When the goin' gets tough....

...the tough get READY. No one needs to be reminded that "things" are getting tighter, tougher, and a little uncertain economically and politically. I DO think it's important to remember though that we can be as prepared as possible in the midst of these things. There are a lot of very useful online resources (as well as at the library) to help with this. I will include some of my favorites at the end of this post. Here at home we are making a kind of check list to help ourselves feel more prepared for whatever turn this country is making. Take a look at it and let it encourage you to begin one with our family's needs, talents, and priorities in consideration.

-Make a larger, more productive garden this year. (and be prepared to freeze and can what we get).
-Stock up on the basics (bread-making materials, dry goods, etc).
-Revisit the old financial budget and make as many adjustments as possible allowing for vast cut-backs where possible. (starting a budget if you don't already have one is darn near mandatory).
-reducing any and all debt (eliminating it is best!).
-learning skills you might need in the near future (fishing, sewing, gardening, canning, home remedies, etc.).
-keep an eye on local and federal political climates - and respond accordingly. This government IS movable by the people. (for better or worse)

Here are some of my favorite websites on all these topics:

Frugal/Homemade cooking and shopping:
http://www.hillbillyhousewife.com/index.htm

http://www.menus4moms.com/frugal/meals_for_hard_times_2.php

http://oldfashionedcooking.com/

Outdoorsmen resourses:

http://www.pearloutdoors.com/

http://www.urbanexod.us/discuss/index.php?PHPSESSID=l4hr6lm5gh2imdkhq1bni6oo07

Natural Health/ Healing:

http://www.bulkherbstore.com/

http://www.welltellme.com/discuss/

http://www.morethanalive.com/Beeyoutiful?gclid=CNOklPyCnpkCFSEgDQodA0hcDg