The Farmers’ Almanac has always been a “source of information. In the 1800’s people came from around the world to America and almanacs told people how to behave, dress, cook, etc. Today, the publication reaches folks all over the world. We now share ideas with a much larger audience than we could so many years ago. Here are a few comments on recent blogs:

I spoke about burning wood. What I failed to mention, is the need to clean chimneys as a result of the creosote build up. Then, there is gas which is “cleaner”. I vent gas at my cottage outside and not through a chimney.

Chimney cleaning is required for burning wood in order to remove creosote, which comes from all woods. But, gas is clean and hot burning so there cannot be any build up. I would have the chimney checked every few years to be sure the bricks are intact and the liner in good condition.

I posted my 10 Best Weather Cities. Every top list has voids and we all have different criteria. I expected an “outcry” of why not my community. Here is one consideration from Dan (who may work for the chamber?) for the top spot:

OXNARD, CALIFORNIA – This city has the best average weather in the nation. It is in a dry subtropical climate zone with mild winters that are warmer than average and mild summers that are cooler than average. The average minimum temperature is 52.4 degrees and the average maximum temperature is 70 degrees. In spring and summer, there are some low marine clouds in the morning but there are 354 days of sunshine all year. The average annual precipitation is 14.77 inches. In September and October, sometimes there are Santa Ana winds.

How accurate is our weather city list. Did we miss any other top contenders?

The temps are up and down and way down in some cases. If you are in the mood for a nice hot beverage, here is a favorite recipe.

Hot Chocolate

2 cups instant nonfat dry milk
3/4 cup sugar
1/2 cup unsweetened cocoa
1 tsp. salt
1 cup miniature marshmallows (optional)

Stir all ingredients together and store in a tightly closed jar or container for up to two months. To use, put 2 03 3 heaping tablespoons of mix into a cup filled with either boiling water or hot milk.

Cheers!