How to Save Money On Your Food Storage

One reason I often hear from beginning preppers is how expensive it is to actually store food. I hear you. These days, it's hard enough to just put food on the table each week without trying to buy extra to store. But you have seen by now just how important it is to have an emergency food supply on hand. Fortunately, there are some things you can do to make it a little more budget friendly.

1. Learn how to coupon. I always resisted using coupons. Maybe it had something to do with growing up poor and being proud of the fact that I could now afford to buy whatever I wanted. Maybe it was the looks I got from the cashier and others behind me when they saw customers with stacks of coupons. I don't honestly know why it took me so long to figure out that none of that mattered. What mattered was not wasting money. So get in on the couponing action! There are lots of guides and websites out there to give you all the tips and tricks to do it like a pro. 

2. Store your food properly so it lasts as long as possible. When I first started, I had a cabinet above my stove that I thought was perfect. I didn't use it for anything because I had to climb on a stool to get to it. What better place to store something I only needed in emergencies, right? Except that heat from the stove rises into that cupboard. And we didn't notice at first that the range hood vented into that cupboard (I know...who does that?!) I have since created space in my pantry. It's a good size area and once I actually got everything organized, I discovered I had more than enough room for an emergency food supply for the two of us. 

3. Rotate your supplies regularly. Speaking of the pantry....another lesson I learned the hard way. Keep your supplies organized so you can rotate it regularly. The first time I had to do a major reorganization of our supplies gave me a rude awakening. If you don't keep up with your supplies, you soon lose track of what's in there. Things expire. They have to be discarded. Nothing lasts forever. Not even canned food. And nothing is more wasteful than buying food only to have to throw it away. So think of your emergency supply as a distant addition to your regular weekly grocery list. If you see cans of tuna on sale, for example, check your emergency supply. If you have some cans on hand that are older, buy the tuna that's on sale, place it in your emergency supply and take the older cans out to use for meals that week. I do this every week now and I haven't had to discard of any expired product in years.

4. Skip the emergency food sites. I'm not saying it's not good food. Most of it is. But it is also expensive. Learn how to buy things like beans, rice, pasta and other non-perishable foods and properly store them long-term yourself. I store rice and beans in empty soda bottles for example. Yes, it might be convenient in an emergency to grab that pouch of freeze-dried beef stew off the shelf and just add water. But you can learn to make very good meals yourself with everyday ingredients for a fraction of the cost of these prepackaged meals. 

5. Which brings me to my next tip. Learn how to dry and can food yourself. It's easier than you think. There are wonderful books and websites that will teach you the skills you need. Just be careful to follow the instructions exactly and be sure the food has been properly prepared. Improperly canned food can be harmful if eaten. 

6. Where do you get food to can and dry without paying extra? Learn to garden. If you have the space outside for a large garden, plant it! But even some containers on the porch or patio can provide enough product to supplement your emergency food supply. Or provide enough fresh food to offset your grocery budget so you can use the money saved to add to your emergency supplies. There are books and videos to help you learn and many County Extension Offices give gardening classes. Many areas also have gardening groups the help members learn the basic skills. What a great way for you and the family to enjoy some healthy outdoor time. And kids are much more likely to eat their veggies if they grow them themselves.

7. Only store what you eat. When the pandemic was at its height and grocery store shelves were pretty bare, my husband wanted me to buy a case of Vienna Sausages and a case of ramen noodles. I said no. He is the only one that eats those and even then it's very rarely. Chances are they would have sat in the pantry for years before we went through them all. That money and storage space was better devoted to something we both eat regularly. Just because something is available and "on sale" doesn't make it a good buy if you don't normally eat it. 

Having an emergency food supply will give you a sense of security. You'll have greater peace of mind knowing that you don't have to worry about feeding your family in an emergency. These tips will help you save money while building your emergency food stash.

Do you have a favorite money-saving tip? Share it in the comments!

Why Should I Store Food and Water?

Yes, it's true that my audience is mostly those that aren't what we normally consider "preppers" to be. We're a bit older. Less inclined to "bug out" unless there is just no other option. We might have some health concerns. Spouses or elderly parents with medical conditions. Whatever the reasons, we would choose to stay put and ride it out in our homes.

However, that doesn't mean we can't be as prepared as possible. And part of being prepared means having an adequate supply of food to get us through the crisis.

You may think that it won't be a problem to run into town to stock up if necessary. Covid proved that is not necessarily true. Stores reduced hours or closed altogether. The supply line was disrupted and many necessities weren't available. Add to that the potential for natural disasters making stores unreachable or civil unrest making it dangerous and you can understand why it is necessary to have a supply of food on hand.

If you're fortunate to have the ability to plant a garden or even some container plants on a patio or in windows, do so. Every little bit helps. But most of us aren't raising chickens or running cattle. We don't have a milk cow in the barn. We need to stock up on non-perishable food to supplement the produce we are able to grow for ourselves.

I challenge you to go check your pantry and freezer right now. What's in it? Is there enough quality food to feed you and your family for at least 3 weeks? How much water? A few hours worth, maybe? Now is the time to change that.

If you think I'm over-reacting, just remember how long stores were out of things as simple as toilet paper and hand sanitizer during the worst of the pandemic. How empty the meat cases were. Do you think it would be any better in a full blown catastrophe? Remember Katrina and Harvey and Maria? How quickly did the government respond? In an actual crisis situation, it could take weeks or even months for government aid to reach you.

And for all of you "it could never happen to ME!" folks, let's go talk to the folks in Texas about the winter storm of 2021.

The weather is changing. Whether caused by us or not is irrelevant here. Hurricanes, floods, winter storms, wildfires...all are happening more frequently and are bigger and stronger than in the past. Civil unrest is a real thing now. Domestic terrorism is now the main threat to this country. And another pandemic is a distinct possibility.

Store food. Store water. Prepare to take care of yourself and your family. Join with your neighbors so you can share in each others particular skills.

You've not nothing to lose and possibly the survival of yourself and your family to gain.

10 Things To Add To Your Survival Kit I'll Bet You Didn't Think Of!

You know all about the need for food, water, and shelter. If you have been listening, then you already have begun stockpiling non-perishable food, decided how you are going to store adequate water, and discussed alternate shelter arrangements with your family...just in case.

If the shortages during the pandemic are any indication, you probably also realized you will require personal hygiene products (although most of us did survive the great toilet paper shortage of 2020). 

But there are still some items you should have in your survival kit that I'm willing to bet you didn't think of. After all, for most this is a new way of thinking. Have no fear. I'm here to share my top 10 things you should have in your kit but probably don't:

1. Extra Socks: I'm putting extra socks right at the top of the list. Why? In a survival situation, keeping your feet healthy is paramount. Your feet could be your only mode of transportation in an emergency! Even if you don't have to hike a great distance, your feet could still take a lot more wear and tear than they are used to. Which means so will your socks. So extra socks to replace the ones that get worn out. Or to wear when it's colder than normal to keep your feet warm. Or to wear as an extra layer of warmth over your hands. In fact socks have a myriad of uses other than to cover our feet. It's always good to have a supply of clean, comfortable socks on hand.

2.. A Hand Crank Radio: That's right. A hand crank radio. You need to be able to stay informed of conditions in your area. But no power can mean no TV, internet, or phone. The solution to that problm is the hand crank radio. No electricity or batteries required. And yes....they really work.

3. Batteries: Speaking of batteries, you are going to want some. Even though you don't need them for your radio, you make need them for other things. Flashlights. Lanterns. Some medical devices may have battery backups. If you lose power, you are probably going to use a LOT of batteries. Make sure you have plenty on hand. And check to make sure you have an assortment of all the right sizes. Check all of your battery-powered devices and then stock up. 

4. Hand Sanitizer: If you were one of those folks hoarding hand sanitizer during the pandemic, good for you. Hang on to that stuff. If you're like me, and hand sanitizer is just one of those things you never use, go get some. Under normal day-to-day conditions, I have never felt the need for hand sanitizer. But a survival situation is entirely different. It will be difficult to maintain any level of cleanliness and there could be some nasty stuff out there. Get the hand sanitizer. 

5. Dental Hygiene Items: The last thing you want during a survival situation is pain. And in my opinion, there is no worse pain than a toothache. Dental care is vital. But your electric toothbrush isn't going to work. And brushing with baking soda or peroxide tastes like crap. Stockpile some toothbrushes...the regular manual kind...toothpaste and mouthwash. You'll be glad you did. Oh...and don't forget the floss!

6. Aspirin: Speaking of pain, don't forget the pain relievers. There are many different types available today but I recommend plain old aspirin. It's the least expensive and it's not just for headaches. There are plenty of other uses for aspirin. It should be a key component of your medical kit.

7. Paracord: Think of all the things you might need a rope for in a survival situation. Now think how much better it would be if you had something stronger and lighter than rope. That's paracord.  

8. Extra Blankets: They will keep you warm in the winter. They can be used to provide shade in the summer. They can be used to create a makeshift stretcher or litter. Blankets are another one of those things that can have multiple uses. Make sure you have plenty stashed away, just in case. 

9. Cleaning Supplies: The cleaner you can keep yourself and your surroundings, the less chance of picking up some nasty bug. So stock up on hand soap to keep yourself clean. Dish soap to keep your eating utensils clean. Laundry soap to keep your clothes clean. And disinfectant cleaners to keep your shelter as clean as possible. Plus washcloths, towels, sponges, and paper towels.

10. A Manual Can Opener: Most non-perishable food comes in a can. It's going to be hard to eat if you can't open it. 

How many of these do you have in your survival kit? What do you have that isn't on my list?

Book Recommendation: Where There Is No Doctor

Let me tell you about one of my favorite books. Where There Is No Doctor: A Village Health Care Handbook was actually written for use in third-world countries. So if you're asking why it should be in your survival library, just think about it. I'm sure people who went through the Texas 2021 Stormageddon thought they were in a third-world country! 

All jokes aside, if SHTF for real in your neighborhood, medical care may be hard to find. There literally may be no access to a doctor. That's when this guide could be the thing that saves a life.

Although it covers everything from how to deliver a baby to how to splint a broken leg, it also covers how to use different medications. How to give injections. Information on nutrition. Disease prevention. And much much more. That may sound overwhelming. But all of the information is presented in a simple, straightforward, fashion which makes it easy to understand. It does include illustrations and information that pertain primarily to people like medical missionaries. But the overall medical information is useful any time you find yourself without adequate access to medical care. 

Of course, there are some things that simply cannot be handled at home by amateurs. The book is also very clear on those. We all hope we never have to be in a situation where we have to deal with that. But for most common health care concerns, this book is a godsend.

My favorite part of the book is the guide to medication. It's true in the US, you can't get medication without a prescription. But I'm sure you have all watched enough Zombie Apocalypse movies to see survivors raiding pharmacies. Trust me...if things got that bad, I'd be one of the first to do just that. And I would take this book with me to ensure I was getting the right stuff. It not only tells you what you need for different illnesses, it also has dosages. It has side effects. It also tells you when NOT to use particular medications. There are many first aid manuals available that will provide basic instructions for emergencies. This is the only one I have ever seen with such a comprehensive guide to the use of medications.

I have many first aid and survival medicine manuals in my library. And I will definitely be sharing a couple more of my favorites. But no matter which ones you may already have, you need to add this one to your collection even if it's just for the medication guide. 

P.S. A little warning on some of the illustrations. Most are fine. Some are a bit graphic. Just remember the actual purpose of the manual is for those traveling to third-world countries. Then count your blessings, don't freak out over the illustrations, and absorb the wealth of useful information in this book.

Where There Is No Doctor: A Village Health Care Handbook is available on Amazon. And yes, I receive commission when products and services featured are purchased.  It's the law that I tell you that I make some money every time someone buys them.

I have personally used everything I mention in my blog.  That is not a law.  It's just a fact that I won't recommend something I haven't used just to make a buck.

Thanks for helping me keep the lights on!

5 Ways To Keep Alerted During Severe Weather

It's tornado season here. So far I have been lucky. I have not been in the path of one. But I have helped with relief efforts after one of these devastating storms has passed through. They can be deadly.

I am more impacted by the flash flooding that often comes during severe weather. I had not realized how quickly this can become an issue. I guess that's why they call it "flash" flooding. But water can suddenly be dangerously deep before you even realize it. I have only been truly scared during a severe weather event once in my life and it was because of flooding. I'll spare you the details, but I will say this. It takes less water than you think to push a Jeep Gladiator off the road!

Thankfully, I am always aware...now...of what's happening weather-wise. Severe weather is just one more thing we prepare for here. If you are lucky, you've never experienced truly frightening weather events. But more than likely, at some point in your life, you will. More than once. And weather or not you survive can depend on how prepared you are.

That's why it's some important to to be able to access reliable weather warning. Fortunately, there are several ways to do this. 

First is your cell phone. Most cell phones today are WEA (Wireless Emergency Alert) capable. This is a nationwide text emergency alert system. These emergency texts are sent by authorized government authorities through your mobile carrier and will alert you when a weather emergency threatens. It will tell you what the emergency is (for example, a tornado or flash flood) and what action you should take. The best part is you don't even have to sign up for these. They are sent automatically to all WEA-capable phones located in the geographic area impacted by the emergency.

You can, however, opt out of receiving these alerts. Which would be a very dumb thing to do. These alerts can save your life.

Another way your cell phone can alert you to weather emergencies is through weather apps. Our local TV Station has a weather app I use. I feel like I'm carrying Darby Bybee (TV news meteorologist) in my pocket! But I also have the Emergency:Alerts app. It's from the American Red Cross. Not only does it alert me to weather emergencies, it allows me to check if my family is safe and to let them know that I am ok. 

Speaking of local TV stations, they are a great way to keep up to date on the weather in a severe weather situation. Whenever there is a threat, most stations interrupt any scheduled programming for al long as necessary to keep viewers informed of conditions in their area. 

You know me. I never put all my eggs in one basket. TVs can lose power. Stations can get knocked off the air. We can forget to keep our cell phones charged. So in addition to my cell phone and the TV, I have a NOAA Weather Radio. A weather radio is a smart addition to your emergency preparedness kit. It will definitely help keep you and your family safe during severe weather. They aren't foolproof. Nothing is. But you should definitely have one as a backup to WEA alerts on your phone.

The weather radio I use is the Midland ER310. I like the fact that it can be charged through either hand-cranking or solar. It has great reception and can receive NOAA extreme weather alerts and provide notifications. Not all weather radios can. It's flashlight is bright and the convenient size makes it easy to grab and carry in an emergency.

And don't forget good old broadcast FM radio. When the F5 tornado hit Joplin, MO, the first word I had of it was from my radio while I was sitting in my car...charging my phone!

With five different ways to keep abreast of weather emergencies, you should feel comfortable knowing you can keep yourself and your family safe. 

"But wait...aren't there six?" you ask. "What about tornado sirens?" Here's my advice on those. Don't count on them! They are not designed to be heard indoors. Wind direction, power outages, and equipment failure can make them useless. Please do not rely on them for weather alerts. Use a combination of the methods listed above. In fact, use all of them...just to be safe.

You May Not Think It's That Important But You'd Be Wrong. Fire Extinguishers!

You may not think a fire extinguisher is an integral part of your survival gear, but you'd be wrong. Whether you are sheltering in place or bugging out, the possibility of a fire increases under either of the these situations.

Just because you are sheltering in place, that doesn't mean accidents can't happen. Stressful situations can make us less attentive to detail. If you are fortunate to still be able to cook normally in your kitchen, grease fires or something placed a bit too close to a burner can quickly spread into a fire out of control. And if you have to resort to using a propane stove or campfire, that can make the situation even riskier. When is the last time you actually cooked over an open fire?

If it's gotten down to an outright emergency situation, you may not be able to count on the fire department. So let's be sure you have the proper equipment on hand.

We all learned the basic science of fires in school. We know they need fuel. And the need oxygen. Remove either of these and the fire goes out. That's how fire extinguishers work. They either cool the fuel or displace the oxygen. 

There are four types of fire extinguishers, each for a different type of fire. The four types are:

• Class A: for common materials such as paper, cloth, wood, rubber and some plastics
• Class B: for combustible liquids such as kitchen grease, gasoline, oil, or oil-based paint
• Class C: for electrical fires
• Class D: for combustible metals such as potassium or magnesium

It is unlikely you will need a Class D fire extinguisher - unless you are sheltering in a chemical warehouse! But it is very likely you will at some point have need for the other three types. Does that mean you have to buy all three types? No. Fortunately, you can purchase a fire extinguisher that has an ABC rating. I'll give you my recommendation at the end of this post. 

Be sure the fire extinguisher you choose does have an ABC rating. These are good on any type of fire. If you have only a Class A or even one each of a Class A, Class B, and Class C, you could actually make matters worse if you use the wrong one. In an emergency situation, you don't want to run the risk of accidentally grabbing the wrong extinguisher and electrocuting yourself by spraying water on an electrical fire for example. 

Once you have purchased your fire extinguisher, READ THE INSTRUCTIONS! Everyone needs to be familiar with how to use it, if necessary. Like performing CPR, it needs to become an automatic response. You won't have time to learn once a fire has started.  There are basically four steps:

1. Pull the pin
2. Aim at the base of the fire. Always aim at the base of the fire. Aiming at the flames won't work. the base is where the fire is getting its fuel. Aim at the base.
3. Squeeze the lever slowly
4. Sweep the hose from side to side

It's that easy - as long as you don't panic. Practice makes perfect so have everyone go through the motions until it becomes second nature. Just don't pull the pin while practicing!

I keep a fire extinguisher in my kitchen, one in each garage, one in each vehicle, and one in our boat. At a minimum I would keep one in the kitchen and one in the garage. And make sure you inspect them monthly to make sure it's pressurized. Nothing worse than a fire extinguisher that doesn't work when it's needed!

Now as for which one to purchase? These are the ones I recommend:

Amerex B402, 5lb ABC Dry Chemical Class A B C Fire Extinguisher: I have only had to use a fire extinguisher once...and that's another story. But the one I used was an Amerex that hadn't been inspected in years. And still worked great. Talk about reliability. Gets my vote! It is more expensive than other brands but if you can afford it, this would be my choice.

First Alert HOME1 Rechargeable Standard Home Fire Extinguisher UL Rated 1-A:10-B:C: If you're on a bit of a budget, this would be my second choice. It's affordable, plus it's rechargeable, which means it's reusable provided you get it recharged by a certified professional. It's also Coast Guard approved for marine use and is the one we carry on our boat.

Buckeye 13315 ABC Multipurpose Dry Chemical Hand Held Fire Extinguisher with Aluminum Valve and Vehicle Bracket, 2.5 lbs Agent Capacity: This is the one we carry in our cars. It's DOT compliant, which is important to us. Plus it has a vehicle mounting bracket which makes it easy to carry. Buckeye has always been a reliable brand. I've never had to use mine, but I trust it will work when needed!

Disaster Fatigue

Even before COVID, we were getting wrung out. The 2019 hurricane season was EXTREMELY active. Then came the pandemic. And civil unrest. And wildfires. And food shortages. And record unemployment. And the election craziness. And January 6th. And Snowmageddon. One thing right after another. Non-stop. Sometimes it just felt like it was too much to handle.

I'm an old hand at dealing with this type of stuff. And even I am beginning to feel a bit worn down. Sometimes, I wish I could go to sleep and wake up the next day to find it has all been a bad dream!

If you feel this way too, trust me...you are not alone. There is a name for what you are feeling. It's called disaster fatigue and it's a real thing. And it can take a real toll on your physical, mental, and emotional health. All the negativity and stress just beats you up.

I don't know about you but I'm exhausted!

But what can we do about it? Everywhere we look, there's been bad news. Even now, as the pandemic is winding down and the election has been over for months, there is still discord and misinformation seemingly everywhere. Wildfires are once again burning in California and New Jersey. And today came the announcement that we can expect another "above average" Atlantic Hurricane season. Food prices are rising. And don't forget the gas shortage!

How do we deal with it all? How do you keep from drowning in despair when all we see is wave after wave of less-than-wonderful news? 

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to fight disaster fatigue. Here are some tips:

1. Turn off the news. Seriously. Just step away from the TV or social media or whatever you use to keep up with the world. It’s information overload lately. Try putting a limit on how much news you consume in a day. Continuous exposure to negative news can increase stress and anxiety.

2. Utilize relaxation techniques. Engaging in physical activities such as yoga or breathing exercises reduces stress and can help you gain a better perspective on things.

3. Self-care is critical right now. Don't forget the "me" time. Go for walk. Talk to a friend. Engage in a favorite hobby. Read. Meditate. Listen to music. Just take time to relax and recharge. 

4. Look for the positives. Instead of clicking on the latest gloom-and-doom headline, look for positive stories. Trust me, they're out there. You just may have to look a little harder for them.

5. Get your rest. During times of stress, getting the proper amount of sleep is essential to your health and well-being.

6. Volunteer. It's hard not to feel hopeless...that whatever you do, it doesn't matter. And maybe you can't stop the next hurricane or the latest round of violence. But you can help those who are in need. You can give your time to the groups and organizations that are fighting to improve these situations. 

It's tempting to just give up, throw up your hands and walk away. Why bother, right? But if everyone just gave up, where would this world be?

Don't do that. Acknowledge that we are all dealing with a whole lot of stuff right now. Then do what you need to do to take care of yourself and your family. And once you have done that, reach out to someone else who is going through this too. You will be amazed at how much better you feel. Trust me. I know.

The 10 Best Medicinal Herbs for Your Herb Garden

It's spring....sort of...in Arkansas. Which means it's time to plant the garden. I keep a window garden of herbs year round. And microgreens, of course. But spring means it's time to plant the full herb garden to keep up my stock of medicinal herbs.

I first became interested in herbal medicine several years ago. My dad had gotten an infection in his hand from a cut and the doctors were having a very difficult time treating it. They had tried ointments and antibiotics and were beginning to talk about some sort of surgery. I did what I have always done in these situations. Went home and researched the crap out of infections and how to treat them. In the course of my research, I discovered that melaleuca oil was being used very successfully to treat MRSA in the UK. A little more reading and I discovered the healing benefits of calendula. 

I always have melaleuca oil on hand. I use it for everything! And for some reason I had some dried calendula flowers in the house as well. So I made a calendula tea bath to soak his hand in, then rubbed melaleuca oil into the infected area. Within a few days it started looking better and within a couple of weeks it was almost completely healed. That was enough for me. Herbal medicine became my new passion.

I've been growing my own medicinal herb garden ever since. 

Now, I am not a medical doctor. I am not giving you medical advice. There are times when a doctor is absolutely necessary. And please do not use any herbs unless you have grown it yourself from seed or 100% sure of what you have and where it came from. Many herbal medicine "experts" actually aren't!

Before using any of these for medicinal purposes, consult your doctor and/or an actual expert in herbal medicine. 

Okay...my top picks for your medicinal herb garden. I chose these because of their uses and because they are easy to grow.

1. Calendula: Of course, calendula tops my list. After my experience with my dad, I make sure to always have some on hand. It has antifungal, antiseptic, and healing properties. And it's pretty yellow-orange flowers make a nice addition to your landscape. It is an annual, which means you have to replant every year. But it will bloom all season long, giving you a nice crop of flowers to dry.

2. Peppermint: Peppermint tea is my go-to when I'm feeling a bit bloated. And peppermint oil is one of the ingredients in the oil blend I use to soothe my sore muscles when I've overdone it in the garden! 

This is an extremely easy to grow herb. In fact, you might want to grow it in a container instead of directly in your garden as it can get out of control very quickly!

3. Rosemary: I love rosemary for its flavor. I frequently use it in my cooking. But it also has anti-inflammatory properties. It may also help treat indigestion and research shows that the aroma from rosemary can improve a person's concentration and mood. Rosemary has been used to relieve headaches, upset stomachs, and menstrual cramps. 

4. Basil: Again, most of us know basil from our kitchens. But it also has medicinal uses. Basil is good for digestion and has been used to relieve nausea and acid reflux. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties and may also help manage depression and anxiety. 

Consumption of basil could also result in slow release of sugar in the blood, which is beneficial for diabetics. The essential oil present in basil also helps cut down triglyceride and cholesterol levels, which is a persistent risk factor amongst diabetics.

5. Cilantro: Most people associate cilantro with Mexican food, not medicine. But cilantro may help rid the body of heavy metals, lower anxiety, improve sleep, lower blood sugar levels, prevent urinary tract infections, aid digestion, and may even protect against food poisoning. 

6. Catnip: It's not just for cats! Catnip tea has been used to treat anxiety, indigestion, insomnia, and gastrointestinal upsets including cramping and gas. 

7. Lemon Balm: Lemon balm is one of the few perennial herbs so be aware that when you plant it, it will come back year after year. Lemon balm is used to relieve stress and help you relax. Applied topically, it has been shown to treat cold sores. It has also been used to treat indigestion and relieve nausea. 

8. Feverfew: Feverfew is an anti-inflammatory which has been used to treat arthritis and migraines. This is another perennial herb so plant it where you want to keep it!

9. Thyme: Another common kitchen herb you may not realize also has medicinal uses. Thyme has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Thyme tea can be used to soothe coughs and sore throats. Thyme is also packed with vitamin C and has been used to help prevent colds and flu. It's antiseptic properties make it a useful disinfectant for your home. And if you have pets, you may have noticed thyme oil (thymol) as an ingredient in their flea and tick repellent. 

10. Oregano: Oregano has some pretty potent benefits. It is rich in antioxidants. It has antibacterial properties. It may also protect against some viruses. People have used oregano for centuries to treat asthma, diarrhea, and indigestion. It may also help treat diabetes by improving insulin resistance. Other possible uses include treatment of croup, bronchitis, urinary tract infections, headaches, ringworm and psoriasis.

Baba (my grandmother) used herbs from her back yard to treat an infection on my arm. I used herbs to treat my dad's infection. People have been using herbal medicine for centuries. The more you know, the more prepared you will be in the event of a situation where medical help is not readily available. Start by learning how to use these 10 herbs. Once you're ready to expand your knowledge, I recommend you start by reading The Big Book of Backyard Medicine: The Ultimate Guide to Home-Grown Herbal Remedies.

Happy planting!

Chocolate

Yup! I'm devoting an entire blog post to CHOCOLATE!

Why? Because it is serious survival food. Really!

True, we are talking about dark chocolate not a Mr. Goodbar. Dark chocolate is good for your heart. It is rich in phenols and flavonoids that help maintain blood pressure and keep your arteries healthy. Limit yourself to about half an ounce per day since it is high in calories. And look for at least 70% cacao content to get the highest percentage of antioxidants.

Most of you probably knew that. Chocolate lovers will grab on to any information that justifies their addiction. But there are other health benefits to chocolate you may not be aware of.

Believe it or not, dark chocolate may help fight diabetes. Those same phenols and flavonoids that protect your heart also improve insulin sensitivity. Again, the higher the concentration of cacao, the better the results. 

Dark chocolate may also ease diarrhea. Yup! It's those flavonoids. They work by binding to and inhibiting a protein that regulates fluid secretion in the small intestine.

Foods rich in antioxidants and polyphenols may also help treat and prevent urinary tract infections (UTIs). And dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants. So the next time you have a UTI, consider snacking on some dark chocolate.

Chocolate can also help fight stress and depression. It's a comfort food. Look for chocolate made with real cocoa butter. The cocoa butter is what contains the beneficial antioxidants. 

Did you know that dark chocolate can actually help fight tooth decay? I know...right? Chocolate? Doesn't that give you cavities? Well it appears that the tannins in chocolate help stop bacteria from sticking to your teeth and the phenols limit oral bacteria. Again, we are talking about DARK chocolate. Milk chocolate is much higher in sugar which can indeed lead to tooth decay. 

Oh, and guys...chocolate contains L-arginine, an amino acid that can be a natural sex-enhancer (aphrodisiac). (PSSST....Ladies. It works for you too!)

Still not ready to add chocolate to your emergency rations? How about this? It's one more thing you can use to barter. I know I'd happily trade a kid or two for some chocolate. (Just kidding.) But I would accept quality dark chocolate in exchange for other goods or services. So would many others. 

Chocolate doesn't have an exceptionally long shelf life. But storing it in airtight jars will help. What chocolate should you consider adding to your supplies? Here are my recommendations:

1. Baker's Premium Unsweetened Chocolate Baking Bar: This is pure unsweetened chocolate with absolutely no sugar. It's great for baking. Baker's Premium Semi Sweet Chocolate Baking Bar is also good for baking and cooking, but it is sweeter so some may find it good for snacking. 

2. Hershey's Semi-Sweet Chocolate Baking Chips: These melt quickly so they are great for cooking. Plus a handful of chocolate chips can be a good quick snack. Mix them with some nuts and dried cranberries for a quick and easy healthy snack.

3. Hershey's Cocoa: One of my happiest memories is making real hot cocoa over the campfire on fishing trips with my uncle and grandpa. This is real cocoa powder that can be used for baking, cooking, beverages, smoothies and many other uses. It is so much better than that instant stuff... and because it's real, it has all the health bennies. 

4. PB2 Powdered Peanut Butter (With Chocolate): All the benefits of PB and chocolate in powdered form. Use it in baked goods and protein shakes. I have friends tell me they mix it with water and it makes a decent spread for PB sandwiches. I have not tried that. I'll stick to my Crazy Richard's Peanut Butter!

5. Navitas Organics Raw Cacao Nibs: Like sprinkles only healthier. Because you can never have too many sprinkles! These come plain 100% natural cacao or sweetened if you need a little sugar added. Either way, they are my go-to chocolate staple.

A Real Life Lesson

Let me share with you how quickly a series of small events can quickly cascade into an "OH S**T" event.

My last post talked about cascading events. Well, I forgot to mention that cascading events don't have to be monumental disasters. A series of small things, all coming together, can also be bad...really bad

.
It started in February with "Arkansas Snowmageddon 2021". Between the massive snowstorm and the subzero temperatures, we didn't get out for a few days. -25 is COLD! I'm not going out in that if I don't have to. We lost heat. We lost internet. Thank goodness we didn't completely lose power. We weathered the storm pretty well and patted ourselves on the back for being so well prepared. 

Because we didn't go into town for groceries, the cupboards were looking a little bare by the time we made our first shopping trip. Here's where the first little blip happened. Ours weren't the only shelves bare. Trucks couldn't get through. Stores were already struggling to keep stocked due to the pandemic. Now it was worse. We couldn't get everything on our list. We bought what we could and didn't worry about it. All in all, the storm hadn't impacted us that much. We were pretty pleased. We'd get everything next trip.

Except we didn't. The stores were still out of stock themselves. A minor inconvenience though. I'd go to one of the other stores in town. Granted, prices were a bit higher there, but they always had what I needed if I was willing to pay for it. Again, we bought what we could and decided we would pay the higher prices next week if we had to.

Then the utility bills came in. We were a bit...I don't want to say worried...curious I guess is more the word...to see what they would be. We had let faucets drip to keep pipes from freezing and used the space heaters several times to keep rooms warm. We expected an increase in both the water and electric bills. So we were pleasantly surprised to find that although they did increase, it was not as much as we were expecting. Once again, we patted ourselves on the back for coming through so nicely. Granted, we were having trouble purchasing some of the groceries we wanted, but no big deal. We were good.

And then blip #2 occurred. We both got sick. We are still not sure if it was a reaction to the vaccine which we had both recently received. Or the actual flu. All we know is neither of us felt like making the drive into town to shop. And a week without the hubs going to work meant a week with no paycheck for him. It was now going on a month since I had last purchased our entire shopping list.

After about a week, we started feeling better. We were glad, grateful that all the irritations now seemed to be behind us and we could get back to normal.

And then blip #3 hit. We had been out running errands only to come home to find two completely unexpected things. Another big electric bill. And a note from the water company saying they suspected we had a leak. 

We had planned and budgeted for one larger electric bill, not two. And when the first water bill after the storm wasn't that bad, we figured we had managed to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Wrong...on both counts. 

While the electric bill was unexpected, our attention was more focused on the note from the water company. It had been a month since the storm. If the pipe had been leaking the entire time, we could be in for one heck of a bill. And that didn't even include the cost to repair the pipe. We quickly got to work looking for the leak inside the house and basement. 

Unfortunately, that just confirmed our worst fears. The leak was in an underground pipe. We would have to call a plumber.

Which brings us to blip #4. Despite the fact that it had been a month since the storm, every plumber we contacted was booked up solid. It would be at least a week, maybe two, before they could even send someone out to look for the leak.

This is a true story. We were out of some essential food and household items. The electric bills put a big dent in our budget. And we had a choice to make about the water. We could either turn the water off and do without for a week or two. Or we could just let it run and cause an even bigger blow to our budget. Any of these things on their own could have been a problem. Together...they could have been a BIG problem. 

Except....

We are prepared for emergencies. Empty grocery store shelves or unable to go to town for groceries? No problem. We simply dipped into our emergency supplies. We knew stores would eventually catch up and we would replenish when they did. And when we felt well enough to go into town, hopefully we could get everything we needed. (I get asked all the time. Why not just have groceries delivered? We live outside of town on a private dirt road. We like it there. It has lots of bennies. Unfortunately things like plowed roads during record storms, or pizza and grocery delivery are not among them. I'm grateful to get my mail on a somewhat regular basis.)

Lost paycheck? That's okay. We have multiple income streams. Maybe he wasn't going to work, but our home businesses kept the cash flowing. So instead of worrying about missing work, he could focus on his health.

Big unexpected bills and repairs? No big deal. We have an emergency fund just for things like this. We paid the bills, fixed the pipe, and are now putting money back into our emergency fund to replace what we spent.

No water? Annoying but not a crisis. We filled our emergency water jugs and then turned the water off. We turned it on for a couple of hours twice a day for showers and bathrooms. The rest of the time we used our bottled water and emergency water jugs. This did cause our water bill to be bigger than if we had turned it off completely, but we decided being able to keep clean was more important to us than extra money on the bill. Could we have gone completely without turning it back on? Yes. We had enough water on hand for both of us for more than 2 weeks. 

This is why I have jumped on the prepper blog bandwagon. When most people think of prepping, they think of doomsday scenarios. The Zombie Apocalypse. Major natural disasters. But few stop to think how just one blip to your everyday routine can have huge repercussions. None of the events of these last few months were catastrophes. But any one of them by themselves could have had a serious impact on our lives. Together, they could have caused major problems for months to come. 

No food and no water impacts your health which can cause unexpected medical bills. Big unexpected bills and repairs can take money from other things. No paycheck makes it that much harder to meet those obligations. It could have been bad...really bad. 

But because we were ready, all it did to us was cause some annoying inconveniences and give me a story to tell.

P.S. The water jug in the picture is the one I use. If you want to know more about it, it's available on Amazon. Here's the link.

Cascading Events...What To Do When SHTF!

It happened with Katrina in New Orleans. And everyone said that was a "once in a lifetime" event. Then it happened in Puerto Rico with Hurricanes Irma and Maria. But how often will two hurricanes slam the same locale in such a short time frame? 

Then along came COVID-19. No, not a hurricane. But we saw some of the same side-effects.

And we saw it again in Texas with the 2021 snowstorm.

Obviously, this is a bigger problem than some people realize.

What am I talking about?

Cascading events.

What is a cascading event? Well according to FEMA, cascading events are events that occur as a direct or indirect result of an initial event. So when storms cause power outages, that cause water shortages, that's a cascade. Or when pandemics cause essential workers to become ill, combined with mandatory lockdowns, which causes hoarding, which causes food shortages and price gouging, that's a cascade.

I hear you. There was no way to predict any of these events. And while I disagree with that somewhat, you are partly correct. No one can predict every possible potential catastrophe.

Arkansas, where I live, got hit by the snowstorm too. But we didn't have near the issues Texas did. Is that because Arkansans are better prepared? Maybe. We get bad storms, both summer and winter, often enough to know what can happen. We know that when these things strike, one event is undoubtedly going to lead to another. So even though I was not certain I would lose power, (which I didn't thank goodness!), I had plenty of firewood for the stove. I had food to eat and water to drink and blankets and everything I needed to survive. And even though I didn't lose power, my heat pump did give up the ghost trying to keep up with -25 degree temperatures. Fortunately, I was prepared. 

This is why I advocate being ready for ANYTHING. My sister, who lives in Texas, came through this nightmare relatively easily. She was ready. She didn't expect a record cold freeze and snowstorm. But she knows that power outages happen for a variety of reasons. And that event causes other things to happen.

It's obvious we, as a whole, are woefully unprepared for these events. Each and every time we've been caught with our proverbial panties down. As spoiled and pampered as we all are, it's time to realize that no one is going to take care of you in a crisis anymore. And so you and your family and your community had better be prepared to take care of yourselves.

If there's a lesson to learn from all these events it's this. Cascading events happen. They happen for all sorts of reasons. You must plan for all contingencies as best you can. You can't just be ready for the next power outage or global pandemic or flood or any disaster without thoroughly examining worst case scenarios for each. If the power goes out...what else can happen? If food workers can't man production facilities or trucks can't get through to deliver...what else can happen? If your city is suddenly engulfed in a flood...what else can happen? 

I've never been an "end of the world, doomsday" prepper. Most people are not ready for that and just don't have what it takes to get there. And my goal is to help as many people as possible. So I'm more of an "end of the world as we know it" kind of gal. As recent events have shown, that is a very realistic possibility. And while you may never see another record-breaking storm or global pandemic, planning and stockpiling for them...just in case...just makes sense.  

It's time...time to stop pointing fingers. Time to stop blaming. Time to stop worrying about all the trivial crap we see going on daily. 

It's time to get together with your family. It's time for neighborhoods to plan together. It's time to be ready for the next round of cascading events. Because it's only a matter of time.

The Survival Tool Everyone Should Have

You know all about storing food and water. You've got your first aid kit ready. But I'm willing to bet there's one tool you haven't thought about. Your flashlight.

"But wait!, you say. "I have a flashlight. In fact I have more than one." 

And if you're like most people, you probably do indeed have several flashlights stashed around your house. But those old flashlights you bought at Walmart or Dollar General aren't going to cut it in an actual survival situation. They aren't going to last long. They can be big and bulky. They usually aren't very bright. You need a flashlight actually designed for emergency situations.

A survival flashlight has special features designed for emergencies. Fortunately, there are a wide variety of options. So it's hard to know which one is best. I give the same advice here as I do when people ask me which fitness program or diet is best. The "best" is the one you will actually carry and use. I'm a senior citizen. I have arthritis in my hands. Fortunately, I don't live on a fixed income, but many folks my age do. So I look for flashlights that are easy to carry and use. I I look for a wide variety of price points. 

If you aren't sure which one is right for you, here are my recommendations:

1. Fenix PD35 - This is, in my opinion, the best emergency flashlight. It weighs just 3 ounces, which makes it perfect for anyone to carry everywhere. It also boasts of an output of 1000 lumens. For those of you who don't yet know what that means, let's just say it's BRIGHT. Bright enough to handle whatever situation you might find yourself in. I love the fact that it's very easy to use - even in the dark, half-asleep, in a high-stress situation!

2. Freedom Micro - I know. You are going to think I'm crazy when you see this little bitty light. But at this size and price, you can buy them by the handful. Which is exactly what I love about them. Stash one anywhere you think you might need emergency light. On your nightstand. In the bathroom. In the kitchen. In your car. In your purse. On your keychain. On the zipper pulls of the jackets you wear frequently. Give them to your kids and grandkids. 

3. SureFire E2D Defender - This one is neither small or cheap. But it is carried by everyone I know in the military. And yes, I may be retired. But I still have connections! It's bright. It's durable. And yet it's slim and lightweight. If you are ready to invest in military-grade quality, this is the light for you.

4. Streamlight 90540 Survivor LED Right Angle Flashlight, Orange - 175 Lumens - Not quite what you might expect from a flashlight. I love the fact that the right angle configuration allows you to hang it up so you can work and have hands-free light. And since it was designed for use by firefighters, you know it has to be tough.

5. Streamlight 88062 ProTac 2L-X 500 lm Professional Tactical Flashlight, Black - 500 Lumens - Not quite as bright as some of the others. But still a great compact, powerful light. It's compact and easy to carry. 

6. GearLight LED Tactical Flashlight S1000 [2 Pack] - High Lumen, Zoomable, 5 Modes, Water Resistant Light - Camping Accessories, Outdoor Gear, Emergency Flashlights - This is actually the flashlight I have in my home and my car. It's super bright and I love the fact that I can zoom in and focus on objects at a distance. 

I'm sure you will find one or more of these flashlights quite suitable for your needs. 

Do you have one that you would recommend that didn't make my list? Feel free to share in the comments. 

And as always, if you purchase any of these through my links, I may receive a commission. Thanks for helping me keep the lights on!

How to Prepare for Survival

If you have been watching the news this week, it's been a little bit scary. Armed protesters overran the Capitol building. And now we are hearing reports that the unrest and violence could very easily continue. We are even hearing rumors of calls for another Civil War!

Now I am not going to get into a political discussion here. Because the fact is it doesn't matter which side is right or wrong. The fact is that once the violence gets out of hand, ordinary people, like you and me, could find ourselves in a survival situation pretty quickly.

We've already seen what happens when people are frightened and uncertain. People were being attacked and even killed over MASKS! And remember the great toilet paper shortage of 2020? People who weren't prepared suddenly found themselves facing an unknown and unexpected situation and they panicked. And did something that made them feel more in control of their situation. They hoarded and stockpiled toilet paper. You and I know what a colossal waste of time and money that was. But they felt the need to do something to bring some order to their world and this is what they chose. 

And it only got worse. Because now others going to shop saw there was very little or no toilet paper on the shelves. They did the only thing that made sense when faced with that fact. They also hoarded and stockpiled when they could. Stores began putting limits on the amount you could purchase at one time. And still, shelves were empty for quite a while.

But those of us who knew this day would come in some form or fashion weren't concerned. We had toilet paper! And lots of other supplies as well. Because we were prepared.

In these uncertain times, being prepared just makes sense.

Here's what you need:

1. Food - shelf stable. Easy to prepare. Include options that do not require heating or cooking. Have enough for 3 meals per day plus snacks for 3 weeks per person.

2. Water - I recently wrote a post on storing water. The post says to have enough for 2 weeks. I now recommend 3 based on recent events. You can check out all the info on storing water here. 

3. Medications - if you or any family member requires medication to survive, make sure you have at least 3 weeks supply on hand if possible.

4. A first aid kit - and please take some first aid training so you know how to use it. Call your local Red Cross. If they aren't doing in-person classes due to Covid, at least take the online training.

5. Batteries, matches, and flashlights.

6. A battery-operated radio.

7. Depending on where you live, you might need to consider the weather. Sleeping bags, thermal blankets, and even something as simple as Hot Hands warmers can be critical if the temperature drops. 

8. Important paperwork. Birth certificates, driver's licenses, passports, insurance information, bank information. You don't want to be searching for these if you suddenly have to evacuate.

9. Cash. Again, you don't want to have to evacuate and hope you can find an ATM functioning along the way. 

10. Basic hygiene supplies. Yes, toilet paper! Paper towels. Shampoo, toothpaste and toothbrushes. Soap or body wash. Cleaning supplies. Cleanliness will do much to prevent illness. 

11. Any special needs. Diabetic test kits and strips, CPAP supplies. Anything you or your family member requires on a regular basis to maintain your health. 

12. Pet supplies if you have pets. They will need food and water as well.

13. (optional) If you are prepared to use whatever means necessary to protect yourself and your family, firearms and ammunition. But only if you know how to use them and are prepared to do so. 

Get your entire family involved in preparing for emergencies. Everyone should know where the emergency supplies are and what to do if something happens. The better prepared everyone in your family is, the better your odds of surviving in an actual survival situation.

Power Outages Are A Problem

I learned this lesson the hard way....

It was a fairly quiet day. We had been keeping an eye on the weather. We knew severe weather was predicted for our area. But to be honest, in Arkansas, those predictions happen a lot! And while some parts of Arkansas have experienced devastating floods and tornadoes, we have always been fortunate to not get much truly "severe" weather. 

And so we were totally unprepared when suddenly, without warning and for no apparent reason, the power went out. 

Breaker checked. All good. Husband looks at weather on phone. Nothing on radar to explain outage. Calls power company but can't get through. Decides to walk down the road to the nearest neighbor to see if they have power.

He was gone a little while when suddenly the dogs started acting very oddly. Running to door. Back to me. Back to door. Whining. They have all been through storms before so it was very odd to see them behaving this way when I couldn't see anything happening outside. But dogs can often sense things before we can, and so I grabbed my phone to check the weather and that's when I saw it....

I had neglected to charge it the night before. It was now all but dead.

With no way to find out what was happening and no way to contact my husband to at least warn him that something odd was going on, I spent the several minutes more than a little apprehensive, I can tell you!

I am fortunate. All I was worrying about was no cellphone and a refrigerator full of food. Food can be replaced. But I have friends who are in electric wheelchairs which they now can't charge. Friends who use CPAP machines. My house is all electric, my husband and I, along with thousands of others, can be without heat or air conditioning. 

And that's just the tip of the proverbial iceberg.

An extended power outage can disrupt communications, water, and transportation. Stores may have to close. ATMS may not work. Gas pumps will be down. 

You may be left alone, in the dark, with no food, no gas, no water, no money, and no way to get help.

Power outages don't only happen during storms. If you live in California, then you may have experienced a few planned power outages. PG&E now uses these as a way to avoid fires caused by downed power lines during high winds. (I don't think it's helping much, by the way).

And in this crazy time of escalating violence and civil unrest, an attack on the power grid would not be out of the question.

And if you think it won't happen to you, remember my story.  Prepare NOW!

1. Take an inventory of all the items in your house that rely on electricity. Refrigerators, stoves, heat and air are all fairly obvious. But also think about medical devices that may need to be recharged. Cell phones that are essential for communication. TV and radio to keep informed of the situation. Determine which items are essential for your survival in the event of an extended power outage. Plan for alternative methods (batteries, generators, etc) to keep essential devices running.

2. Take stock of medical supplies. Does anyone take medication that needs to be refrigerated? How long can that medication be stored without refrigeration. Discuss plans with your doctor for any critical medications. 

3. Install smoke and carbon monoxide detectors with battery backup on every level of your home. When power is restored, a surge can cause appliances to short and spark a fire. Generators and camp stoves or other cooking devices can cause carbon monoxide poisoning. 

4. Keep your phone charged and get a solar powered charger.

5. Stock up on emergency supplies: Non-perishable food, water, flashlights, medication, first aid supplies, cleaning and disinfecting supplies, pet food if necessary, extra batteries, fuel for alternative heat and cooking methods (wood stoves, pellet stoves, camp stoves, etc). 

6. Keep your car fueled. Never let it get below half a tank. If you have to evacuate, you may not be able to find working gas pumps in a widespread outage. 

7. Ditto for your generator. Keep the gas tank FULL!

8. Place thermometers in your refrigerator and freezer. When the power is restored, check the temperature. If it's 40 degrees or higher, the food may not be safe to each and should be disposed of. 

9. Get with neighbors to create a plan to check on each other, especially older neighbors or those with young children. Older adults and children are especially vulnerable to extreme temperatures.

My husband and I were lucky that day. After stressing for a bit, it occurred to me that I could go sit in my car and charge my phone with my car charger. As I headed out the door to the garage, all the dogs followed me. Very odd! When I opened the car door, all three scrambled into the back seat. Odder still. I opened the garaged door, got in the car, plugged in the car charger, started the car, and turned on the radio. And that's when I heard the news. While there was no threat in the immediate vicinity, the town of Joplin, Missouri had just been virtually demolished by an F4 tornado. Joplin is a couple of hours north of us. I will never know if somehow my dogs knew, even at that distance. But I know now that if they start behaving strangely again, something big could be coming!

Three Days Without Water and You're Dead. How To Store Enough to Survive.

Humans need water to survive. You will die after just three days without it. Every living cell in the body needs it.

Our bodies lose water constantly through sweat, urination, and even breathing. When you exhale, you lose water with every breath. If that water is not replaced, it can be fatal. 

You can get some water from your food. However, it is impossible to get adequate water from food alone. And of course, other beverages like milk, juice, and even bottled tea can help. But the best way to prevent dehydration is to drink water. 

And yet, most of us have less than 12 hours worth of water in our homes. That's why being ready to store at least two weeks worth of water is the most important thing you must do when beginning to become crisis-ready. 

I have read and researched all I could find on water storage containers. They come in a variety of sizes, materials, and price points. Some are sturdier and more portable than others. I have tried several of them for myself. And there are several that do a great job. But for the purposes of home storage of water for a reasonable cost, I am going to recommend just one. I use it and am quite happy with it.

The emergency storage water container I use at home and recommend is the Reliance Products Aqua-Tainer 7 Gallon Rigid Water Container. For about $15, these are fairly sturdy and practical. They aren't as durable as some of the higher cost models, so don't stack them when full, but I have 3 of them and I have been impressed with how well-made they are for being so inexpensive. And they come with a five-year warranty. Two of them will hold enough water for one person for two weeks.  

I did notice some reviews on Amazon say they leaked and so I did purchase O rings as many of the reviewers suggested. But so far I have not experienced any leaking. These fit quite nicely under the shelves in my pantry, which is perfect for being out of the way but easily accessible. They also come with a hideaway spigot which makes it easy to dispense water when needed. 

If you are looking for reliable water storage on a budget, this is definitely the way to go.

Get Started Growing Microgreens Using the Microgreens Window Garden Kit

Ready to dip your toe into growing microgreens? This is a great little kit to get started with. It provides everything you need plus instructions to grow your first crop. 

And if you decide microgreens are for you, I can hook you up with some experts. 

Enjoy!

6 Things To Do If You Think You Are Being Followed

Are you being followed? That may seem like an odd question. But it's not as unlikely as you may think, especially in today's upside down world. 

Getting divorced? Your spouse may be having you followed to collect evidence of an affair. Are you financially well-off? You may be followed so thieves can learn your routine and know when it's safe to target your home. I hate to mention this because to me it's unthinkable, but if you are a parent, you may be followed by those who have an eye on your children. Women are followed by stalkers. Abused women are followed by their abusers. And when SHTF, you may be followed because you are prepared and others are not and they want what you have.

It's important that you be able to detect when you are being followed. Unfortunately, it's not something they teach in school. I learned in the Navy. And only then because I was training for the base auxiliary security force. Even there, it's not a skill that is taught to everyone. But think how many kidnappings, rapes, and other crimes might be prevented if you could know you were under surveillance.

Here are some tips:

1. Be observant. Pay attention to your surroundings. Watch for things that seem out of place. A strange car repeatedly in the neighborhood. Or a car that has been behind you for several miles. Seeing the same person if multiple places that you frequent. Someone at your door who just doesn't seem like they belong. Someone loitering for an extended period. You know what's normal for your neighborhood, your job, all the places you go regularly. Watch for things that are out of the ordinary. 

2. If you suspect you are being followed, the easiest thing to do is to change your routine. Leave the house for work earlier or later. Take a different route to work or the store. Ask your husband to pick up the kids from school. Shop at a different store. There are lots of ways to change your daily routine. It might be a little inconvenient but it makes you unpredictable. And most criminals like easy, predictable targets.

3. You can often verify if you are being followed by using a simple method. Whether driving or walking, simply "go around the block". Make continuous left or right turns until you are back where you started from. If the car or person you suspected of following you is still behind you, you are probably being stalked. You have now also let them know that you are aware of the surveillance which is often enough for them to pick a different target. 

4. Get lost in the crowd. If you are driving, go to a busy parking lot or any business where there are people outside. If you are on foot, go into a store or restaurant or coffee shop. Stalkers do not witnesses! 

5. If you feel frightened or uncomfortable, call a friend or family member. You can also download the BSafe app to your phone. This app offers a variety of safety features and is available for both iOS and Android. 

6. If you feel you are in imminent danger, call the police.

If you feel you are being followed, it's important to stay safe. Use these tips to protect yourself and your family. 

Don't Go Camping Without Your Best Friends!

Some of us love camping. Some of us...not so much. And I would love to tell those folks that if you prepare properly, you won't ever have to. But I'd be lying. There may indeed come a time when you find yourself having to survive in the great outdoors. So make sure you take along the following items. I consider them to be essential. My best friends on a camping trip.


Let's be real. If you are going to be camping you want practical equipment that's easy to take with you. Stuff that doesn't require electricity. So here's my list of the camper's best friends.


1. A tarp - Yes, this is pretty basic. But I promise you, all serious campers have one. Mine is pretty tattered but it's still functional. What makes them so wonderful? They can be used for just about anything! They can be used to block moisture from the bottom or rain from the top of your tent or shelter. They can help wind or sun. They can cover firewood or equipment...or you. They can be used to transport things. And even though they are so versatile, they are relatively inexpensive.


If you don't have a tarp, I highly suggest you get one.  Here's one of my favorites.


2. A Dutch Oven - Because you can cook just about anything in a Dutch Oven. It's like the tarp of cooking equipment. Breakfast, lunch, or dinner. Soup, stews, cakes, muffins, eggs, you name it. Granted it's not the most portable piece of gear. But if you aren't actually hiking to safety, the Dutch Oven is a godsend.


A good Dutch Oven can be a little pricey, but it's well worth the investment. Here's the one I have.


3. Foil - Yes, good old aluminum foil. You can use it to cook. Fresh fish in foil packets over an open fire...YUMMY! You can wad it up and use it to scrub some of your camping equipment. You can use it to wrap up small pieces of equipment for storage or transport. Once again, there are multiple uses for this camping essential. Just make sure you use good quality heavy-duty foil. Not the bargain brand.


4. A Survival Knife - Every prepper has a survival knife in his camping kit. And if they don't they should. Like everything else on this list, it has a multitude of uses. Open cans. Blaze a trail. Cut wood. You can even hunt or if necessary, defend yourself.


I could do an entire post on how to choose the right knife. And I might at some point. But for now, I will simply tell you which one I recommend - The Fallkniven A1. This is a heavy-duty, all-purpose survival knife and should last you a lifetime. It is extremely sturdy and corrosion resistant and can be used even in the harshest of weather conditions.


5. An Axe  - If you have ever had to collect wood for a fire, you know how important a good axe is. And my favorite is the Schrade SCAXE2. A good axe can be expensive. This one will do the job for a lot less cash.


Of course, there is an entire list of other items you should have in your camping kit. Lanterns and flashlights. A first aid kit. A compass. A whistle. Insect repellant. Sunscreen. Just to name a few. But most of those are pretty common sense. My five best friends are probably the ones you might not have thought to invite along before. Until now.