Goals

For those of you who particpated in the 'Got Preparedness Challenge' in any way, how are you coming on your goals?  Did you write down each night of the challenge things you needed to improve?  Did you take those items and put them on an action plan?  If not, I encourage you to do so.
Break up all the goals you have of how to improve into easy steps.  If you need to improve your first-aid kit, for example, make a list of everything you need to add to it.  Then on your action plan, schedule a date to add each item.  You could buy band-aids, gauze, and tape on week 1 of your plan, medications on week 2, etc.
For those of you who didn't participate, review each challenge in the blog and evaluate where you stand.  Make a list of how to improve.  And do it!

How Prepared Are You? - Challenge Point Scale

So, how did you fare in our week of 'disasters'?  Use the chart below to rate your performance based on the points you earned.

200-225 Points = Bring it On!
175-199 Points = Feelin' Good
125-174 Points = Halfway There
  75-124 Points = Need Some Work
    0- 74  Points = We're Toast!

What We Learned

How wonderful a little $ in the bank, health insurance, and a health savings account are!
We can have a decent meal from food storage, but if we really needed it, we'd have the same one for a few weeks.  We could use something a little different to spice up the food storage!

Friday Challenge - Show me the Money

Scenario #1: You have family that has decided to drop in for the week-end because they have the gorilla flu too and were kicked out of their otherwise healthy town.  They are hungry and your fresh food has run out.

Scenario #2: You just learned that your youngest child needs his tonsils removed.  The gorilla flu has hospitalized another member of your family.  The timing belt on your car needs to be replaced ASAP.  You will owe $396 for the tonsil surgery by next week, $ 451 for the hospitalization due in two weeks, and $912 for the car due immediately.
NOTE: If you do not have Medical Insurance you are responsible for $3500 on the tonsil surgery and $8817 on the hospitalization.

Challenge #1: Make a dinner for your family using STRICTLY food storage items (no ‘fresh’ ingredients).

Challenge #2: Review your current finances with your spouse and discuss how you would cover each expense if you were faced with these charges right now.  Say a prayer before the discussion if necessary, this is just an exercise and we don’t want any arguing over finances.

POINTS:

• 10 points for a food storage dinner.  Minus 1 point for every non-food storage item used.
• 10 points for completing a financial discussion with your spouse and discovering how you would handle the above charges.
• Reminder: 25 points for completing quarantine for the whole week.

What we Learned

Having texting would be nice in an emergency like this. :)  Facebook would be too.
We need to invest in a better first-aid kit and teach basic first-aid to the kids.
Write down your experiences for today.  If you had a hard time with this challenge attend our Home Emegencies and First-Aid classes on Saturday.

Thursday Challenge - Over the Hedge

Scenario #1: While the family is outside doing yard work and you are trimming the hedge, your 2 year-old wanders off.  You look in the house and in nearby yards and cannot find her.

Scenario #2 When you do locate your child, you see that she has fallen and has a large gaping cut in her leg.
 
Scenario #3 Your one-year old is choking on a grape and has turned purple. 

Challenge #1: What do you do to locate your child?  Do your children know what to do if they are lost?  Discuss the answer to both questions with someone.
Note: If you do not have little ones at home apply the scenario to grandchildren or a neighborhood child.

 Challenge #2 Get out your first-aid kit and pretend to ‘treat’ your child’s gaping cut (don't actually use supplies you will have to replace).  Do you have what you need?  Do you know how to stop the bleeding until you can get professional help?

 Challenge #3 Perform the Heimlich on a doll or stuffed animal as you would on a one-year old baby.

POINTS:

• 10 points for discussing both questions in Challenge #1 with someone. 
• 5 points for successfully 'treating' the injury with your own first-aid kit.
• 1 BONUS point for every item in your first-aid kit that is on the attached list - up to 20 points. That's 1 point for every line item.  For example 1 point for having band-aids, not 1 point for every band-aid.
• 5 points for successfully ‘Heimliching’ (ha, made that word up) the doll/stuffed animal.
• 2 BONUS points if you know how to ‘Heimlich’ an adult. 

Checklist:

Bandaids of various sizes
Non-stick gauze bandages
Sterile rolled bandage
Gauze pads
Ace Wrap bandages
Bandage tape
Small splints
Safety pins
Eye wash/eye cups
Antiseptic spray/lotion/cream
Antiseptic wipes/alcohol
Antibiotic Hand Cleanser
Burn ointment
Calamine lotion
Hydro-cortisone cream
Asprin
Non-asprin pain reliever
Anti diarrhea medication
Ear drops
Epi pen for allergies
Allergy medicine
Prescription medication
Antacid
Laxative/Mineral Oil
Ipecac
Thermometer
Hot pad/ hot water bottle
Ice packs
Small paper bag for hyperventilation
Latex gloves
Scissors
Tweezers
Cotton balls
Q-tips
Face mask
Insect/snake bite kit
Prescribed medical supplies such as glucose and blood pressure monitoring equipment
Back/knee braces
contact information including doctors and poison control
First aid guide with instructions for CPR and Heimlich

What we learned

If this was a real life scenario I would be apologizing to my girls over the loss of their gerbil right now.  Yep, we totally forgot little Bibbles and her food.  :( 
Did pretty well everwhere else but need toothbrushes.
Kevin suggested keeping digital copies of all our important info in a few different locations and originals where we can easily find them.
Write down your experiences and improve if/where needed.
If you had a hard time with this Challenge or would like some awesome tips on it, attend the Emergency Evacuation and Communication class on Saturday.

Late Posts

Sorry for making the anticipation worse today as the posts did not get published automatically. Sorry! Enjoy the challenge.

Wednesday Challenge - We didn't start the Fire!

Scenario: Some kids were playing with fireworks out in the field to the north of our homes.  They caught the field on fire.  We have 10 minutes to evacuate.  Because of the distress, the cell phone lines are jammed for the next three hours. 

Challenge: As soon as you read this, set a timer for 10 minutes.  You and your family must be in your car when the timer rings to earn points for this challenge. What will you take?  Grab anything you feel you would need if you are not able to return to your home.  Remember, phone lines are jammed, you may not call anyone during this challenge (unless you need to use your cell phone for work or any real emergency).
Note: If no one in the family is at home, complete the challenge soon after you arrive home this evening.  Otherwise complete the challenge with whoever happens to be home currently.

POINTS:

• 15 points for getting in the car with family and stuff in 10 minutes
• 1 BONUS point for every item you took with you that is on our list (per family, not per person)
• 5 BONUS points for answering all questions on our list
• 5 BONUS points if all family members have a finished 72 hour kit in your home 
• 5 points for not using cell phones for three hours

Evacuation Checklist and Questions

Do not read this post unless you have completed Wednesday's Challenge!

Do you have what you need to have?  Do you know what you need to know?  Answer these questions with the items you have physically gathered for this activity.  In a real evacuation, you will not have the opportunity to run back and grab an item.


Do you have the following items?

1. Change of Clothes for each person in your family?
2. Toothbrush for each person in your family?
3. Small first aid kit?
4. Flashlight?
5. Rain Protection?
6. Something for warmth?
7. Food? (in many cases, evacuation centers will have food – but do you have snacks or food that you know your family will like?)
8. Water? (Water is essential and often is in short supply in the early stages of an emergency)
9. Essential medications?
10. A hair brush/comb?
11. Diapers/pull ups for babies and/or feminine supplies for the women of age in your family?
12. Container for the items that will be feasible to carry a few miles if you are unable to drive out?
13. Your pet and pet supplies (especially leashes/food)


Can you answer the following questions?

1. What is the phone number of an out of state contact person?
2. What is the contact information and account number for your home insurance?
3. What is the contact information and account number for your car insurance?
4. What is the contact information and account number for your bank accounts? (You won’t be turning this in to me – this is for your own information only)
5. What is the contact information and account numbers for any investements you have?
6. What is the contact information and account numbers for the contents of your wallet?
7. Do you have your passports and/or Birth certificates or have the key for the safe deposit box you keep them in?
8. Do you have proof of immunizations for your family?
9. What is the contact information and account numbers for your life insurance policy?
10. Is your will with you?
11. Is your living will with you?
12. Do know your Social Security number and any other important identification numbers such as your church membership number to be able to request documents?
13. Do you have your Health Insurance Cards?
14. Do you have proof of ownership of your home?
15. Do you have proof of ownership of your cars?
16. Do you have proof of ownership of valuables such as jewelry, paintings, collectibles (official appraisals or certificates of authenticity)?
17. Do you have your saving bond certificates?
18. Do you have recent pictures of your family members?

Wednesday Challenge - Anticipation

Please check back after 11:00 am for Wednesday's Challenge.  Enjoy the anticipation between now and then. :)

What we Learned

The Pyles learned that Kammi can get a lot done by way of yard and housework (mowed the lawn in a cool diagonal pattern and actually did laundry) when her computer and other electronic devices are out of battery and can't be plugged in. :)
Also learned that cold rotisserie chicken isn't too bad but learning how to heat food without an electric stove would be helpful.
The Pyles apparently need to visit the Auto Emergency class on Saturday because Kammi could only think of 4 things to check in a broken down car and we only have 'hotties' for our hands in the cars and no blankets.  (And you thought we were good at this! ;)
But, we do have supplies to change a tire and jumper cables, so wohoo for the Pyles!
Please jot down what you learned today and where you can improve.  If you had a hard time today, attend the Home Emergencies and Auto Emergencies classes on Saturday.

Comment

Apparently I don't have access to comment on my own blog.  That's dumb.  Or I'm up too late.

So Mandy asked how I could be doing laundry with the power out.  Good point Mandy!

I didn't.  I thought about laundry and nearly started it multiple times all day.  In the end I laughed that I actually wanted to do it an couldn't.  Apparently I did it in my mind. :)  Did I mention it is past my bedtime?

Tuesday Challenge - Not so Fast, but somewhat Furious

Scenario #1: There was a big storm last night and the power is out.  It will not be restored until 6:00 pm tonight.

Scenario #2: You have to take a family member to the doctor because the gorilla flu is getting worse.  On the way home your car breaks down on SR-73. 

Challenge #1: Don’t use power!  You can keep your refrigerator running, but turn off the A/C or heater, lights, TV, computer, etc.  Do not use the microwave, stove, outlets, garage door opener, or anything that cannot run on alternate power.

Challenge #2: Troubleshoot your car.  What are 5 things you would check in your broken down car?  If it is winter, do you have blankets or snacks in  your car?

POINTS:

• 15 points for keeping the power off all day. Minus 2 points every time you use power.
• 5 BONUS points for every cooked meal you have during the power outage (up to 2 meals).
• 5 BONUS points if you discuss with your family a plan for how you would stay warm in the winter during an all day power outage.
• 5 BONUS points if you inventory everything in your house plugged into an outlet.
• 10 points for telling someone the 5 things you would check to troubleshoot your car.
• 5 BONUS points if you have tools to fix a flat tire and jumper cables in your car.
• 5 BONUS points if you have blankets and snacks/water in your car.  

Monday - What we learned

The Pyles learned that we know our two exits per room in a fire drill.  We also learned that the children cannot open their windows from the inside if they become trapped in their rooms.  For this reason we will be attending the Fire Safety class on Saturday.  If you had a tough time with this challenge, we will see you in there.

We recommend writing down each night what you learned.  This will assist you in making a detailed plan for how to improve.

Note on Bonus Water Points

Apparently we didn't think through the bonus points on the water very well.  We are very impressed with how much water everyone has on hand! 

We will accept 15 points max on the water storage bonus points.  Although we know you have much more water than this, it will make the rest of the Challenges more competitive.

FYI 15 bonus points is one of the highest amounts of bonus points we will offer all week.  Great job on the water storage!

Monday's Challenge - Planet of the Apes

Scenario #1: There has been an outbreak of the gorilla flu (ha, ha).  Because of multiple cases in our neighborhood, we have been quarantined until the end of the week.  Do not leave your houses.

Scenario #2: Your child decided to see how a fork would fit in your outlet.  Needless to say, an electrical fire started in your living room.

Challenge #1: Ok, we know you have to leave for some things, so here is the challenge: No shopping, entertainment, or otherwise having fun outside of your home for the entire week.  You may go to work and school or other PREVIOUSLY made appointments. 
If you have to go shopping, you minus 5 points from your score for EACH item purchased.  You will be living off of your home and food storage this week!

Challenge #2: For FHE tonight, conduct a fire drill with the family.  Put family members in different rooms of your home.  Let them find at least two exits from their location. Then let Mom or Dad be the ‘fire’ in the living room.  If a family member tries to exit through the living room, remind them that you are the fire and they need to use a secondary exit.  Repeat drill with the fire and family members  in a different location.
POINTS:

• 25 Points at the end of the week for staying quarantined.  Remember minus 5 points for every item you purchase at the store this week.
• 5 BONUS points each for doing an inventory of home (5 pts.) and food storage (5 pts.).
• 1 BONUS point for every 5 gallons of water storage on hand (up to 15 points max).
• 10 Points for completing one fire drill. 
• 5 BONUS points for completing a second fire drill.

Remember: You may earn points for both challenges.

Rules for Got Preparedness

• This is a learning experience.  Have fun!
• Check the blog for your Challenge by 8:30 am every morning this week.
• There will be multiple challenges each day.  Complete them all for the ultimate experience and to maximize points earned.
• Report earned points each night to Kammi or Kevin via blog post, facebook, phone, e-mail, etc.
• Don't cheat on your points. :)
• All Challenges end at 5:00 pm on Friday evening.
• All points must be reported by 9:00 pm on Friday to be eligible for prizes.
• Good Luck!

What is "Got Preparedness" our 2011 Emergency Preparedness Challenge?

What is Got Preparedness?  How do I participate?  How do I sign up?  Keep reading to find out.

Got Preparedness is both our 2011 Emergency Preparedness Challenge and Fair.  These are two separate events that go together.

The Challenge is a week long challenge that runs from Sept. 19th to Sept. 23rd.  Individual families participate in the challenge on their own during the entire week.  To participate each family should check our blog at 8:00 am every morning during the week.  On the blog each morning they will find a new emergency scenario and an accompanying challenge or task to complete to deal with the pending disaster.  Each Challenge has points associated with it based on how well prepared your family was to handle it.  Every evening, after completing the Challenge post your comments along with points earned on our blog or send the Pyles an e-mail to record points.  There will be prizes for those families who earn the most points by the end of the week!

The Fair will happen on Saturday, September 24th from 9:00 - 11:00 am at the Pioneer Church Building on Buckboard/Summit Way.  At the fair families will choose classes to attend to learn more about different aspects of emergency preparedness.  Each class taught at the Fair will correspond directly with one of the Challenges given during the week.  We will have special classes for children ages 4 - 11 that they may attend while Mom and Dad go to other classes.  There will also be booths with helpful information to browse at the Fair.  Everyone is welcome to attend our Fair, whether you participate in the Challenges or not.

How do I sign up?  Post on this blog, post on the neighborhood Facebook page, call Kammi or Kevin Pyles, e-mail Kammi or Kevin Pyles (kammijedi@hotmail.com), or simply tell them you want to participate.  FYI, only residents in the Em 9th Ward boundaries need to sign up so they may be eligible for prizes.  If you live outside of the 9th Ward boundaries feel free to follow along and track your own points.  We will have a 'grading scale' available at the end of the Challenges to rate how prepared you really are.

Please spread the word.  These Challenges and the Fair are designed specifically to address common emergencies we could have in our area.  You are guaranteed to learn something new by fully participating in our Challenges and our Fair.  So, sign up right now!

Smith's Caselot

Now is a great time to stock up that food storage again!  Smith's has a caselot going on now through September 13th.  Here are a few of the good deals included:

Ramen Noodles 10 for $1
Libby's Vegetables 2 for $1
Bumble Bee Tuna $0.65 each
Kroger Cream Soups $0.63
Tomato Sauce 4 for $1
Pork n Beans or Kroger Beans 2 for $1
Kroger Peaches or Fruit Cocktail $0.79
Campbells Chicken Noodle or Tomato Soup $0.59
Kroger Chicken Broth 2 for $1
Pillsbury Brownie or Cake Mix $0.89 (for those who have everything :)
Snickers or M&Ms single serving $0.59 (for Sis. Pyles personal stash, donations accepted)

RS Activity - Homemade Bread and Laundry Soap

Oh, the things we learn at Relief Society activities!  Last Thursday we watched Sis. Leavitt make bread dough with a recipe that only uses food storage items!  We also learned how to make homemade laundry soap and got some tips on building your food storage.  You'll find all the great info below.


Fast, Easy, and Versatile Homemade Bread


6 cups white flour (Lehi Roller Mills brand is great)
3 T. sugar or honey
1 T. salt
2 T. SAF instant yeast (can be purchased at Walmart or any grocery store)
2 T. Liquid Soy Lecithin (can be purchased at Orem Maceys or bakery stores)


Combine flour, sugar, salt, and yeast in a mixer.  Add lecithin and water and allow mixer to combine all ingredients slowly.  Turn mixer up and allow to knead dough for about 5 minutes.  Dough should be soft and slightly sticky to the sides of the mixer.  Do NOT add too much flour!


For Bread: Turn out onto a counter sprayed with cooking spray (NOT flour) and shape into a nice round ball.  Cut in half and shape to loaves of bread.  Place in greased pans.  Spray tops with cooking spray and cover; allow to raise approx 20 minutes.  Bake at 375 for 30 minutes.  Brush with butter and cool on wire racks.


For Rolls: Cut into about 32 pieces and pinch to make rolls.  Melt 3/4 cube butter in a sheet pan and turn to coat each roll as you fill the pan.  Cover, allow to raise 20 minutes.  Bake a 375 for 18-20 minutes.  Brush tops with butter.


For Cinnamon Rolls: Roll out into a rectangle and brush with melted butter.  Sprinkle with cinnamon and sugar (add raisins and nuts if desired).  Roll up and cut into 1 inch slices and place in a greased pan.  Allow to raise and bake for 25 minutes.  Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze.


For Pizza Crust: Divide in half and roll out to 2 large crusts.  Place on greased pans to raise briefly and bake for about 10 minutes (poke dough with a fork to avoid bubbling).  Fill with toppings and place back in the oven for another 10-15 minutes.


For Bread Bowls or Round Loaves: Cut into 4 pieces (bread bowls) or cut in half (round loaves).  Shape into balls and place on a greased pan to raise until doubled.  Bake 30 minutes.  Brush with butter.


For Breadsticks: Roll out into a rectangle and cut into strips with a pizza cutter.  Twist or lay flat in a greased pan. Brush with butter and add parmesan, garlic salt, or other seasonings.  Allow to raise and bake for about 20 minutes.  Make dessert sticks by brushing with butter and sprinkling with brown sugar and cinnamon.  Drizzle with powdered sugar glaze when done. 


For Wheat Bread: Substitute 3 cups whole wheat flour for 1/2 of the white. 


Homemade Laundry Soap


1 Bar Fels-Naptha Soap, Grated
1 cup washing soda
1 cup borax


On your stovetop, place grated soap in a large pan with 16 cups (1 gallon) of water and heat until soap melts.  Add washing soda and borax and stir until dissolved.  Remove from heat. 
Pour 16 cups (1 gallon) hot water into a 5 gallon bucket.  Add soap mixture and stir well.  Then add another 2 1/2 gallons of water and stir until well mixed. 
Let the soap sit for about 24 hours; it will congeal into a gel.  Stir the soap thoroughly and fill a smaller container (ie a clean, plastic juice bottle w/ lid) for convenience.  SHAKE before each use.
Use 1/4 cup per load for high efficiency machines and 1/2 cup for regular machines.  This is a low sudsing soap, so you will not see bubbles in the water. 


Homemade Dishwasher Detergent


1 cup borax
1 cup washing soda
1/2 cup citric acid
1/2 cup kosher salt


Place ingredients in storage container with a lid and shake until mixed.  Mixture may eventually clump, so give it a shake before use. 
Use 1 tablespoon per load.  Fill rinse agent compartment with white vinegar.


Food Storage


Follow this link for worksheets to help you get your food storage organized: http://foodstoragemadeeasy.net/babysteps/step-3-three-months-of-normal-food/  Click on "3 Month Food Supply Excel Spreadsheet" or "printable forms" further down the page if you don't have or like Excel.


Follow this link for more 'food storage' recipes: http://foodstoragemadeeasy.net/recipes/

Maceys Caselot

Well, you've been warned that disaster will strike on September 19th (see 'Got Preparedness' post) here's a great opportunity to get that food storage in order!  Some of the great caselot deals at Maceys this week include:

Western Family Green Beans, Corn, and Black Beans for $0.50 - $12 a case
Spaghettios or Spaghetti $0.50 - $6 or $12 a case
Western Family Applesauce $0.50 - $12 a case
Western Family Flour 25 lb. bag $7.49 - $14.98 a case
Betty Crocker Cornbread & Muffin Mix $0.25 - $6.00 a case

Follow this link to the SavvyShopper website for more great Maceys caselot deals:  http://forum.savvyshopperdeals.com/threads/17946-MACEYS-Deals-8-3-8-9

GOT PREPAREDNESS?

It's great to be prepared because you never know when disaster will strike.  You just hope you have everything in order for when it sneaks up on you.

But beware!  Disaster will strike our own little neighborhood on September 19th!  As your emergency preparedness specialists, we are warning you now...be ready. You are going to need all the emergency preparedness items/skills you can get for our 2011 emergency preparedness challenge: "Got Preparedness?"

Beginning on the morning of September 19th, we will post a challenge on our blog each day for 5 days.  Each challenge will fit into one of the following categories:
Home and Auto Emergencies
Food and Home Storage
72 Hour Kits
Evacuation and Emergency Communication
Survival Skills and First-Aid
Financial Preparedness
Fire Safety

Points will be awarded for completed challenges along with prizes for families with the most points.  At the end of the challenge, join us for our Emergency Preparedness Fair on September 24th at 9:00am. 

Each family must sign up to participate and be eligible for prizes.  Please post a comment on the blog or e-mail or call Kammi to sign up. 

You've been given the heads-up.  Disaster will strike.  Are you game?

Financial Preparedness

In April 1975 General Conference,  Elder Marvin J. Ashton said: "Save and invest a specific percentage of your income. Liquid savings available for emergencies should be sufficient to cover at least three months of all essential family obligations."

Building a savings is important for every family.  In April 2009 General Conference Elder Robert D. Hales said: "All of us are responsible to provide for ourselves and our families in both temporal and spiritual ways. To provide providently, we must practice the principles of provident living: joyfully living within our means, being content with what we have, avoiding excessive debt, and diligently saving and preparing for rainy-day emergencies."

The challenge for the week is to save $5 to $10 more per paycheck than you already are.  Put that $ into a short term savings (to help cover emergency costs such as car repairs, doctor bills, etc.)

Although 3 months of all family obligations may sound like a lot, you can eventually get there.  Don't be overwhelmed, saving just a little each month will slowly build up and become a blessing to you in time of need.  The Lord will bless you when you follow the counsel of his Prophet and Apostles.

If you currently aren't putting any money aside into savings, see if you can sacrifice something to start your savings.  Just $5 a paycheck is all you need to get going.  As Bishop Hunt said in Ward Conference, we need to do these things today!  Now is the time.

Self Reliance

The first paragraph in the June Visiting Teaching message reads:
"...We become self-reliant as we learn to love work, as we seek inspiration to find the best ways to provide for ourselves, and as we work with family members to meet basic needs."
This week's challenge is to come up with a project around the house, possibly emergency prep. or home/food storage related, and work together as a family to complete it.  Remeber to be creative and find something for every family member to do, no matter their age.  Be sure to encourage a happy attitude as your work together and teach your family to love work, a very basic and  important first step in becoming self-reliant.
Please leave a comment on the blog to share your experiences.

Coupon Class

The Coupon Class is scheduled for this Thursday, May 19th at my home (1883 Independence) at 7:00pm. 
I have received no responses on the blog about the class.  I need at least 10 people to come in order to hold the class.  If you are planning on coming, please post a comment on the blog.  Then I will know how many to plan on. 
Bring your friends and family too!  And don't forget, I'll have some kind of yummy treats there. :)
Please see post below "Savvy Shopper Coupon Class" for details about the class.

Thanks.

$80 Sleeping Bag for $30 - until May 7th

Big 5 Sporting Goods is closing out $80 zero degree sleeping bags for $30 until May 7th.  This is a great item for your emergency preparedness stash.
Bro. Tillotsen said there were only a few left at the AF location so you may want to call around or see if they can arrange a rain check.
Also, there are a lot of these same bags at Cabella's on sale for $40 if you'd rather go there.
Big 5 link: http://big5sportinggoods.shoplocal.com/big5/default.aspx?action=detail&storeid=2503823&rapid=0&listingid=-2084064311&offerid=

Food Storage Item of the Week - Pasta

Smith's has Ragu pasta sauce for $0.99 and American Beauty pasta for $0.49 when you buy 10.  So, pick up 5 of each and get them in your food storage!
Click this link for more of Smith's great deals this week: http://smithsfoodanddrug.mywebgrocer.com/Circular.aspx?c=1999&n=1&s=2724019&g=ca06359e-c815-42eb-9f5e-fe34daa8e2c5&uc=DFB8E50002

Savvy Shopper Coupon Class

I will be hosting a Savvy Shopper Coupon Class at my home on Thursday, May 19th at 7:00.  This is for anyone interested in saving some $ on groceries and I highly encourage you to come! 
Just yesterday I came home with free Nivea Body wash, $0.50 kid yogurt 4 packs, free kid's toothpaste, $0.50 brownie mix, $0.50 Betty Crocker scalloped potatoes, and $0.93 2 lb. powdered and brown sugar.  I spent about 2 hours prep time and saved $35.50 in coupons. 
This is a great skill to learn in general, but is also such an easy way to stock up Food Storage!  At $0.93 per powdered sugar, I can afford to by 5 of them and store them.  I have a ton of toothpaste, soap, body wash, breakfast cereal, pasta, pasta sauce, brownie mix, BBQ sauce, etc, etc, in my food storage just from buying 5+ at a time with my coupon deals.
The class will be put on by Savvy Shopper and will teach us how to combine coupon deals with sales, organize coupons, use printable and loadable coupons, and use the Savvy Shopper free website to plan shopping trips.
Please leave a comment on the blog if you are able to attend so I may plan accordingly.  Please bring friends and neighbors!

Strawberries still on sale!

Strawberries are still on for $2.99 for 2 lbs at Smith's.  I didn't see them in any other ads, so please leave a comment if you find some at a better price anywhere else.

Homemade Strawberry Jam. Yum.

Strawberries are on sale this week for $1.50/lb (until Tuesday).  That is about as low as they go.  I heard yesterday that Walmart had them for $1.18 on Saturday, wow!  Also, Smith's has their 4 lb sugar bags on sale for $1.89 a bag.  This is a great time to make some jam!

If you make one batch using the 8oz jars with strawberries at this price, they end up being $1.68 a jar if you buy brand new jars or $0.87 a jar if you already have jars and only need lids.
If you make one batch using 16 oz jars, they are $2.36 a jar if you buy brand new jars or $1.54 if you only need lids (that's $0.77 for 8 oz!).  Not too bad!

If your family will go through a 16 oz jar in 2-3 weeks, I would recommend using 16 oz jars as it is a better price per ounce.

To make your own homemade strawberry jam you will need:
1. Blender or potato masher
2. Large pot and small pot
3. bowl for sugar
4. soup ladel and canning funnel if you have one
5. 2 lbs strawberries - I sometimes buy a little extra in case of getting a few bad berries
6. approx. 7 cups sugar (depending on recipe)
7. 1 box Sure Jell or Ball pectin
8. lemon juice (per recipe)
9. 1/2 to 2 hours time

How to make jam Kammi Pyles style:
1. Soak jars and lid bands in soapy water.
2. Boil water in small pot on stove.  Once boiling, remove from heat and put can lids in hot water to soften rims.
2. Measure exact amount of sugar and put in large bowl, set aside.
3. Trim off strawberry leaves and put strawberries in blender.  Blend as you go on a low speed.  You don't want to puree them.  Alternately you can mash them with your potato masher.
4. Pour strawberries into large pot.  Add 1/2 tsp butter to avoid foaming, Sure Jell, and lemon juice if recipe calls for it. 
5. Follow Sure Jell or Ball pectin directions for making jam.  Usually something like: Heat until boiling point (boil that cannot be stirred down), add sugar all at once, heat until boiling point is reached again and boil for exactly 1 minute.  Remove from heat and pour into jars.
6. Once jam is in jars and lids are secure, turn jars upside down for about 5 minutes.  This is called the invert method.  The heat from the freshly boiled jam will seal the jars.  There is no need to use/prepare a canner.  Once you turn your jars back over wait for a 'pop' noise from each jar.  Your jam is done!
See, easy peasy.

Please give me a call if you have any questions and enjoy stocking your food storage shelves with homemade jam!  FYI our family goes through about 1 batch of jam every 2 months.  For a year's supply I plan on making 6 batches while strawberries are on a good deal.

A Little at a Time

Today is the last day for a few good caselots.  Check the links in the last post to get to Smith's and Fresh Market's caselot deals.

If you like Mac n Cheese, give the Kroger brand a try.  The new boxes seem to come with a new formula because it tastes great.  It is only $0.29 a box with a case purchase and a great addition to a family food storage!

Remember to set aside some $ each month just for food storage.  Even $5 or $10 is enough.  Then remember to use that extra $ to buy something you can store.  A few extra jars of spaghetti sauce, a couple cans of fruit or veggies, peanut butter, anything will help. 

Little by little you will find that you are beginning to create your own grocery store right in your basement!  When things get tight you'll enjoy shopping from your own family food storage.

"...Church members will be blessed for their obedience to the First Presidency’s counsel as they gradually build home storage. “We ask that you be wise as you store food and water and build your savings,” the First Presidency explains. “Do not go to extremes; it is not prudent, for example, to go into debt to establish your food storage all at once.” Rather, they suggest a modest, consistent approach. “With careful planning, you can, over time, establish a home storage supply and a financial reserve.”

^{-March 2009 Liahona, Family Home Storage: A New Message}

Free Conference Treats/10 Cent MRE's

It's Conference time!  That means it is time to do a simple inventory of your 72 hour kits.  Take out anything that is about to expire and enjoy it for a 'free' Conference treat. 
Things that may be ready to be eaten are: trail mix, granola bars, crackers, cookies, and cereal.  Be sure to check dates on water, juice, and other items as well.
Watch for sales and quickly re-stock anything you took out for a Conference treat. 

And now for the 10 cent MRE's.  Check out Smiths and Fresh Market this week for Ramen Noodles.  They are on sale with the caselots going on 10/$1. 
Essentially these make great MRE's that last for 1 1/2 to 2 years.  And, they're really cheap.  A great addition to a 72 hour kit.  Smith's has Maruchan (my preferred brand) and Fresh Market has Nissen.

And because I just can't help it...
Food Storage Items at Smith's Caselot:
Libby's Vegetables $0.48
Nalley Chili $0.88
Kroger Fruit $0.79
Kroger Tomato Sauce 5/$1
Kroger Peanut Butter 4/$5
Hunt's Spaghetti Sauce $0.75

For more deals:
Smith's Ad: http://smithsfoodanddrug.mywebgrocer.com/Circular.aspx?c=1470&n=1&s=1493921&g=bbae3bc6-912e-4f28-a5f5-23821f203474&uc=DFB8E50002
Fresh Market Ad: http://freshmarketstores.inserts2online.com/customer_Frame.jsp

Food Storage FHE

Here's a fun Food Storage FHE we put together just for you. 

Preparation: Choose a dessert listed at the end of this post.  Purchase ingredients to make 2 full batches of the dessert. 
Get a paper and pencil for each family member (crayons for kids). 

Lesson: Read 3 Ne. 4:1-4, 18-23
(http://lds.org/scriptures/bofm/3-ne/4.1-4,%2018-23?lang=eng#primary)
Discuss how food storage and preparation blessed the Nephites. 
Although we don’t need to protect ourselves from armies of robbers, we use food storage to protect ourselves in other ways.  Discuss how food storage can ‘protect’ us today and when we would use it.

Begin making a food storage plan by brainstorming things your family likes to eat.  Let each family member write down a few favorite meals, sides, desserts, etc.  Younger children could color a picture of their favorite foods. 

Make a list of ingredients needed for your favorites that you can put in your food storage. 

Choose a 'food storage' dinner to make this week.  Buy ingredients x2.  Use one set of ingredients to make the dinner and store the other set.

Activity: Make one of the food storage desserts listed below.  As a family, take the extra ingredients purchased for a second dessert and put them in your food storage for another time. 

Recipes:

PEANUT BUTTER CHEWS
1 c powdered sugar
2 c instant (1 c non-instant) dry milk
1 c peanut butter
1 c corn syrup or honey
Mix powdered sugar and powdered milk thoroughly. Add peanut butter and syrup mixture. You may need to knead it with your hands. Press into a cake pan or roll into walnut size balls.
Variations: Add nuts or Rice Krispies. Dip in chocolate.
(from preparednessmatters.blogspot.com)

WHOLE WHEAT BROWNIES
1 C Melted Shortening
2 C Whole Wheat Flour
4 Eggs, Beaten
4 Tbsp Cocoa
1 C Sugar
Beat together, spread in greased and floured 9x13 pan. Bake at 350 degrees for 25 minutes.
Frosting:
1/2 c melted butter
2 c powdered sugar
2 Tbsp cocoa
1 tsp vanilla
Mix above ingredients with a few drops of milk to spreading consistency.
(from preparednessmatters.blogspot.com)

OATMEAL COOKIES WITH WHEAT FLOUR
3 C Oil
6 C Brown Sugar or Honey
4 Eggs
1 C water
4 tsp vanilla
4 C Whole Wheat Flour
4 tsp Salt
2 tsp soda
12 C Rolled Oats
1 C Flour
6 tsp cinnamon
2 C Raisins
Blend oil, sugar or honey, eggs, water, vanilla, whole wheat flour, salt, soda, oats, flour, cinnamon and raisins. Place spoonfuls on cookie sheet. Bake 12 minutes at 350 degrees.
(from preparednessmatters.blogspot.com)

 

Food Storage Item of the Week - Soup

Stock up on soup with this great deal at Smith's:

Campbell's Chunky Soup $0.99 when you buy 10 participating items.  Add these coupons:
http://www.campbellkitchen.com/coupon.aspx?fbid=Bv8X69nXgUS#chunky and get the soup for as low as $0.59 a can (you may print each coupon twice).

You'll also get a "$3 off your next shopping order" coupon at check-out for each group of 10 participating items that you buy.  Depending on how you look at it, that's $0.30 more off each item.

Other good deals:

Chef Boyardee Pasta $0.69 when you by 10 participating items.

Kraft BBQ Sauce $0.69 when you buy 10 participating items.

For coupon clippers (Sunday paper coupons) go to savvyshopperdeals.com for details on a food storage dinner: $0.29 Ronzoni Pasta and $1.15 Ragu!

Deals on Baking Items for Food Storage

Some of these items fall into the category of non-essential food storage, like brownie mix.  Some are more valuable like cooking oil.  But if you are looking for somthing to add to your food storage this week and can get to Macey's or price match at Walmart before Wednesday, click this link for a few good deals:

http://savvyshopperdeals.com/app/shoppingwizard/?t=products&category=26&store=15&savings=0&rank=0&keyword=&x=25&y=10

Once you do have a base food storage, it really doesn't hurt to add things like brownie mix.  If you need to live on food storage for more than a month, you'll be glad to have a few sweet treats tucked away down there. :)

Food Storage Tips - Chicken Enchiladas Recipe

A few simple food storage tips:

1) Remember to label and rotate your food.  Newest food at the back, oldest at the front to be used.  Label food with a date and put in the back everytime you add food to your storage.

2) Storing Meats - You can store meat a few different ways.  One option is to buy meat in bulk, individually wrap it at home, and store in freezer bags in a freezer chest for up to 2 months (you can wrap 4 lbs of hamburger in 5 or 6 individual packages to make it go further).  A second option is to purchase canned meats and store them in your food storage.  An even more advanced method is to can and store your own meat.  Here is a link to a helpful website if you are experienced with canning and would like to try canning meat: http://www.gopresto.com/recipes/canning/meat.php

3) Storing Flour and Sugar - Kevin and I purchased large buckets with 'gamma seal lids' from Emergency Essentials for flour and sugar.  You can find these on their website (link to site at the right side of page).  I only purchase flour and sugar when it is on a great sale such as a caselot.  Then I pour all flour and sugar into these large buckets for long term storage.  As we have had problems with bugs in our flour in the past, we have found this a great way to store these items in our basment storage without any issues.

Here is a recipe I modified to include some of the food storage items that were on sale last week.  Items with an asterisk are from food storage:

Chicken Enchiladas
1 lb. chicken, cooked and chopped *
2 cans cream of chicken soup *
1 can Rotel (or Hunts) Tomatoes *
8 oz. sour cream
1/2 - 1 cup rice, cooked *
12 flour tortillas
Shredded cheddar cheese

Preheat oven to 350.  In large bowl, mix chicken, chicken soup, tomatoes, sour cream, rice, and cheese.  Spread a thick layer of mixture in bottom of  9x13 casserole dish.  Spoon some filling into a tortilla, roll and place in pan.  Continue until pan is full.  Spread remaining mixture over tortillas.  Top with cheese.  Bake for 20 to 30 minutes.  *Rotel tomatoes give these enchiladas bit of a kick.

If you have any great food storage recipes that you would like to share, please e-mail them to me and I'll put them on the blog!

Home Food Storage - 3 Month Plan

If you haven’t read the post: “Home Food Storage – Start Small”, please begin there.

In that post you were asked to make a plan for beginning or increasing your food storage.  You should know what your weekly budget for food storage is.  You may already have an idea of things you use on a regular basis that you would like to store. 

To assist with your food storage plan, we have an Excel spreadsheet from 'Food Storage Made Easy' that you may use to determine what you would need for a complete 3 month’s worth of food storage.  Click this link and scroll down the page to "3 Month Planning Tools": http://foodstoragemadeeasy.net/babysteps/step-3-three-months-of-normal-food/   You will also find a printable spreadsheet further down the page if you do not have Excel.  Fill out the spreadsheet and then compile a shopping list from it.  Watch for sales on items on your list and grab a few extra things each week to gradually build your storage.

Please do not be overwhelmed by the title of ‘3 Month Plan’.  You do not have to buy it all at once.  The spreadsheet is just to help you organize.  If you prefer, start by filling out only 1 week on the spreadsheet.  Or, if you don’t like spreadsheets, get a piece of paper and write down what your family normally eats in one week.  Then plan on purchasing extras of those items next time you go shopping.   The idea is to just do something.

"Our Heavenly Father created this beautiful earth, with all its abundance, for our benefit and use. His purpose is to provide for our needs as we walk in faith and obedience. He has lovingly commanded us to “prepare every needful thing” (see D&C 109:8) so that, should adversity come, we can care for ourselves and our neighbors and support bishops as they care for others.

"We encourage members world-wide to prepare for adversity in life by having a basic supply of food and water and some money in savings.  

(The First Presidency, All Is Safely Gathered In: Family Home Storage, Feb. 2007, 1)

Smith’s deals:

(good through Feb. 1^st - prices when you buy 10 participating items)

Del Monte Vegetables $0.49

Hunt’s Tomatoes $0.49

Rotel Tomatoes $0.49

Progresso Soup $0.99

Pace Salsa $1.49

Hormel Chili $0.79

Heinz Ketchup $1.49

Kellogg’s Cereal $1.99

Kleenex $0.99

Langers Apple Juice $1.49

Arrowhead Water (24, 16oz bottles) $2.99

Home Food Storage - Start Small

Our next focus on being prepared is Home Food Storage.  Below you'll find some quotes from church leaders and Ensign articles to get you motivated.  At the very bottom (once you've read everything) you'll find some current deals at Smith's this week to get you started.

"Start small and do the best you can. Begin by purchasing a few extra items to add to your storage each week. Strive to build a one-week supply; then expand it to a one-month supply, then a three-month supply. By building your supply slowly, you can avoid financial strain and start down the path toward self-reliance."

(Family Home Storage: A New Message, Ensign, Mar. 2009, 56–60)

"Build a small supply of food that is part of your normal, daily diet. One way to do this is to purchase a few extra items each week to build a one-week supply of food. Then you can gradually increase your supply until it is sufficient for three months. These items should be rotated regularly to avoid spoilage."

(All is Safely Gathered In; Family Home Storage pamphlet, 2007,  2)

"Rotate and use food storage items regularly. Date food items as you purchase or can them, then store new supplies of food at the back of the shelves, moving earlier purchases forward to be used first.

"Do not go into debt. Acquire food items gradually. At the very least, save a few dollars a week for storage items. Using the basic foods in day-to-day menus can cut food costs and allow you to purchase more supplies. Or, as a family, give up some of the nonessentials for a short time until you can accumulate additional foods. Through prayer and concerted effort, you can work out a food storage plan that will provide you with security and peace of mind."

(Home Storage: Build on the Basics, Ensign, June 1989, 39)

No single food storage plan will work for everyone. Each family’s needs differ, as does their financial ability to accumulate the storage items. But by working under the direction of the First Presidency “to concentrate on essential foods,” it can be done. President Ezra Taft Benson has said on at least three different occasions, “The revelation to produce and store food may be as essential to our temporal welfare today as boarding the ark was to the people in the days of Noah.”

(Ensign, Nov. 1980, p. 33.)

Kevin and I challenge you today to make a plan for beginning or increasing your home food storage.  An easy place to start is setting up a budget for food storage.  As mentioned in the Ensign, it can be just a few dollars but it will get you started and will make a difference. 

Here are just a few of the deals at Smith's caselot sale to help you get going.  These are great food storage items and will be on sale until Tuesday, Jan. 18th.  Caselot sales are an easy way to stock up on everyday essentials. 

*Note that Walmart will price match the caselot prices for single items even if you don't purchase an entire case from them (must be same brand).  If you have any trouble, ask for Patti and she will approve the price match.

* Quaker Instant Oatmeal (box of 10 single serve packets) $1.67 a box, $20.00 for case of 12

* Maruchan Ramen Noodles 8 for $1, $3.00 for case of 24 - see, just a few $

* Starkist Tuna 2 for $1, $24.00 for case of 48

* Libby's Vegetables 2 for $1, $6.00 for case of 12

* Hormel Chili $0.88 each, $10.56 for case of 12

* Spaghettios $0.55 each, $13.20 for case of 24

* Kroger 4 lb. Sugar $1.89 each, $18.90 for case of 10

* Link to Smith's full ad: http://smithsfoodanddrug.inserts2online.com/customer_Frame.jsp?divID=706&drpStoreID=00107

We know as you make a plan and move forward as a family the Lord will bless you and provide for you. - Kevin and Kammi

"I will go and do the things which the Lord hath commanded, for I know that the Lord giveth no commandments unto the children of men, save he shall prepare a way for them that they may accomplish the thing which he commandeth them." - 1st Nephi 3:7, emphasis added.