"one of the greatest inventions of mankind is the microwave, because you can take cloth bags of rice, beans, Bulgar wheat, etc...and zap 'em for 2-3 minutes and have a warmy-bag that will last for 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending on size and where you stash it. I had one inside my jacket as I drove tonight and I could slip my gloved hand in like Napoleon and un-chill de fingers! And for the feet at night! Oohhhhh! Take my word for it...it is worth having a small microwave unit if you do NOTHING else with it!
Bill D--a small clarification for anyone not familiar with those wonderful bags--the grain is otherwise uncooked! (I just made two more with old socks...doubled.... 3/4 filled with plain rice)
Bill, thanks. During our cold weather earlier this winter I've been wondering how much it would cost me to buy hand warmers to hand out to the homeless on the street. I contacted REI a few weeks ago and they wouldn't give me a price break, but they do have a bulk rate...
Utilizing your method is something I can do. I can get old socks from the local thrift store. I already have the rice and strong cord. I can even use the conventional oven when I know that I'm going out, and will be meeting them. Since I walk my dog three times a day I meet them frequently.
Our current weather isn't cold, just sloppy. But cold is sure to return.