Emergency Preparedness Corner

GOT MILK?

2010-04-13T21:32:00.000-07:00

This weeks focus is on powdered milk. Does anyone out there use this stuff on a day to day basis? I'm sure there are a few die hards and probably more that had to drink this stuff when we were kids. But if you are like me....it's much easier to just pick up a 4 litre at the store.

To be honest I've only ever used powdered milk in my baking. Hmmmm as I am writing this I have concocted an evil plan....as soon as the plastic milk jug is empty I am going to refill it with powdered milk....I'll see if the family notices.....and keep you posted.

Okay so even though I don't really drink this stuff....I realize the importance of having it in my storage. We do go through fresh stuff very quickly so if we couldn't get it at the store it would be a big change to our families eating habits.....bigger then say....using powdered milk. I realize that it is expensive. So if you don't have any, start with just a can....they cost about $20. If you are a vegan....they even have powdered soy milk available.....yum!! Either way this really needs to be in your storage. If you don't have any please consider getting some. If you already have some then add variety by picking up some milk flavorings....here are some yummy suggestions... chocolate, strawberry, or vanilla nesquick syrup!

Is Toilet Paper an essential?

2010-03-04T11:49:00.001-08:00

How many rolls do you need? I don't know about you but my family goes through toilet paper quickly!! Maybe the kids are secretly flushing wads when I am not around....I don't know but it's amazing how they disappear. I remember as a child always sitting on the toilet screaming for someone to get me some toilet paper. After a hunt through all the bathrooms to discover there was none...a creative sibling would hand me a napkin or paper towel... I hated this. I never understood how we were always running out of toilet paper? Fast forward 20 years and two kids later...I realized that it can be difficult! But those child hood memories have ingrained in me a responsibility to always have a lot of toilet paper on hand....In fact I have over 400 rolls on hand on any given day! I am always prepared for a bathroom break. Consider your supply...are you always running out?? Take time to do an inventory and see if you could be adding more to your back up supply. I firmly believe this will become a new currency should there ever become a shortage! Ha Ha!

Not your usual preparedness tip!

2010-02-26T07:20:00.000-08:00

I am confessing the below information for the greater good of beautiful women every where!
I dye my own hair!! There I said it! yes I spent a fortune for years and had more awful coloring experiences then I'd like to admit....but on one thrifty and "too impatiant to wait a week for a hair appointment" day...I went to walmart and found the perfect hair coloring kit in a box....I was so impressed with the color and how easy and inexpensive it was. So being the Preparedness person I was...when I saw it on sale I bought 4 boxes.
Here's the part I want everyone to know. Hair dye in a box expires!! I used the last box up a few days ago and there is a lot of orangy red tinge to my hair! Sure you don't notice it at first but in some lights it's VERY noticeable!
Morale of the story...dont store hair dye for long periods of time...

72 Hour Kits - On Sale

2010-02-22T12:38:00.000-08:00

Costco.ca has a fantastic 4 person 72 hour kit on Sale....ONLY $125!!!

This is a really great deal! Plus you can just order on line and they will bring it right to your door! EASY AND DONE!!!

Sale is good until March 7

STEP TWO - WATER

2010-02-11T22:44:00.001-08:00

If you are joining me on this journey and don't have STEP ONE done don't worry!! Just do what you can....use an old laundry basket or plastic bags.....just keep going! Don't be a perfectionist! Just do what you can!

Start compiling and eventually you will get everything!

So step 2 is simple......Water.
I added some water bottles, a water pump, and a water purifying straw. Do what you can right now! Anything is better than nothing!

Get Going!! Get Prepared!! Have Fun!!

STEP ONE - CONTAINER

2010-02-10T20:53:00.000-08:00

Tonight I stopped by Walmart. While I was walking around a little thought said "get some back packs for your 72 hour kits". I picked up 2 and when I got home I felt soooo great!! I have been putting this off for way too long. I don't know why? I just haven't put a kit together yet. I guess just taking that first step made all the difference. Who knew??? Hopefully if you haven't done one yet you will join me! I am going to blog my journey into some easy steps!

Here are some ideas of containers to put your 72 hour kits in....hope this gets you started!

The classic backpack, light weight and easy to carry

The backpack with wheels

A suitcase

A large plastic bucket - durable, water proof, rodent proof, and can be used as a seat!

Same as above bucket with added bonus of a toilet seat!

Will store more - wouldn't be easy to "take with you" unless by car.

Money Matters!

2010-02-07T17:59:00.000-08:00

I was reading a great book called Preparedness Principles that talked about how adding money to your preparedness shelf was usually something most people don't do. I am sure we have all thought about it but for some reason most of us don't do it. Maybe we have lot's of money in the bank but haven't taken it out and put it aside. Maybe we are struggling to make ends meet and can't find "extra money" to set aside. Maybe we fall somewhere in between the two. What ever your reasons may I suggest a goal? Find a jar or container and make a goal to start filling it. Here are some ideas for you to consider.

There are so many types of containers....buckets, jars, treasure boxes, cookie jars, plastic bins, boxes, vases, you could even use a #10 can from your food storage! Make it fun! But Make IT!!

Set aside a goal to add money to it.... maybe you could empty the change from your pockets, coats, wallets, car...once a week. Maybe the next time you go to the ATM you can take out some extra money and add it to the jar.

Find a simple thing once and a while to say no to and put that money in the jar. Have all your family involved and watch it grow.

I think it would be a great idea to treat you and your family from the jar once and a while. That way, you can all feel the benefits of having some spare money put aside. This might also help people feel better about adding to it!! It is important to have all types of money from $20, $10, $5, to twoonies, loonies and other change. I am sure many of you out there have great ideas about saving money...please share your ideas!!

GET GOING!! GET PREPARED!! HAVE FUN!!

Black Out

2010-02-03T20:32:00.000-08:00

So my sister was telling me how their community had a blackout this morning. Their family of 6 were getting ready for the day. I laughed at the biggest dilemma...her girls couldn't get their hair done for school...ha ha no electricity for their flat iron....what an emergency!

She was telling me that today was her grocery day so they were out of a few essentials. We had fun thinking of what we would make with out electricity (no stove, microwave, toaster etc...) Before I let you know what I have right now available.....stop and think what is in your pantry, fridge and freezer. Have fun thinking of as many meals you could make right now with what you have right now. I was amazed at how much food I have but how much I reallied on electricity to prepare it.

PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE....take a moment and think about what you would make...

Breakfast

Okay so I have tonnes of oatmeal....but no hot water??? Or wait....I think you can still get hot water from the tap?? Can you?? Anyone know?

Pancakes - no

make muffins - no

eggs - no

toast - no

Fresh fruit - yes I have some

yogurt - yes

cereal with milk - yes

Lunch - cold soup

cold canned stuff

PB & J sandwiches

Tuna Sandwiches

crackers and cheese

Dinner - same as lunch

I know it's pretty sad...but I am sure with all that I have, I should be able to come up with a few other Non electricity meals....but I haven't really had to think about this...does anyone have any ideas for me?? I would love to do a whole blog listing non electricity meals......please help!

What treat can't you live with out?

2010-02-01T21:38:00.000-08:00

So tonight I am having a craving for chocolate...which is something I don't normally do. I went on a hunt in my pantry and much to my wonderful surprise found a bag of M&M's. I vaguely remember letting the kids throw it into the shopping cart...and then sneakily hiding it into the pantry....until now. I just ate about 8 and was wondering what the expiry date on them were. Did you know that they are usually good for a year? That led me to think of this crazy blog... Let's take a break from the rice and wheat and think about what we can't "live without." Yes Yes of course I know we could technically live with out it.... but I was just thinking about those little things that our families love to indulge in. I'm not talking about crappy cheap candy that you saw on sale....I'm talking about the stuff our families gather round in anticipation for. Here are a few examples of essentials to me....

Popcorn!! I am so grateful that this is our family's top favorite. It's easy to store and also considered a whole grain. (Bonus!) I have a few large bags and we cook it in a pot with a little bit of oil. Yes I can cook it over a fire if necessary! Popcorn, oil, salt....Cheap, Easy...Done!

Now onto our next favorite non essential item.....chocolate chip cookies....you know those ooooey gooooey melt in your mouth kinds? I have a great recipe and use all ingredients from my food storage. Many times I am thankful that I have these ingredients always in my storage for obvious reasons!

I have just added a new favorite recipe that I would love to indulge my food storage in....they are those delicious cinnamon buns that we made in Relief Society Last month. They were so delicious that I want to make sure that I can whip up a batch when ever necessary.

Now if only I can buy freeze dried Haagen-Dazs??

BREAD

2010-01-27T22:18:00.000-08:00

Home made bread is always a treat! I am sure I don't have to convince you of how good it makes your house smell....and how delicious it tastes still warm from the oven with butter. Now I know that it is much easier to just buy it...and I certainly do. I just think everyone should know how to make home made bread. Don't wait until the bread shelves are bare to experiment......start now! My first attempts to make bread was with a bread machine. This is a wonderful WONDERFUL machine! I mean really....just dump your ingredients into a machine press a button and walk away???? SERIOUSLY?? It's that easy...why don't we do it every day?

If you are using a machine....here are a few tips.

-Once all your ingredients are on the counter premeasure a whole recipe of your dry ingredients into some larger ziploc bags. I usually do 10 bags at a time. That way next time you just dump a baggie into the machine and add your "Wet" ingredients. And you thought it didn't get any easier??

-Don't like digging the mixer pieces out of your nice new bread? Try your dough setting and then take out of the machine and bake in your oven. It's practically cheating but I love it! You skip all the kneading and rising and just go right to baking. This works great if you are giving away a loaf....know one will know you used a bread machine.

CHEAP BREAD TODAY & TOMORROW ONLY

2010-01-26T18:11:00.001-08:00

Hi Everyone, Katrina passed this message on....

McGavin’s Bread Basket on MacLeod Trail has pallets of bread left on order from a Walmart Superstore that didn’t open on time. Here is the super special:

Buy 10 loaves of bread (any kind) get 10 loaves free for only $10.00.

Pass this along to anyone you think might be interested. If you can’t use that much bread maybe split the order with someone. McGavin’s hopes to have all the bread sold by tomorrow, Wednesday, January 27th.

It is just past the Walmart on Mcleod trail by Southland

19-9250 MacLeod Trail Southeast, Calgary, AB T2J 0P5, Canada (403) 253-2284 (403) 253-2284‎

Fudge Brownies

2010-01-25T17:25:00.000-08:00

Experts suggest having a good supply of quick and easy comfort foods to limit stress in an emergency.....let me suggest Thrive Fudge Brownies!! I ordered them from the Beehive bookstore and got them last week. We made them this morning and they are GREAT!! All you have to do is add water!

The can has a 20 year shelf life!

Bon Appetite!

Potato Flakes vs Potato Pearls

2010-01-24T21:08:00.000-08:00

Every other person that signs up for the cannery asks me "Do they still have potato pearls?" to which I reply...only in bulk but they now have potato flakes. The next question is always "Are they any good?"

Since I started my food storage about 5 years ago all there was available at the cannery was potato pearls and everyone kept saying how great they were! I thought they were okay. They kind of had a funky taste to them. My family only agreed to eat them when I was in a pinch. I was afraid to try potato flakes because everyone said how much better the pearls were.

Well....today I was in a pinch for our Sunday dinner and thought...nows a great time to try the potato flakes.

WE REALLY LIKED THEM!!! In fact I felt like they tasted more like mashed potatos to me then the pearls!

I only added what the label said...water, salt, butter, and milk (and a little extra butter and salt) and they were great! I wont even hesitate to make them for company!

What's even more wonderful is that their shelf life is 30 years!!!! SOLD!! Potato flakes can also be added to soups to thicken and other recipes like breads. If you are off to the cannery don't forget to add this little luxury to your pantry!

They are only $3 a can!!!!

Over Night Bag

2010-01-21T10:25:00.000-08:00

So I was just on the phone with a good friend (Sharla) and she mentioned starting your children's 72 kits by packing an over night bag. What a great idea! Get your kids involved! Pack pj's toothbrush and toothpaste. Throw in a change of clothes, some snacks and a bottle of water.....Done! Thanks Sharla!

Get Going! Get Prepared! Have Fun!

Organizing, Storage, Food Rotation

2010-01-21T00:26:00.000-08:00

Many of you may have already seen these great Can Rotation organizers. I dreamed of these for years before I finally bought a couple. While these are great...they are also expensive. Around $400 a unit can be a bit much for "organizing your cans" PS my husband still doesn't know how much they cost. Some things are better left unsaid! Anyways I came across a new better value system. They are individual cardboard organizers that sell 4 for $16. Check it out at http://www.thecanorganizer.com/

Happy ORGANIZING!!!

Laundry Detergent

2010-01-20T22:10:00.001-08:00

Okay so I hope the title didn't scare you away!!! Keep reading.... I actually like doing laundry! My favorite laundry detergent is GAIN....ISLAND FRESH. Occasionally when my children are being good at the grocery store I like to take time to sniff all the detergents to see if I find something better. There are so many wonderful choices it's hard to pick but Gain island fresh is still my favorite! So you will always see extra bottles of it in my food storage! If the stores are empty....well my clothes will still smell good!! But you know what ticks me off??? It is so darn expensive!!! Seriously, it's not fair! I only have 2 children and I do a tonne of laundry. I can't even imagine what 4 children would be like?? So curiosity led me to the Duggar website. Here is a family with 18 kids... what do they use?? Guess what....they make it! Yep that's right, and the recipe is really easy and cheap. And for just a few bucks you can do 640 loads!!
No this is not a typo!! So here you go...Add these ingredients to your next shopping trip!
Homemade Liquid Laundry Soap- Front or top load machine- best value
4 Cups - hot tap water
1 Fels-Naptha soap bar (you can use any non perfume type bar of soap)
1 Cup - Arm & Hammer Super Washing Soda*
½ Cup Borax
- Grate bar of soap and add to saucepan with water. Stir continually over medium-low heat until soap dissolves and is melted. -Fill a 5 gallon bucket half full of hot tap water. Add melted soap, washing soda and Borax. Stir well until all powder is dissolved. Fill bucket to top with more hot water. Stir, cover and let sit overnight to thicken. -Stir and fill a used, clean, laundry soap dispenser half full with soap and then fill rest of way with water. Shake before each use. (will gel) -Optional: You can add 10-15 drops of essential oil per 2 gallons. Add once soap has cooled. Ideas: lavender, rosemary, tea tree oil. -Yield: Liquid soap recipe makes 10 gallons. -Top Load Machine- 5/8 Cup per load (Approx. 180 loads) -Front Load Machines- ¼ Cup per load (Approx. 640 loads) *Arm & Hammer "Super Washing Soda" - in some stores or may be purchased online here (at Meijer.com). Baking Soda will not work, nor will Arm & Hammer Detergent - It must be sodium carbonate!!
Happy washing everyone!!!

72 hour Scavenger

2010-01-19T09:35:00.000-08:00

I went on to numerous sites and found numerous lists for 72 hour kits. Basically you need Food, Water, and clothing for 72 hours. Most cases suggest that you will be in your home with these items but some suggest making these kits available in case you have to leave your home. Once you leave your home there are other items you will probably need considering you can't be in your house (shelter etc...)
This list is really extensive and I don't expect everyone to have all items. But it's better to list everything so you can consider your options.

Guess what?? I don't have a 72 hour kit!! Yes that's right....I love all this stuff and I probably have quite a few items on the list but I have yet to put it all together. So this post is for me too! My Goal is to see what I have and put it together. I will try to take a picture and post it once I can.

Food and Water
Protein/Granola Bars
Trail Mix/Dried Fruit
Crackers/Cereals (for munching)
Canned Tuna, Beans, Turkey, Beef, Canned meals, ravioli, spaghetti etc (with pop off tops)Utensils
Can opener
Flavored water packs (crystal light etc…)
Juice boxes
Candy/Gum
Water (1 Gallon/4 Liters Per Person)
Water Filtration Straw or Sport Bottle
Water Filtration Pump

Bedding and Clothing
Change of Clothing (short and long sleeved shirts, pants, jackets, socks, etc.)
Undergarments
Sturdy Shoes
Hats for warmth or protection from the sun
Rain Coat - All weather Poncho
Emergency Heat Blankets (that keep in warmth)
Hot pockets for hands and feet
Sleeping bags or blankets
Plastic Sheet
Gloves for working and carrying stuff
Temp Shelter
Tent
Tarp
Rope
Umbrella (for wind, rain, snow, sun)

Fuel, Light, Communications
Batteries
Lighting (Flashlights, Lamps, etc.) Don't forget batteries!
Extra Batteries
Solar or crank flashlights
Flares
Candles
Lighter
Water-Proof Matches
Flint
Radio crank or battery

Information
Survival 101 booklet for general safety and survival information.
First Aid Book
Maps

Equipment
Hand Shovel
Radio (with batteries!)
Pen and Paper
Axe
Pocket Knife
Rope
Tarp
Whistle
Duct tape
scissors
compass
Mirror

Personal Supplies and Medication
First Aid Supplies
Medical supplies (hearing aids with extra batteries, glasses, contact lenses, syringes, cane)
N95 or surgical masks
Toiletries, toilet paper, tooth brush, tooth paste, tampax, pads
Cleaning Supplies (mini hand sanitizer, soap, shampoo, dish soap, etc.)
Medication (Acetaminophen, Ibuprofen, children's medication, children's tylenol etc.)Prescription Medication (for 3 days)
Wet ones (individual wipes)
Cloths
Towels

Personal Documents and Money(Place these items in a water-proof ziploc)
Scriptures
Patriarchal Blessing
Legal Documents (Birth/Marriage Certificates, Wills, Passports, Contracts, etc)
Insurance Policies
Cash and coin
Credit Card
Pre-Paid Phone Cards

Miscellaneous
Bag(s) to put 72 Hour Kit items in (such as duffel bags or back packs, which work great)
Make sure you can lift/carry it!
ziploc bags, put items in ziploc bags.
These always come in handy!
Entertainment items
Garbage bags
Extra set of car keys and house keys

Infant Needs (if applicable)Items for infants, such as formula, diapers, wipes, bottles, and pacifiers.
Pet supplies collar, leash, ID, food, carrier, bowl

Notes: Update your 72 Hour Kit every six months (put a note in your calendar/planner) to make sure that: all food, water, and medication is fresh and has not expired; clothing fits; personal documents and credit cards are up to date; and batteries are charged.

You can include any other items in your 72 Hour Kit that you feel are necessary for your family's survival.

Make sure you are mobile: Everyone shouldn't have to carry heavy bags. Use backpacks with wheels or keep a stroller handy for children or items.

2010-01-18T17:52:00.000-08:00

While I am talking about storing an extra propane tank....don't forget to pick up a heater attachment. Especially with our cold winters, it would come in handy if the power went out in a storm. This is $40 worth spending!!

BBQ

2010-01-18T15:55:00.000-08:00

It almost feels like spring is just around the corner. I smelled BBQ in the air when I was outside and had a blogging moment. It's always a good idea to have an extra propane tank (if you still use propane like us) In an emergency your BBQ is a great way to cook. Forget about emergencies....how often have you been in the middle of BBQ ing something and your propane tank runs out! Then you have to load it up....find a place that actually fills them and sit there for 20 minutes until someone qualified can do it!!! What a pain. Treat the man in your life with an extra propane tank. They will thank you for it!

Soya Sauce and Teryaki

2009-12-23T09:24:00.000-08:00

Okay so a month of rice stuff and I've yet to suggest Soya Sauce and Teriyaki? Oooops! Well consider yourself informed! This is a great staple for your food storage. May I suggest don't buy in bulk! Just buy lot's of regular sized containers.

WATER PUMP!! TAKING ORDERS!

2009-12-23T08:44:00.000-08:00

Finally the store "In Case Of" now has the water pumps available!!! I can't tell you how excited I am to do a group order on these!!! I went to order one from the states and with shipping, duty, exchange....it was going to cost me over $80.

"In Case Of" is selling them for $27.95 plus GST.

Can you believe it??? This pump will clean up to 100 gallons of water. That's almost 400 litres!! It is small and would fit great into your 72 kit! I am putting the order through WEDNESDAY JANUARY 13. Let me know if you or anyone you know would like one? You can pay me when you pick up.

PS. You can purchase replacement filters for $18.95 and double your pure water supply!

I am copying and pasting the details from the sellers website:

The Pure Water Pump is ideal for pumping filtered water from any reservoir - 2 1/2 gallon to 5 gallon bottles, 20 to 50 gallon drums, a tub, storage tank, pond, pool, river, lake or virtually any type of container!
It's great for every day use; camping, travel or emergency use. It breaks down into two separate easy-to-carry components that fit into any backpack. The pumping system is powerful - delivering 60 PSI at point of contact.
Fey Features:
Provides up to 100 gallons of filtered water.
Easy to use!
Installs in seconds!
Lightweight, durable, reliable!
The pump uses the Advanced filter which is made of the same media as the Standard filter that features BIOSAFE® with the addition of EPA approved iodinated resin (EPA Reg #: 35917-2) which has been proven effective in the removal of bacteria and virus to six logs (99.9999%).
Extensively tested by independent laboratories using EPA/ ANSI protocols and NSF Standards 42 and 53.
Removes/reduces Organics and In-Organics such as DDT, PCBs, THMs, Lead, Copper, Mercury, Arsenic and Chromium 6, as well as pathogens such as Guardia, Cryptosporidium and E- Coli Bacteria.
Note: The 2.5 gallon jug (pictured) is not included.

Weight is 3lbs

Cafe Rico Rice

2009-12-23T07:02:00.000-08:00

Café Rico Rice*
blend together in a small food processor
2 tsp garlic
3-4 sprigs of cilantro
1/2 tsp cumin
1/2 can green chilies
1/2 tsp salt
1 Tbs butter
1/4 chopped onion
2 bouillon cubes
Blend all ingredients in blender then put in pan and add
3 cups water, bring to a boil add 1 1/2 cups rice,
simmer covered 25 - 30 minutes stirring occasionally. Do not use the Japanese sticky rice, it gets TOO sticky. It works much better with plain old rice. Do not over cook.

Hawaiian Haystacks

2009-12-22T07:37:00.001-08:00

This recipe was "borrowed" from a fellow blogger....why reinvent the wheel?

This is a WAY simple, not at all boring yet not too fancy either. Probably one that you have all done in some variety before but it is still one of our favorites. Great for busy days, prep early on in your day and eat when you can! We love it.
3-4 chicken breasts ( I use freeze dried diced chicken cubes)
2 cans cream of chicken
2 1/2 C milk
1 C sour cream
1/2 tea garlic/seasoning salt
1/2 tea pepper
1 Tbl dried onion
2 bullion cubes
1 red bell pepper - finely chopped
3 celery stalks- finely chopped
5 green onion stalks- finely chopped
1 tomato - diced
1 can pineapple
1 can mandarin oranges
1 C Yoshidas Sauce
1 can crunchy chow mein noodles
2 C shredded cheese
coconut (optional)
slivered almonds (optional)
rice
In a crock pot place frozen chicken, cream of chicken, sour cream, milk and spices together and mix, let cook slowly for several hours until chicken in cooked throughout and sauce is bubbly.Serve over rice and chow mein noodles and top with garnishments of choice and drizzle with yoshidas sauce.

2009-12-16T20:03:00.000-08:00

All the ingredients can be found in #10 cans I forgot to add the rice into the picture... Here's my recipe

Chicken Rice Soup

Bring 10 cups of water to a boil
Add the following to the pot
1/2 cup freeze dried chicken cubes

1/2 cup chicken soup base
1/4 cup dehydrated carrots
1/4 cup dehydrated celery
1/4 cup dehydreated onions
1/2 cup rice (can add pasta instead)

Stir and reduce heat to low and simmer for 30 minutes!
Salt and pepper to taste!

What I also love about this recipe is that when I take out the cans I premeasure all the ingredients into ziploc bags and store. So I have Soup in a bag right ready. This makes a great gift too.....Here's a picture!

Soup Bases!

2009-12-14T21:34:00.001-08:00

Soup base mixes are a must have for any food storage supply! These are so versitile and can be used in many recipes! Hot soup is a comfort food for most people in a time of crisis. Not to mention that a little goes a long way. It is very easy to add to water and throw in a couple of items and voila! My first attemp to store this soup base was unsuccessful. I went to Costco and found these large OXO buckets of chicken and beef soup base. They were reasonably cheap and I was so excited I found them. Unfortunately the expiry date on the bucket was one of those long numbers and letter formulas that I couldn't figure out. So I called the company and found out that the buckets I just purchased were already expired! plus they wouldn't tell me how to figure out the expiry date so I could be better prepared to buy next time! Don't buy these at COSTCO or anywhere! Let me tell you about the best soup base ever!!! I know I am always mentioning this company but I have used the products over and over and love them!!!! In Case of now sells Chicken and Beef Soup base in the #10 cans! You can order them through the Beehive book store. I LOVE THESE!!! They are a staple in my pantry! The chicken is $19.95 and the beef is $25.95. What I love most is that you can just scoop out what the recipe calls for! No peeling those oxo cubes ....what a pain! and then you have to "Crumble" the hard cube!

I can't say enough good things about this stuff!! Another must have is onion soup mix! I use this for my roasts, potatoes, rice and many other things! In case of doesn't offer this so I buy it in bulk at Costco in the large grey Lipton soup bulk bags. It is right beside the bulk oxo buckets.....I have a great recipe and will post it tomorrow!

The weather outside is frightful!!

2009-12-13T17:23:00.000-08:00

Please take the time to throw a blanket into the car! You may not need it, but with this weather you just can't afford not to be prepared. Sometimes we take for granted that our cars are safe and we will just be running from the car to indoors. If you have children in the car please throw in a couple extra items especially if they don't want to wear them in the car. You can fold it all up nice and neat and put it in the trunk. Please Please be prepared!!!

Cheesy Ham & Rice Bake

2009-12-08T13:00:00.001-08:00

This one looks great! All these items can be found in your food storage! You can get freeze dried peas as well as ham TVP! This can also be a great left over dish! Next time you have a ham...cube up the left overs and freeze! Same as your left over peas.....And you will already have your left over rice in the freezer!
Here's the recipe....It called for Minute rice so I changed it to white rice, and changed the cooking length from 20 minutes to 45....let me know if it works!!

Cheesy Ham & Rice Bake
2 cups white rice, uncooked
1 can (10-3/4 oz.) condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 cups milk
1/4 cup MIRACLE WHIP Dressing
1 pkg. (6 oz.) OSCAR MAYER Smoked Ham, chopped
2 cups frozen peas
1/2 cup KRAFT Shredded Sharp Cheddar Cheese

PREHEAT oven to 425°F. Mix rice, soup, milk, dressing, ham and peas in 2-qt. baking dish; cover with foil.
BAKE 45 min.; uncover.
SPRINKLE with cheese. Bake, uncovered, 10 min. or until rice is tender and cheese is melted. Let stand 5 min. before serving

20-Minute Parmesan Chicken & Rice Dinner

2009-12-08T12:52:00.000-08:00

1 Tbsp. oil
4 small boneless skinless chicken breast halves (about 1 lb.)
1 can (10-3/4 oz.) condensed cream of mushroom soup
2 cups water
1 cup white rice, uncooked
1 pkg. (10 oz.) frozen peas, thawed
1/4 cup KRAFT Grated Parmesan Cheese

Bring water to a boil add rice. Reduce heat to low and simmer for 20 minutes.
Meanwhile heat oil in large nonstick skillet on medium-high heat. Add chicken; cover. Cook 5 min. on each side or until cooked through.
REMOVE chicken from skillet.
Once Rice is done, add soup, peas and cheese; mix well. Top with chicken; cover. Cook on low heat 5 min. Salt and pepper to taste.

Dry Mixes

2009-12-07T19:50:00.001-08:00

A couple of years ago I faced a dilema. I had canned a years worth of rice and had it neatly stored in my basement. So what's the dilema? My family hated eating it! Oh sure they loved "Rice-a-Roni" and good old Uncle Ben had mastered the art of flavored rice mixes that you just add water to and poof this delicious garlic roasted chicken rice would appear. How could I compete with that? Then to add insult to injury, my husband brought home Uncle Ben's 2 minute flavored rice. If you haven't heard of them, let me tell you now...they're pretty good! And in just 2 minutes? Well I didn't even want to compete! They soon became a staple purchase on every shopping trip.

Now in the back of my mind this little voice said "Val, why are you buying this stuff when you have all this long grain white rice in your storage?" I would quickly shut it up by telling myself that it would always be there. Surely I would make some here and there, with a stir fry and the occasional meal. I knew that over the next 30 years I would probably use it up.

Then that voice said things like "Do you really think if the rice can sit cooked on a shelf for a year, it is good for you? Maybe there are some preservatives and junk in there? Wouldn't you rather give your family a healthier choice?"

To which I replied..."FINE!"

So I went to Chapters the next day (a couple of years ago) and searched for a book all about rice.

And you know what? They didn't have ANY!!

They had hundreds of specialty cook books....probably thousands and guess what? Not one on rice!

To this day, anytime I visit a bookstore or a place that sells cook books I always take a peek and to my disappointment....nothing! I've even searched on line and NOTHING!!

Don't you think this is CRAZY??????

COME ON! This is a staple food for most of the people in the world!!!! How many countries live off this stuff and no cook book??

As a side note... now that I've shared this with all you talented and resourceful people....please PLEASE let me know if you ever find one. It's become a small obsession!

Sure there are sprinklings of rice recipes in many books....but I'm talking a whole book dedicated to this delicious staple!!!

Now having said all this......I have found a website that has listed a way of making "Rice Mixes"

A rice mix is where you mix dry rice with a bunch of spices and store in your pantry for when you need it. I got really excited....went out and bought all the missing spices I needed and then made 4 different recipes that looked good to me. Then the first night I made one for dinner...I anxiously waited for my families responses......and just as I suspected from my earlier taste tests they hated it. Oh well.....3 more recipes to go. I tried 2 more the next day....hoping that if one was gross they would like the other. Nope....Uncle Ben doesn't like competition and has some sneaky ingredients, that have made my family loyal....Darn you Uncle Ben.

Well it was time to call in the troops! This was a battle I wasn't ready to give up! I invited Carla over and made her the same mixes. I knew the idea of mixes was good but they had to taste good too. If anyone could do it....Carla was the only one I could think of. She tried them too and with just a few suggestions.....Ta Daaaaaa! They tasted great!!!!

Ha Ha it was a mini victory for me!! What a great day it was!! I could finally start using this rice, no longer was the excuse that Uncle Ben's was easier. Auntie Carla is the new chef in town and I like her!

So here is the first of many "rice mix recipes" you will recieve in the next couple of days.

Enjoy!!!

Long Grain and Wild Rice Mix

Ingredients:
3 cups long grain white rice
1/2 cup wild rice
2 TBSP dried parsley flakes

6 TBSP Chicken Soup Base (from In Case Of) A must have!!!
4 tsp. Mrs Dash seasoning
2 tsp. thyme
1 tsp. tarragon leaves (optional)
1 tsp. salt
Preparation:
Mix ingredients and store in an air-tight container in a cool, dry place. This makes 4 side dish.

To Make
1 cup of mix

3 cups water

Bring water to boil in a medium saucepan. Add Rice Mix, cover pan, reduce heat, and simmer for 25 minutes. Remove pan from heat, and let sit for 5 minutes before fluffing with a fork.

Tzatziki Rice Salad

2009-12-03T22:06:00.000-08:00

Mmmmmm if the title lured you in then you must be a tzatziki lover! I was first introduced to this delicious stuff when Opa's came to town. If you go there they put some in the pita and then they put an extra dollop on the pita at the end. You can even get some on your fries. Now I think I just go to Opa's to eat this stuff. I am a little obsessed with it! I have tried buying it from different grocery stores but I can never get it to taste like Opa's. Ok, Ok, stop drooling and back to the recipe. I started with some epicure Tzatziki spice and sour cream mixed with white rice. It didn't taste very good so Carla....added some garlic salt... a little better. Then we chopped up some cucumbers and tomotoes (fairly small pieces) and mixed them in.

Voila! A new and delicious creation. This is something you would serve cold. Mmmmmm it was good! Look out Opa....you've got competition!

Tis the Season!!

2009-12-03T21:54:00.001-08:00

Here are just a few more really easy seasoning's that Carla introduced to me. I never thought

I could use these on rice but I've tried them both and am now converted. If you like parmesan you will love McCormick's Parmesan Herb Seasoning. This was absolutely delicious! If you are a seafood or fish lover...try sprinkling the lemon and herb seasoning on the rice to make a perfect side dish!

These seasonings will need to be infused into the rice so if you are cooking rice from scratch then sprinkle into the water. If you are using frozen rice, mix rice, a little bit of water and some seasoning in a pot and heat until ready. Don't forget to throw in some dehydrated veggies if you can, just to add color and variety! (not to mention additional nutrients)

Wow a couple extra bucks to buy some seasonings and it really adds a variety to your rice! Next time you go down the seasoning isle....be adventurous! Pick up a blend that looks good to you. Give it a try and let me know how it tasted. If it doesn't taste good maybe try adding a little bit of this and that! You never know what you may discover!

Season Your Rice

2009-12-03T21:40:00.001-08:00

If you haven't seen this bottle before...then I am thrilled to introduce it to you! About a month ago a good friend (Kristen) had me over to her house for dinner. Something smelled really good. I had to get to the bottom of it! Turned out to be this spice! She had bought some flat bread, put some butter on it, and sprinkled this majic stuff on. She put it in the oven and the smell was so mouth watering! Fast forward to yesterday and Carla, the culinary queen, brought this over to my house when we were experimenting with rice recipes. This was the second time I had seen it. She told me that this is one of her staple items and I believed her! We took some frozen cooked rice and instead of just microwaving it....we put it in a pot with a little bit of water, a few shakes of this seasoning and some dehydrated carrots. Back came that mouth watering smell.....Mmmmmm it was delicious!

So simple!!!

Today I bought some bulk bottles at Costco I think they were $6 each. Of Course I bought a couple extra bottles for my food storage. Something this yummy I don't want to live with out!!

"Dressing Rice"

2009-12-01T19:20:00.000-08:00

Okay so this is one of my favorite rice tips! I got it from my sister Darlene almost 2 years ago and have used it since. Pour some of your favorite salad dressing over your rice for a kick of flavor!!

My personal favorites are:

Greek Feta

and

Sundried Tomato

Icy Ricy!

2009-12-01T18:27:00.000-08:00

Do you want to cook rice but don't have the time and opt for something faster? Here's a quick tip:

When making rice, make as much as your pot or steamer will allow. Divide all the leftovers into freezer ziploc bags and freeze. Next time you want rice just grab a bag, open, and pop into the microwave until hot (usually 3-4 minutes)

It's that simple!! Rice in 3-4 minutes!!

Want to be a keener? When dividing the rice into ziplocs use a measuring cup so you know just how much is in there. That way if you have a recipe that calls for so many cups you will have them on hand! When I was doing weight watcher's this was also handy because I could pre measure my serving size and it was always a quick snack or easy side in 2 minutes!!

Rice - How much?

2009-12-01T10:03:00.000-08:00

I am thrilled to focus on Rice. White rice is a main food source for over half of the world’s population. Rice is an excellent addition to home food storage because of it’s versatility, high caloric value, and long shelf life. Once you have purchased your rice, this blog will give you useful information on storage and most importantly many different recipes for using it.

Let's start the first day with how much rice you will need for your storage.

The LDS website has a food storage calculator. It suggests that each person store 300lbs of Grains per year (wheat, rice, corn, pasta, oats, and other grains). This makes up the bulk of your storage.
1 can of Rice is 5.7 lbs

If you were only to buy rice as your source of grains you would need 9 cases of rice per person for 1 year.

BUT

Who are we kidding....we can't eat rice 3 times every day for a year! I am not trying to put down those that do, but I know we are all used to variety so 9 cases of rice may not be variety enough for you.

So Let's start with 3 cases per person for one year.

Now let's do the math...

3 cases per person = $72

x' this by how many people are in your family.

rice can be really cheap!!

Make your goal today on how much and how often you will purchase rice.

I am taking orders for this month and will pick up cases for you. The cases are labelled as rice and have dates on them so you know when they expire. The cans are so beautiful! The labels have nutritional value and cooking directions. They are great for putting into your pantry. I already have a bunch available for purchase right now. Please call me or email me if you would like some.

llrental@telus.net

GET GOING!! GET PREPARED!! HAVE FUN!!

Last Minute Deal

2009-11-29T00:28:00.000-08:00

Okay so we are getting close to the end of the month. I know most of you are stocked up with your water but for all you last minute shoppers, here's a deal! At the Sobeys in Cranston they are having a water bottle sale. Right at the front doors you can find 12 pack of water bottles for $0.99 Yep that's 99 cents for 12 bottles.....Hurray before they are gone. Sale is good until Friday December 4.

PS. For a 3 day supply you will need to buy 2 of these packs per person. Example for a family of 4 that would mean I would have to buy 8 packs or spend $8 to be prepared for 3 days.....for my whole family!!! Super Cheap!!! (this isn't including deposit, but you will get that back when you recycle)

GET GOING!! GET PREPARED!! HAVE FUN!!

Add Flavour!!

2009-11-25T20:08:00.000-08:00

Do you or you children secretly hate drinking water?? Hold your heads high there are many options for you!

Take a peek down the juice isle next time you are grocery shopping. There are many wonderful choices of water flavorings from koolaid to crystal light! Buy individual packets for your 72 hour kits or buy bulk crystals for your food storage. Don't forget the cannery offers those classic peach flavored crystals! Incase of offers orange and apple flavours! Which are now at the Beehive Bookstore.

Purified or stored water may taste a little different so even if you are addicted to pure water you may want to pick some up just in case!! Go ahead TREAT YOURSELF!

Finding Water with a MAP

2009-11-25T19:34:00.000-08:00

If you have to leave your home for more than 3 days you will have to find other water sources.
Since water weighs 8.5 pounds (18 kilograms) a gallon, you can't carry all of your water for a multi-day trip, especially if you're walking. You are going to have to find water on your journey.
Next time you are at the store.....PICK UP A MAP!
Look for ones that will show you ponds, lakes, streams, and rivers.
If they don't, you will have to find them then mark them on the map. Once you know where these water features are located, you will be able to use them as you travel.

A few bucks can go a long way! Don't forget to throw it into your 72 hour kit..........what?? you don't have a 72 hour kit???? Don't worry......you will!!!!!

Stay tuned for December's theme!!! I CAN"T WAIT!!! I AM SOOOO EXCITED FOR DECEMBER!!! AAAAAAHHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!

Hidden Water Sources

2009-11-25T19:24:00.000-08:00

I have copied the below from the FEMA (Federeal Emergency Management Agency) website:

HIDDEN WATER SOURCES IN YOUR HOME
Safe water sources in your home include the water in your hot- water tank, pipes, and ice cubes. You should not use water from toilet flush tanks or bowls, radiators, waterbeds, or swimming pools/spas.
You will need to protect the water sources already in your home from contamination if you hear reports of broken water or sewage lines, or if local officials advise you of a problem. To shut off incoming water, locate the main valve and turn it to the closed position. Be sure you and other family members know beforehand how to perform this important procedure.
To use the water in your pipes, let air into the plumbing by turning on the faucet in your home at the highest level. A small amount of water will trickle out. Then obtain water from the lowest faucet in the home.
To use the water in your hot-water tank, be sure the electricity or gas is off, and open the drain at the bottom of the tank. Start the water flowing by turning off the water intake valve at the tank and turning on a hot-water faucet. Refill the tank before turning the gas or electricity back on. If the gas is turned off, a professional will be needed to turn it back on.
EMERGENCY OUTDOOR WATER SOURCES
If you need to find water outside your home, you can use these sources. Be sure to treat the water according to the instructions on the next page before drinking it.
 Rainwater
 Streams, rivers, and other moving bodies of water
 Ponds and lakes
 Natural springs
Avoid water with floating material, an odor, or dark color.
You should not drink flood water.

JUST FOR FUN!!!!

2009-11-22T21:02:00.000-08:00

Okay so here is some preparedness fun! Have you ever wanted to peak into other peoples food storage?? I certainly love to look at others. Everyone has great ideas and they are always different. So much to learn from other people. Did you know http://www.youtube.com/
has many videos of people's food storage? Well now you do... just type food storage in the search and have fun! I certainly did!!

Just a reminder....

2009-11-22T20:52:00.000-08:00

So I am just checking to see if anyone has been thinking about water??
Just so you know....I am confessing....I had to stock up myself. Those handy little water bottles disappear really quickly in my house. I didn't have any in my storage. How can I preach and not practice?? Well I bought 3 flats of 35 and my goal is to have 5 on hand. Of course as soon as I use one up I will buy one to replace. I want to be using them and cycling through them!
I feel GREAT!! It's amazing how much better you feel once you've done something you should! I am hoping everyone who reads this can reward themselves with a great feeling. Treat yourself and those you love to a nice supply of water. I would love to hear any comments if you would like to share! Anyone else stock up on water out there???

Quick Facts About Storing your Water

2009-11-16T21:36:00.000-08:00

So a wise friend just emailed me some valuable information that we can all benefit from (Thanks Chris)
Here are Her Great Tips (I am mostly just cutting and pasting from her email)

-Add a rain barrel to the side of your home!

-Don't forgot to put something under water storage containers, when in contact with cement, so it doesn't get absorbed into the container.

-If you have to use your water, it may taste flat, so what you need to do is aerate it, squish it back and forth, to add the air into it, and it will give it better flavor.

I like the "reliance" brand blue aquatainers that are square that you can find at Wal-mart to store water for about $10.00 a container. I've have taken orders from those, and have had lots of strange remarks from people when I truck out of the store with them! Each one holds 7 gallons of water or 26 Litres. Ideally, they can be stacked, when emptied, but really shouldn't be stacked when full.

With the blue aqua tainers, I know I need 2 containers for each member of the family for a 2 week supply of water! The reason you should store 2 weeks of water, is that it usually takes about that long to sometimes restore the proper water supply. They are a bit more portable than the huge tank, and could easily be set up on a kitchen counter. It was recommend that you would have 14 gallons of water for 2 weeks per person. You also need to consider extra water ie. in your hot water tank, to wash up dishes, flush toilets.
Years ago, when I spoke to City of Calgary water treatment, they said we didn't need to treat our water, because of all the chemicals already in it...just like what you said on your blog!!
But, that it would be a recommendation when changing water to rinse the containers out with bleach, as if anything were to grow it in, it would do so around where the water level is on the container. I have used the aerobic oxygen that you can buy at "Good for You" . I prefer to do that, so I don't have to change the water.

Thanks for your Great TIPS!!! Please if anyone else has something to share, email me!

Short and Sweet...no not me...your goal list!

2009-11-15T22:06:00.000-08:00

Gulp! Gulp! Gulp! Aaaaaaahhhhhh!

Yes you know what I'm talking about! WATER!

So after some questions and comments today I thought I would come up with a quick goal sheet! Some people just want to be told what to do! And I like that in a person!

START WITH
Drinking water bottles....I like to buy these 1.5 litre water bottles from Wal-Mart because they are only .67 cents! Next time you are there, check the Pop/Water isle. Sometimes the shelf is empty but usually I can find some. Buy enough for your 72 kit. - Done! (Don't forget you can also buy one of those flats of water...usually I get a 35 pack at Superstore for around $4-$5
These are also handy.

NEXT
Might I suggest the Water Purifying Pump. This is really exciting for me because they are not in Calgary yet...I am hoping to take orders for everyone by the end of the month. Maybe we can get a discount?? I will let you know how much and when as soon as I can.

But if you are worried, go and get a straw from the Beehive bookstore...only $15.95!
These will be great for your 72 hour kit!

Done.....now wasn't that inexpensive and easy???

I think I'll go get another glass of water!

GET GOING!! GET PREPARED!! HAVE FUN!!

Purifying Water From a River, Lake, etc...

2009-11-14T13:25:00.000-08:00

I am the type of person that can follow a recipe and still screw it up! So the idea of purifying water and then drinking it.....well.... it kind of scares me!

What if I screw it up and make everyone sick???

After some hours of research I have found some exciting and reassuring products that even I feel comfortable with.

Okay before you start boiling and bleaching water your self, let's consider some products.....

Survival Water straw = $16 it can purify up to 5000 gallons ....GALLONS!! Let me do the math... that's almost 19,000 litres!!!!! Let me say that again....1 $16 straw can purify 19,000 litres.

EVERYONE SHOULD HAVE ONE!!!!!!! EVERYONE!!!!!!!! I have 4 and gift them all the time.

Okay so spend $16 and you are done!!! RIGHT??? Well sort of...

This idea is great for drinking because it is a straw.... but what if you wanted a pot full of purified water to make dinner?? Are you going to suck it up and spit it into the pot??? YUCK!

So here is option 2 - A Purifying Water Pump.

I found one on-line but to ship it to Canada was double the price. So I contacted my favorite preparedness store (In Case Of) and they are expecting to have something similar and even better available for the end of November/09 for less money!! These pumps are light and fairly small. They can fit easily into a backpack with lot's of room to spare. They can be put right into the water source or any type of container.

Stay tuned I will be doing a group order for people when they come in.

Okay so now you have a water straw and a water pump......DONE RIGHT??? Sure but let me suggest one more item....

A Water Test Kit.

I picked up a couple at Walmart for $15 a kit.

Ah Ha!!! Now I can feel safe once I've purified the water. I can do a quick test to see if I have done it right!! I won't kill anyone after all!

These kits are a 1 time use. I figure as long as I continue to get the water from the same source and treat it the same way I should be okay.

Now we are done! Well sort of ....here are some other ideas you may want to consider.

The Do it yourself Old Fashioned way....

Clarify or Strain your water of impurities. Your water source will probably have "Bits and Pieces in it." It does't look appealing ...it kind of reminds me of that gunk floating around at the bottom of a fish tank. The fastest way to get rid of it is to run it through 3-4 coffee filters stacked together. As they clog up replace with 3-4 more. These filters are super cheap and always come in bulk!! Don't forget to add that one to your next grocery list. Go Figure??

Next if you don't have any fancy schmancy straw or pump you can boil the water. Most websites say to bring your water to a boil then continue to boil for at least 5 minutes. But because we are in Calgary you need to add 4 minutes for the altitude... so approx 10minutes of boiling.

If you can't boil it you can also bleach it. If your like me....you really don't know how much? a tablespoon? A teaspoon? a few drops??? What was it again??

First of all....all bleach's are not equal!!! Liquid household chlorine bleach can be used to purify water provided the label says it contains hypochlorite as its ONLY active ingredient. Do not use granular or powdered forms of household bleach as they are poisonous!

And forget those scented kinds as well!

Add 2 drops of bleach per quart of clear water,

8 drops per gallon, or

1 teaspoon for 5 gallons

(double this if the water is cloudy).

***Liquid bleach loses strength over time and in just one year of storage the dosage must be doubled to be effective.

Two year old bleach must not be used.

It is not potent enough to kill disease causing bacteria.

After adding to water, stir and let stand for 30 minutes before drinking. Liquid bleach will kill most common forms of bacteria but is totally ineffective against GIARDIA and other hardy forms of PROTOZOA.

Okay so for me and my house.....we have the following items

Suvival Straw

Water Bottles with a filter built in

Drinking water Purification Tablets (didnt' metion above but you can buy these anywhere)

Coffee Filters

The right kind of bleach. I rotate it so that it is never over a year old.

Water testing kit.

And.....hopefully by the end of the month we will have the New water Purification Pumps!

Hope this has been fun and full of ideas for you!

Get Going!! Get Prepared!! HAVE FUN!!

Getting Started with Water Storage

2009-11-10T00:40:00.000-08:00

Here we go!!!! For the month of November we are going to focus on WATER. Why? Because we can't live without it. Really....

WATER = LIFE

How much water should you have?

Provident Living Suggests "Store drinking water for circumstances in which the water supply may be polluted or disrupted"

So what does that mean??? 1 days worth, 1 weeks worth, 1 years worth??

The average person will need approximately 4 litres a day. 4 litres a day per person will cover drinking, food preperation, cleaning and personal hygeine.

My family has 4 people so that equals 365 days x 4 people x 4 litre/day = 5840 litres. This seems like a lot and I don't really know if I will need water for 365 days???

SO HERE IS THE BIG QUESTION FOR THE DAY....

TO STORE??? OR NOT TO STORE???

Might I suggest.........STORE!! Here are your 2 options

OPTION 1 - STORE WATER
OPTION 2 - STORE ITEMS TO HELP YOU PURIFY WATER FROM ANOTHER SOURCE

Either way your answer is STORE SOMETHING!

Some people have told me that they will just get water from the river if they need it. I like that idea exept for the carrying part. Water isn't light you know! I mean I hope times don't change where I am lugging jugs of water on my head for 3 hours just to cook dinner?? No disrespect for those that do! Also, is the river safe to drink out of? Well I've done some research and NO it's not. You will need to treat it first. Even for washing things!

I like being prepared so I have included a few options for my personal use...hopefully these ideas may assist you in deciding what's right for you.

First of all I have stored good clean tap water... Nothing beats this!! It is safe and already treated!

I have a large 1000 litre tanker in my basement. This tanker has a water spout on it as well as a large spout for emptying. As long as I keep it away from heat and sun the water will be good for 1 year. I will just empty and refill. If I buy an item called Aerobic Oxygen and add it to the water it will last up to 5 years.

This seems really easy and convenient. The only consideration is the cost.....$400. If you can afford it....what are you waiting for??? If not save up!! or consider some of my other options!

-Water cooler jugs full of water. If you have a water cooler it's even handier because then you have an automatic dispenser. $5 - $15 for approx 20 litres

Plastic water storage containers usually for camping $5-$10 for approx 10 litres

Also, don't forget to throw in some water bottles. These are handy for drinking out of or for dispensing from larger containers. They can go anywhere.

If your budget is tight...collect 2 litre pop bottles. Once washed out these handy and free little guys do just as well as any of the above.

The beehive bookstore sells the tankers and can be reached at...

Calgary Beehive Books
6624 Centre Street (Straight east of Chinook Mall)Calgary, Alberta, Canada
Phone: 403-249-8124
Fax: 403-240-0422
Web Site: http://www.ldsbookscanada.com/

Option 2 - find a water source and treat it....
This one has lot's of exciting information so I will do a seperate blog for it....stay tuned!

Most of all.....water is so precious...think about which scenario fits you best and get going!!! GET PREPARED!!!! HAVE FUN!!!