Pantry Prep for the Struggles in Life

 Hello all.  Hope you are all doing well this Tuesday.  It is sunny at the moment, they say the day will be pretty cloudy.  We will see.  It is 74*F already, so it will be a warm and humid one again!  The tomatoes are FINALLY starting to come on and ripen.  They are so good.

Today just an idea or two for stocking up for whatever may come your way.

It could be a loss of a job.  It could be an illness.  It could be a family loss - trust me you don't want to shop for a while afterwards.  It could be rising prices.  It could be a weather event or just plain old winter!

There are a world of reasons to have your pantry in order.  Protect yourself and your family.

You need to remember that "pantry" does not just mean food!  It can be anything that you use on a regular basis.  There are also items that you use infrequently - many of those items are expensive, so slowly work on stocking up a little.

My main tip is to make a list or two.  A list of items you use a lot of  - every day, every week.  Things that you can go through fairly quickly.  Then make a list of things that you will need from time to time.

Keep that list with you at all times when out and shopping.

Everyday and frequently used items.

Canned or frozen foods.  Pasta, rice, dried beans, dish soap, laundry supplies, canned meats, H&B, TP, coffee, tea, there are just all sorts of things.  Pay attention when out in a store (any store).  If you find a great price on those items or a special, get some extra.  So many things last and last (well past 'best by' dates).

Think about things like furnace filters, allergy meds, sleep aids, baking goods, cleaning products (or make your own), vinegar, batteries, even yarn or craft supplies, etc.

You don't want to need something and not have it.  Of course, most of us know how to substitute other items, but not everyone does.  There are many times that you just don't want or need to go out to shop, especially if it is for one thing or for a more expensive item.

Don't limit yourself to grocery stores.  You may find a good deal anywhere.  There are dollar stores and places like Aldi and Ollies.  Now remember when buying goods at the dollar stores to look at the size of the item being purchased.  They often carry smaller sizes, and you really aren't getting a good deal, compared to the grocery.  So always check your sizes and unit prices.

I am personally good on so many items.  But things like filters and batteries are always on my list.  Over the counter vitamins, minerals, restless leg meds, allergy pills, OTC pain meds (Tylenol, Ibuprofen), cold meds or tummy aids (generally I use natural), etc..

Always be on the lookout for deals.  Having a prepped pantry can literally be a life saver.  You want to be able to provide for your family.  

You don't have to spend a lot of money at any one time.  Always keep $10 or $20 back for such reasons.  If you run into something that is a deal, and have no money - well, you have just lost an opportunity.  ALSO remember if you charge the items - PAY IF OFF at the end of the month.  Do NOT accrue interest - that is no deal!!!!!!!

Also remember that baby formula is basically the one thing that has an "expiration date".  The normal dates you find of items are NOT expiration dates!!!!  They are 'best if used by' dates.  The item doesn't magically go bad the day after that date!  Most items last and last, so PLEASE don't be wasteful.

So stock slowly and with purpose and intention.  Get the things you use and will need.  If it isn't used, it isn't a deal and it has no value.

Be wise and prepare!

Have a beautiful day and SMILE!