Rotate, Don’t Regret
That can of beans? Eat it before it starts whispering from the back of the shelf. Rotate your pantry regularly so you always have fresh food on hand—and less guilt about that expired tuna.
Two is One, One is None
It’s an old prepper saying because it’s true. Always have a backup. Batteries, water filters, phone chargers—whatever you rely on most should have a twin living somewhere nearby.
Charge It While You Can
If there’s even a whiff of a storm, charge your devices. Nothing ruins a power outage faster than a dead phone, unless it’s a dead phone and a cold cup of tea.
Flashlights, Everywhere
By the bed. In the kitchen. In the car. In your purse. In Mo’s treat drawer (yes, seriously). You can’t have too many flashlights. But please, test the batteries—don’t trust your 2019 self.
Keep a Grab-and-Go List
Even if you have a go-bag packed (and you should), keep a written list of extras you’d want to grab in a hurry—like medication, pet supplies, your favorite paperback, or that heirloom pie plate. Priorities matter.
Make Friends With Multi-Use Items
That bandana? It’s a napkin, sling, water filter, and dramatic flair. That mason jar? It’s a cup, a food container, and an emergency bug trap. Use what you have. Bonus points if it’s cute.
Write It Down
Passwords, contacts, meeting places, and basic instructions—keep a written copy. Phones are amazing… until they’re dead or you drop them in a puddle while running from a raccoon. Hypothetically.
Practice in Real Life
Eat a shelf-stable dinner once a month. Try a no-electricity evening. Make tea on a camp stove (you knew that was coming). Little practice runs help you feel more confident when it counts.
Pets Prep Too
Mo has his own mini go-bag. It’s got food, collapsible bowls, treats, and a copy of his vaccination records. He insists on carrying it himself like a furry little sherpa.
Stay Calm, Stay Kind
The best prepper skill? Staying calm when things get weird. The second best? Helping others stay calm, too. A neighbor with an extra flashlight is better than a stranger with a stash of gear and no plan to share.
Until next time,
Stay prepped and prepared,
Pepper 🐾🔦🥫