Now that it's started...

[TheGrey]

...let's take a look at what can be done to make the most of what you have.

Please add to the list as you think of things. I'll get it started.

1) If you haven't done so yet, take advantage of the down-time to take an inventory of what you have- perishable foods, canned/preserved foods, frozen stuffs. Make a priority list of what you will run out of, so when you go grocery shopping or order online, you won't struggle to try and recall what you have.

2) Now that you have an inventory, begin making meal plans so you may use up your perishable foods first. Doing so will give you a better idea of how long your stores will last.

3) If you have perishable foods that you don't think you'll be using up before they go bad, find a way to freeze, can or dry them. If you have a surplus of eggs, for example, you can freeze them by scrambling them in whatever amount you want, and then freezing them. Once you mix the yolk and the whites, eggs freeze just fine. Milk freezes well. I've not been able to figure out anything with things like lettuce, or ways to preserve heavy whipping cream yet.

4) Use up everything as much as possible. Leftover veggies, celery that's getting a bit rubbery, onion skins, tomato cores, and bones from cooked meat can all go into the crock pot fill it with water, add a splash of apple cider vinegar and once it's cooked on low for 24 hours and is strained, you have some excellent soup stock, as well as a broth that helps with collagen replenishment (for those afflicted with dry skin) and maintaining blood sugar. This also freezes well.

5) Spices and seasonings help with food fatigue.

Take inventory of your clothes, and patch what needs to be fixed, make sure buttons are sewn on tightly. If you don't know how to do this, there are many Youtube videos that demonstrate how to do this. If you don't have mending equipment, there are also Youtube videos that provide excellent lists for things to collect for a mending kit- make a list for your next trip to the store.

6) if your neighborhood has a Nextdoor app, get on it. You can select to have your address hidden from neighbors, but this is an invaluable resource for swapping, for barter, and for news. Retain your OpSec- nobody needs to know what you have or how you keep your larder- but maintain a watch on the pulse of your neighborhood. Sure, there will be a lot of political crap, hand-wringing, and squabbling. Sort the wheat from the chaff. You may be surprised at how handy Nextdoor can be.

That's all I can think of right now. Be safe!

[ray1970]

I like #6.

Kind of a way to spy on everyone around you.

Also, if stuff really hits the fan and times are crazy desperate and you overheard a neighbor talking about how they wish they had bought a firearm instead of just a crap ton of food then you can barter with them. Or just take their stuff.

[mindfold]

#7

Goes without saying, but always keeps gas tanks topped after every trip no matter how small.

Not bad idea to fill up all gas cans.

#8 BOBs checked and ready

#9 Brush up on any coordination with others if relocation is needed

Look at the measures being implemented on the coasts, lockdown is coming shortly.

Be prepared.


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[iego]

Gas is topped up, bugout bags are in place. I have extra cash on hand. 1,2 3, and 4 as much as possible. 5, when I am really at whits end.

I would rather step outside, and speak to a neighbor, than do a neighbor app on my computer.

-John

[TheGrey]

Gas is topped up, bugout bags are in place. I have extra cash on hand. 1,2 3, and 4 as much as possible. 5, when I am really at whits end.

I would rather step outside, and speak to a neighbor, than do a neighbor app on my computer.

-John

FWIW, my suggestion to join the Nextdoor App wasn't saying "don't talk with your neighbors." I didn't suggest anything of the sort.

Unless you know every neighbor in your neighborhood, and they speak with you freely, the neighborhood app provides you a wealth of information you wouldn't otherwise know.

[iego]

I'm a board member of my HOA, largely in principle to know my neighbors, and or know what they are planning for me.

A neighbor app, just sounds like so much gossip.

-John

[CS1983]

This seems like a great time to move back to Colorado. Currently in a hotel in Hays, KS. Arriving either tomorrow or Saturday depending on weather. Doing an Airbnb until rental house is ready (8 April-ish). Storage unit for non-essential items. Kinda thinking I should have stayed in Oklahoma. Lol. If it weren’t for the Airbnb situation, we would be fine. Kinda hoping there isn’t a lockdown that prevents the current occupants of the rental from leaving. Once we get in there, we can ride out whatever. Sigh.

[iego]

I can probably find some storage space if you need it, CS1983. For sure can be some manpower, etc.

My brother is moving this weekend so I will be in lift and carry move regardless.

-John

[Alpine]

In the event electricity goes out long term, and you cannot consum all that beef/elk you have in the freezer fast enough, it can easily be smoked and turned into jerkey.

[battlemidget]

I'm just chillin on the Ham radio and trying to limit my coffee intake as I sit here and window shop on the internet with my anticipated Kung Flu check from Uncle $ugar.