Just a quick note before we begin securing our home against disaster. Have you been aware of what is happening with gas prices? The price of gas is now at the highest point ever, this time of  the year. Experts, who were correct the past few years, now expect the price of gas to go up to $5.00 per gallon by summer. Now is the time to be looking at what we are doing  to get ready for another big hit to the budget. Food is going up. Do you have  your food storage so by summer you are eating out of your General Store and garden and only shopping when items are on sale? Have you seriously cut everything you can out of your budget now and putting aside what you are saving? Make sacrifices now and place that money into an account so your Christmas next year can be a cash one. Have you taken a good look at the possibility of a Stay at Home vacation? 

Two years ago I highlighted those who had stared at home businesses to help you with ideas for things you might be able to do to make a little extra income. I would love to do the same again this year. If any of you or your friends have started businesses at home and would like to share what you have done, to help motivate others, please let me know. Send me a note at: Carolyn@TotallyReady.com. 

By becoming more aware of conditions around us, we acquire a giant advantage by simply acting on common sense observations. When we look at our home and neighborhood, do we really “see” what an outsider might see in their first impression? Do we live in a high fire risk area? Have there been floods, earthquakes, or hurricanes where we live? Is the land around our house stable, or subject to landslides? Have there been natural or man-made disasters in our town? What is the history of our home area? What would the old-timers tell us about past emergencies in our town?

To protect the safety of our homes and families, there are a few things we can do now to prepare our house and property for trouble tomorrow:

Clear the area: Consult a landscape expert or research on the web to determine how fire resistant the plantings are near your home. If they are highly flammable, remove them and add more “fire friendly” planting. Clean brush, dead trees and foliage from around your home for at least thirty feet. Make sure wood piles are not stacked next to your home.

Clean the garage: Discard any old chemicals, oily rags, stacks of newspaper or any other flammable items stored in the garage that are not being used. Clearing room in the garage now will ensure you will be able to move outdoor items such as picnic tables and toys inside your garage quickly as a storm or flood approaches. Any items left  outside can act as missiles during a major storm, smashing through windows and walls.

Fire Extinguishers: Purchase a few good fire extinguishers if you don’t already have them. If you have them check them – make sure they are still charged. Make sure every member of the family knows how to use one.

Fire/smoke/carbon monoxide detectors: If you don’t have them, now is the time to get them. We are all candidates for a house fire. If you have detectors, check them every six months to make sure they are working properly.

Escape: Make sure there are two escape routes from each room in your home. If you have a second story, invest in at least one fire escape ladder. A ladder for each second floor bedroom is an even better idea.

Brace water heaters: Check the building codes in your area and strap water heaters accordingly. There may not have been a code in place when your home was built, and following the current code is a smart thing to do.

Elevate: Build a raised platform for your furnace and water heater, and raise your electrical panel if they are in areas that may be flooded.

Valve wrench: Place a gas shut off valve wrench on a hook next to the valve and teach your family how to use it. In an emergency, you may not have time to search for a wrench. If you are not at home, your family or neighbor may not know where to search for a wrench.

Anchor foundations: If you live in an older home or are unsure if your foundation is well anchored you should have your home inspected and correct any problem that may exist.

Strengthen walls: Do you remember the scene in the movie Mr. Blanding Builds his Dream House when Mr. Blanding (Cary Grant) is asked if he wants lintels between the lally columns? He has no idea what they are talking about, but seeing dollar signs he answers “no”. Immediately the builder yells to take out the lintels and 2x4s start falling from above. Make sure your home structure is properly built and reinforced to withstand the pressures of a storm or earthquake. When you build, use an architect or engineer, and avoid shortcuts.

Strengthen foundation: Check your foundation. Is it cracking? Is your home still level in all directions? Do some of your floors sag, just a little? It is time to have your foundation inspected. Some fixes are expensive, but will save you money in the long run since neglected repairs can lead to more costly consequences.

Chimney Inspection: How often do we have our chimneys cleaned and inspected? This one task can greatly reduce the risk of a home fire (ask your neighbor the fireman about chimney fires). It can also help save your home in an earthquake, wind storm or hurricane. Additionally, if you should ever have to heat your home using your fireplace, you will be grateful it is working properly. What an awful time to discover there is a problem.

Now, it's time to make a list of any of these items that need to be addressed in your home. Remember we are making a list of the things we can't afford, or don't have the time to do now. 

Now, one more thing, If you haven't already done so, now is the time to make a preparedness binder. How do you do this? I guess that is really up to you. There are many articles and tips that we have published that apply to several categories. As an example, an article on preparing for a winter power outage could be filed under, power outage, or winter storms. A flooding article could be filed under floods or hurricanes, since those normally produce floods.  Create sections for your binder that are specific to the area in which you live. Don't forget a food storage section and a recipe section too! Now, copy posts and your copy of the Totally Ready Newsletter and divide them into the categories you have created. If you have the first year of newsletter those alone will be 140 pages in your binder. There is so much information on the blog and in the newsletters. Get them organized now. During a disaster the power will almost surely be out and you will not be able to look up helpful tips! Do it today.

Please go "like" our facebook page now! 

http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Listen to Carolyn's radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

1. I have spoken about the dry weather this winter before, but as an update… Farmers are now being forced to take water from irrigation districts because the rain that usually waters winter crops has not come. This may not seem like a big deal but it means these same farmers may not be allowed to take water this summer as they will have used their yearly allocations. They can purchase water but that costs an enormous amount of money. thus the cost to us will soar.

2. Housing foreclosure will rise in 2012. Last year home foreclosures came to a screeching halt as there was controversy over robo calls and other methods being used by banks. With the new year new laws and guidelines have come into effect and all the bank foreclosures that have been sitting and waiting can now be acted upon.  Check out realtytrac for more info.

3. Unemployment rates are up. We heard the unemployment rate was down for December but they are back up as temp employees hired for the holidays, have been let go. Claims are at the highest level in six weeks.

4. Retail sales in December hit the lowest level in six months. Yes, really, during what is normally the best shopping month of the year. 

5. Commodities ended the year higher than expected. Corn prices have already started climbing again on persistent worries that growing demand will outstrip supplies. Booming demand for livestock and crop-based fuels has outpaced farmers' ability to grow more food. http://www.seattlepi.com/business/article/Commodities-end-year-higher-even-after-sell-offs-2433200.php

No time to let down our efforts. Now you know what to tell your friends. 

Please go "like" our facebook page now! 

http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Listen to Carolyn's radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

I saw the following graphic a while ago and it really does make it easy to understand exactly what the national debt really means. If your family was this far in debt what would you do? Would you tighten your belt and save as much as you could on everyday expenses? Of course you would. As of November 5, 2011 your share of then national debt is $48,000.00. For a family of four that means your household debt is $192,000. How long do you really think the government can continue to operate and pay entitlement programs as they are today. What is the answer? I really don't know but I do know we need to be prepared to care for more of our own needs. 

Why S&P Downgraded the US:

 U.S. Tax revenue: $2,170,000,000,000

Federal budget: $3,820,000,000,000

New debt: $ 1,650,000,000,000

National debt: $14,271,000,000,000

Recent budget cut: $ 38,500,000,000

 Let’s remove 8 zeros and pretend it’s a household budget:

Annual family income: $21,700

Money the family spent: $38,200

New debt on the credit card: $16,500

Outstanding balance on the credit card: $142,710

Total budget cuts: $385

This summer we had a small garden. Even though it was small in size I never had to purchase vegetables for the entire summer. Now that the veggies are almost gone it is a real adjustment to have to purchase again. Gardens are going to become more and more vital to the good health of our family as prices increase. Beef prices are about to go up, really go up! I warned you months ago that peanut butter would go up. Last week I noticed a jar of peanut butter I paid $1.29 for on sale two months ago is now $1.99 on sale and $2.99 regular price. Now I'm warning you beef prices are going up. canning, dehydrating and freezing meat are all possibilities. Now is the time. If you need to learn to dehydrate or to can ask a friend or family member for their help. Join our yahoo group (see below). Our group is terrific and can be a huge help. Now is the time to become committed to doing all you can do to become prepared. Eventually all that debt will catch up to each of us.

The holiday season is here and it's a great time to let others know what you would like for gifts. Let them know preparedness items are at the top of your list. 

Please go "like" our facebook page now! 

http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Listen to Carolyn's radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Contact Carolyn at: Carolyn@TotallyReady.com 

I've been beating the drum concerning food prices now for over a year and in that time prices have gone up an average of about 23%. I know there are still some who do not believe that but I am going to do it one more time with a reminder that the holidays are almost here and they are a great time to ask for preparedness items, even food, and to look to preparedness items for gift giving. This info is new as of this week and comes from the UN Food and Agriculture Organization.

1. How high are prices really? Answer: Global reached a historic peak in February and they are currently 15% higher than last September.

2. Are prices on their way down again? Answer: Higher prices are likely to continue and volatility may increase for the coming years. Farmers, consumers and country are vulnerable to poverty and food shortages.

3. Why should volatility increase?  Answer: Extreme weather impacting crops, increase in the demand for food due to growing economies and increase in world population.

Next, did you read Nicole's post on facebook page today? She lives on the opposite coast from me and it's happening there too. If you read my facebook comment you already know a fifth one of our friends was robbed yesterday between 9am and noon. I am working hard on the November newsletter so you will have some good info to get your family prepared. Let's make our homes  so well prepared that thieves take  a look and decide to move on to easier prey.

Did you get your garage cleaned out last weekend and the car inside? If not continue to make  that a goal and if it is impossible develop some new habits.

1. Don't leave anything on the seat of the car, nothing. Even a paper bag can lead a thief to believe there may be something of value inside.

2. Don't leave your garage door opener in the car. They may not use it the night they steal it but may wait until they observe you leaving and then move in and wipe you out. Remember a closed garage door gives them time to make entrance through your door into the house from the garage without being observed. Yesterday our friend left home at 3:00am and noticed a man sitting on the curb. A few hours later her husband left and they were burglarized. Thieves really do case a home before breaking in.

3. Which brings us to the next, always call the police if you observe anyone hanging around or if you just have that uncomfortable feeling that something is wrong.

4. Never leave your car running even for a minute while you run back into the house. If your car is stolen always assume your home will be next, after all they now have your address and if you were foolish and left the car running, your keys.

4. If you are going out of town put the car in the garage. I know it's a signal that you may be gone as there is usually a car in the driveway but you don't want your car stolen either. Ask a neighbor to park a car in your driveway occasionally so it looks as if someone is coming and going.

5. Best tip…clean the garage and get the car inside.

Now that your car is in the garage work on window coverings. Don't advertise the valuables in your home by having uncovered windows so everyone passing can scope out your home. If you want the view and the light during the day get curtains that can be pulled closed after dark or when you leave home. If you combine this tip with lights on timers it will be very difficult to determine exactly when you are home. 

With all the talk in the country about the wealthy and class war just remember to someone you look like the rich one and if they believe all the political hype that means it's ok to steal from you, because you are the rich one.

Please go "like" our facebook page now! 

http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Listen to Carolyn's radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Contact Carolyn at: Carolyn@TotallyReady.com

Are you prepared to do that? Do you have your General Store stocked? Have you been working on securing your home? It's the weekend. Don't put this off any longer. Still need more incentive?….

Customers may be seeing the highest prices in years in grocery stores and restaurants, according to economist Bruce Grindy, chief economist for the National Restaurant Association.

Wholesale food prices are “on pace to post their strongest annual increase in more than three decades. The cost of food is already up 7.8% this year. The 0.6% jump from August to September was the fourth consecutive monthly increase in prices and the 13th in 15 months. If the trend holds, wholesale food prices will have soared 26% in five years. Consumers will see the bulk of that price hike in grocery stores, where food items such as dairy, apples and eggs are 6.3% more expensive than they were 12 months ago. That’s the largest swell in nearly three years.

Restaurant menus are also reflecting the steep prices, which rose 2.6% over the past 12 months.

"Analysts say supermarkets will start passing price increases onto consumers slowly and quietly. "Most retailers have been reluctant to raise prices up until now and have eaten up the higher raw material costs," says Michael Keara, an equity analyst for Morningstar. "But they will start." Although food commodity prices have been climbing steadily this year, grocery stores have held off because they don't want to scare price-sensitive customers. However, expect to see supermarket prices edging up in six to nine months, he says.

Consumers watching their wallets may also want to keep a closer eye on package sizes for their favorite foods. Keara says the jumps in wholesale and producer costs are so high that manufacturers are likely to cut quantity as a way of disguising price hikes. In other words, start making a note of how many ounces you get in your six-pack of your favorite granola bars. "They don't want to shock consumers," he says, noting that increases over 5% hurts sales volumes."

It's not just the U.S.:

Living costs for some Australian households have far outpaced CPI figures over the past six years, exposing more people to the risk of poverty, a new report says.

Prices of essentials like food, health, education, housing, utilities and transport have climbed so much in recent years, some households had no chance to save, the Relative Price Index Report says.

The St Vincent de Paul Society and Victorian Council of Social Service (VCOSS) report says low-income households are spending almost all their income on essentials and have no financial buffer to rely on in leaner times.

Now…This weekend prepare for a home burglary…

Clean out the garage. I am so sorry about this one but while there is still decent weather get this done!  We have this challenge too. You may need to purchase some storage bins and build a shelf or two. The goal is to be able to park your cars in the garage. When you are away it won't seem obvious that you are gone if your driveway is empty, as usual.

You hate to believe it, but a lot of local crime can come from people in your own neighborhood, or their kids, or their friends. Every time our property has been vandalized, it has been by someone living in our neighborhood. If getting the car in the garage is impossible arrange with a neighbor to park their car in your driveway on occasion when you are away.

The other big benefit to cleaning the garage is finding items you can sell at a garage sale or on Craig's list or another internet site…or…put it up on facebook and have your friends pass the word.

Please go "like" our facebook page now! http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Listen to Carolyn's radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Contact Carolyn at: Carolyn@TotallyReady.com

http://financiallyfit.yahoo.com/finance/article-113688-11401-3-supermarkets-may-sneak-in-price-increases

http://www.nzherald.co.nz/world/news/article.cfm?c_id=2&objectid=10759748&ref=rss

 Don't slow down on your food storage preps just get wiser about your purchases. 

1. We've been talking about this for the past year so you should be aware that packaging sizes are shrinking. Be observant. Yogurt sizes have shrunk so instead of looking at the price look at the price per unit. The more expensive jar of peanut butter may actually be the better buy at a cheaper price per ounce. All grocery stores have the unit price on the shelf label.

2. Look down and look up. The less expensive products are usually on the lower shelves or on the top shelf. Shelf space is purchased by manufactures so those who do not pay those fees get the less desirable shelf space. 

3. Buy in bulk. By this I don't mean to purchase cases but rather to purchase the larger size and not the individual serving size. Yogurt, chips, crackers, cookies, fruit snack, applesauce, pudding, among other things, are cheaper to purchase in a large package and to divide into individual servings yourself. Now that school has begun it is so tempting to purchase lunch box sizes but take the time to divide those chips yourself. Purchase small single serve containers for items such as yogurt and pudding. The initial investment will be saved the first week of doing your own dividing.

4. Stretch your meat. With the price of beef and pork increasing think about some substitutions. Instead of beef consider using chicken or turkey. Instead of using ground beef substitute half with ground chicken and still have the flavor of beef.  

5. Learn to can meat. Watch for sales on meat and can your own. It's not hard and it tastes wonderful. Soon turkey will be the cheapest it will be all year. Some stores even offer a free turkey when you spend a specific amount in the store. Be sure to plan your trips so you can get more than one free and can or divide it up and freeze it.

6. Speaking of the holidays, there are foods which are sure to be on sale for holiday cooking. Flour, sugars, canned milks, pumpkin, vanilla, cranberry,stuffing mixes, broth,  all go on sale. Keep track now of the items that need to be replaced in your General Store and wait for those sales. Combine sales with the free turkey offers and you will save huge amounts. Last year I spent $40.00 on $130.00 worth of food and that was without coupons, just buying on sale, getting a free turkey and buy one get one free offers.  

7. Buy fruits and vegetables in season, better yet plant your own. You will be amazed how much you can grow in pots on your porch. If you live in an area with a harsh climate consider a green house. We are working toward a self reliant life style but we also need to remember there are threats out there like EMPs and solar flares as well as natural disasters and terrorist attacks which could cause grocery store shelves to remain empty for days or weeks. We have been stashing cash the past three months for a large preparedness purchase. Why not a green house?

8. Add spices and herbs. If you don't like canned and frozen foods try adding spices and herbs to create more flavor. Purchase in bulk. Winco is a great place for this but if you don't have a Winco close by search the internet for bulk spices and herbs in  your area.

9. Never throw out food. If you have left overs freeze them for a  quick meal on a busy day, take them to work for lunch or recreate them into a new meal by adding a sauce, placing them in a wrap or creating a casserole.

10. Purchase cheaper cuts of meat and use your crock pot. Slow cooking will tenderize meats and make cheaper cuts perfect.

11. Purchase in the ethnic foods section. You can purchase a huge jar of bullion, for example, in the Mexican foods section, for the same price as a small bottle in the spice isle.

12. Learn to cook from scratch. Not only will this help with your budget but also with food allergies. You can bake a loaf of bread for 30 cents. I make bread mixes and put them in ziplock bags so all I need to do is add the yeast and then liquid and making bread is fast and easy. There are directions for making a master mix from your own recipes in the January 2010 Newsletter or http://blog.totallyready.com/master-mixes-from-your-own-recipes/01/21/

Please go "like" our facebook page now! http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Listen to Carolyn's radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Contact Carolyn at: Carolyn@TotallyReady.com

have weapons which could reach the United States if they “parked” their vessel in

international waters. Last year we spent a few months talking about EMP attacks and

just what those are. If Iran has a weapon they can add a nuclear device to and they can

explode it over the Untied States they could cause the failure of the electrical grid and

the destruction of all electronic devices in an area as small as one hundred square

miles or as large as a thousand square miles. Iran is a country our government has

long been concerned is planning an EMP attack. An EMP is a disaster that is

becoming more and more of a possibility. If you have never heard of an EMP or if

you have just brushed it off as an impossibility now is the time to rethink and to learn.

The following links will give you a good start in considering the aftermath of an EMP.

Now did you hear this one? A judge in Wisconsin issued the following ruling:

1) no, Plaintiffs do not have a fundamental right to own and use a dairy cow or

a dairy herd;

2) no, Plaintiffs do not have a fundamental right to consume the milk from their

own cow;

3) no, Plaintiffs do not have a fundamental right to board their cow at the farm

of a farmer;

4) no, the Zinniker Plaintiffs’ private contract does not fall outside the scope of the

State’s police power;

5) no, Plaintiffs do not have a fundamental right to produce and consume foods of

their choice

For any who may have questions, the judge has said we do not have the right

to raise cattle, we do not have the right to board our cattle on a farmer's property,

we do not have the right  to drink the milk from our own animals, we do not have

the right to produce our own food and we do not have the right to decide which 

foods we consume. Hmm. We may have to figure out how to hide our gardens. 

Not sure how we are going to hide our chickens and cows. 

We need to make our voices heard. We need to forward this info to all we know.

We need to forward this to all our elected officials and let them know we expect

them to take action. Who would have thought we would need a law to allow us

to raise our own food? What about all these politicians who claim they are for the

poor and then do nothing about a decision like this that would not allow those poor to

plant a garden to supplement the family food supply. Where are they?

We need to be worried. What that really means is we need to be preparing now.

For the past few weeks we have added to our Emergency Kits. For the pat two

years we have been adding to our General Store.

When the time comes we may need to hide our General Store if this continues

and the government decides we do not have the right to keep what we have

purchased but we can talk about that another time.

Keep moving forward on your General Store. This week add two pounds of cheese

per family member and to the non food supplies add cash. With this new threat to

our self reliant lifestyle really add as much cash as you can. Let it hurt a little. In just

two weeks I will publish my suggestions, for items which are more expensive, to

purchase and add to your General Store.

Listen to Carolyn's radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Contact Carolyn at: Carolyn@TotallyReady.com

http://blog.totallyready.com/faraday-cages/05/11/

http://blog.totallyready.com/nothing-to-do-with-saving-money-emp-answers/05/05/

http://blog.totallyready.com/emp-or-solar-storm-no-electricity-what-about-lighting/04/20/

http://blog.totallyready.com/emps-and-solar-storms-could-we-be-cast-back-into-the-19th-century/04/13/

The economy is crashing around us and now is the time to use the resources you have to prepare to be self reliant in every

way.While the consumer price index went down 0.2% in June the result of a welcome 6.8% drop in gas prices, the index for

all items excluding food and energy continued its steady climb, edging up 0.3% for the second straight month.

Inflation has pushed up overall prices 11.3% in the last 5 years, which means items you paid $100 for in 2006 would cost

almost $112 today, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. What does this really means for you? If you currently

spend $500.00 a month on food, fuel, clothing, entertainment, etc. you are now paying an extra $62.00 or an extra $744.00

per year. Naturally if your budget is more like $1500.00 per month that is $2232.00 per year.

With more than 14 million U.S. workers out of work, and those who have jobs and have received raises over the past few

years just treading water times are grim. Average weekly wages, when adjusted for inflation, have increased just 1.4%

since June 2006 and have fallen 1.4% in the last year, the BLS reported this month. In other words all wage increases

since 2006 have been wiped out. Real weekly wages have increased just 2.1% since 1981. If you made $100.00 in 1981

you would now be making $102.10, however, to purchase an items that cost $100.00 in 1981 will now cost $199.99.

Now…last night I spoke with my son who is waiting for his brother in law to return from Argentina. He couldn't get home

because all flights were canceled due to a volcano in Chile which has be erupting for the past six weeks. Have you heard

about this? Why is the media ignoring this when it has real consequences for all of us?

"The ash cloud from a Chilean volcano is hovering over Buenos Aires again, grounding flights between the Argentine capital

and many nearby airports. But officials say flights from Argentina's main international airport southwest of the city have

returned to normal. Airlines flying in Argentina have suffered for most of the 53 days since Chile's Cordon Caulle volcano began erupting.”

These same ash clouds have grounded planes in Australia and New Zealand for weeks. For those not traveling the really

bad news is the toll this is taking on crops in Argentina and Chile.

"In Bariloche, the mountain resort city just 100 miles from the Chilean volcano, dense ash lying in thick layers made

soggy by rain caused power and telephone outages and forced authorities to suspend classes. TV reports showed a

city whose streets were deserted. The roofs of dozens of houses, mainly in low-income districts, collapsed under

the weight of the ash.

Farm officials were concerned about the prolonged eruption's continued effect on the 2 million head of sheep that graze

in southern Argentina. Farmers in Chubut and Rio Negro areas said they have suffered five years of drought and the

ash could destroy the little pastureland still serviceable. Rio Negro officials said 60,000 head of cattle also are "at risk."

Another reason for food prices to rise this fall.

http://www.ctv.ca/CTVNews/SciTech/20110727/chile-ash-cloud-grounds-flights-110727/

http://articles.latimes.com/2011/jun/15/world/la-fg-argentina-ash-20110615

Listen to my radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

To our non food shelves we are adding laxatives. Add your favorite and even if you never use the tablet form store a small amount this week. Why? Because the tablet form stores longer.

That is the perfect lead into our second topic today, expiration dates. I have been reading on blogs and yahoo groups lately and so often someone will mention they are throwing out food or donating food close to the expiration dates. This is not necessary. Recently I was doing an inventory and noticed soup I purchased last year has the same expiration date ans cans I purchased this year. Food companies as well as companies creating medicines are required to keep product on hand until the expiration date to to test them every year. This is expensive so companies are shortening expiration periods. 

Canned foods are safe to eat years beyond the pull or best by dates.  Be aware any food which is discolored, in a rusted can or in a bulging can should be discarded. oods should always be stored in cool, dark, dry location to preserve food for the longest period of time. Remember expiration dates are primarily to protect the producer and the government for law suits. Don't take chances but don't throw away food just because the expiration date has expired. When we store foods we eat every day and then rotate that food we should never have to throw away any food.

 Listen to my radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

We haven't talked about real preparedness skills recently so we are starting again….72 Kits ….

1. 72 hours in not long enough. We have learned in every disaster since Katrina that these kits should be 120 hours, at least.

2. Your kit should be kept in a location near an exit door but away from water heaters and furnaces. Also keep a pair of comfortable walking/work shoes with your pack.

3. The best container for you pack is one that allows your hands to remain free. You are then more able to carry children, pets or additional supplies.

4. Each family member should have their own pack. This provides added safety and a sense of empowerment for children. Heavy items should be taken out of young children’s packs and carried by the older children or adults. Light weight items can be redistributed to a child’s pack from the adult packs such as extra shirts and toilet paper, leaving room for heavier items.

5.Your extra keys and a light source should be kept in an outside pocket or at the top of your pack for easy access in an emergency.

6. Use your kits before an emergency occurs. Take them “camping” in the back yard. This will help your children feel more secure when the emergency arises and you have to use your kits. It will also help you determine any other items you may wish to add to your kits.

7. Rotate the food and water in your kits. Never add food to your kit that will increase your thirst such a jerky. If you are in doubt eat the item and see if you get thirsty shortly thereafter.

8. A Grab and Go Kit should be added to your emergency supplies. These should include shelter, sanitation, and cooking supplies. These should be kept in a waterproof container such as a 5 gallons plastic bucket.

9. Check your kit yearly for expired batteries, prescriptions and other medications. Also check clothing items to make sure they still fit.

10. Never store batteries in your flashlights or radios batteries can leak and ruin your them.

 Listen to my radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Let's face it there is never a time when it is too late too prepare until the store shelves are  empty and the power is out and rioting has begun. There are however better times to prepare and now is that time. The best time to prepare was two years ago before the economic collapse and rising fuel and food prices began. Those days are very unlikely to reoccur. This is not just a problem for those living in the Untied States this is the fact wherever you may be so get moving!

Need a few examples?

The Georgetown Current (Washinton DC) reports that M Street bakery Furins is closing July 31. Of all the factors that owner Bernie Furin cites as reasons for the shuttering—rising food prices and property taxes and a general decline in catering business—the influx of competing cupcakeries isn't one of them. To the contrary, the owner's son, Chris Furin, says the mini-cake craze has been a boon to the business: “People walking from Metro see a sign saying cupcakes and come in. We probably make 200 cupcakes a day. We used to make about 30.”

From Nebraska:

The North Platte Telegraph: With no relief anywhere in sight from climbing prices at the grocery store, experts say more people could turn to raising their own food this year to save money.

And Kenya:

Last week, Nairobi was rocked by street protests that saw scores of people arrested as high food and fuel prices as well as a biting maize shortage continued to hurt households and businesses.

Inflation rose to 14.5 per cent last month, driven by high import costs, drought and a falling currency. The shilling has lost at least 10 per cent of its value against the dollar since January, averaging Ksh89 to the greenback last week.

Food Crisis

As a severe food crisis sweeps across the Greater Horn of Africa, an estimated 10 million people are faced with food shortages, with at least 3.5 million Kenyans battling starvation.

The United Nations has warned the region has been hit by the worst drought in 60 years, with no likelihood of the situation improving until next year.

China:

China’s inflation jumped to its highest in three years with its consumer price index (CPI) surging 6.4% year-over-year in June (See Chart Below). The spike has been fueled by escalating food prices despite the central bank’s effort to tame inflation by pushing up the RRR (Reserve Requirement Ratio) for commercial banks six times this year, while raising interest rates five times since September, most recently on July 6.

And UN report:

Highlights Countries in this issue:

• The FAO Food Price Index rose slightly in June to 234 points, 4 percent below its all-time high in February .

• International prices of wheat declined for the second consecutive month but those of rice increased. Maize prices remained firm.

• In Eastern Africa, cereal prices have registered new peaks in several countries. In Western Africa, cereal prices remained stable or increased but generally still remain at low levels.
  In Southern Africa, prices further declined in June in most countries.

• In Asia, prices of cereals steady and at high levels despite some declines.

• In the CIS, prices of wheat remained firm at near record levels.

• In Central America, maize prices surged to new highs while and those of beans well above last year’s levels.

And…Today the DOW was down 151 points!

So, keep moving forward. This week stock up on pickles, olives, relish and salsa. These are items you should have dated when we began so you should understand how much you need for a three month supply. or those who have recently joined us you may feel this is unnecessary but items that make you meals fammiliar and fun are a must during AND you need to remember we are storing what we use and then rotating our supplies. This is a lifestyle not a one shot attempt to have extra food for an emergency.

To the non food shelves in  your Store add activated charcoal and burn cream. Last week a friend became ill with food poisoning and she took some activated charcoal and was quickly better. Remember when dealing with poisoning do not use charcoal until you have checked with a doctor or poison control.

http://nptelegraph.com/articles/2011/07/11/news/40001771.txt

http://allafrica.com/stories/201107111825.html

http://www.zerohedge.com/article/staring-down-chinas-inflation-dragon

http://reliefweb.int/node/424864

Listen to my radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/ 

Join us on facebook: http://www.facebook.com/TotallyReady

Yesterday I received a note about a magazine article I had written and the reader asked how to motivate her neighbors and friends to prepare  for flooding when their attitude was that if a flood comes the food storage would just wash away anyway. Yikes! My response to her was lengthy but I can't believe with all the other things that are going on right now that some are so short sighted. Does that attitude make you as frustrated as it makes me?  I can't believe the attitude. I cannot relate to those who are fine with depending on the government to take care of you. We have all seen how well they do that and yet there are still those who are fine with depending on government agencies.  I also do not understand the "that won't happen to me" attitude. Do they not eat or drive a car? Are they really fine with spending 25% more on food this year than last. oh! I know, they believe the government when they tell us food prices have not gone up, even though our grocery store bills have. I heard today that a gallon of ice cream can be more that $6.00 on the east coast, but milk prices have not gone up.

Last January, 2010, I began talking about he size of  food containers and how price increases were being hidden from us as we were paying the same price for less product in those packages. Finally last month there were media reports saying the same thing. We must continue to stay the course and do whatever we can to prepare for the challenges ahead. We cannot give up and we can definitely not delay. It is more important than ever for us to ban together and to share what we know with each other.

This month we are putting aside cash for a major purchase of a preparedness item you are still in need of, to add to your  General Store. This is crucial. Please find a way to do this. When we began our self reliance adventure together a few years ago I suggested you get a jar and place your change in it every night. I do this and never spend change except pennies. I then place the change in my jar. It adds up and doesn't impact the budget.

I have also begun to get cash back when I use my debit card. Even $5.00 each time will add up quickly and is hardly noticed. We enjoy more meatless meals and eat breakfast foods for dinner whenever we are trying to save.

 I bake bread. When I first published the recipe for Easiest ever Bread a year ago (May 2010 Newsletter)  it cost 30 cents a loaf, now it is up to 35 cents a loaf.

 I shop at the dollar store for food more often. I have found some really great buys at the dollar store.  I can purchase cookies and crackers for a dollar a box. We like some of them much better than the more common brands. I found 29 oz. cans of tomato sauce for a dollar while  a 15oz. can at the grocery store was $1.19. I found Del Monte vegetables for 79 cents a can that are $1.29 at the grocery store. My challenge to you would be to take $20.00 and go shopping at the dollar store near you.  I began by purchasing one of each item. We then opened each to determine which we liked and which we didn't. I don't think I will ever purchase a box of crackers at the grocery store again. You still have to watch prices. Pasta can be $1.00 but is it a pound package or a 14oz package? 

Spices and herbs are another items to save huge amounts of money when purchasing.  These are essential to a great food storage plan. I purchase in bulk at Winco and save a bundle. If you don't have a Winco or if you want  to store for long term use visit Healthy Harvest. If you are stocking up this can be expensive since we should be storing a variety. This is why we have food storage buddies. Order and share. 

Take advantage of the coupons in the monthly Totally Ready newsletter. This month there is a coupon for canned butter, the real stuff, not dehydrated. If you take advantage of this offer you will save 27% which would have paid for your 24 month subscription. If you are not subscribing I suggest you consider it now. You will receive special offers each month and more in depth information than I can post on a blog. 

If you missed Ready or Not Tuesday take time to listen. I interviewed Jan Lebaron from Healthy Harvest and we talked all about food storage and food preservation. It was interesting to hear just how much prices have gone up on the wholesale level and the what Jan is hearing from suppliers.

We'll talk about weed control, pest control, irrigation, and so much more.

Be prepared with your questions about any aspect of home gardening.

I'm going to keep my post simple today and just use an article which explains the rise in food prices so well that I really can't add anything. Before we get to that however, there is one more food related topic to address. The Chinese government has a policy forbidding the conversion of farm land to commercial use. The reason is obvious, they need to feed 5% of the world's population on only 10% of the world's land. This seems a great policy except that it is not being followed. Developers are coming into these areas and purchasing land for manufacturing and housing that goes along with a growing middle class and jobs. What does this have to do with food prices? Simple, China holds much of the United States debt, meaning we owe them lots and lots of money we can't repay. It would not be a great stretch to see them demand food in return for reducing that debt as their population begins to experience food shortages. Since the middle class is growing in China they are becoming accustomed to better quality and more choices in food. They will be able to compete and purchase food in the world marketplace. We have seen that in the nut market already with China purchasing more and more of the available crops. As the land available to grow food in China decreases we can expect their demand on the world food market to increase. Could this lead to food shortages in the U.S. and other industrialized countries like Canada, Australia and Europe? You bet it could! Could this lead to famine conditions in some places? Absolutely. Why would countries sell us food if China was willing and able to pay more? Now, we see the destruction of farm land due to flooding in the Untied States and the destruction of crops due to tornadoes, and the loss of crops and cattle due to drought in the south. Are food shortages possible? Yes. What are you doing about it? Prepare to garden and to can this year! Don't believe me? Read on….

"In February, world food prices reached the highest level on record. Soaring food prices are already a source of spreading hunger and political unrest, and it appears

likely that they will climb further in the months ahead.

As a result of an extraordinarily tight grain situation, this year's harvest will be one of the most closely watched in years. Last year, the world produced 2,180 million

tons of grain. It consumed 2,240 million tons, a consumption excess that was made possible by drawing down stocks by 60 million tons. To avoid repeating last year's

shortfall and to cover this year's estimated 40-million-ton growth in demand, this year's world grain harvest needs to increase by at least 100 million tons. Yet that

would only maintain the current precarious balance between supply and demand.

To get prices back down to a more acceptable level, it would take perhaps another 50 million tons for a total increase of 150 million tons. Can the world boost this

year's grain harvest by 150 million tons or even 100 million tons? It is possible, because we have had annual harvest jumps of 150 million tons twice over the last two

decades, but this year it does not appear likely.

In assessing the world grain harvest prospect, we focus on the big three grains — rice, wheat, and corn — that together account for nearly 90 percent of the harvest.

Barley, oats, sorghum, rye, and millet make up the remainder.

We start by looking at rice because, as an irrigated crop, its production fluctuates little. The average annual gain in the world rice harvest, which totaled 452 million

tons last year, has been 7 million tons. Let's assume that we get a 10 million ton gain in rice this year. (many US rice crops were destroyed in recent flooding as were

crops in Japan after the earthquake*)

Wheat, now the world's leading food grain, is much more difficult to assess because so much of the harvest is rain-fed, making yields as variable as the rainfall. But

since most wheat is winter wheat, which is planted in the fall, is dormant in winter, and resumes growth in early spring, we know that this year the wheat area planted is

up by 3 percent. We also have an early sense of the crop's condition.

We begin with the big four wheat producers — China, India, the United States, and Russia — which collectively produce half the world's wheat. China, the leading wheat

producer, was until very recently suffering the worst drought in its winter wheat-growing region in 60 years. Although rain and snow in late February and early March

rains and snow have lessened the drought effect, we could easily see China's wheat harvest drop from 115 million tons last year to 110 million tons this year. India

officially expects an 82-million-ton harvest, up 1 million tons from last year.

In the United States — the third ranking wheat producer — the southern Great Plains are suffering from drought. As of the end of February, the U.S. winter wheat crop

condition was among the worst in the last 20 years. The U.S. Department of Agriculture estimates the harvest will drop from 60 million tons to 56 million, and this

may be conservative.  (wheat planting was late or did not happen in the northern US this year due to heavy rains*)

which means many more farmers will plant lower-yielding spring wheat — wheat that is planted in the spring and is harvested in the late summer or early fall. With a

little luck, Russia should harvest roughly 58 million tons of wheat.

Adding in the rest of the world's expected wheat production, can we match last year's world wheat harvest figure of 645 million tons? We should exceed it. The

International Grains Council estimates this year's harvest at 672 million tons, up by 27 million tons over 2010. This contrasts with the Canadian Wheat Board estimate

of 653 million tons, a gain of only 8 million tons. For calculation purposes, let us assume that this year's wheat harvest is up by 20 million tons for a total of 665

million tons.

Now for corn. Two countries tell the story here: the United States and China, which produce 40 and 20 percent, respectively, of the 814-million-ton world corn

harvest. Combining the expected 4 percent increase in U.S. planted area with a 10-ton-per-hectare yield, the U.S. corn harvest could increase by 25 million tons.

China's corn harvest, which has fluctuated around 165 million tons for the last three years, is not likely to increase given its tight water situation. For the remaining 40

percent of the corn harvest, we will assume a gain of 15 million tons. All together this takes the world harvest up by 40 million tons.

Let's review the global numbers. It will take 100 million tons of additional grain just to maintain the current precarious situation and close to 150 million tons to

restore some semblance of stability in the world grain market. We can count on a 10-million-ton increase in this year's rice harvest. We are hoping for a 20-million-

ton rise with wheat and a 40-million-ton jump in corn. Let us also assume that minor cereals increase by 10 million tons over last year. This would give us a total

increase of 80 million tons, not enough to prevent further price rises.

Estimating world grain production is becoming more complex and difficult. On the demand side of the equation, there are three sources of growth: the addition of 80

million people per year, some 3 billion people moving up the food chain consuming more grain-intensive livestock products, and the massive conversion of grain to

fuel ethanol in the United States.

On the supply side, there was a time when grain production was on the rise almost everywhere. That world is now history. In a number of countries, grain harvests are

shrinking because of aquifer depletion and severe soil erosion. Rising temperatures are also taking a toll. And some agriculturally advanced countries have run out of

new technology to raise land productivity.

In 18 countries containing half the world's people, overpumping for irrigation is depleting aquifers. Among the countries where harvests are falling as aquifers are

depleted are Saudi Arabia, Syria, and Iraq. World Bank data for India indicate that 175 million people are being fed with grain produced by overpumping, which by

definition is a short-term phenomenon. The comparable number for China is 130 million people.

In some countries such as Mongolia and Lesotho, grain production has fallen by half or more in recent decades as severe soil erosion has led to wholesale cropland

abandonment. In North Korea and Haiti, soil erosion is undermining efforts to raise output.

In several agriculturally advanced countries, the backlog of unused technology has largely disappeared. Japan's rice yield per acre has not increased for 16 years.

China's rice yield, now approaching that in Japan, may also be about to level off.

In France, Europe's leading wheat producer, yields have been flat for a decade. Wheat yields have also plateaued in Germany and the United Kingdom. In Egypt, Africa's

leading wheat producer, wheat yields have been flat for six years.

At this point, it seems unlikely that we will get the 100-million-ton grain harvest increase this year that would be needed just to maintain the current rather precarious

situation. Instead, it looks more likely that we will reduce stocks further. It may be somehow possible to avoid a rise in world food prices in the months ahead, but at

this point it seems unlikely."

One more note: this article was written before the flooding of crops along the Mississippi, a huge rice growing area. Six states produce all the rice grown in America: Arkansas (Mississippi flooding) California ( water available cut by government to protect the smelt), Mississippi (Mississippi flooding), Texas (drought), Louisiana (Mississippi flooding) and Missouri ( Mississippi flooding and tornadoes). Need I say more?  

* comment added

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/mar/10/world-food-prices-climbing

http://www.guardian.co.uk/environment/2011/may/19/china-food-illegal-land-grab-protests

PLAN TO CAN THIS YEAR

Some of my favorite canning tools:

Pressure canner

Home canning kit

Water bath canner

Canning discovery kit A great gift for a beginner.

Victorio Strainer and Sauce Maker My absolute favorite item in my canning supplies! Accessories kit You will be son happy you added this!

Steam Juicer Never waste anything! Juice it and use the juice for drinking or making jelly and syrups.

Steam Canner some people prefer the water bath some the steam bath. I have both. If using a steam canner be sure to add five minutes to all processing times.

1/2 Gallon canning jars Since there has been so much interest in these in our Yahoo group…a link!

Listen to my radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/

Be ready with questions about fertilizing, weed control pest control, watering….

the time is yours so please use it!

Yes, this has been a very deadly weekend. There are 90 confirmed deaths in Joplin, Missouri alone today, and still many more are missing. It's not over, more storms are on their way  this week and hurricane season is just beginning.  Have I mentioned lately that earthquakes are overdue all over the western United States? I asked this question on our facebook page this morning and  would love for you to go there and answer it. With all that is happening are your friends still calling you crazy for prepping?  

I know many are convinced this only happens to other people. I will bet that most of those who have been flooded out and who have had homes blown away thought the same thing. This can happen to you. Disasters  can happen to you when you are at home or while you are away on vacation. A few years ago we had friends who headed to Mexico for a romantic honeymoon. It was far from that. They spent a day at the airport trying to get out before a hurricane struck, but they had waited too long.  They were finally forced back to their hotel to ride it out and spent several more days at the  airport trying to get home. After all,  this was their honeymoon and it couldn't happen to them! We had other friends who were in Thailand and were caught there after an earthquake for more than a week, stuck in a hotel room with people they did not know and a baby. Neither thought it could happen to them and neither had taken time to think through what they would do during a disaster to protect themselves. 

So it can't happen to you? IN the month of April there were tornadoes which destroyed homes and property in CA, OR, NV, TX, AL, LA, MS, OK, KS, MO, IA, MN, MI, MD, AR, IL, OH, TN, GA, SC, NC, WV, VA, PA, NY,and  FL. Hmmm…not you? Drought is affecting food supplies in TX, FL, WY, AZ, CO, NM, OK , KS, LA, AL, AR, GA, SC, NC, VA, and MD. Do you eat? If yes, it is happening to you! Have you ever vacationed in earthquake areas that are overdue for a big one, CA, UT, WA, or AK?  You better not go there or it could happen to you. How foolish to believe that you will be spared. 

So, we keep working away, one small step at a time. this week we are adding five pounds of protein per family member. We just added nut butter as a protein source so this should be different than that. If you can find a great deal on beef I would encourage that purchase as beef prices are rising and with the drought in Texas there is no end in sight. Last week I found a great deal on chuck roast. I prepared three roasts in the crock pot ready for fajitas. We had a great meal and I canned the remaining meat for use when I am just too tired to cook or too lazy, or to use during a time of crisis. 

Again this week we are adding to our cash and putting aside the money you would have spent on non food items to be used toward the purchase of canning supplies. Be generous and add at least $15.00 much more if you can. There is one more week in the month and by the end of April you should have purchased something to be used to preserve food. Again my favorites:

Pressure canner

Home canning kit

Water bath canner

Canning discovery kit A great gift for a beginner.

Victorio Strainer and Sauce Maker My absolute favorite item in my canning supplies! Accessories kit You will be son happy you added this!

Steam Juicer Never waste anything! Juice it and use the juice for drinking or making jelly and syrups.

Steam Canner some people prefer the water bath some the steam bath. I have both. If using a steam canner be sure to add five minutes to all processing times.

Listen to my radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts-preparedness/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/

1st Prize: A huge preparedness library….Angela-bighorn Not sure of Angela's last name as she made

a comment on the blog. See…everything qualifies you for a chance to win.

2nd Prize: a case of Red Feather butter….Linda Coffey You are going to love…..this!

3rd Prize: hr Smith….A Totally Ready Auto kit and a copy of Totally Ready For the Road

Congratulations to all our winners! Please contact me with your addresses so I can get these shipped out!

Day 40 of gas price increases. The national average today is $3.98 up from $2.86 last year. That translates to an increase out of pocket costs of: $2016 dollars per car per year!  With this in mind I am beginning another give away today. Everyone who posts a money saving suggestion or suggestion for a stay at home vacation is entered into a drawing and you choose the prize! I will draw a winner every week. You may choose either a two year subscription to the Totally Ready Newsletter, or  back issues for the  First and Second years of the Totally Ready Newsletter, or one of several of my favorite preparedness books and cook books. All winners will also receive a copy of Pack Your Bags We're Staying Home: A Guide to a Stay at Home Vacation.

Here is the question: Will you be planning a stay at home vacation this year or have you vacationed at home in the past? What are you planning to make it fun and memorable for your family?  Answer that question here, in the yahoo group, or on our facebook page for a chance to win. Answer on all three for three chances!

"Gas prices are like Chinese water torture for consumers," said Mark Cooper, Director of Research at the Consumer

for  Federation of America. "The problem is, once you buy your car and once you buy your house your gasoline consumption

is pretty much set," he said.

"If the price goes up, people have real difficultly cutting back, and that means they will have to find other areas to cut back

which are more discretionary."

For Robyn Fehring, that means taking her four-year-old daughter out of school one day a week. "My daughter had to be cut

back a full day in preschool, because we simply cannot afford to take her," Fehring said. "She'll ask me why she can't go to

school today and I feel terrible about it because she doesn't understand."

But with her family's gas bill in Saugerties, N.Y., now over $100 a week, preschool is not the only sacrifice. Fehring said she

has also cut back on groceries and may not be able to finish her early childhood education degree in the fall.

She is currently enrolled in the College of Saint Rose in Albany N.Y., which is over an hour away. If gas prices continue to

rise, the commute alone makes her schooling cost prohibitive, she says.

"If it costs $200 for me to drive back and forth to Albany, there's just no way."

Nationwide, drivers are estimated to spend 8.7% of their median income in 2011 on gas, according to the Oil Price

Information Service. In 2008, they spent $3836 or 7.7% of their median income to fill up their cars.

http://money.cnn.com/2011/05/03/pf/high_gas_prices_hurt/index.htm

In the May issue of the Totally Ready Newsletter

Flooding:

Warning or Watch

Preparing for the Flood

Evacuation

After the Flood

So You Are Going To Help Clean Up

Building a Sandbag Wall

Saving Water Damaged Photos

Saving Water Damaged Papers and Books

Recipes: Quick Master Mixes

Muffins

Coffee Cake

Spicy Drop Cookies

Applesauce Cookies

Pumpkin Chocolate Chip Cookies

Peanut Butter Cookies

Biscuits

Shortcake

Pancakes

Listen to my radio show READY OR NOT…every Tuesday night 9:00pm Eastern, 6:00pm Pacific…if you missed some listen now.

Current show: http://www.blogtalkradio.com/doctorprepper

Past shows: http://www.bepreparedradio.com/category/prepper-podcasts/ready-or-not/

Subscribe to our Newsletter: http://blog.totallyready.com/announcing-the-totally-ready-newsletter/

Join Our Yahoo Group: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/TotallyReady/

Back issues: Totally Ready Newsletters July 2009- June 2010