Growing Food What Worked And What Didn't

I have never had a green thumb. This is all new to me. I'm not sure what kept me from trying before...maybe failure. But how can I experience failure without trying first. So, I stepped up and planted some seeds.

Who knew that Squirrels dig and eat seeds. I didn't but I learned quickly when none of my seeds grew.  One morning looking out my window with a daunted look on my face. What am I doing wrong? 

I watched a fuzzy grey squirrel dig through the soil and eat the remaining seeds he hadn't found. I was dumb founded how could this be dont they eat nuts or something,lol. 

Now, I have answers. I am not a failure but a victim of a cute furry squirrel eating his morning meal. I had to think of a new strategy. After speaking with my husband we decided to get a few plants that just started to grow in starter pots from the stores. This little furry squirrel wasn't going to beat me. My husband chose a few and came home to see if they would survive our new house guest.

Some of them didn't make it with the high heat and but a few did! 

Although, the pictures below are not from my garden if you want to call it that. It's a bit to hot outside for me this morning and dealing with my Hot Flash's they don't go hand in hand (Big Smiles). I promise to share real time pictures soon.

Rosemary: its so fragrant we are using to cook with its wonderful. The plant is doing well. The rosemary tasted so much better than the kind from the store. Fresh picked is amazing! 

Cucumbers: they are just starting to come around. I am happy to see the progress. I will share better pictures later. When I water them by hand their furry prickly skin is uncomfortable when grazed. I try to get to the roots and move the yellow flowered long green leaves that lay sprawling and low to the ground. Although, a short uncomfortable visit for watering they will pay off at our dinner table.

Lastly, our tomatoes they are just coming in and need to moved to a better location. A project for the hubby this weekend (wink wink). Ours are still green but they are a joy to see!

I did print out the schedule for my area for planting times and types that grow the best. I need to make a binder and place it inside for future reference. I hope you all enjoyed your short visit to my new adventures. I'm am far from being a farmer. But I tell ya it feels good!

Homemaking and Life

Hello Friends,

Our new norm maybe a real wake up call for families. Many are working from home, teaching/home schooling, constant interactions, cooking, cleaning, budgeting, and making sense of it all. 

Many families that normally do not see each other much now interact all day long. Children look to you for attention, love, schooling, and understanding. While you still need to cook, clean, home school, organize, work, and so much more. 

I encourage you to embrace these changes with love and patience. 
Let this be a beautiful time for you and the family. Let your voice be gentle and words kind. Let love be the word everyday. Picture God and Jesus sitting in the room with you watching your interactions with your family. Being proud of your love and guidance during difficult times. Taking a time out when you want to yell/scream or curse. Say a prayer and re-group breathe and keep calm. It makes a real difference in the day. Less stress and a happy environment. 

Many families incomes have come to a halt. Now, they are struggling with making ends meet or even putting food on their tables. You see the short comings of your pantry and home needs.
You have a clearer picture of what you really need to have when you cant get it.

This is the time to take note of your experience and what your family needs and your plan how to get it. Pulling together with family, friends, community, food centers, church pantries, and school lunch distribution location. Figuring out how your family will eat, keep warm/cool, shelter, medicine, clothes, electricity, utilities, cell phone, cable/internet, car notes, and insurance (medical/car) and more.  Looking at your real needs and getting rid of non-essentials (bills). 

There are ways to get help:
Unemployment
Food Stamps (Snap)
Medicaid (Medical)
Food Pantries
Church Pantries
Social Service's Programs
Many States have instituted No Evictions for Rentals/Mortgagee's
(Some States do not have to Pay Rent/Mortgage During the State of Emergency)
Stimulas Money: Buy Food
Selling Your Items You Do Not Use/Need
Grow Food
Barter with Neighbors/Friends

Coupons/Ibotta and other Apps/Youtube Couponers for deals/rebates

Note: when you dont Pay Rent/Mortgage: These payments may become a lump sum due as soon as the 
State of the Emergency is Over. You could be quickly Evicted. There are no clear rules of how those affected would proceed with monies due when everything gets back to normal. Something to think about and work out with your Landlords/Mortgage Companies.

Covid-19 will be here for a long time and it will have its ups and downs on infection rates. We may have another Stay At Home Order during the Winter Season. If so would you/family be able to eat, keep warm, and have shelter. Think about these things now! 

I pray that you all are embracing these changes and settling in.  A hug, smile, and gentle words create beautiful memories during hard times.  

FOOD SHORTAGES START PREPPING NOW! WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR?

Hello Friends I know it's been a while. Covid-19 along with all the new rules, school, store, business closures have taken a toll on me and my new norm. I feel a bit more balanced now. I want to  reach out to all of you about the Food Shortages not only here in the USA but around the world. Our economy is on the brink of collapse. We will be looking at a Great Depression and Hyper Inflation. Where normal food and product may become so expensive we will not be able to afford it. Prep your homes and pantries now!!! While product and prices are still attainable.  

When we first found out there was going to be a stay at home order there was a run on all food stores. Shelves where cleared of many staples. Here is a list of items that where difficult to find in my area and continue to be for certain items:

Toilet Paper
Facial Tissue
Hand Sanitizer
Lysol or Clorox Wipes
Disinfectant Spray
Rubbing Alcohol 90%
Aloe Vera
Face Mask's
Gloves
Large/Small Bags of Rice
Large/Small Bags of Dried Beans
Canned Goods
Pasta (varies kinds)
Eggs
Milk
Bottled Water
Emergency Freeze Dried Foods
Medicine various kinds
Prescription Drugs (most main components come from China)
Meat (Shortage Current)

Does your list have something different? Please share down below.
All these where items that I had great difficulty in obtaining even prior to all the business shutting down except for Essential Stores. 
Although, shopping is difficult with limits at almost every store some varying from 2/4 of each item or just 1. Currently, we are facing a shortage for meat and its by products like milk/eggs/butter.  

I encourage you all to make a list of items/food your pantry needs and keep it with you for easy reference when shopping. Build up your food supply have several weeks to months worth of goods. You see how quickly things can change from having a job and being able to live a normal life. To the complete opposite trying to figure out how to get food, pay bills, keep your home/apt/rental.
How to keep the heat, ac, lights on! This is just a glimpse of things to come. 

Countries Hoarding Food and Supplies

   I was reading and came across some very disturbing articles of what countries are doing with their food supply. Please take the time to read a few (listed below) and get ready to prepare your homes, pantries, cold cellars. We will not be receiving the normal imports of food like we used to. You can see the effects already with bare shelves. This will not resolve itself any time soon. We are looking at food shortages and depression (economic). As well Convid19 will come back during the winter time with a vengeance. Please prepare your homes so you will not have to be out with those that are not prepared. Slow and steady buying a little extra here and there will make a big difference in your pantries. Many shoppers experienced frustrated people that were angry and physically violent. 

Consider growing your own food. Learn simple recipes and write them down for reference in case there is no internet. Learn to cook simple meals. Challenge yourself to mend/sew coats, clothing, and home items. Recycle old fabric, clothing, pillows, comforters/sheets/blankets make them into something new. Challenge yourself to Learn a New Skill that will help you and family. 

Bloomberg:
Countries are Starting to Hoard Food Threatening Global Trade
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/articles/2020-03-24/countries-are-starting-to-hoard-food-threatening-global-trade

Bloomberg videos:
https://www.bloomberg.com/news/videos/2020-03-25/governments-try-to-curb-food-hoarding-video

Feed and Grain
http://www.feedandgrain.com/news/countries-starting-to-hoard-food-threaten-global-trade

What am I sick with?

 I just saw this posted on wtop.com and I wanted to share it with you all. 

Vanilla Depression Era Cake No Eggs No Milk No Butter

Good morning friends. I want to begin sharing recipes I have found through recipe books and on-line. I encourage you to visit the site below to see hints and tips on the comment section and other great recipes that can be found. 
Site Name:  Premeditated Leftovers
https://premeditatedleftovers.com/recipes-cooking-tips/vanilla-depression-cake/

• 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour*
• 2 cups granulated sugar
• 2 teaspoons baking soda
• 1 teaspoon salt
• 2 tablespoons white vinegar
• 1 tablespoon + 1 teaspoon vanilla extract
• 1/2 cup + 2 tablespoons oil
• 2 cups water

Directions:

1. Preheat oven to 375 degrees. Grease 2 – 9 inch round cake pans.
2. Add the flour, sugar, baking soda, and salt to a large bowl.
3. Add the water, oil, vinegar, and vanilla. Mix with a whisk until well-blended. Do not overbeat. It will still turn out even if there are a few small lumps.
4. Divide the batter between the 2 greased cake pans.
5. Bake on a middle rack of oven for 35 minutes or until an inserted toothpick comes out clean.

It Started!!!! The Run on Food!!!!

Panic has set in my friends. Yesterday, I decided to stay home because my back hurt. Although, I still had a list of things to buy for my pantry. I read a article online that titled A Run On Food and Empty Shelves. The article shared how lack of imports for food/product that in turn (empty shelves) would cause prices to rise due to the effects of the Coronavirus and Economy.

I immediately cringed knowing that my simple tasks for getting supplies will no longer be simple. I knew that people who are unprepared would panic and flood the stores. That is exactly what took place where my sister lives in Virginia. Her Walmart was a scene from Christmas Time (Shoppers) x10!!!!! The shoppers were loading up on shelf stable foods (canned, cereal, bars) etc. It was so bad that they left quickly do to the overwhelming amount of people wanting the same thing FOOD!

I am blessed because I have been prepping for a while now so I am not experiencing the panic as others. I reached out to my family expressing a warning for them to prep for their families needs well before this time.. It fell on deaf ears. Now, they are experiencing the reality of a Food Run with possible shortages. Let's top it off with a Quarantine and Economic Collapse! The true test of preparedness. I wonder if they really thought things through when making purchases. Did they cover their needs:
1. Water
2. Food
3. Medicine
4. Seasonal Needs (generator/gas/camp stoves/propane)etc.
5. Cash on hand in case a bank holiday

USA thinking it's untouchable to anything from a lack of food, virus, bank runs, and economic collapse. It's all happening at once. 

I truly feel we are in times of judgement. I pray that all of you have a strong relationship with God to get you through the hard times ahead. Read your Bibles and strengthen your spiritual armor.  

It's still not to late to get what you and your families need. Remember if your family is struggling go to Food Banks and get Food Stamps. It's there for a reason no family should ever go hungry. 

SHTF Knocking On Our Doors! What Are You Waiting For!!!!

In the past several weeks I have watched the numbers of those infected with the Coronavirus rise. I've seen truly heart wrenching videos. One particular of children who had passed ages no less than 4 years old and below. The bodies placed side by side in one body bag along with their coats/clothing. I cried, prayed, and prayed again. I am no stranger to these types of scenes as I was a Safety Defects Analyst and received fatalities reports from around the world for review, report, and investigation daily. But these scenes of these children with no parents around to comfort them. Surrounded by doctors in full dress for infection barely trying to touch them unless only out of necessity. I wonder if they had any comfort from a loved one to hold them and stroke them so they knew they were not alone. We know the answer No. That could happen here in the USA with our loved one and infected children. 

I've seen videos of people being forced into a mode of survival like non-before. Some of these videos are disturbing to say the least. I wish we could do more to help these people as our day here in the USA will come for us. 

The CDC (Center Disease Control) has clearly stated the USA will be affected and it's communities. Quarantines may become common place in the USA. The CDC stated the virus will be with us well past 2020. 

The DOD (Department of Defense) has already began to set up Quarantine Stations these are the ones we know of...I'm sure there are many more not being announced:

The new quarantine centers are:

• JB Pearl Harbor-Hickam, Hawaii (HNL)
• Great Lakes Training Center Navy Base, Illinois (ORD)
• Naval Air Station Joint Reserve Base, Texas (DFW)
• March ARB, California (LAX)
• Travis AFB, California (SFO)
• Dobbins ARB, Georgia (ATL)
• Fort Hamilton, New York (JFK)
• Naval Base Kitsap, Washington (SEA)
• Joint Base Anacostia, Washington DC (IAD)
• Joint Base McGuire-Dix-Lakehurst, New Jersey (EWR)
• Fort Custer Training Center, Michigan (DTW)

                                                      Graph above provided by Forbes.com

Articles are being written as I type of expected empty shelves do to lack of inventory Walmart, Target, Safeway, and the list goes on etc.. The articles are stating empty shelves or lack of supplies as early as April 2020. The USA leans so heavily for imports food/product from China and other countries is beyond comprehension. 

Graph above is provided by the balance.com

If imports don't pick up Food Prices will Rise. Get your pantry

stocked up now while the availability is there and prices are reasonable. 

I urge you to have several weeks if not months worth of water, food, and supplies you normally use. If your community is affected with Quarantine you/family will fair better. Now lets no stop there the economy is being shook up as well. So, play it safe have some money in small bills on hand in case things happen that are not the norm. I pray you all are investing in your in preps so that no matter what happens you and your family will be good. 

My Pantry Goals This Week

Having a list of items needed or goals for your Pantry is important.
Times will become hard and well all will lean on our Pantries much more than usual. Setting up some goals will help to build it up. Here is what I wanted to accomplish this week: 

1. Red Feather Butter (Repeat Purchase)
I have been wanting to order more Red Feather Butter this is from New Zealand. So, I saved my money and placed an order $164.00 for a case of 24 cans. These are not cheap but worth every single penny. Great for times when things are lean and butter can be pricey. The butter is real butter and taste just like Sweet Cream Butter but in a can that stays shelf stable till opened. I already have some in my pantry but wished to have more. Just received it yesterday. 

I ordered mine from Pleasant Hill Grain link is below:
https://pleasanthillgrain.com/red-feather-canned-butter-storable?_vsrefdom=gpshop&gclid=CjwKCAiAvonyBRB7EiwAadauqa13kAiYmlC13RVQSO5ZG0N26Yi0ub-GudpsagaQDGep24xhcRm8hxoCIEMQAvD_BwE

2. Augason Farms Flour 17lbs Buckets 2:
These have been on my list for a while. Flour can get very messy when transferring from packaging to long term buckets. So, my husband chose to order to 17lb pound buckets for our long term storage. I can make bread in a pinch. Its Winter and the weather is cold and perfect time to let them sit in the garage so the cold temps can kill eggs etc.. He bought them from Amazon. It has been recieved.

3. Canned Foods:
Now, this is a constant for me since we are a large family. Today, I visited for the 1st time Lidl. 

I was pleasantly surprised to see some good deals. I bought 6 cans of Lidl Premium Chunk 
Chicken Breast in water 12.5 oz for $1.55 each. These normally run for over $2.09 in other stores. Dates out to November 2022. Can shown is not Lidl brand but used for reference. 

Additionally, I bought 6 cans of Hearty Stew Beef 20oz (1lb 4oz) these are like Dinty Moore Stew but cheaper. The cost of these were $1.69 on sale normally $2.00. These all have dates out to October 2022. 

4. Butter:
We use Sweet Cream Butter Salted and Unsalted. I found them for a excellent price at Lidl as well $1.79 (4 Sticks 16oz). I bought 2 Salted and 2 unsalted. Picture below is for reference not Lidl Brand.

5. Bega Cheese (Canned): This is a Australian product therefore its been difficult to get now with the wild fires. I set up a pre-order via Pleasant Hill Grain so when it comes in I will get a case of 36 for $112.00. My family truly enjoys cheese. Cheese as well can be expensive. To have this in my pantry for my family during hard/leans times will mean a great deal. Estimated time now for arrival is 3/2020

What exactly do you have?

       This is the time to see what you really have.

No matter what your pantry looks like it's important to take stock of what you have on hand. Food is a type of insurance that every family or individual should invest in. Check out my Article on Real Facts Canned verses Dry in a Emergency (Right side Bar) and how they have their place in certain kinds of situations like Coronavirus/Yellow Stone Super Volcano Eruption, Hurricane or Job Loss etc... 

America has grown very dependent on other countries like China for food and general products. The Coronavirus has taken a major toll on China it's people and companies. Thus taking an effect on the production and exports of goods to other countries. A little known fact is a vast amount of medicine and ingredients are provided and sent from China. We are looking at a possible shortage of medicine as well. We will feel the effects soon. 

This article was written in September 2019:
https://www.nbcnews.com/health/health-care/u-s-officials-worried-about-chinese-control-american-drug-supply-n1052376

This article was written on January 13, 2020
https://www.forbes.com/sites/sap/2020/01/13/prescription-drug-shortages-could-plague-the-2020s/#4c0271d22ff8

This article written January 15, 2020
https://www.fda.gov/drugs/drug-safety-and-availability/drug-shortages

Alaska Prepper on Youtube shared a video on several major companies Augason Farms, Emergency Essentials, and Patriot Supply showing all the long term packages (1 year or more) are completely sold out. I have never in my many years of prepping seen this happen. 

Between the Coronavirus, Yellowstone Super Volcano, Economy, Food Reduction (Grand Solar Minimum) and general life events. We are facing more uncertainty than ever. Most Americans only have a few days worth of food in their homes. This number is a sad reality. I encourage everyone to work on your pantry's and have several weeks worth of food. After that work on more. 

Buy: Water
Buy Food: canned or long term
Grow your own Food (vegetables/fruit/herbs)
Canning Foods: this is not an option for everyone
Food Pantries: Church or general Food Pantry locations
in return volunteer your time
Recipes: Look for 5 ingredients or less
Cooking at home will save your money

Go to your local area's stores that have the best food deals. Look at the advertisement's, cut coupons, use apps (clipless coupons). Use apps that earn you money on certain buys. Like Ibotta, Fetch, Rakutan, and more. Look at videos on youtube for couponer's and how they worked their deals to help save you time and money. 

Don't buy food that you or your family will not regularly eat because it's on sale. It's important to have a pantry that makes sense for your family in real needs.  

No matter what your shelves look like it's important to see what you have verses what you need. Make a list and work towards them.

A New War with Iraq 2020?

The remains of a vehicle hit by missiles outside the Baghdad airport. The commander of Iran’s powerful Revolutionary Guards Corps, Maj. Gen. Qassim Suleimani, was killed.Credit...Iraqi Prime Minister Press Office, via Associated Press

Alot has happened last night. A air strike took place in Iraq via USA. All Americans are urged to leave Iraq immediately. The attack will leave ripples of its effects on the USA and other countries. I'm thinking of our troops their families and children. This saddens me knowing what will happen next. Our Men and Women that serve our Country will be injured and killed in this kind of conflict. Lets all take time to Pray for our Country, Men, Women, and Children. 

See article below CNN Business by Paul R. La Monica. 

Gold, crude oil and other "fear trades" spike

From CNN Business' Paul R. La Monica

Most stocks on Wall Street slumped this morning on the news of the US drone strike in Baghdad that killed Iranian general Qasem Soleimani. But investments that tend to do well during times when traders are nervous about geopolitical turmoil shot higher.

• Gold rose more than 1% to about $1,555 an ounce.
• Bitcoin surged 4% to $7,250.
• The VIX, a volatility measure often dubbed Wall Street's fear gauge, was up 7%.
• Crude oil prices rose nearly 4% to above $63 a barrel.
• Dow oil stocks Exxon Mobil (XOM) and Chevron (CVX) were each trading higher.
• Top defense stocks, including Lockheed Martin (LMT), Raytheon (RTN) and Northrop Grumman (NOC), were all up in early trading.

Meanwhile, the CNN Business Fear & Greed Index, which looks at seven indicators of market sentiment, plunged this morning after hitting a record high yesterday.

CNN Posted:

What you need to know

• Iranian military leader killed: Qasem Soleimani, top general and one of the most powerful men in Iran, was killed in a drone strike at Baghdad airport early today. His deputy was also killed.
• Trump ordered the strike: Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said the airstrikes disrupted an "imminent attack" in the region that put American lives at risk.
• Iran's response: Supreme Leader Ayatollah Ali Khamenei vows for "harsh revenge."

2020 Goals and Reflections

Hello Friends, 

Looking back at 2019 I can see where I can make positive changes. 

Spiritual:
I want to grow closer to God. I want a strong Spiritual Armor.

Family:
Slowing down and keeping up with traditions. Enjoying the small moments and celebrating them.
Changing my way of doing things at home so it can make more sense. Putting my children first before those dirty dishes that are not going any where. Letting the dust bunnies visit a little longer so I can play with my children encourage their growth and answer those million questions they have. 

Social Media:
I already closed down my Facebook account. I have Instagram but never post. I do read emails and spam alot of them that are time wasters. I want to focus on my Blog A Frugal Life Now and Youtube. 

Jobs:
As a full time homemaker and business owner. I see that I need to work on my other outlets of income. Everyone should have several streams of income. All Billionaires and Millionaires have their hands in more than one pot (several streams of income).

Health:
This I am already working on and see positive results. I want to make healthier life decisions in general. 

Prepping:
I want to continue learning and adding to my food storage with long term foods. I call them get it and forget it. You know it's there when you need it. Call it Food Insurance. 

Growing Food:
I have never had a green thumb in my life. This year my husband I want to grow food for our home. 

Reading and Crafting:
I want to read more books. I want to craft more and enjoy my hobbies.

Cooking:
I want to challenge myself to try new recipes. 

Donating:
I want to step up my game in donations. I believe in giving back to the community and the places I normally shop. I want everyone to find treasures just like I do. 

Additional Tariff's on Products Outside the Tariff War Effective January 2020

 This is an important Re-Post: This New Tariff will go into effect January 2020. What you may expect.

 IMO (Internal Maritime Organization) 2020? What is this? Not alot of people are aware of the coming changes in January 2020. These changes effect the fuel used by shipping tankers that carry imports and products around the world. So, how does that affect me? Let me tell you....

 In short the IMO was set up to reduce the amount of sulfur in fuels used in these ships. Many are not compliant and the costs associated for this upgrade is extremely expensive for the new scrubbers. These tankers require dry dock in order to have the installation of the scrubber for compliance therefore being out of commission until updated. Additionally, the fuel cost have risen with the new compliance. These costs will be passed on to the consumer via higher prices on goods. Between, the Tariff War USA and China prices in the local super markets, big box stores, and thrift stores have already gone up! Now, we have to consider the additional cost that will passed down to the consumer for the IMO 2020. 

This is Why Prepping is essential for all families. Your fore thought and consideration for your families well being will be a Blessing during hard times. Having water, food, and medicine for your home. I personally believe in having several months worth of food at all times. Lets not forget the importance of the necessary seasonal items like winter boots, coats, clothing and alternative forms of cooking/heating etc... Every family is unique and will have a different list of needs according to the climate/medical issues/ and more.

Below I have linked 2 articles but there are a ton more out there.

Here is a link with a short article written by Rueters: https://www.reuters.com/article/us-imo-shipping-factbox/factbox-imo-2020-a-major-shake-up-for-oil-and-shipping-idUSKCN1SN2BX
and here is a FreightWaves article: https://www.freightwaves.com/news/imo-2020-prep-is-already-increasing-cost-to-ship-goods-by-sea

Major Trucking Companies Going out of Business and it's Effects on You

Yesterday, I read a Yahoo article about Major Trucking Companies closing down. Here is a link to the article" https://news.yahoo.com/thousands-truck-drivers-lost-jobs-191300330.html?.tsrc=daily_mail&uh_test=1_02  

Alot of people don't understand the gravity of the situation. Let me shed some light. These truckers carry goods to our stores, warehouses, farms, trains, gas stations, and importers/exporters etc... There is a big event coming around the corner. If you take the time to see what products and goods are no longer readily being transported. It sheds a light to supply and demand. Alot of people don't think about how products like food get to the stores. There a chain of events that takes place for that to happen. Part of that chain is broken now with so many companies closing their doors and independent drivers unable to secure routes/deliveries. 

Farmers:
It also emphasizes on the farmers crop loss. The truckers carried hay/feed/propane to the farmers. The propane helped dry what little crops they had. The lack of propane leaves crops wet allowing it to go bad. The feed/hay for the animals that survived the floods. They have not been able to grow their own feed or harvest hay for animals. Some farmers have culled their animals no longer being able to feed them. These animals cows, pigs, chickens supplied meat/eggs to our stores. Think about it....

Goods:
The other goods no longer being run on the regular to our stores like gas, food, clothing, medicine, shoes, housewares, blankets, etc.. There may come a day your area will see the effects. We truly never think of the items we need till they are no longer available to us. If a Snowstorm or weather event like a Hurricane/Tornado are predicated there is a store run and shelves are empty within hours. Gas station tanks are empty. Now add the truckers that normally ran these products to replenish stock are no longer running regularly. 
Gas stations with empty tanks. This could effect your ability to get to work, home, stores, doctors appointments or evacuations. 

Reality:
Let me ask you a question. Have you visited a store that normally is fully stocked at all times and now find half empty shelves or lack of product. I have watched Walmart Employees talking to one another about something coming around the bend and how they are preparing for it. They spoke of lack of inventory or fourth coming supplies to their Walmart and surrounding Walmart's. I am in a Suburban area that is vastly populated. This would take a serious toll on the families that keep only a few days of food/supplies on their shelves. 

Its time to take stock of your pantry and make a list of things needed. Slowly add the additional foods and supplies your family normally uses. Have a goal for 2 weeks worth of food and water in your home and work up from there. Securing your home for tough days ahead. You will thank yourself later for your efforts.

First 10 Things You Would Do If the Banks Closed

This morning Alaska Prepper (Youtube) posted an excellent question. What would you do if you woke up and found out the Banks are closed and you cannot get any money out. The stock market collapsed. What are the first things you would do to prepare. Mind you that the 1st day people will be going through the motions trying to figure things out. By the 3rd day people will panic and will become more aggressive when their needs cannot be met.  Here is my list. I cheated a bit and did 11. 
1. Gather all money and change 2. Fill up gas tank/Propane also heavy chain for generator 3. Buy Food/medicine/water/paper goods 4.Buy black bags/wrap & window plastic insulator kits to keep out cold/door insulation. The black bags are black out curtains for windows (if needed). 5. Call family to make sure everyone is on same page and buying goods in case we need to bunker down as individual families or together. 6. Buy more ammo 7. Transfer foods into Mylar/Food Saver bags that are not immediately needed 8.Wash clothes, blankets, sheets, and coats in case of power/water outage. 9. Get important papers/docs into 1 place along with 1 week supply food/water/clothes/blankets etc for car in case of evacuation out of necessity or danger. 10. Set Up Bells/Pots Pans and other items on windows or in front of doors to hear intruders. 11. Look at your home/supplies see what else you need. Never Shop Alone have 2 or more people in case folks begin to rob/steal goods.

List down in the comments the 10 things you would do.

California Rolling Black Out and Lessons Learned

Good Morning Friends,

California is experiencing Rolling Black Outs. They are experiencing extreme dry weather with winds that can cause fires. To contain the possibility of fire they are shutting down electricity to the mass's any where from 24 hours to 5 days or more.

This is a Prepper's time to find out what works in your preps and supplies. What doesn't and what you may need that you didn't even think about.

Non-Prepper's this is a time of awakening. Many are upset, taken aback, and confused how to even start to get everything they need. For those with medical conditions this is a very serious situation.
They maybe on machines that require electricity or medicine requiring refrigeration etc.

Generators may become a priceless commodity that can keep much needed machinery for medical survival or daily needs. Having enough gas to run them as well is extremely important.

I wrote an article how to keep cool during the old days some of these techniques may assist. Here is a link to my article: https://www.afrugallifenow.com/2019/07/how-homes-kept-cool-before-ac.html

I also wrote an article of canned food verse dry this may help to guide you on whats best for a rolling black out:https://www.afrugallifenow.com/2019/03/real-facts-dry-foods-vs-canned-in.html

If you have a generator make sure you have enough gas and use it wisely. When its turned on make sure to heat up any food you may need or water via hot plate, griddle, microwave etc..
Chain up your generator to something outside to make it difficult for thieves.

Rolling Black Out Short List Warm Weather: (note: cold weather is a different list)
Camper Stove, Grill, or other Camping style Stove
Fuel needed for these devices: propane, wood, charcoal
Do Not Leave portable Camper/Camping Stoves out for thieves after cool down bring them back inside for safe storage till next use.

Food quick easy no muss foods:
Water, Pre-packaged Drinks, Protein Drinks/Meal Replacement, Protein Bars, Fruit Bars, Granola Bars, Dry Cereal, Breads, Nuts, Popcorn (Pre-popped), Canned Chicken/Tuna Salad with Crackers kit, Canned Sardines, Snacks, Crackers, Peanut Butter, MRE's, Vitamins/Supplements, and Canned Fruit.

Quick meals that require no water just heating:
90 Second micro-wave items are pre-cooked just head and eat (Hormel Meals,/Rice/Pasta)
Canned foods like Chef Boyardee (other pastes canned), Soups (many kinds), Beans, Spam, Canned
Chicken/Beef, Quick Oatmeal etc.

Alternative lighting: LED products, Oil lamps, Flash Lights, Lanterns, Candles only when supervised. Light sticks for children to ease the transition and fears.

Water: to drink, flush toilets (if needed), cook, to hand wash clothes and line dry.

Keeping busy: Read, clean, organize, talk to one another, work on your hobby. Go through your home for donations, check up on neighbors, let everyone know you are there. Relocate your valuables to places not normally searched for.

Vehicles: remove all valuables from vehicles

Security: if you are un-armed make sure your neighbors know you are there. Set up a neighborhood watch to keep an eye out for predators. Leave a LED lantern/light on to let people know the home is occupied not empty. Halloween time is now you can find flashing lights/strobe that will let people know your are there and maybe watching TV. Keep doors/windows in lowers units locked. Place Christmas bells or other noise making devices on the doors or windows in case of a break in. Even pots and pans if they kick a door in will provide sound. Have whistles on all members of the family if there is trouble in the dark or day they can blow the whistle as an alert. Do not open Doors to strangers they may try to assault/rob/steal. This is a criminals paradise when grid down/rolling black outs.

Lastly, have a to-go bag/bucket with all documents/emergency supplies for 3-5 days in case of emergency evacuation. Take valuables if possible gold/silver/jewelry/coins.

This by all means does not cover everything but its a quick check off list for anyone who hasn't started prepping.

Home Weekly Wrap Up

Hello Friends, 

Thanks for coming by to visit. This week has been an interesting one indeed. The children came home sick with colds and passed it lovingly to the rest of the family. We have been struggling with this most the week. Many months ago I bought several Mucinex Children's Multi-system Cold/Flu Releif Night Time from the Dollar Tree. I knew it was inevitable that we would get sick through out the school year and I was right. These were a part of my Prepping efforts and it paid off. So, far we have used 3 bottles that go for $12.93 each online Walmart. I paid $1.00 each saving $35.79. I also picked up several Adult Mucinex they had available. We are well stocked and it was a Blessing.

This week I plan to transfer some of my cereal into long term food storage. I went online and bought some 5 mil 1 Gallon Mylar Bags that came with the oxygen absorber's. I always look for 5 mil it has a nice thickness. I will either use my food saver on the heat sealing mode or a flat iron to seal them. So, that will be an all day activity. My family will thank me later when times get tight (economically). We will still have their favorite cereals on hand.

 I have many glass jars that I have kept from pasta sauces, jelly jars, etc. I need to decide if I will use dried beans (several kinds), corn, rice, or pasta's in them. I also want to transfer some spices into smaller Ball Jars for longer term storage

.

Lastly, I will continue to work on my immediate and long term food storage re-organization. I will make a list of items I feel we need re-stock or I have completely used up. 

My Craft Room still awaits patiently for me and I have many idea's of things I want to create.