Emergency preparedness can seem overwhelming if you are just starting to put your storehouse in order. However, if you take it in smaller chunks, it is much easier to not only wrap your brain around, but also it is easier financially. Let's face it, all at once it can be quite expensive to put together. But a little at a time makes it a feasible goal.

Over the years, I have gathered several different resources to help me get my own emergency preparedness put together. I have shared some of these in the past and I thought it might be nice to share another one I have over four weeks. I have chosen to break things down by quarter so that these articles aren't so long and so it isn't so overwhelming all at once.

Here is the plan for the 3rd quarter:

July

ACTIVITY: Emergency Supplies: Fill or refill water jugs.

Week 1: Emergency Supplies: Assemble an emergency sewing kit with thread, pins, needles, buttons, tape measure, scissors, etc. Keep it compact and handy.

Week 2: Canning supplies: pectin, canning lids, etc. If you do not home can, then stock up on jams and jellies.

Week 3: Canned milk.

Week 4: Spices and herbs. Buy the ones you use most often such as pepper, cinnamon, bay leaves, oregano, etc.

Emergency Supplies: Put some money aside each month to be used for emergencies only. Find a safe place to keep it. Make sure you have some small bills and coins, in case the power is off and there is still a gallon of milk on the shelf to buy, IF you have the exact amount (or close) to pay.

August

Week 1: Baking powder, baking soda, cornstarch, etc.

Week 2: Buy fruit that is available for home canning. Don't overlook apples.

Week 3: Can or freeze local veggies.

Week 4: Tomato week. Can them yourself from your garden.

Emergency Supplies: Put some money aside this month to be used for emergencies only. Find a safe place to keep it.

September

ACTIVITY: Inventory what you already have on your shelves.

Case Lot Sales at local grocery stores. Many stores have case lots sales at this time. Stock up on soups, vegetables, fruits, and other items your family enjoys.

Emergency Supplies: Put some money aside this month to be used for emergencies only. Find a safe place to keep it.