size_s justify_left border_" />FYI, the WWA works best on reclaimed wood. Something with a little character. The smooth, planed finish of a new board just causes the WWA to bead up and roll off. It needs some "texture" to grab on to.</p>
<p>Once you apply it, give it plenty of time to soak in. We like to leave ours overnight, but a couple of hours will probably do. Putting your board(s) in front of a fan of some sort will definitely speed up the process.</p>
<p>After everything is dry, then you're ready to proceed with your project. Whatever that may be!</p>
<p>-----</p>
<p>Hey, thanks for joining us. We hope this was helpful and informative. Please share it with your circle of friends. Pin us. Post about us. Share a link. And be sure to follow us on all your favorite social media platforms.</p>
<p>And please watch the companion video over on our <a contents="YouTube channel" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCKck10j6FJz8xndAJnPB9uQ" target="_blank">YouTube channel</a>, where you can watch all sorts of similar woodworking and crafting videos. And don't forget to like, comment and subscribe to us while you're there.</p>
<p>Finally, we'd love it if you <a contents="JOIN US" data-link-label="Join Us!" data-link-type="page" href="/join-us" target="_blank">JOIN US</a> as an AVF Friend. Get updates on new blog posts, new products and special discounts, only available to our Friends.</p>
<p>THANK YOU and have a blessed day! </p>
<p> </p>
<p> </p>
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