It is the time of the year to be running your fall/winter preparedness checklist(s), and snapping up any bargains you can as various retailers drop summer (and even fall) items for various upcoming holidays. I must admit, this post and this post have added some impetus to my normal checklist routine.
First up, grab any bargains you can while you can. It’s already a bit late at big box stores, but summer/garden supply deals are out there. I’m currently stocking up on hardwood lump charcoal as various retailers try to clear space for Christmas and other seasonal goods. For a number of reasons, including price, I’ve decided it’s good to have 120 pounds or so of charcoal on hand this winter. Given the amount of cooking I’m still doing on the grill, not a bad idea to stock up and have it against need later this winter. There are a number of other things you can find good prices on right now, so don’t hesitate to bargain hunt for dual- and triple- use items and supplies.
Second, I’m also going to be grabbing some canning jars soon. Again, at some retailers, you can get them on sale this time of year. I’ve gotten a line on bulk ground beef at a very good price. Local in all respects, and arrives frozen. Freezer is fine, but I’m looking at canning a bunch of it and any other beef I can get at a good price. Beef is only going to go up, so am looking to grab a whole brisket and anything else I can catch at a good price, and can it. Canned beef is good for at least five years, and frankly a good bit longer if you take your time and do things right. Having beef both frozen and canned gives options. I’m also rendering and doing other fun things to maximize what I get out of the operation.
Third, I think I need to up my time-frame for potential propane operations such as emergency heat and cooking. Going to invest in three new tanks, go to Tractor Supply (or least expensive supplier) and get them filled. That gives me cooking and heating flexibility, and if the world situation starts getting more pear-shaped than normal, may look at some larger propane tanks and buddy hoses.
While I love my water distiller (thank you again kind person!!) and have filtering options, you really do need a fair bit in storage to keep up with normal cooking, washing/hygiene, and daily requirements. Thinking of laying in some larger containers of water just to be safe.
I’m also looking at testing an emergency heater that uses a copper plate, tea lights, and oven half-pans for both light and heat. Not sure how practical it is, but think it would be fun to play with as it could be useful as fallback in a true emergency.
Finally, checking both my alkaline and rechargeable battery stocks. The former may need some new items, and never hurts to have more of the rechargeable you use the most ready to go. Remember, it’s all about layers and the more layers you have for each facet of preparedness, the better.
Just a few thoughts to start the week. I’m celebrating Starship making orbit, and hoping X (and Elon) can move out even faster with the next one. Oh, changing up my Amazon wish list a bit to reflect current needs and such. More soon.
Remember, keep your friends and family close, and your clothes where you can find them in the dark. Be prepared.
Getting hit by lightning is not fun! It is thanks to your gifts and prayers that I am still going. If you would like to help me with seminary courses, pilgrimages, and more, feel free to hit the fundraiser at A New Life on GiveSendGo, use the options in the Tip Jar in the upper right, or drop me a line to discuss other methods. There is also the Amazon Wish List in the Bard’s Jar. Thank you.