Interesting info for swine flu

Some interesting swine flu prevention techniques that can't hurt to try...

Prevent Swine Flu - Good Advice
Dr. Vinay Goyal is an MBBS,DRM,DNB (Intensivist and Thyroid specialist) having clinical experience of over 20 years. He has worked in institutions like Hinduja Hospital, Bombay Hospital, Saifee Hospital, Tata Memorial etc... Pre sently, he is heading our Nuclear Medicine Department and Thyroid clinic at Riddhivinayak Cardiac and Critical Centre, Malad (W).
The following message given by him, I feel makes a lot of sense and is important for all to know.The only portals of entry are the nostrils and mouth/throat. In a global epidemic of this nature, it's almost impossible to avoid coming into contact with H1N1 in spite of all precautions. Contact with H1N1 is not so much of a problem as proliferation is. While you are still healthy and not showing any symptoms of H1N1 infection, in order to prevent proliferation, aggravation of symptoms and development of secondary infections, some very simple steps, not fully highlighted in most official communications, can be practiced (instead of focusing on how to stock N95 or Tamiflu):
1. Frequent hand-washing (well highlighted in all official communications).
2. "Hands-off-the-face" approach. Resist all temptations to touch any part of face (unless you want to eat, bathe or slap).
3. *Gargle twice a day with warm salt water (use Listerine if you don't trust salt).
*H1N1 takes 2-3 days after initial infection in the throat/ nasal cavity to proliferate
and show characteristic symptoms. Simple gargling prevents proliferation.
In a way, gargling with salt water has the same effect on a healthy individual that
Tamiflu has on an infected one. Don't underestimate this simple, inexpensive and powerful preventative method.
4. Similar to 3 above, *clean your nostrils at least once every day with warm salt water. *Not everybody may be good at Jala Neti or Sutra Neti (very good Yoga asanas to clean nasal cavities), but *blowing the nose hard once a day and swabbing both nostrils with cotton buds dipped in warm salt water is very effective in bringing down viral population.*
5. *Boost your natural immunity with foods that are rich in Vitamin C (Amla and other citrus fruits). *If you have to supplement with Vitamin C tablets, make sure that it also has Zinc to boost absorption.
6. *Drink as much of warm liquids (tea, coffee, etc) as you can. *Drinking warm liquids has the same effect as gargling, but in the reverse direction. They wash off proliferating viruses from the throat into the stomach where they cannot survive, proliferate or do any harm.


Add HONEY to your storage!
The Utah Valley Produce website has been repaired and we are pleased to announce the annual honey order. There are two ways to get this wonderful raw alfalfa honey from Utah, the same thing we offered lastyear. You can buy 5 gallon buckets (60 lbs) for $104 or a case of 6 small5-pound containers for $58/case (30 lbs. in all).Please go toutahvalleyproduce.com, log in, and make your order. New customers will needto register first by clicking on the "log in"; button and following directions.Please feel free to pass this message on to anyone, includingwards and stakes. Deadline: October 31, 2009

Sorry

I know that I have not posted for a week now and I feel bad for anybody who may have been waiting for some more info. I mentioned before that things were going to get crazy around here and that time has begun. I am packing like crazy right now, and dealing with morning sickness and 3 little ones running around. Topped off with my husband having surgery tomorrow and my 4 year olds shark birthday party to pull off next week. I volunteered at my daughters school twice next week before I knew all of this was going on. So, I figured anyone reading this blog would survive without my input:)

Since I don't know when or if I am going to get back on track I will direct you to other blogs that basically I get my info from anyways.

My favorite blog to get all of the great deals locally, plus some great menu ideas is www.dealstomeals.com. You can try it out for free for 2 weeks as well, and then it cost $4.95 each month. Which is what most of us waste just walking into Walmart:) There is also a blog www. dealstomeals.blogspot.com for more great info. She also has a website www.myfoodstoragedeals.blogspot.com that gives you great tips, ideas and recipes for food storage. She really is a food storage genius and has recently been on local news stations.

Also a great site to prepare for emergencies, get food storage recipes, and get your 72 hr kits and car kits put together is www.safelygatheredin.blogspot.com. It has links to the side, as well as mine, that will help you know what items to gather each week in your kits. I wanted to start on the car kits next and they have already done that on their site as well. I will keep my blog up and running and add things once in awhile when things come up, but as for now these resources are the very best. Good luck!!!!

Canning Tips

Here is some basic Do's and Don'ts of canning to start you off.

How do you get all of the equipment needed? It may seem like you aren't saving money when you have to spend money first right? You need to find some great prices and that will help even more. But if you can each year, you will save on buying fruit, jams and vegetables at the store. I noticed walmart has quite the display of canning items right now. The basic items you need are bottles with lids(12 for less than $10), sealing lids($2), and a canner.

There have been a lot of changes since our Grandma canned, actually since 1990 and new rules have been set. A canner can cost about $20 to $100. For all of my supplies I paid $10. How---I went to the thrift store a few years ago and found one for $7. My mom and grandma supported my cause, as well as yard sales of older people, and added to my bottle supply--I have 40. Each year I pay less than $5 for canning! I just buy the sealing lids (these cannot be reused each year) and can about 40 jars of pears, applesauce, tomatoes, apple pie filling) All of this fruit is free from my garden, my grandpas garden or by word of mouth.

Here are some basic instructions to can just about anything.

I did tomatoes this year and I really feel that it is the easiest to do. I grew my own tomatoes but the bulk came from grandpa.

First you find your fruit or veggie you want to can. If you want to make jam, you need pectin--found with all of the canning supplies--- and they have all of the recipes inside.

Then we washed all of the bugs, dirt, a snail slime off:)

I wash all of my jars in hot water or the good ol' dishwasher.

Then I boil a big pot of water. I turn off the stove and put my tomatoes inside for about 10 minutes. This helps get the skins off. From there I toss them in the sink of cold water. I really don't know if this is what everyone else does, but I grew up watching my mom do it. Now the tomatoes skins come off. This is the kids favorite part! They put their chairs up to the sink and the peels come right off. I cut out the stem part and the kids love to squish them in the jar. Well, my girls love to get dirty---my little boy, oddly enough, really hates the feel of it:) We leave about 1 1/2 inch of space at the top.
While this is going on I take the sealing lids that you buy at the store for about $2 and keep them in a pan of hot, not boiling water until I am ready.
Then I add 1 tsp vinegar to the tomatoes for safe acidity(this did not need to be done in my mom's days) and we take a non-metal utensil and hit down any air pockets. My 6 year old has been canning since 20 mths and she really loves to help me. It is my 21 mth olds first year canning and she seems to really enjoy squishing the tomatoes between her fingers:)

We put the lids on, and put the jars in the canning rack. I fill the pot about halfway---I learned one year not to feel it up too high or you have a lot of mess to clean up when it overflows from the jars being added. I turn it on high and get the water boiling (lid is on). Once the water starts to boil, I set the timer for 45 minutes. Other fruit like pears are shorter amount of processing time. Once done, remove the rack from the pot. I learned this today actually:) I usually leave it in the pot a bit so I don't burn myself, but apparently it can overcook your food if left in the heat too long. I don't care too much since my tomatoes will be pureed and cooked into pasta sauce later anyway. But other items may be affected by this. Once they are out don't tighten the lids, since it could break the seal. Int he next few ours make sure the lids are sealed. If it makes a popping noise when you push on the top then it needs to be done again. In this case I don't want to do it all over again for one jar so I just make dinner with it that night:) I also had one jar shatter yesterday, and since I am just a beginner I am not sure why this happened this particular.

If you have any questions you can ask me---or if you want to have a professional opinion you can google it:) I figure they seal every year, I haven't died from eating anything year after year, so it seems to be working good enough for me:)

Food Storage recipe

Honey Glazed Pork Chops
2 lbs of boneless pork chops
1/3 cup flour
1/2 teaspoon garlic powder
1/2 teaspoon pepper
5 TB butter
1/3 cup honey
1/4 cup brown sugar
1/4 c. soy sauce
1/3 c. lemon juice
1 tsp. ground ginger
Cayenne Pepper to taste-depending on how spicy you like it

Serve over rice Heat oven to 350. In a shallow dish combine the flour, garlic powder and salt & pepper. Dip each pork chop in flour mixture and coat evenly.Melt 2 TB butter in a shallow baking dish, large enough to accommodate pork in a single layer. Arrange pork chops in pan and bake uncovered for 15-20 minutes (depending on how thick your pork chops are) at 350 degrees. Don’t over cook or pork will get tough.Meanwhile, in a small saucepan, melt remaining butter and add honey, lemon juice, brown sugar, soy sauce, ginger and cayenne pepper. Boil for several minutes until sauce begins to thicken.After pork chops have baked for 15-20 minutes, turn each piece over and pour sauce mixture evenly over pork. Bake another 20 to 30 minutes, or until cooked through. Serve over rice. This recipe is also great on chicken

Fruit leather recipe

This is the basic recipe I have been using to make fruit leather with all of my apricots this week. Yes, still working on that. Some of the apricots need to ripen more, so I took a break for the weekend.

First I wanted to share my opinion on why I think it is important to take the time for things like this. At the same time I share some of my recent annoyances-I can because it is my blog and I can do what I want:)

1st, food storage is important and the more food storage you can acquire the better.

2nd, I realize that this can take a lot of time, and people are busy. I can think of 100 other projects in my home and with my kids that will always be there, but I believe we can make time for anything. If there is time to find out the newest American Idol, or who is Dancing with the stars, you can't be that tight on time. No rudeness intended, just that we all different priorities. I have a difficult time sitting still and watching tv when I know I have so many things that need to be done. So I use this as my down time and turn on a movie while I pit and cut them.

3rd, it is also a great teaching lesson for your kids. My kids enjoy this tradition each year, and actually get upset if they both can't help me pick the fruit. When I got home, I had other things that needed to get done before I started on apricots. When I got downstairs my 5 year old had laid out the blanket and her and my 3 year old had pitted 2 bowls of apricots by themselves and laid them on the dehydrator screen!

4th As mentioned we are teaching our kids, but also ourselves to be self-reliant. I understand that we have a Walmart down the street with dried apricots that I can pick up in 10 minutes. I can pick up a loaf of bread, instead of make it too. BUT I think it is important to know how to rely on our own skills and storage, in case one day those resources aren't available. Disaster strikes and a loaf of bread will cost you $10 if you can find anything left on the shelf. Note-I do not make all of my bread myself:) but get 95% of it at the grocery store. But once a week I try to bake bread, rolls or such to keep my storage rotated as well as teach myself how to be better at it.

5th and final gripe:) A small bag of dried apricots at the store cost about $4. For the amount of apricots I have dried so far and the fruit leather I have made would have cost me about $50---but I have paid nothing. Also, I know what goes into the food I make homemade, and not what has been used to preserve and maintain color, and sweetness.

Fruit Leather Recipe

Ingredients:
Fresh fruit (apricots, peaches, plums, berries, apples, pears, grapes)
Water
Lemon juice
Sugar (if needed) --I figure if my kids enjoy it without sugar, than why add it
Spices such as cinnamon and nutmeg (optional)
Method:
1 Rinse the fruit. If you working with stone fruit, take out the pits, chop the fruit. If working with apples or pears, peel and core them, then chop. If working with grapes, de-stem them.
Taste the fruit before proceeding. Note how sweet the fruit is. If very sweet (ripe Concord grapes for example) you will not need to add any sugar. If still a little tart, you may need to add some sugar in the next step.
2 Place fruit in a large saucepan. Add a half cup of water for every 4 cups of chopped fruit. Bring to a simmer, cover and let cook on a low heat for 10-15 minutes, or until the fruit is cooked through. Uncover and stir. Use a potato masher to mash up the fruit in the pan. Taste the fruit and determine what and how much sugar, lemon juice, or spices to add. Add sugar in small amounts (1 Tbsp at a time if working with 4 cups of fruit), to desired level of sweetness. Add lemon juice one teaspoon at a time to help brighten the flavor of the fruit. Add a pinch or two of cinnamon, nutmeg, or other spices to augment the flavor.
Continue to simmer and stir until any added sugar is completely dissolved and the fruit purée has thickened, another 5 or 10 minutes (or more).

Note if you are working with grapes - strain the juice out of the mashed grapes to make grape juice. Force what is left behind, after straining, through a food mill, to make the purée for the next step.
3 Alternatively purée it thoroughly in a blender or food processor. Taste again and adjust sugar/lemon/spices if necessary. The purée should be very smooth.

4 Line a rimmed baking sheet with sturdy plastic wrap (the kind that is microwave safe). Pour out the purée into the lined baking sheet to about an 1/8 to 1/4 inch thickness.

5 Place the baking sheet in the oven, try to keep any plastic wrap from touch the sides of the oven or the oven racks. Also try to make sure that the plastic wrap hasn't folded back over on top of the purée. If this happens, the purée won't dry out. Heat the oven to a low 140°F. If you have a convection setting, use it, it will speed up the process and help dry out the purée. Let dry in the oven like this for as long as it takes for the purée to dry out and form fruit leather. We usually keep it in the oven overnight, so about 8-12 hours. The fruit leather is ready when it is no longer sticky, but has a smooth surface.
Alternatives to the oven. If you have a food dehydrator, this would be a great use of it. Also a reader posted that she spread them on the cookie sheet and then put them outside all day. Get it out by 9 in the a.m., it's done by or 4 in the afternoon! That seems like a good idea to cut down on power and also not heat your house up using the oven.
6 When the fruit leather is ready, you can easily peel it up from the plastic wrap. To store it, roll it in its plastic wrap, put it in an airtight container and store in the refrigerator or freezer.
4 cups of fruit yield about one baking sheet of fruit leather.

72 hour kit- gloves

This week put in a pair of gloves for each member of your family. I put in some work gloves for me and my husband. After a natural disaster there will be a lot of debris that will need to be hauled away. I put little winter gloves in for the kids, to keep them warm and also keep hands safe around debris--I just don't see them doing much hard labor:)

Food Storage Recipe

If any of you have eaten at the Lion House (historic home of Brigham Young) you know these rolls are great. My mother in law makes them for special occasions.

Lion House Rolls
Ingredients:
2 cups warm water (110 to 115 degrees)
2 tablespoons dry yeast
2 teaspoons salt
1 egg
2/3 cup nonfat dry milk powder (instant or non-instant)
1/4 cup sugar
1/3 cup butter or shortening
4-4 1/2 cups all-purpose flour or bread flour

Directions:
1-In large bowl of electric mixer, combine water and milk powder, stir until dissolved.
2-Add yeast, then sugar, salt, butter, egg, and 2 cups flour.
3-Mix on low speed of mixer until ingredients are wet, then 2 minutes at medium speed.
4-Add 2 cups more flour; mix on low speed until ingredients are wet, then for 2 minutes as medium speed. (Dough will be getting stiff and remaining flour may need to be mixed in by hand).
5-Add about ½ cup flour and mix again, by hand or mixer.
6-Dough should be soft, not overly sticky, and not stiff.
7-(It is not necessary to use the entire amount of flour.)
8-Scrape dough off sides of bowl and pour about 1 T.vegetable oil all around the sides of the bowl so it is covered with oil.
9-Cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise in warm place until double in size.
10-After dough has risen, sprinkle cutting board or counter with flour and place dough on floured surface.
11-Roll out and cut rolls in desired shape and size.
12-Place on greased (or parchment lined) baking pans.
13-Let rise in warm place until rolls are double in size (about 1 to 1 ½ hours).
14-Bake at 375 for 14 to 20 minutes or until browned.
15-Brush with melted butter while hot.

72 hour kit-insect repellent

This week add insect repellent for the family and some chapstick. I don't know about you but there are times I can't find my chapstick and my lips are literally in pain. If we have to be outside for a long period of time we will be exposed to bugs, wind, and other extreme temps that can cause havoc on your lips. It won't save your life but can prevent a lot of discomfort in a disaster situation when there are already too many thing to have to worry about. As for chapstick it may not be the most practical in hot weather. Something like those tubes of blistex or a travel vaseline should be ideal. If necessary pack a lip gloss to maintain that glow after an earthquake:)

Recipe

Are your gardens producing a lot of zucchini? Mine is doing pretty good, plus my grandpa keeps insisting I take some when I visit:)

Chocolate Zucchini Bread- recipe from www.myfoodstoragedeals.blogspot.com

3 cups all-purpose flour (I used 1 c. wheat flour)
1/4 cup unsweetened cocoa powder
1 tablespoon ground cinnamon
1 teaspoon baking soda
1/2 teaspoon baking powder
1 teaspoon salt
2 cups white sugar
3 eggs
1 cup vegetable oil (I used 1/2 oil and 1/2 applesauce)
2 teaspoons vanilla extract
2 cups shredded zucchini
1 cup semisweet chocolate chips (or more)

DIRECTIONS: Preheat oven to 350 degrees F (175 degrees C). Lightly grease two 9x5 inch loaf pans. In large bowl, combine flour, cocoa, cinnamon, baking soda, baking powder and salt, mix well. In separate bowl, combine sugar and eggs, beat until well blended. Add oil and vanilla; beat until combined. Stir in zucchini. Add flour mixture; stir just until moistened. Stir in nuts and chocolate chips. Spoon evenly into loaf pans. Bake in preheated oven for 55 to 60 minutes, or until toothpick inserted in center comes out clean. Cool in pans for 10 minutes. Remove bread from pans; cool completely on wire rack.

72 hr kit-radio

It is a good idea to have a radio in your kit for a couple of reasons.

1-To stay informed in an emergency- The radio I like is a hand crank radio/flashlight. If I can get an object that does more than one thing and saves space I go for it. It is also great to not have to worry about batteries dying when you need it the most. You can use this radio to keep informed after a local or national disaster, and what steps your family needs to take next.

2-Entertainment- This isn't essential of course but I think my kids would need some distraction in a disaster. I went to the local dollar store and found these tiny head sets. Sometimes at teh dollar store you get lucky and other times you spend a $1 on pure junk. I was really excited by the quality of these little radios. The sound isn't fuzzy at all even if I move around. The ear pieces wrap around the radio and and it fits compact in the kids backpacks. It takes 2 AAA batteries so I packed a few extra as well.

Wacky Cake

I married into Wacky cake...this says a little about my in-laws as well:) Anyway, I noticed this same recipe elsewhere but it was called food storage cake. I am pretty sure my husband told be it was a family recipe, but apparently the secret is out:)

This cake calls for no eggs, but everything that should be in you storage. Plus, it is somewhere between amazingly moist chocolate cake and heavenly brownies. It doesn't need to be frosted because it has this fudgy, moistness that stands on it's own. Just try it, and you'll understand:)

Wacky cake (or food storage cake)
1 1/2 cups sugar
2 1/4 cup flour
1 tsp baking soda
6 TB salt
1 1/2 cups water
1 1/2 TB vinegar
1 tsp vanilla
1/4 cup oil

Mix all ingredients until smooth. Bake in ungreased 9X13 pan at 350 for 35-40 minutes. Cool before cutting. Can be topped with ice cream of cool whip.

72 hour idea

First off I wanted to remind all of those locally that CERT training is beginning again September 10th---every wednesday for 7 weeks. Register at http://www.unifiedfire.org/ and to get more info. It is great for you as an individual, keep your family safe or to help in your community. Even if we never have a natural disaster, it is skills I will use with my own family. Having little kids means that one or another will need my medical attention at one point. Really I feel like it is something I should keep taking so I can keep it all fresh.I told my husband that he would be on the list for the next class, but the poor guy is getting his tonsils out in September and would miss too much class---there will be more classes after this one though that I will jump on.

This week you can add something personal for your needs that maybe I haven't mentioned but is vital for your pack, maybe add some cash, or catch up on some of the other items. I got an email from Darla about another idea for 72 hour food that I thought you might be interested in. I am not sure my little ones would be able to carry it if it had cans of soup but you could substitute any of these ideas for items your family prefers. You could also fit the bucket in a backpack to keep your arms open or a yoke of some sort to carry two around your shoulders.

I think about going to the grocery store the other day and my daughter wanted to bring her little purse, but five minutes into it she was tired of holding it. So in my particular family, I hold the bulk of the items in a rolling suitcase and they have backpacks with their extra clothing, entertainment, snacks and hygiene needs that they carry.

I just like the way it is broke down and seems pretty simple to do--so whether you put it in ice cream buckets stacked in your closet or in a backpack, or duffle bag, or cardboard box, just make sure you get enough food for your family!

72 Hour Emergency Kit List
Fits in Ice Cream Bucket

List of Food for 3 Days:
1 small can apple juice
2 foil juice packets (Capri Sun)
1 piece beef jerky
1 package Trail mix
2 chocolate-covered granola bars
1 package fruit snacks
2 packages crackers
2 packages cheese and crackers or sticks
3 cans of soup (ready to eat)
or 2 cans of soup and 1 can of Vienna Sausages
3 packages raisins
1 package gum
6 pieces of hard candy
2 boxes Hershey's chocolate-flavored drink
1 can snack-pack fruit
2 breakfast granola bars
3 spoons
napkins (As many as you can fit)
3 foil packets of water (I really worry that this might not be enough water --although it is the minimum amount is has been said that in emergencies people want to drink more---plus keep in mind beef jerky will make you pretty thirsty. Things like juice and chocolate milk will hydrate you as well, but for me personally it makes me more thirsty becasue of the sweetness. Remember that it isn't how much water should you carry but how much can you carry--more is always better, but don't make it impossible to carry.

What to Eat:

Day 1
Breakfast: 1 box Hershey's chocolate drink, 1 breakfast granola bar
Lunch: 1 chocolate granola bar, 1 fruit snack
Dinner: 1 can soup, 1 package crackers
Snacks: 1 package raisins, 2 pieces hard candy, 1 stick gum
1 cheese and crackers and 1 foil packet of water

Day 2
Breakfast: 1 small can apple juice, 1 package trail mix
Lunch: 1 granola bar, 1 foil packet juice
Dinner: 1 can soup or Vienna Sausage, 1 snack-pack fruit
Snacks: 1 package raisins, 2 pieces hard candy,1 stick gum,
1 foil packet of water

Day 3
Breakfast: 1 box Hershey's chocolate drink, 1 breakfast granola bar
Lunch: Beef Jerky, 1 foil packet of juice
Dinner: 1 can soup, 1 package crackers
Snacks: 1 package raisins, 2 pieces hard candy,
1 stick gum, 1 cheese & crackers
1 foil packet of water.

This kit is "ready to eat" and requires no extra water or heat source.

Place a copy of this list inside the top of the bucket so you know what to eat and be sure to stick to the daily intake so as not to run out before the 72 hours is up.

Meds should also be placed in zip lock bag and crammed in cracks between food. (Adults Only)

Put date assembled on side of bucket and change out perishables every 6 months.

Keep by the door to grab in case of emergency. Easy for children to carry

Welcome Africa!

I know I am weird but every time I look at the map of the visitors I wonder why Africa never visits:) Today I noticed that we have a visitor from South Africa! Little things like that get me excited:) Now I am wondering where all of our South American visitors went:)

Food Storage Recipe

Chocolate Pudding Mix

3/4 c. powdered milk

7/8 c. cornstarch

1 1/2 c. sugar

3/4 c. cocoa

1/4 t. salt, rounded



Combine dry ingredients and store in airtight container.



To make the pudding:

Add 2/3 c. mix to a saucepan. Add 2 cups of milk and stir until blended. Bring to a boil, then reduce heat and simmer while stirring constantly until thickened. Cool and serve.

72 hr kit

Add some more cash to your kit. Remember to keep it in small bills.In a disaster ATMS, bank service and credit cards will not work. Stores will not have the ability to give change either in that situation. I heard that $200 is a good amount to have. Work gradually and add $5, $10, $20 at a time. Keep it safe in plastic bag and/or accessible safe. Don't keep all of you money in one members kit, in case one get lost or stolen.

Food Storage Recipe

Recipe taken from www.dealstomeals.com

Crescent Rolls
Makes 2 cookie sheets,
48 rolls, 24 on each pan-
(Recipe can be halved to only make 1 cookie sheet (24 rolls)
4 T. yeast
½ c. + 2 T. warm Water

Mix together and allow sitting for 10 minutes. While yeast is growing, mix together very well

in separate bowl: 6 eggs
1 c. oil
1 c. sugar

Also warm milk in the microwave only until warm NOT scalding.
2 c. warm milk
Add egg mixture and warm milk to the yeast mixture. Mix all together until combined.

10-11 c. flour
4 tsp. salt
Add 1 cup of flour at a time until combined together.
Continue to mix/knead for 5 minutes on med-high speed. Dough will be sticky to the touch. Allow to raise 2-3 hours. Separate dough into 6 even balls. Roll out each ball until the size of a dinner plate. Cut into 8 pizza wedge slices. With each wedge, roll down ward wrapping bottom skinnybottom piece down and around to make pretty crescent shape. Place 3 rolls across and 8 down, 24 on each cookie sheet. Allow to double in size while covered with clean dish towel. While raising on top of oven, preheat the oven to 400 degrees. Bake one sheet at a time. Bake 6 minutes on bottom rack and then 5 minutes on middle shelf until light golden brown. Brush tops with melted butter once removed.

72 hr kit

Put a small sewing kit in your kit this week. You can creat your own or even find a simple one at the dollar store. I don't plan on sewing matching outfits for my family in an emergency so I kept it simple. Maybe to patch up small holes in clothes, fix buttons or blankets or maybe medical stitching. Emergency Essentials has one for $.95 that comes with 8 spools of thread, scissors, needle, thimble, pins, pin cushion, 2 buttons and safety pins. In my non-sewing world I think the safety pin is essential--that and a glue gun:)

Food Storage recipe

If you have cornmeal in your food storage and not sure what to do with it....I only touch it for cornbread, here is a fun idea.

I like this recipe for homemade corn dogs because you can buy hot dogs with less fat. My kids love corn dogs but I don't buy them often because I feel guilty for feeding them something so unhealthy:)


Homemade Corn Dog Batter
hot dogs of choice
popsicle sticks or similar
1 c. corn meal
¼ c. sugar
1 ½ c. milk
¾ T. oil
1 egg
1 ¾ c. flour (I am going to try doing half wheat flour as well and add some honey to sweeten)
1 T. baking powder
Pinch of salt
Place franks on stick and dip in combined batter. Deep fry until brown.

72 hr kit

This week add rope to your 72 hour kit. I found some thin rope that fits perfectly in my pack, at the dollar store. I got a few of them. There are plenty of reasons why you would use them: tie water bottles around your waste to carry, leash for your pet, first aid, line to dry your laundry(pick up some clothespins at the dollar store to for convenience), tie things down, etc.

Pizza on the Grill

Pizza on the grill

2 1/4 c all purpose flour
1 c cake flour (or omit and use 2 3/4 cup all purpose flour instead of 2 1/4 cup)
1 T kosher salt
2 T olive oil
1 c warm water (105-115 degrees)
1 package yeast
1 tsp sugar
Add yeast and sugar to warm water. Mix flours and salt together. Add oil to yeast mixture after it is proofed then pour into flour mixture. Knead 10 minutes on low speed. (Or by hand about the same amount of time.) Let rise till double (1 hour). punch down then separate into 4 equal parts. Let rise again till double. Roll each part out to 12" circle. Heat up a grill with one side on medium high heat and the other on low. place the dough directly on the grill and cook till the bottom is starting to get crisp. Flip the crust over and move it to the cooler side of the grill. Brush with oil and add toppings. Cook til cheese is melted.

72 Hr kit

Add a utility knife, or pocket knife this week. You can just get a simple knife or one that has all of those fancy tools in it.

This one at Emergency Essentials is only $2.95 and includes:
This pocket knife includes
-2" stainless steel blade,
-phillips and standard screwdrivers,
-reamer punch,
-nail file and nail cleaner,
-sewing eye, 2"
-double-cut saw,
-spring-loaded scissors,
-can opener,
-bottle opener,
-corkscrew,
- scaler and hook remover,
-and key ring.

A lot of things that would be great in your kit, but saves you the room.

Food Storage Recipe

Oatmeal Bread
Makes 2 loaves

1/2 cup warm water
2 tbsp. dry yeast
3/4 cup water, boiling
3/4 cup rolled oats
1 cup buttermilk (or 1/3 cup powdered milk, 1 cup water, and 1 tbsp. vinegar or lemon juice) 1/3 cup vegetable oil
1/2 cup honey or molasses
2 cups all-purpose flour
1 tbsp. salt
1/2 tsp. baking soda
3 to 3 1/2 cups all-purpose flour

In small bowl, stir yeast into 1/2 cup warm water; allow to stand until yeast dissolves and bubbles up. In medium saucepan, bring 3/4 cup water to boiling; stir in oats and cook several minutes. Remove from heat; add buttermilk, oil, and honey or molasses.

Sift 2 cups flour, salt, and baking soda into a large mixing bowl. Add yeast mixture and oats mixture and beat with wire whip or slotted spoon; let stand 5 minutes. Gradually add enough of remaining flour until dough is stiff enough for kneading. Turn out onto floured surface and knead 8 to 10 minutes or until a soft, elastic ball forms.

Place dough in clean, greased bowl; cover with plastic wrap and allow to rise until double in size, about 1 ½ hours. Punch down dough and divide into two portions; cover with bowl or towel and allow to sit 10 minutes.

Form into loaves and place in greased 8 x 4-inch pans. Cover and let rise until double in size. Bake at 350° to 375° for 45 to 50 minutes or until done. Remove from oven and from pans, and leave on wire rack to cool.

72 Hour Kit

-This week add garbage bags to your kit.
-This is a great item to add to your pandemic supply as well. Use for all trash and possible contaminated materials.
-Costco has 200 13 gallon bags for $10.
-Bags will be essential for your emergency toilet. You will use these bags inside the 5 gallon bucket.
-I put most of my 72 hr items like clothes, blanket, food, in the backpack or suitcase after I place it in a bag to keep items dry.

Child Safety

Keep Your Child Safe!

-A child goes missing every 40 seconds
-An estimated 114,600 stranger abductions are attempted each year, with 3,000 to 5,000 of these attempts succeeding.
-Teenagers are most frequent victims of stereotypical kidnappings and non-family abductions.
-34% of U.S. parents do not know their child's exact height, weight and eye color.

According to the National Center for Missing & Exploited Children (NCMEC):
-The first three hours are most critical when trying to locate a missing child.
-The single most valuable tool in finding a missing child is a good current digital photograph. Create an ID kit for your children -Fill out the info, attach a recent picture, and mark on your calendar 6 mths from now to update it, or sooner if any distinct changes. My daughter recently lost 2 teeth and got a short haircut so she looks different from her recent photo. Sexual exploitation of children is a serious problem, and it may be one of the most underreported crimes.

-An estimated one in five girls and one in ten boys will be sexually victimized before reaching adulthood
-Less than 35% of child sexual assaults are reported to law enforcement
-Just as it’s difficult to pinpoint the number of sexually exploited children, it is also hard to identify potential exploiters. That’s because molesters and sexual offenders come from all walks of life, races, and backgrounds. The dangers to children are greater from someone they or you know, than from "strangers."
-Given all the unknowns it’s important to create an open environment of communication in which your children feel safe to ask questions without shame or judgment. That way they’ll come to you when things aren’t right

The National Center for Missing and Exploited Children recommends a program called Take 25....take time to teach these 25 things to your children.
-Teach your children their full names, address, and home telephone number. Make sure they know your full name.
-Make sure your children know how to reach you at work or on your cell phone.
-Teach your children how and when to use 911 and make sure your children have a trusted adult to call if they’re scared or have an emergency.
-Instruct children to keep the door locked and not to open the door to talk to anyone when they are home alone. Set rules with your children about having visitors over when you’re not home and how to answer the telephone.
-Choose babysitters with care. Obtain references from family, friends, and neighbors. Once you have chosen the caregiver, drop in unexpectedly to see how your children are doing. Ask children how the experience with the caregiver was and listen carefully to their responses.

On the Net
-Learn about the Internet. The more you know about how the Web works, the better prepared you are to teach your children about potential risks. Visit www.NetSmartz.org for more information about Internet safety.
-Place the family computer in a common area, rather than a child’s bedroom. Also, monitor their time spent online and the websites they’ve visited and establish rules for Internet use.
-Know what other access your child may have to the Internet at school, libraries, or friends’ homes.
-Use privacy settings on social networking sites to limit contact with unknown users and make sure screen names don’t reveal too much about your children.
-Encourage your children to tell you if anything they encounter online makes them feel sad, scared, or confused.
-Caution children not to post revealing information or inappropriate photos of themselves or their friends online.

At School
-Walk the route to and from school with your children, pointing out landmarks and safe places to go if they’re being followed or need help. If your children ride a bus, visit the bus stop with them to make sure they know which bus to take.
-Remind kids to take a friend whenever they walk or bike to school. Remind them to stay with a group if they’re waiting at the bus stop.
-Caution children never to accept a ride from anyone unless you have told them it is OK to do so in each instance.

Out and About
-Take your children on a walking tour of the neighborhood and tell them whose homes they may visit without you.
-Remind your children it’s OK to say NO to anything that makes them feel scared, uncomfortable, or confused and teach your children to tell you if anything or anyone makes them feel this way.
-Teach your children to ask permission before leaving home.
-Remind your children not to walk or play alone outside.
-Teach your children to never approach a vehicle, occupied or not, unless they know the owner and are accompanied by a parent, guardian, or other trusted adult.
-Practice "what if" situations and ask your children how they would respond. “What if you fell off your bike and you needed help? Who would you ask?”
-Teach your children to check in with you if there is a change of plans.
-During family outings, establish a central, easy-to-locate spot to meet for check-ins or should you get separated.
-Teach your children how to locate help at theme parks, sports stadiums, shopping malls, and other public places. Also, identify those people who they can ask for help, such as uniformed law enforcement, security guards and store clerks with nametags.
-Help your children learn to recognize and avoid potential risks, so that they can deal with them if they happen.
-Teach your children that if anyone tries to grab them, they should make a scene and make every effort to get away by kicking, screaming, and resisting.

72 Hr kit Item

It is important to have all of your personal documents safe in a disaster.

Copies of important documents: driver’s license, Social Security card, proof of residence, insurance policies, wills, deeds, birth and marriage certificates, tax records, etc

It is recommended to put them in a safe to protect them. Also to make copies and send them to someone outside your area. I sent copies of my documents out of state to my sister.

I am obsessed with taking pictures of my kids and capturing all of those moments.I would be devastated if they were lost. My husband jokes that in an emergency I will run back in to save the scrapbooks:) I will be sad to see them destroyed, but they are to heavy to save. But all of those pictures have been saved on discs and kept in the safe as well. I also sent 2nd copies to my sister:)

Cannery simplified

There aren't too many amazing deals at the grocery stores this week. I am excited becasue I wanted to post my cannery trip this week anyway:)

This is mostly for those who live locally, considering I am refering to the Sandy LDS cannery. but you can click here for directions to a cannery near you.

This is the cannery closest to me and it's info.
Phone
(801) 561-8104

615 East 8400 South in Sandy

So how simple is it?

You simply drive to this location. I get lost most of the time and I found it fine. It is a grey concrete building. Not beautiful by any means, but it fulfills it's purpose:)

They are closed Mondays. Open Tuesday-Friday 9am-9pm and Saturday 9am-5pm ----pretty reasonable.

When you walk in there will be a cute old lady at the desk. She has order forms on that desk that you fill out according to what you want. You can be prepared and have one ready now. I have no idea why they are not more up to date but they can only take checks or exact cash. They ask you to write your ward and stake name on a list, but if you are not a member just say so.

As you finish up paying a cute old man is getting your order ready from the room in the back.

10 minutes later another cute old man loads it in my car.

Simple----100 lbs of grain to add to be my food storage for only $31. I was done in 10 minutes PLUS I had my 3 kids under 5 years old with me! I didn't feel the least bit stressed out during my cannery experience. A trip to walmart NEVER takes 10 minutes with kids and always stresses me out:)

What do I do now? I choose to get my food in bulk because it is cheaper. 25 lbs of red wheat in the bulk is $6.05. If I was to get 24 lbs of red wheat in the individual cans it would cost $11.80.

I personally think it is a pain to store all of those cans. I have either 5 gallon buckets or rubbermaid totes I store it in. I like that I can fill it up with more, less containers to move around, and stack nicely. A 5 gallon bucket that you can get for $4 on a Macey's sale holds one-25 lb bag. My 10 gallon totes hold 50 lbs. In Utah there is little moisture and this works for us and keeps any vermin out. Store your items such as wheat, flour, sugar, oats in cool, dry place. I have limited storage space but avoid the garage at all costs. I have food under dressers and beds, and in closets:

Another option: Buy it in bulk and stay and can it yourself. I was told you can no longer bring in your own food to can, but must buy it right then to can. As long as you are not a huge group you don't have to make an appointment to can your food. You will pay for the price of the food and will need a can, metal lid, plastic lid, moisture absorber--about $1 for each can you do.

Another option: Buy the supplies and rent the canner. You can "rent" it for free for 24 hours and do all of your canning at home. This works best when you get a large group of friends and family and set it up in your garage. Talk amongst yourselves if this is what you want to do and set a date:)

Food Storage Recipe for your BBQ

This recipe was taken from one of my favorite sites Deals to Meals

Baked Beans (food storage recipe)
3 28 oz. Cans of baked beans (or 5-6 cans pork & Beans)
1 medium green bell pepper, diced
1 small onion, diced
½ c. Worcestershire sauce
½ c. brown sugar
½ c. favorite BBQ sauce or ketchup
2 T. mustard
1 lb. bacon (optional)

Sauté bacon until crispy. Drain most of the grease from the pan. Add the onions and green pepper. Saute until tender. Add the rest of the ingredients and simmer in pot for 30 minutes. If needs more kick add Tabasco or red pepper flakes. This recipe makes a lot! You can 1/2 this recipe if needed.

Declared a Global Pandemic...

In the World news...The World Health Organization declared Swine flu a global pandemic on June 11th. The first in 41 years, so I guess we are making history. Read more on MSNBC. Yes, it is considered mild and not deadly at this time but considered unstoppable to prevent spreading. We are advised to be vigilant for the next year or more as some may expect a 2nd and more deadly wave of the sickness.

Our State...Out of 50 states, Utah is number 8 on the list of having the most cases--688 cases. Wisconsin being number 1.

Even more local... I went to the doctor this morning at 11 am for back problems and my doctor told me he already had 2 positive cases that morning. 24 confirmed last week in his office alone. 4 out of his 6 children have already had it. My neighbor down the street has it. Since a student at my daughters preschool was diagnosed, he advised it wasn't worth going the last week and risk her getting sick. It is not deadly at this point but is certainly not pleasant to have. Watch for fever, runny nose, cough, basically flu-like symptoms. I am not in panic mode but have reached the mode that my kids will take a break from McDonalds play land:)

I thought this article entitled "Why is Swine Flu such a Big deal" was informative as well.

What about the kids?

Well for those of you who have kids, and not pets, maybe we should figure out what they need. They need something to keep their mind off of the disaster around them. I know there are some that say in an emergency the kids will learn to deal with it. Who says they will though? In CERT training the last class is learning how to help the victims, witnesses as well as the rescuers after a disaster. We take care of them physically with food, water and clothing, but emotionally they will be going through a lot. This is one reason why it is suggested to have soft blanket in their kit as well.



Think of entertainment. You need a way to keep their mind off of what may be going on around them. In my kids packs I put in a coloring book, colored pencils, picture book, bag of marbles, a Polly Pocket, action figure, etc. You don't have to pack up the play room- just a couple items that they enjoy. I also included a small sandwich bag with hard candies, chewing gum, and some snacks like fruit snacks, granola bars,cheese and cracker pack, etc. This is seperate from my 72 hours meals and intended to be comfort food if we had to evacuate.



In an adult pack you can pack a notebook and pen, book, etc. You may want to journal the events around you to remember later, pass time at an evacuation center or to keep your mind busy. Grown adults can suffer from emotional trauma after an event and it is important to take care of yourself.

Swine flu update and sale

In the event of a pandemic, N-95 respirator masks would be important to have. I hope we never see a pandemic of the swine flu---but wouldn't it be nice to know you were prepared just in case. You may never need your 72 hr kit or your life insurance, but it is all "just in case".

Do your research on swine flu, the pandemic of 1918 , swine flu in your area and what you would need in your home.

The pandemic of 1918 began mild in late spring and put a lot of people in bed feeling sick but tolerable. By fall, the sickness mutated and approx 50 million died. 2 mths later it was wiped out like it never came.

Utah had it's first case diganosed May 2nd--I remember because those individuals were in Park City and I was going there the next day. Less than 6 weeks later our numbers are 688 diagnosed swine flu case and 2 deaths. My daughters' preschool sent a note home today informing us a student in her class was diagnosed with swine flu. Class will continue but precautions have been taken and children are being watched closely.


When do you need to use a respirator? These are n-95 respirator masks, not just regualr face masks. One common mistake in 1918 was to make it a law to wear masks---but these masks did nothing to filter the airborne particles. If you and your family was quarantined at home for 3 mths you would not need to wear a mask unless you were a caretaker for a sick individual. It would be necessary if you were to go into a large crowd. My husband is a mailman and there is a swine flu case in his office. He is told that masks and gloves may soon be required. Kind of makes me wonder what the mailman could be coughing on to my mail:(

Harbor freight is having a weekend sale on n-95 masks--2 piece for $.99. You can also order a pack of 20 masks for $14.95 from Emergency Essentials.

What about Tito?

Do you have a 72 hr kit for your pets?
In a disaster you might not think of anything but making sure you and your children are safe. If you are a pet owner though, most of you consider your pets as a member of your family. As for me, if I had to choose between my child and my Chihuahua, there is no contest. But...if I could do both I will certainly try to do my best for my dog's safety as well.
As for the tadpole, turtle, and snails-they can fend for themselves:)

This is Tito (named after the Chihuahua on Oliver and Company:)

I figured out how much he eats and drinks each day and put in enough for 3 days. Luckily my little guy doesn't have much to store:) A disaster may be stressful for a pet as well, so a bone or a favorite toy would be good to calm him.

- It is also recomended to have a pet carrying case so it will have shelter if you needed to evacuate. Pets will not be allowed inside a evacuation shelter. You may even have a small tent for your pet to put outside of the shelter. As for my 7 lb dog, I have a box with a soft blanket and a rope.
-Apparently they have backpacks specifically for dogs to carry their own stuff-Mostly for medium and larger dogs--Tito would fall over:) The design doesn't look too complicated, so I am sure you could even save money and create something on your own. I just carry Tito's supplies in my bag.
-Small plastic bags are good for picking up after any waste.
-An emergency blanket may also be a good idea---those silver ones.
-It all depends on what kind of pet owner you are now. If you dress up your dog and it sleeps with you each night then you may want to include his favorite sweater and a pillow:)
-Others may think the last thing on your mind will be your pet. Keep in mind, if you are at home and living off of your storage, will you be sharing your food with your dog or starving him.... Eating your food storage will most likely make him sick, but it will also take valuable resources meant for your family. Buy an extra bag of food next time, so you can feel confident you have 72 hours of food for him as well as a longer term supply.

On ready.gov they advise a plan:
Consider family or friends willing to take in you and your pets in an emergency. Other options may include: a hotel or motel that takes pets or a boarding facility, such as a kennel or veterinary hosp ital that is near an evacuation facility or your family 's meeting place. Find out before an emergency happens if any of these facilities in your area might be viable options for you and your pets.
Develop a buddy system. Plan with neighbors, friends or relatives to make sure that someone is available to care for or evacuate your pets if you are unable to do so. Talk with your pet care buddy about your evacuation plans and show them where you keep your pet's emergency supply kit. Also designate specific locations,one in your immediate neighborhood and another farther away, where you will meet in an emergency

Food Storage Recipe

I found this recipe on http://www.safelygatheredin.blogspot.com/

Ingredients: Canned Chicken, Mayonnaise or equivalent, Craisins, Almonds or other favorite nut

Drain your chicken and place in a bowl. Take two forks and shred the chicken.

Now add some mayo. I add a little spoonful at a time and mix around until its a nice salad consistency.

Add some salt and pepper here too.

Stir in the craisins, or you could use raisins, and add the almonds .

Make yourself a sandwich or eat it plain.

72 HR Item

This week add a change of clothing to each members pack. I know what a pain this is if you have kids and they grow overnight,and it gets expensive. But like other items in your kits, like food, it should be rotated every 6 mths to a year. It is best to have something for warm weather and cold. I have to keep in mind extreme Utah temperatures-you don't want to freeze or overheat.

All I did was go through my kids closets and look for come clothes they don't wear that often or at all. Don't forget socks, and underwear as well. I found an extra pair of shoes for each child at the thrift store for $3 each. I bought 1 size bigger than they are now. My baby was the easiest since she has so many hand me downs from her sister and cousins:) It annoys me that the kids clothes don't match or look that great, but it is an emergency not a fashion show!

For me, I put in a pair of old scrubs---that way I can adjust them if I am pregnant.

This is essential since you may only have time to grab your bags and evacuate. If you are in your pj's and barefoot, you may have a problem.

Updated Printables

I had it come to my attention that some of the printables were not accessible. I learn something new every day:) Hopefully it will work for you now!

This blog doesn't get a lot of comments, although according to the map we have visitors from all over the U.S.A, China, Italy, Canada, Puerto Rico, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Saudi Arabia, Indonesia.....How cool is that? It is amazing for a girl who has never been outside of Utah! I hope if anyone has any questions or comments, you feel free to talk to me! I am amazed that more than 5 people are even looking at this little neighborhood blog, and it keeps me motivated to keep working on it. Thanks for that!

72 Hr Kit Item

If you take any medications on a regular basis, make sure you put about a weeks worth in your kit. All the food and water in your kit isn't going to do any good if you can't survive without specific medications. When I used to take my "crazy" meds I made sure I had at least 3 days worth in my pack. A disaster is not a good time to see how you would do weaning off of it:)
I know it can be difficult with prescriptions to get extra. I remember my insurance wouldn't let me get a new bottle until I was almost out of the last one. Maybe talk to your doctor about gettign some samples-that way they are in teh convenient packaging as well.
Now I keep medications like ibruprofen, tylenol for the kids, their excema cream, prenatal vitamins (since I am usually pregnant or nursing:). They are a great vitamin even if you aren't of course. You will not be eating as much or getting as much nutrients during a disaster most likely, so make sure you have vitamins for the whole family. I just bought a container of chewable animal vitamins at the dollar store for the kids.

Water storage idea

You may have seen those individual drink mixes that you can just pour into water bottles. It is convenient and will make your water taste good, even if it has been stored for a few years. I jsut went to Smiths down the street and they had Koolaid pack of 12 packets for .99. This is a great deal---I have been keeping my eyes open for a good deal and these are usually $3-$4. They have 4 different flavors. The sale is probably going until next Wednesday if you are interested. I put a bunch of them in the backpack that carries my 72 hr water bottles.

If you have 55 gallon water containers, I hope you also bought a siphon. I bought a siphon last year, but hadn't gotten around to trying it out. I was anxious how it would work, so while I was outside next to a 55 gallon barrel of cleaning water I decided to test it out. I just filled it up last week and forgot that it should have 6 inches in the top for freezing space. I was surprised at how easy it was, and actually kind of fun. So of course the kids wanted to try it out:) You simply put the stick like part in the barrel, secure the lid, and pump at the top. You get tons of water out the "straw" on the other side.

French Bread

I found this great recipe on deals to meals blog and haven't tried it until now. It looked and tasted awesome. It makes 3 loaves so I decided to try cooking one in the barbeque to simulate being without power. I struggle making bread in a regular oven, so I didn't have much confidence. I bought this bread dutch oven pan and decided today was the day to try it. I just put in the dough, let it rise for 20 minutes. I turned one side of the bbq on low-med and let it heat up. Then I put my bread in and watched it closely. In approx 25 minutes it was done. Of course the bbq only has heat on the bottom so I was worried that it would burn on the bottom and be doughy on top and middle. It was light on top but it was cooked. The bottom was a nice golden brown. I was so proud! I used the propane this time but next time will rely on the charcoal for heat just in case I was to run out of propane.

French Bread
2 1/2 c. warm water
2 T. yeast
3 T. sugar
2 T. white vinegar
Add these ingredients together and let sit until bubbly
1 T. salt
1/3 c. oil (anykind will do)
6 c. flour (or a little more if it's too soft)

Knead for 2-5 minutes and then put in the oven with a small pot of boiling water. The water will keep the dough moist. Watch the dough and punch it down when it gets to the top of the mixing bowl. Do this every time it gets to the top of the bowl, as long as you have time to babysit it (2-5 times). Put the dough on a greased countertop and divide into 3 sections. Spray a cookie sheet with cooking spray and sprinkle a thin layer of cornmeal on the bottom of the sheet. Roll the dough balls into rectangle/long French bread shapes. Slash tops of bread diagonally 3-5 times and cover with a beaten egg. Let rise 30 minutes (or until doubled). Bake at 375 for 30 minutes.

72 Hr cash

It is important to have cash on hand in an emergency. It needs to be in small bills and kept water proof in a small bag. If you were to go to the store to buy a loaf of bread they would not be able to give you change and you may pay $10 for bread.(if there is anything left on the shelf)

I try to put aside $10 here and there but regret I keep finding other items to buy for my kit instead. I read somewhere that it is a good idea to have about $200 on hand. I would put it in a few different places in case the bulk of it gets lost, destroyed or stolen.

Of course we would still have credit and debit cards, but after a major disaster the machines will no longer be in service. Banks will not be dealing with a crazy rush of people wanting their money out when the computers are all down. If you have a lot of cash just laying around, put a bit in your kit:) If you are like the rest of us you will have to take a little out of each paycheck until your stash adds up. If you don't already have a safe for documents and such, it would also be a good idea to buy one to store your money in. They have some with that are small with handles that would be easy to grab in and emergency.

Growing Your Own Storage!

It is a great time to plant a garden! You can add all of your produce for your short and long term storage either by canning or drying. Even with this crazy Utah weather I think we may be officially done with the snow:) Even if you don't have much space, you can still plant a little.

Find a small spot and till it up and add some compost. We are still working on getting our soil good, but this clay and rocks never seem to go away. I hear that square foot gardening works well for some, but I have never tried it personally. We have a seperate area for our garden that we till and add to each year.



Start with something you eat regularly. We like pasta, salsa, and pickles, so this year I wanted
to plant a lot of tomatoes, onions and cucumbers. It is tons of fun for the kids because they get to pick what they want to plant each year as well. It is so much fun to go out in the summer and bring in your own cantaloupe, eat fresh peas from the garden, or carve the pumpkin you grew yourself. Each year we like to try something new as well. This year we are trying asparagus and potatoes.

It is all about trial and error. Sometimes we have a great garden, but there is usually something that struggles. I have yet to grow successful cucumbers. Maybe this will be the year.

1st- find a spot for your garden
2nd-figure out what you want to grow this year.

3rd-Look at directions that come with most plants to see how far they need to be spaced, to see if you have enough room for everything you want.

4th-plant according to directions
5th-water and watch grow! -This year my husband has rigged a sprinkler system to water each plant indivivually to it's needs.

We tried these poles for our tomatoes this year to conserve space. The plant needs to be wound up as it grows. They are $5 at IFA.
If you don't know what to do with them once they are grown we will have a canning post during that time:) Tomatoes are really easy to can. I canned 35 jars last year and have set my goal higher this year since it only lasted about 9 mths.

I am planting tomatoes, onions, cucumbers, asparagus, broccoli, cauliflower, potatoes, peas, carrots, zucchini, watermelon, cantaloupe, pumpkin and radishes. I don't eat the radishes but plant them in between plants to keep bugs away. The bugs devour the radish leaves and leave my other plants alone:)
I use this area for my melons and pumpkins since they usually grow so big. In a couple of months the big vines will be covering my window wells and covering most of the dirt as well.

If anything, plant some peas--they are easy and fast to grow and the kids love to go out and pick them for a snack. I can't eat them to eat any other peas, but straight from the garden. It is a great way for the family to work together and see what they can do from a simple seed or small plant!

,

Pandemic update and Deals

Last info I sent out was the basics of Swine flu, but this is the "now what do I do?" portion:)



Keep Healthy-build your immune system up with vitamins, proper diet and exercise

-Avoid unecessary traveling

-wash hands for at least 20 seconds as often as you can; between taking care of kids, driving, grocery store, bathroom, yard work, there are countless ways we can be spreading germs *Carry hand sanitizers for trips to the store, park or playland

*Take advantage of the bleach wipes offered at most grocery stores for carts

*Be extra aware of childrens washing habits since they tend to be in more messy situations and wash less often and not as thorough



Get your 3 mth Supply of Food Storage

-This isn't new information of course. If there was a major pandemic alert, we would be required to stay in our home for approximately 3 mths. This means no trips to the store and relying completely on your food storage. In a major pandemic there may not even be a lot of stores open as well due to lack of employees and necessity.

-This should include all of the non food items as well that you use every day such as soap, deodorant,kitchen supplies, cleaning items, diapers, etc

*I have posted on our blog ideas to help you get started



Build up Your Water Supply

-From what I have been told our water supply shouldn't be contaminated with bird or swine flu. BUT in a major pandemic millions will die and the chances are many of these people could be those maintaining our utilities. I didn't even think about that sad truth until I talked with Chris from http://www.ldsavow.com/. For the same reason, prepare to be without electricity.

- For those of you who are patiently awaiting your 55 gallon water containers that I was arranging... I contacted the source and she said her company has slowed down production drastically on these containers that she is not able to reach our goal. Technically she told me she could obtain 100 barrels in a few months time and I have received none.

So here are some options that I have found on KSL:

- Blue 55 gallon in West Jordan $20 Previously held food sauce

- White 55 gallon in Salt Lake $10 Previously held non toxic chemicals

- Blue 55 gallon in Riverton $20 Food grade barrels

- White 55 gallon in Provo $15 pickup $18 delivery Previously held juice



I recently talked with a man who sells both white and blue barrels and learned that the U of U has done a study with these barrels to test for algae. They showed that even after 7 years these barrels, even uncovered white ones, did not have a problem. It is recomended that you empty them for the best taste and quality before 5 years though. He also keeps his outside surrounded by wood boards to keep from sun and leaves a 6 inch gap to allow for freezing. He sells his barrels white or blue for $25 and delivers to the area. I can give you his email if you are interested. He recently sold us the Life caps and delivered them personally to my home 12 hours after I placed my order!

* I will be getting your money back to you of course that you have paid for the other barrels:) I am letting you all take over from here to avoid any more money and pickup confusion.

I am on a list for free barrels from Coca Cola but I can't rely on that- it could be months...



Work place-Ask your employer how your company would function in a pandemic situation. Some jobs will have to continue, but will do so with the least amount of social contact with others as possible, wearing protective clothing.



Plant a Garden-We rely on our food storage to eat during this time, but my family would miss fresh vegetables. Plant now to avoid buying vegetables that have been handled by others at the grocery stores and shipped from all over the world.

-Your garden can be used for fresh veggies now as well as canning for your food storage. We will be posting about gardens and canning how-to's on our blog.

-If you were quarantined to your home for 3 mths this would also include your backyard, as long as you were at least 20 ft away from any neighbor who may want to chat, you can enjoy being outside.



Pandemic Supply list

N95 Masks- these are said to filter 95% of airborne particles. You would need these if the flu continues to spread and may be needed to wear in public areas. If major pandemic occurs they would be mandatory. If you are isolated in your home for 3 mths and a family member gets sick, you would not be able to enter the room without this as part of your gear. I will be taking orders for these masks next week in a bulk order.

Sterile gloves-used for same purposes and can also be purchased in bulk through me. Money will be due June 1st- more info to come.

Antibacterial soap- obtain a 3 mth supply or more

Hand Sanitizer- Dollar Tree had a great supply of scents and sizes. Pack the mini ones in your diaper bag, purse or childs backpack for now. I keep it on the counter since I know my 3 year old is not the best hand washer but loves to rub on sanitizer. I figure with both he may actually get clean:)

Bleach- Pandemic or not, bleach is essential in your supply for cleaning as well as purifying water. I am also a huge fan of bleach wipes.

Toilet Paper- I have a handout that says to have 100 rolls per person, but I can't imagine needing that much! Estimate how much your family uses in at least 3 months, keeping sickness in mind... Toilet paper is on sell this week at Peterson's:) 4-pack Western Family for $.78. Albertsons has a pack of 12 double roll Charmin tp for $4.88 with in-ad coupon

Paper Towells- for clean ups that can be easily disposed of easily.On sale for $.50 at Petersons this week

Large trash bags- use for all trash and possible contaminated materials as well.

Provisional Toilet- No utiliites, no water, no toilet. Use a 5 gallon bucket and 13 gallon bags13 gallon kitchen bags-use for contaminated trash as well as provisional toilet.

Large trash bags- use for trash and contaminated materials as well.

Dish soap- wash dishes by hand...

Provisional Washer- You may need to wash your laundry by hand and have soap, clothesline and clothespins as well.

If a family member becomes sick, they must be isolated--preferably in a room adjoined to a bathroom.They say that no one should be in contact with this individual, but if it is your child in there you will find a way to take care of them. Take precautions and use the following items as well as the gloves and masks mentioned earlier.

-Duct tape-100' roll of clear 4 mil plastic

-safety glasses

-disposable surgical gown or Tyvek suit--I don't know where to find these yet, but the suit is apparently at painting stores. You would need to cover yourself before entering room and undress in a particular order as well to avoid contamination.

*If you want a list on how to create a isolation room and how to properly care for a person safely, please email me for a copy of the Pandemic packet. A information packet was given to me by Riverton City and is toolengthy to make copies for everyone or to list everything online.



I realize some of these ideas may seem extreme...keep in mind,

"It wasn't raining when Noah built the Ark".

We have a great opportunity here to prepare for any disaster that may occur. This pandemic could just be a scare and go away, or it could put our families in jeopardy.As of now the total confirmed cases has gone from 1 to 63 in Utah, in less than 10 days.It can't hurt to use this opportunity to prepare now as if a major pandemic was approaching. For updates on the pandemic and tips continue to watch our blog as well as the Center for Disease Control.

72 Hr kit

I know I usually post a lot earlier, but it has been crazy around here and I have been sick. Not swine flu sick, but feels like it:) Anyway I hope no one has been waiting anxiously by their computer for this post:)

This week let's put a flashlight in each members kit. There are some simple options and some more expensive but better options as well.

Simple flashlight with AA batteries- I put one of these smaller ones in each kids backpack. They are less than $2 at Walmart. I put the batteries in seperate since it isn't good to store batteries inside things. We have had batteries ruin a few things that I forgot about and stored in the attic.

- these are cheap enough you could get a few for the house as well as in your cars. It is recommended that you have a pair of shoes/slippers under your bed with a flashlight in them.(turn them upside down so no debris/glass can fall inside) You don't want to wake up to a disaster in the dark and step into glass. Even for a simple power outage you need to know where a flashlight is.

Head light- These work great and you are still able to use your hands. I found this one at Harbor Freight for less than $3. These are good for adults but also adjust to little heads. Plus the kids think they are really fun:)

The kids were asleep so my model wasn't too excited about posing:)

Hand crank flashlight and radio combo- You can get these at Emergency Essentials for $16. It is an impressive flashlight and great reception for little radio. You never have to worry about batteries dying--just wind it up more. You should also have a radio in your kit to keep informed during an emergency, so this is a great deal.

Honestly, there are a lot of cool flashlights out there. You do need to keep in mind that bigger doesn't mean better. It still needs to fit in your kit along with everything else.