tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-41048504675408241742024-02-07T21:19:24.156-08:00iPreparedA blog about food storage, emergency preparedness, getting prepared, finances, recipes, spiritural preparedness, teaching our children, gaining skills, sharing tips, getting started, and helping each other out. iPreparedWendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.comBlogger297125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-33001601359197675242014-10-29T10:27:00.001-07:002014-10-29T10:32:19.433-07:00Fear & Faith<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Many years ago when I was a teenager, I spoke in our Stake Conference. This was a pretty big deal to me at the time. I sat next to the visiting general authority (I don't remember who it was). He was kind and thoughtful. He asked me if I was nervous. Of course I was! And then he quoted a scripture, which I had heard many times before, but had never given it quite the same personal application. He said, "If ye are prepared, ye shall not fear." (D&C 38:30) I was prepared! I knew that I had carefully written and practiced my talk. It didn't stop my knees from shaking, but there was a certain confidence that I gained that day by knowing I had prepared and done my part. <br />
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Preparedness in our families can also give us the justified confidence to chase away many of the fears of our day. There is so much confidence that can result by knowing that we have the food, reserves and spiritual wells to draw upon in times of disaster or despair. It is impossible, though, to store enough of anything to completely ensure that our
family will not be affected by the struggles of our time. There is so much sorrow and suffering in the world that we can not possibly prepare for, predict or prevent. This is where having faith comes in. Faith is the bridge between what we can do and what God can do. Beyond all that we can do to prepare, we have to rely upon our faith in God - who is really the one in charge. <br />
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Jesus Christ said that in the days before His coming that "men’s hearts" would be "failing them for fear." Too often efforts of preparedness are motivated by fear. I'm not suggesting for a second that there aren't real reasons to prepare. However, once we have followed the counsel of our leaders, we can have the confidence of faith and do not need to fear anymore. <br />
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President Thomas S. Monson, our prophet, said, "There will be nothing in this world that can defeat us. . . Fear not. Be of good cheer. The future is as bright as your faith.”</div>
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Paul told Timothy, "For God hath not given us the spirit of fear." (2 Timothy 1:7) </div>
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Do you live with fear or faith? If your life is full of fear, I encourage you to turn to God who can help you find the peace of faith. </div>
Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-60832820612846161272014-09-16T11:58:00.001-07:002014-09-16T11:58:05.370-07:00Easy Mozzarella Cheese<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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Long ago, I determined that the thing I would miss most in a no-supplies-available situation would be cheese. I stumbled across <a href="http://www.simplebites.net/the-best-party-trick-ever-how-to-make-thirty-minute-mozzarella/" target="_blank">this post</a> by Simple Bites. Aimee gives a step-by-step process to make mozzarella cheese in just 30 minutes. The hitch? You need some pretty specific supplies: citric acid, rennet, and heat proof gloves. In my opinion, these supplies (and skills) are worth having on hand for many possible emergency situations anyway. Hope you enjoy! Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-88290295124798187352013-11-18T07:28:00.000-08:002013-12-05T07:30:21.535-08:00A Working Rain-Collection System<div style="text-align: center;">
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Recently, I received these pictures from Troy Cormier who built a working rain-collection system. His system has a capacity of 10 barrels as well as a built-in water level gauge.</div>
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This picture shows that main inspiration for the modified system below.</div>
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A raised frame for the barrels. <br />
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You can see the drilled holes for the PVC that will capture the water from the bottoms of the barrels. Troy adds, "The main structure is 6x6 posts with 2x12 cross beams at the bottom and 2x10 cross beams at the tops. There is no cement on the 6x6 posts, but they are at least 3 feet in the ground."</div>
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This is the rain capture system connected into the home's rain gutter. </div>
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Another angle.</div>
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All of the barrels and the water drains beneath. </div>
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A closer view of the pipes under the deck.</div>
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A multipurpose hose spigot and larger drain.</div>
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These two photos and diagram show the water gauge, built so the owner doesn't
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Some answers from Troy:</div>
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<b>How long does it take to fill all 10 buckets? </b> </div>
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A light rain can take 24 to 48 hours of rain to fill, a good heavy rain 12 to 24 hours. That is with only about 12 to 14 feet of gutter. I have plans to add 20 to 30 feet more of gutters to cut the time down even more..</div>
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<b>What do you use the water for?</b></div>
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Gardening. Where I live they charge for every $1 of water used, a $2 sewage charge - so a $100 water bill will be a $200 sewage bill with a total bill of $300.</div>
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<b>How long could the water last if you start from full capacity?</b></div>
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I guess it depends on the size of the garden and what you want to use the water for. I have a small garden, two 4x8 beds. It went 2 to 2.5 weeks without raining this summer and i was just about out of water when it rained again.</div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;">Troy adds: Remember one thing when building - water weighs a lot! <span style="line-height: 16px;">8.34 lbs a gallon. My system is 550 gallons that makes a full system </span><span style="line-height: 16px;">4587lbs!! </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="font-size: small;"><span style="line-height: 16px;">Thank you, Troy, for sharing your rain-collection system with us! </span></span></span></div>
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<span style="color: #444444; font-family: arial, sans-serif;"><span style="line-height: 16px;"><br /></span></span></div>
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Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-42894820881650343302013-10-17T14:04:00.000-07:002013-10-17T14:04:00.282-07:00Elder Bednar's Remarks on Food Storage<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://www.lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/images/leaders/david-a-bednar-large.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://www.lds.org/bc/content/shared/content/images/leaders/david-a-bednar-large.jpg" width="159" /> </a></div>
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Not much was said during the October sessions of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints' General Conference on Food Storage. But Elder Bednar made a quick comment that I thought I would share:<br />
<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
" For decades the Church has taught its membership the principle of
setting aside additional food, fuel, and money to take care of
emergencies that might arise. The Church as an institution simply
follows the same principles that are taught repeatedly to the members."</blockquote>
<br />
Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-66601579101389716412013-10-14T08:00:00.000-07:002013-10-14T08:00:01.129-07:00Food Expiration Dates<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6gsZweG0QS1ScGa1VFJpmfKxIkDcMxWm-pkg4A3dP8j_fxOVL44kCBqQiSVQdfL7_Vb1xUAVXd7oE7vi4LYrVg2FTyfXxCCiyoBRG3iPgTrFA3EcPC8Rlun5OS8bx1vRUwd6XrBWk0JO/s1600/j0400602.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi-6gsZweG0QS1ScGa1VFJpmfKxIkDcMxWm-pkg4A3dP8j_fxOVL44kCBqQiSVQdfL7_Vb1xUAVXd7oE7vi4LYrVg2FTyfXxCCiyoBRG3iPgTrFA3EcPC8Rlun5OS8bx1vRUwd6XrBWk0JO/s320/j0400602.jpg" width="254" /></a></div>
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This is a recent story that I've seen run by several news outlets on food expiration dates: <br />
http://www.today.com/news/confusing-sell-dates-food-may-be-costing-you-money-8C11339499<br />
<br />
The bottom line is that most dates stamped on packages are just a guess of when products will be at their highest quality. Most can be used far beyond the recommended date stamped on the package. There are three exceptions to this. Meat, dairy and formula have expiration dates that should be observed (they will say "exp." on the label). Otherwise, in some cases, the products will be good for years beyond the "best by" or "sell by" dates.<br />
<br />
A quote: "Broad Leib (lead author of the study from Harvard Law School's Food Law and Policy Clinic) said food can be totally safe well past the date, from cereal
to salad dressing, even eggs. She said "use by" or "sell by" dates on a
product have "nothing to do with safety at all. It's just a
manufacturer's best guess of when that food is going to be the freshest
and at the best quality."<br />
<br />
Another quote: "According to countless food safety experts, the National Food Lab,
there's not been a single instance of food-borne illness or food
poisoning linked with people eating food after that date," Broad Leib
said." <br />
<br />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-20863491699060452342013-10-11T13:47:00.003-07:002013-10-11T13:49:16.209-07:00Storing Water<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrGzasSZ8_xgdN1oacEsi0XUoorc1g5jiW4lHgqgJfTo6Ev1QRzp5FvVfiVaQUsd0I12QzhScQww_wtboASyacnC-VNMLgivM1qNpCAiMp0FQTfXgSCQiUD_HdgSxVhDxSrk2e7payPrhZ/s1600/j0427641.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhrGzasSZ8_xgdN1oacEsi0XUoorc1g5jiW4lHgqgJfTo6Ev1QRzp5FvVfiVaQUsd0I12QzhScQww_wtboASyacnC-VNMLgivM1qNpCAiMp0FQTfXgSCQiUD_HdgSxVhDxSrk2e7payPrhZ/s200/j0427641.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
<br />
This is a great blog post by Misty that is worth sharing. She and her family did a trial-run and used only her stored water for 48 hours. She learned some great things! Also read the comments below her post. There are some great ideas there.<br />
<br />
Link: http://www.yourownhomestore.com/living-without-running-water/Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-22728542201942534992013-09-25T09:30:00.000-07:002013-09-25T10:11:28.629-07:00Finding Storage Items in your Current Menu<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZiw2nCe2azirM4fcfTFv0Gqzf28FWwFbFFPRxzGF-34T6DkwHr-7lfdM1102E3v8uruXci3ERjpUAltE9eCupg6iGQa8faYG2zTfXgTgYadScPgBlPNPYwfEL5U2Db8K3abVm4W2xo7Kh/s1600/j0409630.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZiw2nCe2azirM4fcfTFv0Gqzf28FWwFbFFPRxzGF-34T6DkwHr-7lfdM1102E3v8uruXci3ERjpUAltE9eCupg6iGQa8faYG2zTfXgTgYadScPgBlPNPYwfEL5U2Db8K3abVm4W2xo7Kh/s200/j0409630.jpg" width="200" /> </a></div>
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Ed and Myrna wanted to start working on their three-month supply. They understood the basic concepts, but it just didn't seem like the food they ate could be stored easily. They liked fresh green salads for dinner and fruit for breakfast. They wanted to continue to eat this way, but were concerned that they couldn't store these foods. <br />
<br />
A challenge? Yes! But I haven't met a menu yet that didn't have options for easily-stored items once you broke it down. A common misconception is that in order to rotate through storage items, you have to eat only the meals you have planned for in your storage. This is definitely not the case! You should eat normally and incorporate storage items into your diet as you would typically. Your three-month supply plan does not become your new menu. <br />
<br />
Here are some examples from Ed and Myrna's situation: Ed and Myrna are elderly with grandchildren that live locally. For breakfast, they typically eat granola with fresh fruit and yogurt. Once a week, their grandchildren come for breakfast and they share pancakes. Ed and Myrna can store pancake mix, syrup, and granola in their breakfast plan. They can store several gallons of milk in their freezer. If the need arose for them to use their three-month supply, they would just continue eating granola and pancakes, both of which are part of their regular daily diet. Ed regularly makes a great cobbler cake that calls for canned fruit so they store a little extra of that canned fruit to be used for breakfast fruit. Even if Ed only makes that cake infrequently, they will be able to rotate through their supply of canned fruit before the cans reach their expiration dates. They would prefer the fresh fruit, but if it isn't available, they'll have a rotatable option. The pancake mix, granola, canned fruit, and syrup are all part of their regular diet and will be used and rotated before expiration dates.<br />
<br />
For lunch, they like to have sandwiches. They mostly use store-purchased bread and wraps. Loaves of bread, tortillas and pita bread can easily be stored in their freezer. Lettuce and tomatoes are not storage friendly and there really isn't a
good alternative. But both Ed & Myrna would be okay with cheese and
meat. Lunch meat and pre-sliced cheese can also be frozen and rotated. Besides the frozen deli meat, they also keep canned chicken and tuna fish, which are types of sandwiches they sometimes have. Myrna likes to bake, so they also store flour, sugar, salt, and yeast that can be make into bread or wraps. They also store mayo, mustard, fruit juice, bags of chips and jars of pickles (all of which they already eat). <br />
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As I mentioned earlier, they like to eat salads for dinner. Storing salad greens is not an option. A garden would provide some fresh greens, but they'll have to think beyond the salads. Sometimes Ed & Myrna have soup and bread sticks with their salads. Other nights they'll slice several breasts of chicken onto their salads. On Sundays they usually have something different. They'll eat a roast and potatoes, chicken burritos, or crock-pot chicken. Their three-month supply dinner menu could include soups, chicken breasts, as well as their Sunday-evening rotations. That would means storing chicken (frozen or canned), roasts (frozen or canned), soup supplies including beans and broth, spices, tortillas and salsa. They can also store canned and frozen vegetables as well as salad garnishes like croutons. In a situation where it is necessary to eat from their three-month supply, they might not be eating salads every night, but they will have food stored that they already regularly eat. By incorporating these meals into their normal menu occasionally (like they were anyway), they'll be able to rotate through their food before hitting expiration dates.<br />
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Of course, one of the most important and easiest-to-store items is a cookie mix or ingredients to make cookies. Ed stores these items as well as the supplies for his often-made cobbler cake. <br />
<br />
Ed & Myrna are actually fictional, but represent some of the typical issues that I've encountered. Many of your personal menus are already very storage friendly. Items like cereal, peanut butter & jelly, taco soup, burritos, pasta dishes (spaghetti, mac & cheese, alfredo), beans and rice, and chicken salad are items from my own menu rotations that are also extraordinarily easy to store. If you think your menu can't be adapted, you might be surprised. Ed & Myrna were. :o)<br />
<br />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-87587505350212581102013-09-11T08:06:00.001-07:002013-10-11T14:10:23.599-07:00Peach Juice<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr78rxR-F5Mbhx8BgKlLxLu5q7Yb4cFoylfAKsaXIrWI7nFpiErVUE2EL5kksBNiHF4DYVwn9GTaLCXxnIpSiHg8vx2reRxPNqfyd1qlshKq5HhHgALJGibprm126yNPeN32mbFSUq0iFA/s1600/IMG_5848small.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhr78rxR-F5Mbhx8BgKlLxLu5q7Yb4cFoylfAKsaXIrWI7nFpiErVUE2EL5kksBNiHF4DYVwn9GTaLCXxnIpSiHg8vx2reRxPNqfyd1qlshKq5HhHgALJGibprm126yNPeN32mbFSUq0iFA/s400/IMG_5848small.jpg" width="300" /> </a></div>
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I've been processing food from my garden over the past month. We've had an abundance of yummy food. I finally figured out that boiling green beans on the stove-top is always superior to cooking them in the microwave (as demonstrated by my husband). We've also been enjoying a bumper crop of cucumbers which I've served almost every night for dinner. They are particularly good when chilled.</div>
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I tried an experiment this year. We've had so many peaches. So I tried juicing some in my steam juicer. I followed the same process that I use when I juice grapes (link here: http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2010/10/canning-grape-juice.html). The picture above shows the result. I was so surprised to see the jars fill up with this candy-red colored juice. It is NOT what I expected. </div>
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Peach juice is interesting. It has a rich peach smell mixed with a little bit of stinky feet. I haven't tasted any out of these bottles, but after pulling all the juice I could, I did stir the peaches at the end and was able to pull one last quart. It was pink and full of debris instead of red and clear like these jars. I drank some and just couldn't get past the stinky-feet smell/taste. As I discussed it with my husband, we realized that you don't often find peach juice on its own. Usually it's in a blend or is spiced like a cider. So we tried it with a little cinnamon and it made all the difference. I think we're going to have some yummy spiced peach cider this fall!</div>
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Have you ever juiced peaches? Did you drink it straight or blend it with another juice? Have you tried a peach cider?</div>
<br />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-79256671777950861862013-08-30T16:54:00.000-07:002013-08-31T20:30:18.911-07:00Home CanningHere are some great sources to use as you do your home canning this fall:<br />
<br />
Utah - <a href="http://extension.usu.edu/files/publications/publication/pub__1510735.pdf"><span style="color: #6c82b5;">Guide
to Home Canning</span></a><br />
Arizona - Home Canning (below 2000 ft.)<br />
USDA - <a href="http://foodsafety.cas.psu.edu/canningguide.html"><span style="color: #6c82b5;">Complete Guide To Home
Canning</span></a><br />
National Center for <a href="http://www.uga.edu/nchfp/"><span style="color: #6c82b5;">Home Food
Preservation</span></a> <span style="color: #6c82b5;"> </span><br />
<br />
<span style="color: #6c82b5;"><span style="color: black;">And a great article on the benefits of home canning as well as a recap on updated best practices:</span></span><br />
<a href="http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700250097,00.html"><span style="color: #6c82b5;">http://www.deseretnews.com/article/1,5143,700250097,00.html</span></a>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-69144115633937213092013-04-16T12:49:00.000-07:002013-04-16T12:49:00.612-07:00Great Utah ShakeOutThe Great Utah ShakeOut happens tomorrow at 10:15!<br />
<br />
It would be great if we could all have warning that an earthquake is going to happen. And for this practice, you do! Sign up <a href="http://www.shakeout.org/utah/" target="_blank">here</a> if you haven't already.<br />
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<a href="http://www.shakeout.org/utah/downloads/Shakeout_Utah_DontFreak_300x250.gif" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://www.shakeout.org/utah/downloads/Shakeout_Utah_DontFreak_300x250.gif" /></a></div>
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<br />
From the site:<br />
The ShakeOut Drill is scheduled for 10:15 AM on April 17, 2012. This
means that wherever you are at that moment—at home, at work, at school,
anywhere—you should <a href="http://www.shakeout.org/utah/dropcoverholdon/"><i>Drop, Cover, and Hold On</i></a>
as if there were a major earthquake occurring at that very moment, and
stay in this position for at least 60 seconds. There will not be any
freeway closures, power outages, or other simulated effects of the
hypothetical earthquake, unless your local government or utility company
specifically notifies you about something of this nature. The ShakeOut
is not something you need to leave work to participate in—in fact,
participating at work is encouraged! Businesses, organizations,
schools, and government agencies can <a href="http://www.shakeout.org/utah/register">register</a> and have their employees practice <i>Drop, Cover, and Hold On</i> or have a more extensive emergency drill.<br />
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Go here for so many other resources including videos and instructions:<br />
http://www.shakeout.org/utah/resources/Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-17553848470505508622013-03-06T12:11:00.000-08:002013-03-06T12:15:24.295-08:00BYU studies on food storage<span style="font-size: 78%;"></span><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwrn0WLihZaMDWHqDG7edxg5_QElnbZO00UvnTnZ4at0rU1bmXwOTocACQjxhPym7k4Wwr7ppQa7SUQxdcva-dTx3ng4tiKvfWN_SU8ceSVV6wrSjRO1OFDvq4bbxrSI6MRyeLTSG1_-H/s1600-h/IMG_2757.JPG"><img alt="" border="0" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5386907669574798274" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEigwrn0WLihZaMDWHqDG7edxg5_QElnbZO00UvnTnZ4at0rU1bmXwOTocACQjxhPym7k4Wwr7ppQa7SUQxdcva-dTx3ng4tiKvfWN_SU8ceSVV6wrSjRO1OFDvq4bbxrSI6MRyeLTSG1_-H/s200/IMG_2757.JPG" style="cursor: hand; display: block; height: 150px; margin: 0px auto 10px; text-align: center; width: 200px;" /></a>Did you know that researchers at <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">BYU</span> are actively studying the storage lives of dry food products? Recently, they determined that we can store certain food products for much longer than originally presumed.<span style="font-size: 78%;">2</span> This is great news for those of us working on our longer-term storage. It means much less stress about quick rotation.<br />
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Here is a list of the recommended storage life<span style="font-size: 78%;">1,3</span> for many common home storage products (stored in ideal conditions):</div>
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<div>
Wheat, hard red - 30+</div>
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Wheat, hard white - 30+<br />
White rice - 30+<br />
Corn - 30+</div>
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Oats, quick - 30</div>
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Oats, regular - 30<br />
Rolled oats - 30 </div>
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Pasta - 30<br />
Macaroni - 30<br />
Spaghetti - 30 </div>
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Flour, white - 10+</div>
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Pancake mix - very limited</div>
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<div>
Black beans - 30<br />
Pinto beans - 30 </div>
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White beans - 30</div>
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<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Refried</span> beans, powdered - 5+</div>
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<div>
Non-fat powdered milk - 20 </div>
<div>
Cocoa Mix - 2+</div>
<div>
Fruit drink mix - 2+<br />
Sugar -30+</div>
<div>
<br />
Potato flakes - 30 </div>
<div>
Potato pearls - very limited<br />
Apple slices - 30<br />
Dehydrated carrots - 20 to 25 </div>
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Onions, dry - 30</div>
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<div>
Remember that the long storage life of these products depended upon correct packing techniques. In almost every case, <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">BYU</span> researchers were testing food that had been stored in #10 cans with oxygen absorbers. Best tasting products resulted from storage in a cool, dark, dry place in #10 cans with adequate seams. </div>
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If you would like to explore these studies yourself, here is a link to all of the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">BYU</span> research studies:<br />
<a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx"><br /></a></div>
<div>
<a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">BYU</span> Research on Food Storage</a> </div>
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<center>
<span style="font-size: 14px;"><b> <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#general">General</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#apples">Apples</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#beans">Beans and Legumes</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#carrots">Carrots</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#cornmeal">Cornmeal</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#eggs">Eggs</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#milk">Milk</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#oats">Oats</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#fats">Fats and Oils</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#potatoes">Potatoes</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#quinoa">Quinoa</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#rice">Rice</a><br />
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<a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#wheat">Wheat</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#other">Other</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#thermal">Thermal Processing</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#drying">Drying</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#foodstorage">Food Storage Practices</a> | <a href="http://ndfs.byu.edu/Research/LongTermFoodStorageResearch/ResearchOnFoodStorage.aspx#packaging">Packaging</a> </b></span></center>
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<span style="font-size: 78%;">Additional Sources:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 78%;">1 - </span><a href="https://www.lds.org/topics/food-storage/longer-term-food-supply?lang=eng#1"><span style="font-size: 78%;">Longer Term Food Storage - 30 years or more</span></a><span style="font-size: 78%;">.</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 78%;">2 - </span><a href="http://www.ldschurchnews.com/articles/51562/Home-food-storage-lasts-30-years-or-more.html"><span style="font-size: 78%;">Home storage lasts 30 years or more</span></a><span style="font-size: 78%;">. (<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">LDS</span> Church News - 1/19/2008)</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 78%;">3 - </span><a href="http://www.providentliving.org/pfw/multimedia/files/pfw/pdf/121874_Fall2009WE_HomeStoragePriceSheet_pdf.pdf"><span style="font-size: 78%;">Family Home Storage Center Products</span></a><span style="font-size: 78%;"> (order form).</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 78%;"><br /><br />Photo Source:</span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 78%;"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Copyrighted</span> by blog author. Please do not <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">repost</span> without permission.</span></div>
Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-6219691087162503802013-01-25T07:50:00.001-08:002013-01-25T08:02:29.924-08:00Emergency Kits & Plans for Kids<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpANqfEVCjqkLIc9sxNxs8bgPmQhXUAijU6bB0q_8K-FqObkVwG7Hmz6DMpFZVtv2g9247dSJXlJlRPX94NpWeoTz5OiSESPTfl05haL0zSdLbHX31CCQSU5G1nLGYoq3Zp9XTeS3G7ot/s1600/l_101765307.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZpANqfEVCjqkLIc9sxNxs8bgPmQhXUAijU6bB0q_8K-FqObkVwG7Hmz6DMpFZVtv2g9247dSJXlJlRPX94NpWeoTz5OiSESPTfl05haL0zSdLbHX31CCQSU5G1nLGYoq3Zp9XTeS3G7ot/s1600/l_101765307.jpg" /></a></div>
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<a href="http://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/advice/emergency-preparedness/">Are You Prepared for an Emergency? </a></div>
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This is a fabulous, well-worth-your-time read on Parents.com. The post was written by Wendy Sue Swanson, a pediatrician mother who describes her emergency kits and plans for her kids. She has a lot of great ideas.<br />
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I thought her idea of writing a letter to her son (to keep on file at his school in case of an emergency), was particularly smart. She included it on page three of the article.<br />
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Here is the direct link: http://www.parents.com/parenting/better-parenting/advice/emergency-preparedness/<br />
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<u>More on kids & preparedness:</u><br />
<a href="http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2009/01/school-preparedness.html">School Preparedness</a> - http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2009/01/school-preparedness.html<br />
<a href="http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2009/09/family-home-evening-earthquake-scenario.html">Family Home Evening on Emergency Preparedness</a> - http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2009/09/family-home-evening-earthquake-scenario.html<br />
<br />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-31450349161263762532012-11-25T17:58:00.003-08:002012-11-25T18:00:43.916-08:00Ensign ArticlesValerie from <a href="http://preparedldsfamily.blogspot.com/">Prepared LDS Family</a> posted a lovely compilation of all the articles from the past four years found in the Ensign on Self-Reliance and Preparedness. Enjoy! <br />
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<a href="http://preparedldsfamily.blogspot.com/2012/11/ensign-articles-about-food-storage-and.html">http://preparedldsfamily.blogspot.com/2012/11/ensign-articles-about-food-storage-and.html</a>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-20847768851057033292012-11-05T09:00:00.000-08:002012-11-06T10:14:45.826-08:00Lessons from Superstorm Sandy<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzU6vYNOF6h-ykx6Dgk7wM-5TjbhGCtgFjX5XEwmXyYxblZZwxqzgBt4J5cdcL_FLyu7Hl-UXFX-1n28-Oy7TsE4zDXHyDVDSKO6Hi4TBNohpVL19xhrdrfmngZxmunCJOx3M5rrBOAgNp/s1600/121101074220-07-sandy-damage-1101-horizontal-gallery.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzU6vYNOF6h-ykx6Dgk7wM-5TjbhGCtgFjX5XEwmXyYxblZZwxqzgBt4J5cdcL_FLyu7Hl-UXFX-1n28-Oy7TsE4zDXHyDVDSKO6Hi4TBNohpVL19xhrdrfmngZxmunCJOx3M5rrBOAgNp/s320/121101074220-07-sandy-damage-1101-horizontal-gallery.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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There is a lot of work to do after last week's superstorm, Sandy. The devastation was huge and help is slow getting to a lot of people. Because we lived on Long Island for several years, we're hearing first hand from close friends about the struggles that they are having. Many still don't have power. There isn't much gas available which is limiting travel and even the ability to help each other. Almost all have trees down. We can all learn so much about preparedness as we learn from others' experiences. Here are a few lessons from Sandy that I've made note of:<br />
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<b>1. Be prepared for more than 72 hours. </b><br />
We always hear about 72 hour kits and you might think that it's enough. But clearly there are some people who haven't had any help and it's been longer than a week.<span style="font-size: xx-small;">1</span> There are still areas without electricity, food or water. Some families are still in shelters, not knowing how quickly they'll be able to return home - if ever. The reality is that in large scale disasters, help might be slow in coming. Be prepared with much more than for just 72 hours. <br />
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<b>2. Store food and water.</b><br />
As usual, the stores were cleaned out of food and water quickly. When a storm is looming, you've already missed your best chance to store these items. Now trucks can't get into many flooded and damaged areas to replenish supplies. It's a good idea to store food and water in abundance. Aim for at least a three-month supply. As I mentioned above, help might not come for weeks. <br />
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<b>3. Ask yourself, what will I do without electricity.</b><br />
How will you cook? Stay warm? Charge your cell phone? Run your fridge? Do you have a Cpap or any other necessary medical equipment that requires electricity (like a fridge for insulin)? Address these issues ahead of time. Have what you need on hand.<br />
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<b>4. Don't wait to evacuate.</b><br />
With Sandy, too many families thought they would be okay and didn't want to evacuate until it was too late. Don't disregard warnings from authorities because you've weathered previous storms. Be aware of all travel routes possible and the likelihood of becoming trapped. I always worried about this when we lived on Long Island. Because it's an island, there just weren't very many escape routes. During Sandy many families were trapped on islands or peninsulas because those few routes were flooded, blocked or closed. Always listen carefully and err on the side of caution. It's also a good idea to keep money on hand so that you'll be able to make purchases if you are required to evacuate.<br />
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<b>5. Have flood insurance.</b><br />
Most flooding happened in what is called Zone A flood areas. Flooding is highly likely in these areas and you should always have flood insurance.<br />
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<b>6. Be prepared even if you aren't in harm's way.</b><br />
Most of our friends on Long Island weren't ever in danger of their own homes flooding. Still they are highly affected by the flooding roads, falling trees and damage that did happen around them. Similarly, even if you aren't flooded or primarily compromised in a disaster, you might still experience the repercussions like loss of power, blocked roads, no gas, or low stocked stores, etc. Sometimes the problems affect people thousands of miles away. Everyone should be prepared regardless of location and situation.<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Sour<span style="font-size: xx-small;">ces:</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: xx-small;">1 - http://www.cnn.com/2012/11/03/us/tropical-weather-sandy/index.html?hpt=hp_t1</span>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-50785102260672154752012-11-03T19:08:00.002-07:002012-11-03T19:35:17.006-07:00Would the Romneys Keep a White House Food Storage?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-Jy7dAVb68tkE7IK7XhlTC4xLbtsVF2MSAMtskvUhjxyoFgLGVDPr9YzNlSiIB-vTC0VIu75-SnXlQjcVEzT9tInbV3M6KogQjNrMOeXTDbxjoYzTvpxnWJK2kwQ7OY14ER0upTRmJVQ/s1600/121030111855-romney-sandy-relief-gi-c1-main.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="180" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjw-Jy7dAVb68tkE7IK7XhlTC4xLbtsVF2MSAMtskvUhjxyoFgLGVDPr9YzNlSiIB-vTC0VIu75-SnXlQjcVEzT9tInbV3M6KogQjNrMOeXTDbxjoYzTvpxnWJK2kwQ7OY14ER0upTRmJVQ/s320/121030111855-romney-sandy-relief-gi-c1-main.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
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This is not intended to be a political post. Nor is it intended to be a recommendation that you vote any certain way. I highly respect every individual's right to vote his/her conscience. But the possibility of Romney, (who is a member of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, which is also the organization from which most of my recommendations come), moving into the White House does make me wonder how he might handle food storage. I loved this little snippet from CNN which ponders the same question.<br />
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Jessica Ravitz writes, "The LDS Church advises its members to store enough food to feed a family for a year. Food storage is viewed as a practical measure, one that can come in
handy during, say, a crippling superstorm, massive power outages or
unforeseen financial hardships.<br />
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The practice is rooted in Mormon history. The church’s early
pioneers, on their trek westward to what is now Utah, experienced great
suffering and starvation. They also endured their share of persecution
and couldn’t rely on the help of others. So having resources squirreled
away became a collective comfort.<br />
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Any chance that the Romneys would institute White House food storage? Not because they would need it for themselves or likely anyone else
at the White House, but Riess said in these uncertain times, it could be
a good lesson in preparedness to showcase to the nation. “I wouldn’t be surprised to see that,” she said.<br />
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Even if a family storing it doesn’t need the food, by having it
available that family is poised to help others. Serving those less
fortunate or in crisis is big in the LDS Church, and it is a part of
another practice that may find its way into the White House if the
Romneys move in."<br />
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I agree with the author that having a food supply would set a good example in preparedness for the nation. I also like that she highlighted that one of the main purposes for having a food supply is so we can help others. So, we'll have to watch and see. What do you think? It might not even be a relevant question after Tuesday. [Don't forget to vote!]<br />
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Source: http://religion.blogs.cnn.com/2012/11/02/if-mormons-move-into-the-white-house/?hpt=hp_c2 </span>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-56343220478502226872012-10-28T10:32:00.004-07:002012-10-28T10:32:56.333-07:00Storm PreparationForgive me for such a long absence. I have teenagers and life has gotten busy. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ2sdVOudfRhR5s8z_IVqba4nHb2tujMyb0PQ4hzLHS0iVT9bIXEDGcEXC7Cbfnhy2UZtJVLrrsOsvJyOMT8G-ZVGzh3aiOUvF_9bfyuqrF-PlwsNNb0YZbu6LzHnE3CglSicpaq8rie2r/s1600/121028021656-blue28-story-top.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjZ2sdVOudfRhR5s8z_IVqba4nHb2tujMyb0PQ4hzLHS0iVT9bIXEDGcEXC7Cbfnhy2UZtJVLrrsOsvJyOMT8G-ZVGzh3aiOUvF_9bfyuqrF-PlwsNNb0YZbu6LzHnE3CglSicpaq8rie2r/s400/121028021656-blue28-story-top.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: xx-small;">Photo Source: NOAA </span></div>
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In wake of the "superstorm" approaching the eastern United States, I though I would repost some relevant past preparedness information. <br />
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<a href="http://www.iprepared.blogspot.com/2011/08/hurricane-preparedness.html">Hurricane Preparedness</a><br />
5 areas to address as you prepare for an approaching hurricane.<br />
http://www.iprepared.blogspot.com/2011/08/hurricane-preparedness.html<br />
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<a href="http://www.iprepared.blogspot.com/2009/01/winter-preparedness-for-your-car.html">Winter Preparedness for your Car</a><br />
If there is any chance that you'll have to evacuate or travel during the storm, make sure your vehicles are already packed with supplies. <br />
http://www.iprepared.blogspot.com/2009/01/winter-preparedness-for-your-car.html <br />
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<a href="http://www.iprepared.blogspot.com/2009/01/winter-warmth.html">Winter Warmth</a><br />
When the temperatures plummet and the power is out, here are 11 hints for staying warm.<br />
http://www.iprepared.blogspot.com/2009/01/winter-warmth.html<br />
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Also see: <a href="http://www.cnn.com/2012/08/27/us/hurricane-preparation/index.html?hpt=hp_t1">CNN's Hurricane Preparation Checklist - <i>What to do before a big storm.</i></a><br />
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It looks like sustained flooding, flash floods, and winter weather (for
the north) are the biggest issues. Above all, make sure you weather
(pun intended!) out this storm in a safe place. Don't wait until Monday night to stock up. Check in on your elderly neighbors. Stay off the roads and stay safe!Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-49087607685607276692012-06-27T21:21:00.000-07:002012-06-27T21:27:42.033-07:00An Example of a Fire Evacuation List<object classid="clsid:D27CDB6E-AE6D-11cf-96B8-444553540000" height="374" id="ep_1447" width="416"><param name="allowfullscreen" value="true" />
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This video tells the story of Jaime Astorga and his family in Colorado who were threatened by a fast moving wild fire. Their family had discussed the need for fire evacuation plans and developed a custom list of items to collect dependent upon the amount of time they had prior to evacuating. They divided their list into 15 minute segments.<br />
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It sounds like they were able to gather quite a bit before having to leave. And the best news? Their home was one of a few saved and they will be able to return!<br />
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A list like this is a great idea for many situations. Want some ideas for making your own list? Here is a prior post with some ideas: <a href="http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2010/08/prioritized-evacuation-list-grab-n-go.html">http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2010/08/prioritized-evacuation-list-grab-n-go.html </a>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-55875929629701956102012-06-06T08:55:00.000-07:002013-12-05T07:10:20.765-08:00Collecting Rain WaterAs I have planted my garden this year, I've already had a failure. My onions, lettuce, and carrots haven't come up and I've planted them twice! I suspect it's a watering issue. We've moved to secondary water which isn't turned on until mid April. That means I've had to hand water for the first few months this year and I suspect that I didn't water those baby seeds enough.<br />
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This has me thinking about water for my garden in an emergency. We live in a desert and don't get a lot of rain through the summer. In order to be productive, my trees, berries and seeds would definitely need water even if it wasn't available. I probably wouldn't want to use my clean drinking water supplies. They would be depleted too rapidly. <br />
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Collecting rain water would be a great way to ensure that you have some water for your garden. I've seen some great ideas and different set-ups as I've browsed the web. I've compiled a few here to give you some ideas. <br />
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<u>Basic Components:</u><br />
<b style="color: #990000;">1) </b><b><span style="color: #990000;">A large container</span> </b>such as a trash can or water barrel to collect the rain.<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">2)</span><i style="color: #990000;"> </i><b style="color: #990000;">A lid or top</b><span style="color: #990000;">.</span> You need to be able to keep kids out. A lid (or at least a screen) will also keep mosquitoes from multiplying.<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">3) </span><b style="color: #990000;">An overflow function.</b> You don't want the water backing up into your downspout, pouring into your window wells or gathering around your foundation. You might think this isn't necessary, but Sunset Magazine states that one inch of rain water on a 1000 square foot roof will yield 600 gallons. In a good rain storm, you might be needing that overflow after only a few minutes. A good overflow system will handle a large volume of water and move it far from your foundation.<br />
<span style="color: #990000;">4) </span><b style="color: #990000;">Water accessibility method.</b> This can be a fancy hose set-up at the base or it can be just as simple as a lid that you lift to scoop out the water. <br />
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You probably don't want to locate your barrel in the front of your home where it might be an eye-sore. A location in your back or side yard that is also close to your garden would be ideal. Two or more barrels can be connected for additional water storage.<br />
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<u>Here are some pictures and ideas:</u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7sZsobLdT44-nmkbThntKxM9lxNe7m204C0I9Nt4tI4SvpneVwaHuZoCZNRmRYIzfyeX-px7bcHdy-pcrcdsdbM3IoB3wJgz-idsEq0dyR9Ma6IzxdJe_DkyI2PUTpCUyOiKX5WDDHZOs/s1600/Rainbarrel2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7sZsobLdT44-nmkbThntKxM9lxNe7m204C0I9Nt4tI4SvpneVwaHuZoCZNRmRYIzfyeX-px7bcHdy-pcrcdsdbM3IoB3wJgz-idsEq0dyR9Ma6IzxdJe_DkyI2PUTpCUyOiKX5WDDHZOs/s320/Rainbarrel2.jpg" width="236" /></a></div>
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This is a pretty simple setup from Workbench Magazine. The hose on the side is for overflow. You could make it longer if needed. Instructions can be found here: https://docs.google.com/file/d/0B2gdNar_rMtAMjQxNzUxYmItYjU1ZC00YzYzLTgwNjMtZjg1ODA2MjYxMzdk/edit?pli=1<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJo87pBgCS4CSewEVEypH-8tKQTwABKVtCvJBC_qMVydyIc6Ld_PNFRSC0fViLQf8yOwgjlRqBlDWkhyphenhyphenWy7F9uum2iUvTnHuE5SmLispkYJ1b1PP8dab-TJUWD1r1pmoJceP7fLoH85RbI/s1600/Rainbarrel.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJo87pBgCS4CSewEVEypH-8tKQTwABKVtCvJBC_qMVydyIc6Ld_PNFRSC0fViLQf8yOwgjlRqBlDWkhyphenhyphenWy7F9uum2iUvTnHuE5SmLispkYJ1b1PP8dab-TJUWD1r1pmoJceP7fLoH85RbI/s320/Rainbarrel.jpg" width="208" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">This is a fairly elaborate setup from Family Handy Man. I love the use of two barrels and the wooden base. I also really like the overflow mechanism used. </span><span style="font-size: small;">Instructions Link: http://www.familyhandyman.com/DIY-Projects/Green-Home/Saving-Water/how-to-build-a-rain-barrel</span><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk4VVIXTFquiUI6ku172hb4t_X4VQpfj9iXTPVBf9L0gxFf1SRsUAPl6thUd-ELlS0WKQ8PGblIM2exfoucfLQx0ZKPHixy85e04syN6SF3YaGD_L22avdya5ZUMezRKxuYMKO0TtJGGfx/s1600/rainbarrel3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhk4VVIXTFquiUI6ku172hb4t_X4VQpfj9iXTPVBf9L0gxFf1SRsUAPl6thUd-ELlS0WKQ8PGblIM2exfoucfLQx0ZKPHixy85e04syN6SF3YaGD_L22avdya5ZUMezRKxuYMKO0TtJGGfx/s200/rainbarrel3.jpg" width="200" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: small;">You can buy a ready-to-go commercially prepared rain barrel. Just search for "rain barrel" and you will see many options. Some are even beautiful like this 65 gallon barrel above which is about $150 on Overstock. Amazon is also a good source. They have kits and other supplies as well.</span><br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="300" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/MGFDlkJOdaM" width="400"></iframe><br />
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Here are some basic instructions from HGTV. Actual barrel building starts at 1:30 in the segment.<br />
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<iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="225" src="http://www.youtube.com/embed/U3NNaTdyW84" width="400"></iframe><br />
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This is also a fantastic how-to video from Kansas State.<br />
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I'd love to hear how you've made this work at your home!<br />
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Update: <a href="http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-working-rain-collection-system.html" target="_blank">Here</a> is how Troy made his own 10 barrel rain collection system: <a href="http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-working-rain-collection-system.html">http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2013/11/a-working-rain-collection-system.html</a>Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-28845413996038882592012-04-17T10:15:00.001-07:002012-04-17T11:20:34.232-07:00EaRThQuAKe!After one minute of intense 7.0 shaking, extensive damage is done. As you look around at the cracked windows, broken furniture, and utter mess, you are grateful to be alive. But now the real test begins. The power will likely be out for weeks. Water lines are compromised and you won't have water up to a month. Major shipping corridors and roads are blocked by falling overpasses. No food, no electricity, no phone service and no water. Where is your family? Do you have what you need? <br />
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If not, get prepared!Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-32028349218267621262012-04-10T10:00:00.002-07:002012-04-10T14:29:44.519-07:00Activities for the Great Utah ShakeOut<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oihfNaqsPJVIjk3aMgtQNB9oN1P8qyzrZGeoWxwh8k5yEVE5wpqueGN1knlh5ee1gvtQkDoI95ZBfmsmgT8yww8OZNh_WUBx38Nfq7gTq70_6NfqEqQQXEZEWDRMEkNmG-BUR-C8fVGZ/s1600/header_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" gda="true" height="70" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0oihfNaqsPJVIjk3aMgtQNB9oN1P8qyzrZGeoWxwh8k5yEVE5wpqueGN1knlh5ee1gvtQkDoI95ZBfmsmgT8yww8OZNh_WUBx38Nfq7gTq70_6NfqEqQQXEZEWDRMEkNmG-BUR-C8fVGZ/s400/header_10.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><br />
The Great Utah ShakeOut happens exactly one week from today! Have you made any plans yet? Here are some ways that you can help your classroom, business place, or family participate:<br />
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<b><i>Just Do It!</i></b><br />
Make plans to signal an earthquake drill at 10:15 a.m on April 17. <br />
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<b><i>Give Some Advanced Warning</i></b><br />
Wouldn't it be nice if we could all have warning when a real earthquake happens! You can forewarn your colleagues and/or children about an upcoming STOP! COVER! and HOLD ON! drill or you can just create and act out a simulation. Drills like this can scare young children. So carefully assess your participants and decide if they need to know beforehand. You can download and print posters advertising the ShakeOut here: <a href="http://www.shakeout.org/utah/resources/index.html">http://www.shakeout.org/utah/resources/index.html</a><br />
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<b><i>Review Earthquake Procedures</i></b><br />
Do a little training at home or with colleagues to educate them about STOP! COVER! and HOLD ON! Evaluate your living/work spaces and make improvements as needed. More information, including some games and quizzes, and can be found here: <a href="http://www.dropcoverholdon.org/">http://www.dropcoverholdon.org/</a> and here: <a href="http://www.shakeout.org/utah/">http://www.shakeout.org/utah/</a>. <br />
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With Children, "you can ... play the ‘Earthquake Game’ where when anyone says “earthquake!” everyone has to pretend an earthquake is happening and practice their response. Teach your children that they should go under a table and hold on if one is near. If they are in a room without a table, crouch against an interior wall, away from windows. Find an “earthquake-safe” location in every room of the house so they don’t try to run during an earthquake. (<a href="http://www.shakeout.org/utah/faq/index.html">http://www.shakeout.org/utah/faq/index.html</a>)<br />
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<b><i>Use Sound Effects</i></b><br />
The Great Utah ShakeOut website has an audio earthquake file that you can download and use. There will also be local radios participating in the drill and playing an audio file with sound effects. You can find the audio files and participating radio stations at: <a href="http://www.shakeout.org/utah/drill/broadcast/">http://www.shakeout.org/utah/drill/broadcast/</a>. We did something similar for a Relief Society preparedness night several years ago. Just having the audio was powerful and frightening. Be aware that children might be especially frightened and adjust accordingly.<br />
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<i><b>Debrief</b></i><br />
Don't let it be business-as-usual afterwards. The real trials of an earthquake usually come after the shaking has stopped. Discuss with your family and/or peers your current readiness and set specific goals to improve.Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-33123282996358049152012-03-22T09:31:00.005-07:002012-03-22T09:42:58.290-07:00Where Are Your Tomatoes?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH07mOKTdtv-V6eWUWBBReAS5dl6hYClYrpz4x7nA8s-HePzDpWi62QDZSfJcM1XnhFtUNzfbOxGayTEodZxpyDwIq-fmlxzfZ3tZmBLpVBXDb6wgw4qc9zJSFJfeefJ5wqch3313rkmPo/s1600/MP910220824.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img aea="true" border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjH07mOKTdtv-V6eWUWBBReAS5dl6hYClYrpz4x7nA8s-HePzDpWi62QDZSfJcM1XnhFtUNzfbOxGayTEodZxpyDwIq-fmlxzfZ3tZmBLpVBXDb6wgw4qc9zJSFJfeefJ5wqch3313rkmPo/s320/MP910220824.JPG" width="213" /></a></div><br />
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Four years ago in April, Elder L. Tom Perry and his wife, Barbara, were hosted by my parents for several days during the weekend of their local stake conference. One evening as Elder Perry gazed out at the beautiful yard and mountain view from the home's east windows, he turned to my father and asked, "where are your tomatoes?" It was April at the time - too early for planting tomatoes. But my parents, over the years, had planted grass over the large garden plot where I used to weed and pull beans and eat warm raspberries as a child. The garden had been moved to the flower beds and had been gradually reduced until they had just a few raspberries and tomatoes each year. <br />
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You can be sure that my parents have planted tomatoes every year since Elder Perry asked that question.<br />
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Elder Perry practices what he preaches. He once said “There have been very few years in my life when I have not been responsible for a garden. Even now as a city condominium dweller, I still plant and harvest a garden each year. …" (New Era, October 1980)<br />
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During the April 1975 General Conference, President Spencer W. Kimball quoted a "much-read" magazine:<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><em>“Almost every backyard has what every person needs: <u>a way to help cut inflation and ease the world food crisis</u> in the process.</em></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><em>“It’s called ‘land.’ And there doesn’t have to be much of it to help a lot.</em></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><em>“It can be the play area that doesn’t get played on anymore, a sunny plot behind the garage, a 10-foot strip that runs across the back of the lot, or the adjoining lot that was bought to grow grass and play catch on.</em></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><em>“And all you need to make this space lower your food costs is to raise your own vegetables on it.</em></blockquote><blockquote class="tr_bq"><em>“It’s been calculated that a carefully managed garden just 15 x 20 feet in size can yield almost $300 worth of fresh food in six months. So the savings can be substantial.”</em></blockquote>Then President Kimball continued,<br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq"><em>We are pleased that many people are planting gardens and fruit trees and are buying canning jars and lids. City officials here and many other individuals are planting patches of soil almost equal to the days of the “victory gardens” in World War II. We congratulate those families who are listening and doing.</em></blockquote><br />
Planting a garden today is just a relevant as it was in the 1970s. We similarly face challenges such as world food shortages and looming inflation. So, like Elder Perry asked my father, I'm asking you, "Where are your tomatoes?" And if you don't have an answer, today is the day to make plans to plant some!Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-33178425994634344812012-01-31T07:38:00.000-08:002012-01-31T08:50:35.877-08:00The Great Utah ShakeOutWhere will you be on the morning of April 17 at 10:15 a.m.? At work? At school? At home? Likely your family will be in many different places at that exact moment. What would you do if there was a 7.0 earthquake? How would you get back together? How would you communicate? Do you have enough supplies to survive an extended recovery period without water or power?<br />
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Be Ready Utah is hosting The Great Utah Shake Out and is encouraging everyone state wide to DROP! COVER! and HOLD ON! at exactly 10:15 a.m. on April 17. Write the date on your calendar today! Even if you don't live in Utah, you can still partcipate and take the opportunity to practice with your family and to improve your earthquake preparedness!<br />
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This is a fantastic video to get you thinking about what could happen:<br />
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There is a ton of information at this website: <a href="http://www.shakeout.org/utah/resources/">http://www.shakeout.org/utah/resources/</a>. Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-44046752064423549142012-01-25T06:00:00.000-08:002012-01-25T07:06:39.117-08:00All About Sources<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There is a lot of information on preparedness found on the web. Some of it is fabulous and frankly some of it is flat-out wrong. In one of my <a href="http://iprepared.blogspot.com/2012/01/who-do-you-follow.html">recent posts</a>, I described the importance of seeking out good sources when you look for preparedness information. Here are some questions that you can ask yourself to determine how much to trust any source.<br />
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<strong>1) Does the website cite sources? </strong><br />
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I often share my own personal stories on my blog, and there isn't a better source than myself when it comes to my own experiences. But when it comes to reporting news, giving safety information, etc., I feel that I have a serious responsibility to give you accurate, up-to-date information. So I often turn to other, more-knowledgeable sources. No single writer is going to know everything about everything. Eventually, they'll read or use other resources. Watch for clarification from the writer about which elements of their writing are their own opinion and when it is coming from an outside resource. When that happens, they should tell you what their resource is. Even better, look for links and source lists included with each relevant post. <br />
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<strong>2) Do they cite credible sources?</strong><br />
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Don't just look for cited sources, but look at what those sources are. You can learn a lot from just a glance. If you can't tell about the source in a glance, then click on the links and follow them to the original location. I do this with every website that I read regularly. It doesn't take long to learn if the writer is using trusted, less-trusted, or sub-culture resources. <br />
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For example, if you were reading a list of first aid tips and looked under and saw a reference to <em>throwsafetytothewind.com</em>, it might indicate that what you read there deserved much more scepticism than if it stated <em>redcross.org</em>. <br />
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<strong>3) Does the writer (and the resources they cite) use multiple and primary sources?</strong><br />
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Articles, news reports and blogs are much more credible when the authors verify their information by using multiple and primary sources. I often compile information for my posts using multiple sources in order to give you accurate information. I try to make sure that my sources come from places that use information that is verified in this way.<br />
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<u>Multiple</u> sources means that several people or news agencies independently report the same/similar information. A <u>primary</u> source means that the person who had the experience is the one giving the information - not my mother told me that her neighbor said . . .<br />
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I read a recent article online that had to be retracted just a few days later because it's single source didn't stick by their information once under pressure. The mistake was that the writers of the article used only a single source and that single source was a secondary source (not primary) meaning they were sharing an experience someone else told them about. <br />
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<strong>4) Is this information consistent across many other sites?</strong><br />
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Check out the information you read by searching for other sites that verify the same information. Usually a single source is not enough. It is better to find two or three opinions that back up what you have read. And again, pay attention to the credibility of those back-up sources. <br />
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<strong>5) What is the bias?</strong><br />
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EVERY writer has a bias. Make sure you read enough to know what that bias is. <br />
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<strong>6) Do they openly acknowledge the relationship between themselves and any advertising on their page?</strong><br />
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A lot of online sources openly advertise on their pages. They don't hide that they profit from doing so. Usually any advertising is clearly labeled as such. I get particularly concerned, though, when writers advertise products without publicly making disclaimers about their possible bias or profit because of advertising kickbacks. <br />
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A recent example of this was a blogger who discussed a product and claimed it was the superior one available and most cheaply purchased at *recommended website*. A little research on my part soon made it clear that the link was to the blogger's own retail website, which wasn't disclosed and was quite difficult to discern. Think of it as a major conflict of interest. Because of the lack of disclosure in this situation, I will be less likely to trust that writer's product recommendations in the future. It just takes a little research to find similar advertising conflicts, but it's definitely worth your time, especially when you are trying to purchase reliable products for reasonable prices.<br />
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Hopefully you can use these questions to help you determine the trust-worthiness of the writing that you read. It's good to apply a healthy dose of skepticism and always keep your guard up. Remember, that even the most trusted sources make mistakes sometimes. When you are paying attention to sources, you can proceed with more confidence about the information that you have received.Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-20150354959155117632012-01-10T10:44:00.000-08:002012-01-10T13:09:36.302-08:00How Do I Get Started With a Longer-Term Supply?<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<strong><em>Question: How do I get started with a longer-term supply?</em></strong></div>
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The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints says, </div>
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<em>"For longer-term needs, and where permitted, gradually build a supply of <strong>food that will last a long time and that you can use to stay alive</strong>, such as wheat, white rice, and beans." </em></blockquote>
At the Provident Living website, under product recommendations they add, <br />
<blockquote class="tr_bq">
<em>"You may also want to add other items to your longer-term storage such as sugar, nonfat dry milk, salt, baking soda, and cooking oil. To meet nutritional needs, also store foods containing vitamin C and other essential nutrients."</em> [<a href="https://lds.org/family/family-well-being/home-storage/longer-term-food-supply?lang=eng#2">Link</a>]</blockquote>
So, a good starting point is grains and beans. Sugar, milk, salt, oils, baking soda, and vitamins can be also included. I'm hoping you noticed that it doesn't say "one-year supply" anymore. It's up to you to decide how much to store.<br />
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<strong><em>My Longer-Term Supply</em></strong><br />
There are so many approaches to organizing and gathering a longer-term supply. Ultimately, you'll have to decide how to make a plan that works best for you. This is how I gathered my longer-term supply:<br />
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1) I got a three-ring binder and filled it full of paper. I set up one sheet for each long-term category. [You could also do this with a spreadsheet or word processing program.]<br />
2) We decided that we wanted to store 9 months' worth of longer-term items.<br />
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3) We figured out how much we wanted to store for each month's worth. I used old food-storage recommendations to figure this out. Roughly per person/per month: Grains - 25 lbs (we do 33); Legumes - 5 lbs; Sugar - 5 lbs; Fats - 1.7lbs; Salt - .7 lbs; Milk - 1.3 lbs. Vitamins - 30; Baking soda - unknown. <span style="font-size: xx-small;"> [Sources: </span><a href="http://providentliving.org/"><span style="font-size: xx-small;">http://providentliving.org/</span></a><span style="font-size: xx-small;"> & First Presidency Letter, 2002]</span></div>
4) I wrote the category and goal amount at the top of a sheet of paper.<br />
5) I did an inventory and listed what I already had on that paper.<br />
6) I added items to the sheet as I purchased them. I loved retotalling the amount and calculating how many months I had already accumulated. <br />
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<em>An Example:</em><br />
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<strong><u>GRAINS</u></strong></div>
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Goal - 1485 lbs.</div>
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<u>On Hand:</u></div>
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flour - 50 lbs</div>
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pasta - 20 lbs</div>
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pancake mix - 10 lbs</div>
wheat - 265 lbs<br />
rice - 200 lbs<br />
cornmeal - 5 lbs<br />
cereal - 20 lbs<br />
oatmeal - 50 lbs<br />
cream of wheat - 10 lbs<br />
<u><strong>Total: 630 lbs (4 months' worth)</strong></u><br />
<u><strong>Still Need: 855 lbs</strong></u><br />
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bought 2 - 50 lb bags of rice <br />
<strong><u>New total: 730 lbs (5 months)</u></strong><br />
<u><strong>Still Need: 755 lbs </strong></u><br />
etc.<br />
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On my first trip to the store after making these pages, I bought the entire supply of salt for less than $8! I was so excited to have one category completely done! It was so motivating. So, I would recommend that you start with salt - and maybe you'll have the same experience.<br />
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I chipped away at the totals on each page for more than a year. I loved seeing the progress. A longer-term supply goal can seem very overwhelming, but by working on it in chunks, it became very doable. <br />
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Even now, my longer-term supply is very fluid. In some categories, I've fallen below our 9 month goal and need to replace some items. In other areas, I'm ahead. That, in some ways, is the biggest blessing of striving for a longer-term instead of a one-year supply. Regardless of where I am in replacing this food, I'm able to have the blessings of being completely obedient.<br />
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Let me know if you have any questions! I'd love to hear about your system for gathering a longer-term supply. Please share in the comments below.<br />
<br />Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4104850467540824174.post-76083331817459457392012-01-06T12:00:00.000-08:002012-01-06T12:18:00.610-08:00The End is Near!<div class="separator" style="border-bottom: medium none; border-left: medium none; border-right: medium none; border-top: medium none; clear: both; text-align: center;">
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There are a lot of scriptures that talk about false Christs and false prophets in the last days. One, in Luke 17: 22-23 says, <em>"And he said unto the disciples, The days will come, when ye shall desire to see one of the days of the Son of man, and ye shall not see it. And they shall say to you, See here; or, see there: go not after them, nor follow them."</em> I used to think of the guys that stand on street corners holding "The End is Near!" posters when I read these verses. I'm realizing, however, that the false Christs and false prophets of our modern world are much more subtle than the obvious sign on the corner. We are surrounded with false prophets all trying to lead us in their way - not God's way. </div>
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I am noticing many individuals who are genuinely seeking Christ, but who believe everything that they read from every source and are consequently making unwise choices. They listen to and regard the instructions of self-described "experts" as if they were prophets. Are you someone who believes everything you read? Or do you you consider carefully the biases found in the sources of your information? Do you look for sources when you read? Do you check to see if those sources come from trusted venues? It's important that you not abdicate your own agency to someone else and look to them to make decisions for you. You are your own agent and need to be responsible for your own decisions. <br />
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Please understand that no one is perfect. My blog and the information therein are not perfect. Even though I am extremely careful about what I include, I have biases just like anyone else. Part of living a Christ-like life is gaining the companionship of the Holy Ghost who can warn you when you are being led astray and can also confirm when you read truth. As you gather information for your own preparedness, employ all the wisdom you have, make sure you listen carefully to the Spirit, and then you will be able to discern the paths and methods you should take.Wendyhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/09599912078704905243noreply@blogger.com2