What Happens After High School? Part 1

I thought it would be fun to talk about post high school aged kids.
I have lots of friend that have kids leaving for colleges and universities around the world, as well as friends that are serving missions for the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-Day Saints.

Several of my friends have expressed concern about their kids being away from home and making sure they have healthy food in their cupboard!

I am going to post a few things that might help with easing some of this stress for parents sending their kids out into the scary world to fend for themselves.

Thrive Express variety pack is the perfect solution to provide healthy, and easy meals; all you do is JUST ADD WATER!
( about $81.00 plus shipping)

(from the website description)

THRIVE Express products are full of nutritious, great-tasting THRIVE meats and vegetables and just require water for simple preparation in minutes. The extended 5–10 year shelf life of THRIVE Express makes it both a perfect choice for your Home Store and a tasty addition to your kitchen. These pouches make it easy to create healthy, convenient, and well-balanced meals the whole family will love. The THRIVE Express Variety Pack comes with one pouch of each of the 12 THRIVE Express products:

Entrees

Creamy Beef & Noodles
Pasta Carbonara
Southwestern-Style Chicken & Rice
Garden Fresh Vegetable Pasta

Soups

Creamy Chicken Noodle Soup
Baked Potato Cheese Soup
Broccoli Cheese Soup
Creamy Garden Vegetable Chowder
Hearty Beef Chili

Sides

Chili Lime Chicken Rice
Loaded Scalloped Potatoes
Wild Rice Pilaf

school safety!

Most of the classrooms at school have a First-Aid kit, maybe a 72 hr kit or something in case something happens whether it be a natural disaster or a dangerous situation.
Lots of people have suggestions on how to  help our kids feel safe in a scary situation.
I think it would be fantastic if each classroom has a survival kit that has a snack and water for each child.

A friend of mine had a child in Kindergarten a couple of years ago, and after the tragedy at Sandy Hook Elementary, her school took initiative and sent home a "Bug Out Bag" list, to have in the classroom just in case. I love the idea.  My friend told me they had and they had 1 week to get their stuff together.

Here are some of the things on the list to put in a gallon sized Zip-loc bag:

They said to put NON-Allergy (like nuts) food in case the kids share with other kids. Also the food needed to be individually wrapped.
Granola bars
fruit snacks (I would probably get a pouch of freeze dried fruit-pineapple, mangos, strawberries; since                                  
                     because there are no additives or preservatives; or maybe a package of the yogurt bites)
pretzels
cookies
crackers
hard candy
small water bottle (or a Capri-Sun).
travel size kleenex package

My friend added slim jims beef jerky for protein, chapstick, a love note from home and a picture of the family, for identification and so her son would have some comfort.

The note from the school said they would store each student's bag in the classroom, and if they don't need to use them, they would have a snack picnic on the last day of school. What a great idea.


Another friend of mine, gave me permission to share her blog post about what she did for her child's classroom.

 http://www.shelfreliancesisters.com/2010/11/classroom-emergency-kits-very-important.html

(Items listed on her blog are : 

40 water pouches: enough for students AND teacher and aid. No sharing to avoid contamination

32 dust masks: HASMAT emergencies are not uncommon according to CERT. 

2 whistles: One for the teacher and one for the aid

2 batteries: extra for the flashlight they carried already

1 radio: when power is out, radio is the way to communication with the outside world

1 equipment for sheltering in: plastic drop sheets and duct tape: this is for HASMAT emergencies and I put enough plastic drop sheets to cover the 2 large windows in her classroom

3 Emergency blankets: 2-3 kids can fit under one blanket

1 Healthy, yummy food for kids with can opener (apple chips with 7 years shelf life, 1 year openend): for comfort and sustinance

1 One time CPR Shield: for the teacher or aid to preform CPR if needed without the fear of spreading viruses

Here is a basic kit that is available at Thrive that is already preassembled. 

Classroom 72 hr kit 29.99

A deluxe kit designed to provide an individual with basic supplies such as water, food, and light for up to 72 hours. • Bright Sticks (1) • 53pc First aid Kit  • Millennium 400 Cal Bar (2) • 4.2oz Water pouches (2) • Heat Pack (2) • Emergency Blanket (1) • Poncho (1) • Tube Tent (2) • Ziplock Bags (1) • AA Flashlight w/batteries • Extra AA Batteries • Tissue Pack • Hand Sanitizer • N95 Dusk Mask

Contact me at Beccadenos@gmail.com for more information!

Step 12: Additional Emergency Supplies

Step 12: Additional Emergency Supplies
These are not the same that will be in the 72 hour kit, but things that may be useful.   These are items that can be stored in a 5 gallon bucket, tote, or another type of bag that can be thrown in a vehicle if necessary. Keep them ready in a closet for evacuation.
Make sure you label the bucket with the contents so that you know exactly what's in it.
If you don't have a regular bucket, Thrive has a bucket with toilet seat lid for $19.89.
Just make sure you have a lid for whatever bucket you choose.

Thrive carries Gama Bucket Lids that fit on 5 gallons for $8.95

paper bowls, plates, cups, plastic utensils, paper towels
duct tape
small cooking stove with fuel.( stoves range from about $8- $250)
small hand broom
Family sized first aid kit  (first aid kits range from $7-$50)
foil
pliers, wrench: Check this out: (multi tool $15.99)
dishsoap or camp soap
crowbar/prybar
sunblock
bottle of disinfectant
insect repellant
Red Cross First Aid books
cases of bottled water (what can't fit in a back pack)
Emergency Flares
Leather work gloves: (work gloves $3.99)
Water container to refill at evacuation center: tote, bucket, or jug with spout (5 gallon jug 13.92)
50 water purification tablets
Water filtration bottle (water purification options are on this page)
Large tarp
folding shovel (6 in 1 shovel 21.89)
can opener
hatchet
walkie talkies
30 large gallon trash bags
whet stone
50 ft nylon rope
Extra fuel 5 gallon gas can
mess kit, if they dont fit in pack (5 piece Mess Kit 5.49)



(referenced www.preparedlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Step 11: Container

When you are considering what to use for your 72 hr kit, keep in mind that you want something that is

1-  easy to grab and carry by foot in an evacuation.
2-  It is somewhat water proof
3- It is a reasonable size for the family member it is assigned; keeping size, health, strength, and age in mind.

Don't wait until you have enough money to get your kit before you start collecting items. Get a cardboard box or a plastic container to collect your items.  Its better to have something than nothing if there is an emergency situation.  Realistically if you wait until you get something to put it in, the collection will never happen.

Some ideas of practical containers:
Backpack- Easy to use for evacuation on foot, makes for handsfree (Deluxe Back Pack 34.99)
Luggage- with wheels that are nice for someone that might not be able to carry a pack
Duffel bag- Heavy duty. There are some that are water resistant and sturdy

Containers that are NOT recommended:
Tote bags- typically too small, and most don't zip or close
Produce box. Its a good one to start with, but replace ASAP
Trunk, footlocker, and ammo boxes are too heavy and awkward to carry
Garbage Cans: too heavy, and its difficult to get to the supplies at the bottom without undoing the whole thing.

Keep kits together and accessible:
1- Keep kits in a place that can withstand earthquakes; a strong structural place
2- Keep items close to a door that exits the home. Sometimes this doesnt work- a suggestion would be keep them under the bed where everyone can grab their own. Next to the shoes.
3- label the kits with your name or first initial, last name and phone number. Make it a permanent marking, not masking tape or duct tape so you can identify the back pack among large groups of people.
4- If you have small children and have to walk, put the items in the stroller or a wagon.

(referenced www.preparedlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Step 10: Money

Step 10:  MONEY!!!!

Stash Cash in small bills.  How much is up to you. Everyone has different thoughts and ideas on the appropriate amount.  If there is an emergency, there will be no electricity and stores will not be able to give you change. The suggestion is to keep bills in denominations no larger that $10. That will be one expensive loaf of bread if you only have $20. Loose change is heavy.

Consider that the parents may not evacuate together, so it might be a good idea to have the same amount hidden in each pack.  How much? you decide.  It might also be ok to have your older children stash a little cash, maybe $10 in case you get separated. The adults might want to keep enough for a tank of gas, maybe a hotel, and some groceries.  $200 $300? It is up to you.

Keep the money in a waterproof container. I have heard of times where people will actually put small bills in a #10 can and seal it with their food storage.

Just remember if electricity is down, there will be no ATMs or credit card machines.

(referenced www.preparedlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Step 9: Important Papers

Step 9:  Important Papers

• Detailed Map of your area.  Keep a road map of the county in case you need to find an alternate route out of town or to find shelter.  One way to protect it is to laminate it or put in the ziploc. Maps are available at your local city hall or most gas stations
• Copy of Medical Prescription and Medical History.  Make copies and keep them in one place, so that you can grab it in an evacuation.  Keeping the prescriptions updated, makes it possible to refill if you can't grab the actual bottle
• Emergency Contact Phone List.  Phone lists should be updated every 6 months or so. Make a copy for each pack along with the evacuation plan. 
• Family photo. Keep an updated family photo in each kit so that in case of separation, you can help reunite with family members. 

(referenced www.preparedlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Step 8: Emergency Items

Step 8:  Emergency Items

• Radio Hand crank is best, but if you have a battery operated, make sure you have extra batteries.  (Red Cross Solar Link Radio for 70.99 
• Flashlight & Batteries. It's a good idea to have each person have a small one in their pack (Flashlight $4.99- 48.49)
• Emergency Whistle. (5 in 1 whistle 2.28.  waterproof container, mirror, flint, and compass)
• Work gloves (work gloves 3.47) handy if you need to clean up glass, helping move debris. 
• Hand/foot warmers 
• Needles/Thread 
• Trash bags- keep an extra on hand for sanitation or weather protection

FIRST AID KIT: (1 person First Aid Kit 8.45, OSHA First Aid kit 57.99 are preassembled)

• Ice pack- 2                                            Pain reliever packs (4)       
•   2x2, 3x3 4x4 gauze (6 each)              Bandage scissors 
• Anti histamine (3)                                 1/2 x 2 yds (2)
• Triangular bandage (1)                         Latex gloves (2 pair)
• Burn Cream (3)                                    Tweezers
• Knuckle Bandage (6)                           Butterfly bandages (6)
• Wet naps (12)                                       First aid instructional guide
• Tongue Depressors (4) 
• Large patch  bandages (2)
•  Finger bandages (6)     
• Antiseptic wipes (12)
• Alcohol wipes (12)
• Iodine wipes (3)
• Bite and Sting Cream (3)
• 1x3 bandages (12)
• 3/4 x3 bandages (12)

I want to have one small kit in each of my family member's pack along with a whistle and hand/foot warmers.

(referenced www.preparedlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Step 7: Food Prep

Step 7 Food Prep:

This is the step that you get the supplies to eat. Get a bucket for these things that if you are able evacuate by car and you can take more food.   These are things that may not fit in the backpack, but that would be helpful. I kinda think of it as what would I take camping.

Suggestions are :
cup, plastic spoon for stirring hot cocoa, napkins, multi-tool (like a Leatherman),
Matches in a baggie, mess kit, foil, small roll of paper towels, small camping stove, fuel tablets, small cooking knife, manual can opener. small cutting board- one of the ones that is thin and can roll up, paper towels.



(referenced www.preparedlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Step 6: Food

Step 6: Food

• Make sure food items are things your family can and will eat. While getting your stockpile ready, remember to plan for allergies or special diets if there are any.
• Choose food items that have a shelf life of at least 1 year. 
• Try to find items that are small, but are high in calories. During stressful times, you will burn more calories.  Make sure that you have comfort foods, like candy! 
• It is difficult to carry 3 gallons of water in a pack.  Camel back type of packs are perfect.  Or put some bottled water in the packs, but store at least 3 cases of water near the 72 hr kits. So you can grab them if you have to evacuate by car
• While packing food, remember that some foods carry odors. For example, beef jerky, though high in protein, will permeate and cause all the foods to smell/taste like jerky. Mints are the same way. 
• Rotate your foods that can go rancid like nuts; store them in the cool, dry location like in a closet or under the bed

This is a great solution for meals: Thrive Express ( 81.99 )

Thrive also has a variety of freeze dried fruits and veggies that come in a pouch as well as a variety of sizes. (pictured Freeze Dried Pineapple Chunks 8.39)

Yogurt bites are another great option. Yogurt Bites come in a variety of packaging as well. This month the 6-pack of the pantry cans are on sale for 91.99 )


(referenced www.preparedlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

step 5: Activities

Step 5:  Activities!
It seems like a lot of times we always concentrate on the seriousness of emergencies and forget to think about times where there may be downtime or we need a break from the hustle and bustle.
Little kids, especially need to have things to do.  Not a lot, just something to keep them busy. Chances are that the electricity won't be working, so electronics are only going to work for a little while.
Here are a few suggestions for activities:

• Word Games - crossword puzzles, word search, sudoku, coloring pages etc. All of which can be either printed off websites, or purchased cheaply at the store. 
• Motivational talks - Find a speech or a favorite article that gives you encouragement, and make a reduced size copy that will fit in a pocket of your pack
• Playing cards
• Notepad and pen, or a small journal. Sometimes it is therapeutic to write down how you're feeling. It also helps with details of events later when you're telling your story.
• Small Toys- just a couple of small cars or babies or whatever your child likes to play with

(referenced www.preparedlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Step 4: Personal Items

Step 4: Personal items. It is best to keep travel size because they are light and wont make the bag too heavy.  Put them in a ziploc bag and label it with the contents

Suggested items, but not limited to:
extra glasses or contacts               razor                          cleansing wipes                 contact lens solution
wash cloth                                    feminine items           travel toothpaste/brush      comb/brush/mirror
bug repellent spray/wipes            deodorant                   pocket tissues                    sunscreen/packets
lip balm                                        soap/lotion/shampoo

Toilet paper (one roll per person should be enough)! I never thought of this, but if you take the cardboard out of the center, it saves room!

Infants:
diapers
wipes
plastic bags for dirty diapers.





(referenced www.preparedlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Step 3: Clothing

Step 3: Clothing
This is a challenging step especially if you have young kids, since they tend to grow alot in a year. For your 72 hr kit, pack clothes that are a size or two bigger than what they wear. You also need to pack clothes that will work in most conditions. In Southern California, for example, we can get away with a hoodie sweatshirt year round in the evening; but in Alaska you would most likely need a hooded parka year round. Judge your clothes selection by your climate.
Packing clothes can be achieved by rolling the clothes tightly, keeping them together with a rubber band. Put shoes near the pack. One of my friends said that when they buy new shoes, they put the 'old' shoes under their bed because they are still good enough to use in an emergency. One way to save money on this part is to go through old clothes and collect what you have before you buy new. Store the clothes in big space saver bags or the big ziploc bags.
A good gauge for rotation is every 6 months.

Suggestions for Clothing items:
2 underwear                         Cap or beanie                                              rain-poncho or large plastic bag
2 socks                                 mittens or gloves
Long Sleeved shirt               Closed-toe-shoes
Short Sleeved shirt               jacket/coat depending on the climate

Long Pants. NOT Jeans. Because if they get wet, they take forever to dry. So the recommendation is knit sports pants, or sweats, or snow pants.



(referenced www.preparedlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Step 2: Shelter

Step 2: Shelter (Tent, Tarp, Rope)

• Tent: A tent should provide privacy, warmth, be waterproof and lightweight. The nice thing is that tents are usually made for easy setup.  Keeping in mind that after a disaster happens, you may be in a community center with a lot of people around, so privacy is important.  Aid from FEMA or the Red Cross can sometimes take days to arrive, so being as self sufficient as possible is key. Thrive carries Tube Tent for about $6, and a 3 man Square Dome Tent for $46.99. A good time to purchase a tent is at the end of the Summer, when camping season is over.

• Tarp:  A tarp is used under the tent, as an added barrier if the ground is wet. It can also be used for shelter or to make an outhouse (that's a new idea, I hadn't heard of until I went to the presentation) Thrive carries a Drop Cloth Tarp $1.65. And I am sure you can find the blue or green ones at your local hardware store for fairly cheap. 

• Rope: Nylon rope, you can never have enough as it serves many purposes, tying down objects or tying things to a tree.  9 ft Nylon Rope for about $8

(reference to www.prepardlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Step 1: BEDDING

Step 1:  BEDDING (Blanket, Emergency Reflective Blanket, Sleeping Bag)
         Staying warm and dry makes life a lot easier in a stressful time.

• Blanket- one thing to think about is to have a big enough blanket to wrap around your whole body and feet. You want something warm like wool or fleece.  My friend suggested buying the holiday fleeces after they go on sale. 
• Emergency Reflective Blanket-  Thrive Emergency Blanket $2.49. These are good for retaining body heat; they are water proof. These are also good for tarps. 
• Sleeping bag: you will need to consider the local climate and decide how cold it will get at night before purchasing sleeping bags. The Thrive sleeping bags range in price $13.99-$149.99 depending on the degrees. There are also foil sleeping bags for $3.99

If you have a sleeping bag that doesn't have a stuff bag, you can store it in a garbage bag or one of the big ziplock bags to protect it. One of the best times to buy sleeping bags is at the end of the Summer season, when the camping gear goes on sale. 

(reference to www.prepardlds.blogspot.com used with permission)

Home Store Advantage!

This is the easiest way to alleviate the fear and uncertainty of life's adventures

1) email me at beccadenos@gmail.com
2) I will help you set up your email on the website so you can start preparing right away
3) once you get your temporary password in your email, you can go straight to www.beccadenos.thrivelife.com and get started!
4) You will get discounted pricing on your first order and FOREVER after that!!!

Let me help you get started on preparing your family for whatever circumstances life will throw at you.

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12 Step Program

I went to a presentation last week that my friend did about putting together 72hr kits in 12 steps. The idea was that each month to add one item to the pile until you were done. I like it.  The reference she used was from the blog www.preparedlds.blogspot.com I have used this outline with permission of that site administrator.

I was so excited about how easy it could be to build a kit for each member of my family.
Here are the 12 steps that can be completed in any order:

1:   Bedding
2:   Shelter
3:   Clothing
4:   Personal items
5:   Activities
6:   Food
7:   Food Prep
8:   Emergency Items
9:   Important Papers
10: Money
11: Container
12: Additional Emergency Supplies

Everyday I will post suggestions on each of these steps. Please remember that these are ideas, and you need to evaluate what your family's needs are. There are no right and wrong answers. What works for your friend next door may not work for you, and that's ok.

Just to remind you, I am a Thrive Independent Consultant, so I will be promoting Thrive Products.

I am here to help you (and me) to get ready for emergencies and to follow advice and counsel to get ready. We never know when there will be natural disasters or loss/change of job causing economic hard ship. I like to live by the thought, "if you are prepared you shall not fear".