Storage Closet Tools
One day when my youngest daughter was still at home, she asked me why we didn’t keep a can opener in the closet where most of the canned goods were stored. I didn’t have an answer for that one, so…
Simply Prepared with CFD Publications
Because preparedness simplified is more achievable
Simply Prepared with CFD Publications
Because preparedness simplified is more achievable
Tag everyday preparedness
Dry Packing Nuts
In the process of reorganizing my food storage in 2018, I found a hidden jar of pecans that had been dry packed in December 2011. (They had been stored for 7 years.) I opened them to see if I could…
Dollar Tree as a Food Storage Source
I decided to visit my closest Dollar Tree to see what shelf stable foods they had available for food storage. Then I went to my HEB across the street to compare prices. Here’s what I found: Name brand items are…
Kid Medicines
Children need child-size doses of over-the-counter medicines. In preparation for stocking a vacation home I asked some of my children what medicines they like to have on hand for their littler kids. Here is a list of things they include:…
Canning Chili
Canned chili has been getting increasingly expensive. So much so that I began to wonder if home canned chili was less. I can chili using the chili recipe in Ball Blue Book: guide to preserving but I use less salt…
National Preparedness Month 2026
Since 2004, September has been designated National Preparedness Month. Established because of the events of 9/11, it is a national campaign to encourage Americans to be ready for disasters. It is typically a month to focus on emergency plans and…
The Rising Cost of Living
An article appeared in the 14 July 2026 edition of USA Today titled “Americans call for action as grocery prices surge” by Marcia Greenwood. It was about the results of a survey of 1,100 registered voters conducted in May by…
Insect Repellants
If you are uncomfortable with using insect repellents laden with man-made chemicals, there are natural options available to purchase and to make. Herbal repellents are usually kinder to your skin but make sure your skin isn’t sensitive to them before…
Smartphone-Free Skills
The July 14, 2026 edition of USA Today included an article by Rachel Hale titled “My month with a ‘dumb phone’ showed me there’s a lot to learn.” Ms. Hale is a youth mental health reporter who has spent the…