Less is More in a Home On Wheels

Home On Wheels

HomeOnWheels-ThousandTrails

Guest Blog Post by:

PREPARE Magazine Distinguished Author – Ken Youngquist, of Survivaltek

There is a saying that “less is more”. This has many applications: Less parts to a device means that there are less chances of failure; less estate and physical assets means less effort and funds required to maintain them. This often translates to HomeOnWheels_IntDrawing“more” time and money for other interests or needs.

I have often reflected on the early days of raising a family. My wife and I were blessed with  two sons. When they were old enough we enrolled them in our “home school”. As part of our desire to enrich their education and life experiences we purchased a “class C” motorhome. We were able to take many weekend trips to various locations that enabled us to enjoy the great outdoors while camping.

 

On one such occasion we went to a county park where it rained almost all weekend. It was prudent to take cover inside the RV where we stayed warm and dry. We played many board games, ate meals, watched a little TV, and did some reading. When there were breaks in the weather we would go outside to explore the surrounding area. When we returned to our HomeOnWheels_IntDishesresidence I was struck with the contrast in square footage of our two habitations. The house seemed huge in comparison to our motorhome (or RV) that had provided all the essentials for simple living that weekend.

As a matter of definition, recreational vehicles (RVs), (sometimes called a “motorhome” or “camper”) refers to a motor vehicle or trailer that is equipped with living space and amenities found in a home. Most RVs are self-contained providing a warm, dry, shelter with plenty of light, a galley for cooking, water storage, sleeping quarters, and often a toilet and shower. The RV experience is not limited to just indoor living space but also includes outdoor living with features like awnings to protect you from the sun and rain, and storage space for folding camping chairs, portable grills, and other camping equipment. It’s a delight to sit by a campfire and enjoy the wonderful views.

There are expenses to RV ownership like financing for purchase, insurance, propane, gasoline, storage and camping fees, but with careful planning they can be minimal compared to residential expenses. For us, our RV provided recreational and educational benefits but it also provided a shelter in the event of power outages or potential structural house damage in the event of unforeseen natural disasters.

house on wheels trio

 

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Ken Youngquist Photo

 

Ken Youngquist is the creator of Survivaltek, a website dedicated to teaching the ways and means to survive. Ken shares his experiences of performing both primitive and modern day skills. It is his desire to pass on the mantle of preparedness to others. He is also the author of the recently released e-book “Fifty ways to make survival tools from trash and household items”. You can visit his website and learn more at: http://survivaltek.com/

 

Popular Questions

How can adopting a less is more approach enhance life in a home on wheels?

Embracing a less is more philosophy in a home on wheels allows for a more streamlined lifestyle. By minimizing possessions, you can focus on experiences rather than material items, which is especially beneficial during travels. This approach not only reduces clutter but also makes it easier to maintain your RV, allowing for more time spent enjoying nature and family activities.

What are the benefits of living simply in a home on wheels?

Living simply in a home on wheels can lead to significant financial savings and reduced stress. With fewer items to manage, you can allocate resources towards experiences like camping trips or educational outings. This simplicity fosters a deeper connection with nature and your family, enhancing the overall quality of life.

How does a home on wheels support a less is more lifestyle?

A home on wheels naturally encourages a less is more lifestyle by providing only essential amenities for comfortable living. This compact space requires you to prioritize what truly matters, leading to thoughtful choices about what to bring along. The RV experience promotes outdoor living and adventure, reinforcing the idea that happiness often comes from experiences rather than possessions.

What should I consider when downsizing for a home on wheels?

When downsizing for a home on wheels, it's important to evaluate your needs and eliminate non-essential items. Focus on multi-functional gear and durable essentials that enhance your travel experience. This process not only simplifies your living space but also aligns with the less is more philosophy, making your RV life more enjoyable and manageable.

Building the Alternative Medicine Cabinet for Preparedness

As we prepare, one roll is to be prepared for any unfavorable circumstances that may happen within the family, particularly with the children. Remember, that first aid and health care are two of the most important responsibilities for your family.

There are unexpected incidents that may happen in your household every once in a while such as minor accidents and/or illnesses. These are inevitable situations, particularly if your children are very active which make them prone to minor accidents, and also because of sudden change of weather or viruses around us which make them sick.

Identify possible risk that may cause accidents

  • Is your home a two story building that has one or more staircases?
  • Do you have pets at home, like dogs or cats?
  • Is your home near the road or highway or public transportation?
  • Do you live in an area near water such as river, lake or sea?

Try to identify as many different risk factors as possible. This could help you create a better action plan in preventing these accidents and can help you create a better plan on how to respond when these risks result in accidents. If you can’t come up with an action plan on your own, try to ask your neighbors, friends, other family members, or relatives, and check some tips online. It’s good if you can gather as much information as possible so that you’ll have more options and you’ll be able to choose which one that will best suit you and your family.

First-aid supplies to keep on-hand

Aside from accidents, different types of illnesses may also attack you or your child. Before this happens, prepare your medical and first-aid supplies. Colds, fever, skin itching, skinned knees, bruises, and minor tummy pain are easily taken care of without bringing your little patient to the doctor or ER, so make sure you equip yourself with ample knowledge in dealing with these certain situations.gauze

Here are a few helpful supplies for your first-aid kit:

  • Bandages and gauze pads
  • Cotton balls
  • Instant cold and hot packs
  • Medical tape
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Saline drops and bulb syringe
  • Scissors
  • Thermometer
  • Tweezers
  • First-aid manual

Typical Over the Counter Medications (Many of which have Essential Oil Replacements):

  • Acetaminophen – pain reliever and a fever reducer
  • Anti-fungal creams – used to treat fungal infections of the skin, scalp and nails
  • Antihistamines – used to treat allergy symptoms such as congestion, runny nose, sneezing, or itching
  • Aspirin – pain reliever
  • Cough Medicine
  • Electrolyte solution – for dehydration
  • Eye drops – for itchy eyes
  • Ibuprofen or naproxen sodium – great painkillers for adults and older kids
  • Vicks vapor rub – (or natural equivalent – see below) good for adult and toddler’s colds
  • Gas Relief – (or natural equivalent – see below) to alleviate pain from bloating

Note: Be sure you consult a doctor before using most over the counter medications.

Essential Oils are gaining ground as an alternative to using the over-the-counter medication approach to many of the unexpected events in life requiring first aid. A good quality essential oil will have instructions and education for you to use it to for the best results. But because they are direct food or plant derivatives with no synthetic alterations the FDA often will not substantiate their claims.  However, many people use Essential oils very successfully to address a magnitude of first aid needs instead of over-the -counter or prescription medications.

Essential Oils Ad for Site

For someone wishing to ‘make over’ their medicine cabinet for to a healthier approach with less concern for side-affects, we would like to also offer a few natural options such as the ones listed below.

 

IMMUNE STRENGTH® Natural Defense (*Natural Replacement for Disinfectant Spray and more)

  • Diffuse in a room to cleanse the air
  • Dilute in spray bottle to clean doorknobs, telephones, and other community surfaces

TUMMY RUB® Digestive Support (*Natural Replacement for GasX, Pepto-Bismol and more)

  • When traveling or trying new foods, use Tummy Rub to soothe occasional stomach discomfort*
  • Heartburn, indigestion and upset stomach can be elevated with this topical Tummy Rub.

BREATHE EASE® Respiratory Support (*Natural Replacement for Vapor Rubs and more)

  • Apply topically to maintain feelings of clear airways and easy breathing
  • Diffuse or add to humidifier at bedtime for a restful night’s sleep
  • Apply to chest, hands or bottom of feet

TRUE BLUE® Muscle and Joint Support (*Natural Replacement for BenGay or Icey-Hot and more)

  • Apply on feet and knees before and after exercise
  • Rub on soar aching muscles and joints after a day of heavy lifting or exertion to alleviate pain.

FRANKINCENSE (*Natural Cellular Support )

  • Apply topically to reduce the appearance of skin imperfections
  • Apply to the bottom of your feet to promote feelings of relaxation
  • When in doubt, use and defuse Frankincense!

OREGANO (*Natural Immune Support )

  • May be taken internally, 1–2 drops in an empty vegetable capsule to maintain a healthy immune system*
  • May be Add to your favorite Italian dishes for flavoring and to support healthy digestion*
  • May be taken internally to support healthy respiratory function*

MELALEUCA (*Natural Anti-fungal & First Aid for the Skin)

  • Apply to skin for a cleansing and rejuvenating effect
  • Defuse into the air to lift mood and help to create creativity.
  • Apply to feet and toenails after showering to purify and keep nails looking healthy

PEPPERMINT (*Natural Respiratory & Tension Relief)

  • May be taken internally to promote digestive health, respiratory function and clear breathing*
  • Diffuse when feeling fatigued or low on energy
  • Apply to neck and forehead with Lavender to relieve feelings of tension

LEMON (*Natural Cleansing & Purification)

  • Diffuse in a room to neutralize odors and elevate mood
  • Use to cleanse and purify the air and surfaces
  • May be taken internally to assist with seasonal respiratory discomfort*

LAVENDER (*Naturally Relaxing & Mood Boosting)

  • May be taken internally to reduce anxious feelings*
  • Apply topically to soothe occasional skin irritations & bug bites.
  • Massage on back or bottom of feet and apply a drop to pillow at bedtime
  • May be taken internally  with water to promote relaxation and a restful night’s sleep*

Additional tips:

 ALWAYS make sure that you keep all medicines, essential oils and first-aid supplies on-hand but out of reach of small children. Every once in a while do an inventory on your medical supplies. Check dates, spills, etc., and replace items that are no longer usable. Try to familiarize yourself with the action plans that you have created so that it will be easier for you to handle any forms of accidents. You may also keep a hard copy of your action plans or if you have charts or other references, put them in a place where you can access them easily.

Usually in the family, these things are performed by Dr. Mom. However, try to educate each member on how to use medications or essential oils as well so that anyone can take over for you in order to handle certain emergencies when you are not around. Remember that in a family, it is much better if both you and your spouse know what to do when unfavorable circumstances arise.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. While some people select to ingest a few drops of essential oils per dose and on a very temporary basis, most of the time it is left up the consumer to decide if the manufacturer of the essential oil permits/promotes that ability. To the best of my knowledge, the FDA has not cleared any essential oil for human consumption but does acknowledge the use of them in topical and aromatic treatment.

 

Full Disclosure: The author of this post is an affiliate of Rocky Mountain Oils and may receive compensation should you purchase products. She can also be reached for more information.

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Donna Miller is a teacher, author, sought-after speaker, and trainer. She has been both a guest and host on internet and broadcast radio talk-shows and in television interviews. She enjoys teaching online and local classes & ladies retreats. Donna is happily married and has three adult children, with one daughter-in-law and one son-in-law. She and her husband (Joseph) are the founders PREPARE Magazine and YourPreparation Station among other leading entities in the current Preparedness movement.

 

Popular Questions

What essential items should I include when building an alternative medicine cabinet for my family's preparedness?

When creating an alternative medicine cabinet, it's crucial to stock essential first-aid supplies such as bandages, gauze pads, and medical tape. Additionally, consider including over-the-counter medications like acetaminophen and antihistamines, as well as natural alternatives like essential oils for various ailments. This combination will help you address minor injuries and common illnesses effectively without always needing to visit a doctor.

How can I prepare my alternative medicine cabinet for unexpected illnesses in children?

To prepare for unexpected illnesses in children, ensure your alternative medicine cabinet contains remedies for common issues like colds, fevers, and tummy aches. Stock items such as a thermometer, saline drops, and electrolyte solutions to manage dehydration. Incorporating natural remedies, like essential oils, can also provide soothing relief for symptoms, making it easier to care for your child at home.

What natural alternatives can I use in my alternative medicine cabinet for common ailments?

In your alternative medicine cabinet, consider using natural alternatives like peppermint oil for digestive health and lavender for relaxation. Essential oils such as oregano and melaleuca can support immune function and skin health, respectively. These natural options can be effective substitutes for traditional over-the-counter medications, providing a holistic approach to family health.

How do I identify risks in my home when building an alternative medicine cabinet for preparedness?

Identifying risks in your home is essential for building an effective alternative medicine cabinet. Assess your living environment for potential hazards, such as staircases, pets, or proximity to water. Understanding these risks will help you tailor your first-aid supplies and remedies to address specific situations that may arise, ensuring your family is well-prepared.

Holiday Trees – Digging up vs. Cutting Down

Before the festivities begin and the calendar turns over to a new year, many people are preparing for their holiday tradition of trimming the tree. We’d like to share with you, another thought about this topic. It is a more sustainable thought with hints of long-term heirloom memories for years to come.

One of our friends and authors, Desere, who is the Office Manager (and more) at Turtle Island Preserve, sent in this timely article that we thought would be good to share right away. We hope you’ll pass this on to your friends and family this year. And we hope you’ll use some of the inspiration Desere has to offer to sustain the memory of the season from generation to generation.

The Off-Road Girl’s Guide to: Holiday Trees – Digging up vs. Cutting Down

Regardless of religious persuasions, cultural heritage patterns, or particular holiday traditions, throughout North America there’s an undeniable mass harvesting of evergreen trees each winter. Here in southern Appalachia, Christmas trees are big business. According to the national Christmas Tree Association, approx. 26 million live conifers were harvested and sold in our nation in 2014. On average, consumers pay from $35 – 50 for freshly cut firs, spruces and pines. And each year from late December into January, our neighborhood curbsides are scattered with a surplus of discarded trees.

Christmas Tree3Some municipalities provide composting sites where trees can be taken and chipped, and some even offer neighborhood pick-ups for compost/mulch operations, but a good majority of our fallen tannenbaums become landfill-bound.  There are green alternatives from recycled-plastic reusable trees to stringing up lights on potted plants, but if your halls simply cannot be decked without the age-old tradition of harvesting a lush verdant evergreen tree – consider planting a live tree that you dug up, rather than cut down. Planting your annual investment can beautify your yard, create privacy and windbreaks and reduce future landscaping costs. You can design and enhance your homestead with the boughs of Christmas past.

It’s easy and here’s how:

Evaluate your yard and select an ideal location for an evergreen tree or trees. Think long-term gain. Consider permaculture concepts in choosing the right site for a tree or a row of trees to commemorate each season. Evergreens in favorable conditions grow quickly to create boundaries, provide shade, attract birds and an intentionally planted row creates a windbreak to shelter your home from north winds.

Depending on your location’s fall temperatures, dig your receiving hole well before the ground freezes. Once the earth is removed, you can lightly fill with compost or fallen leaves and cover with an old piece of plywood. Be mindful if you have livestock or small children that may be attracted to or susceptible to hazards in the yard like a new giant hole.Christmas Tree

Some tree farms allow you to come out to dig instead of saw, but plenty of nurseries and home-centers have them already pre-balled and bundled for the convenience-oriented types too. If you’ve never dug up a tree by yourself, there are countless video tutorials online that describe the process in great detail but here are a few tips: Bring plenty of rope (I like mule-tape the best), burlap, a square-point shovel and a wheel barrel. Before you begin, bind the limbs and branches up and out of the way so you have plenty of room to work the tree from the earth.

Christmas Tree2If your ground freezes early, you can do the digging in October, flag your tree, leave it bound in its original hole and return closer to the holiday to pick up your tree. If you bring it home right away, have a 30-50 gallon galvanized wash tub ready to serve as your tree’s temporary “pot”; it helps to have a dolly beneath the tree’s tub so you can roll it from here to there. Loosen the burlap, secure the tree in the tub, adding earth if needed. Water it well and unbind the rope to reduce stress on the branches. Leave it in a shed or garage to acclimate your new little green friend from the cold outdoors to the heated indoors. Once you roll the tree into your warm and cozy home, choose a spot that is as far away from heat sources and near a window if possible. Your potted tree won’t mind having its branches misted. Decorate as desired and enjoy much less needle loss than from a sawn-down tree.

As soon as the season has passed, roll your tree back into the shed or garage for re-acclimation to the outdoors. On a fair weather day, return to your yard’s receiving hole with the potted tree and plant it, making sure not to go too deep.

a row of snow covered conifers

It’s been said that “The best time to plant a tree is 20 years ago, but the second-best time is today.” With a little extra thought and effort you can increase the value of your property and leave your family a lasting legacy of trees. In a few years your homestead can sparkle with a living commemoration for each year of holiday cheer.  Traditions like this have a lasting positive impact not just on your wallet and the environment, but across the generations who will have both the memories you created inside the home, but also a meaningful personal connection to what’s planted just outside.

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Desere Square

Since 2006, Desere has lived and taught at Turtle Island Preserve. As office manager and Co-Director of Girls Camp and Young Boys Camp, she brings 10 years of experience as an outdoor educator having worked at various camps and educational institutions throughout the Nation. She has a wide and adventurous background in travel, art, and woodworking. She received a Bachelor’s Degree in fine art from The Rochester Institute of Technology and Associates in Visual Communications at the Art Institute of Pittsburgh.

 

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Popular Questions

What are the benefits of digging up a holiday tree instead of cutting it down?

Digging up a holiday tree allows you to enjoy a living tree that can be replanted after the season, creating a lasting memory for your family. This sustainable practice not only reduces waste but also enhances your yard with greenery that can provide shade and attract wildlife. Additionally, it can save you money on landscaping in the long run as the tree matures and becomes part of your home’s natural beauty.

How can I prepare to dig up a holiday tree for the season?

Before digging up a holiday tree, evaluate your yard to find an ideal location that will support its growth. Dig the receiving hole well in advance, ideally before the ground freezes, and fill it with compost or leaves to enrich the soil. Gather necessary tools like a square-point shovel, burlap, and rope to secure the tree’s branches during the digging process.

What steps should I follow after bringing my dug-up holiday tree indoors?

Once you bring your dug-up holiday tree indoors, place it in a cool area away from heat sources to help it acclimate to the indoor environment. Water the tree well and consider misting the branches to maintain humidity. After the holiday season, gradually re-acclimate the tree back to outdoor conditions before planting it in your yard.

Can I dig up a holiday tree from a local nursery?

Yes, many local nurseries offer pre-balled and bundled trees that are ready for digging. Some tree farms even allow you to dig up your own tree, which can be a fun and engaging experience. Be sure to check with the nursery about their policies and the best practices for digging to ensure the health of the tree.

What should I do with my holiday tree after the season ends?

After the holiday season, it's important to replant your dug-up tree in your yard as soon as conditions allow. Choose a day with favorable weather to ensure a smooth transition for the tree. By planting it back in the ground, you not only preserve the tree but also create a living legacy that can be enjoyed for generations to come.

Tips to Well Prepared Travels – Domestic & Abroad

PREPARE Magazine: Tips to Well Prepared Travels – Domestic & Abroad http://www.PREPAREMag.com/subscribe

Perhaps the Holiday Season puts you on the road or in the air to visit family, friends and loved ones.  This is a time when situations may strike that are not handled the same as if you were in more familiar surroundings, with more familiar equipment or facilities that you find closer to home.

Whether it’s over the river and through the woods or all the way around the globe, there are several tips to well prepared travels – both domestic and abroad – that are important to take into consideration.

 

International Travel

Everyone knows that international travel can be a daunting experience, even for the seasoned traveler. A traveler may not know about the information that is made available to them through multiple resources regarding international travel, starting with the traveler’s chosen airline. Depending on where you are going will determine what you need to take and what you should watch out for. Some common items to reference prior to departing on your international flight include (but are not limited to): Travel Maps, Weather, and Currency Calculator. More definitive and required items include: Passport, Foreign Entry Information, Travelers Health, and Travel Warnings. The latter items are extremely important due to increased security threats throughout the world as well as illnesses that may be caught or spread from visiting other parts of the world.

As an international traveler, you may want to make a list of items you are required to take with you. This list will assist you to make sure you limit the speed bumps that can easily occur in international travel. It is also recommended that any traveler have a map, any warnings, and even U.S. Embassy information as electronic sources are not always reliable in other parts of the world. Can you think of the last time you could not pick up a wireless network prohibiting you from gaining needed information? Having this type of situation occur in a foreign country can instantly make the situation more undesirable.

Please do your research before your international travel and remember to be vigilant at all times.  Here are some International Travel Resources:

Our friend, Joe Alton, M.D., aka Dr. Bones of DoomandBloom.Net wrote about Traveling & Survival while on a trip abroad as well.  Here are some of his tips:

Be the Gray Man: The “Gray Man” is a  person who can blend in anywhere without attracting attention; someone you would pass on the street and not remember.  This is a highly useful quality to have in a survival setting, and helpful when you’re on the road in an unfamiliar city. You’ll be approached less by street vendors, pickpockets, and other ne’er-do-wells.

In Europe, this means wearing black.  Black is “the New Black”, as they say in fashion circles.  Hawaiian shirts, shorts, and flip-flops = Tourist (which equals ”target”).  When in Rome, do as the Romans do. If you want to know what they’re doing, use technology if it exists.  Webcams are a great way to reconnoiter the surroundings.

Be aware, not scared: Be aware of travel alerts that indicate cepeople-sign-traveling-blurrtain areas might not be safe at night.  This is pertinent for survival scenarios also. You wouldn’t travel into raider territory without taking precautions. The same goes for dark alleyways. Situational awareness is the key to staying safe on the road and in times of trouble. Know where you’re going, and appear confident as you go there.

Prepare for the environment:  In travel, whether while bugging-out, on wilderness outings, or to another country, you must be ready to function in the environment you’re entering.  If you haven’t taken the environment into account, you have truly made it your enemy.  If you’re underdressed, you’ll expose yourself to hypothermia.  If overdressed, you may overheat.  Check out expected weather conditions before you head out.

Wear the right shoes for the terrain and make sure they’re broken in, so you can avoid blisters. If you can’t trust the water in a survival setting, have water sterilization tablets available.  If you’re traveling on vacation, you might consider bottled water.

Pack light, but pack the right stuff:  If you going to be doing a lot of walking, whether it’s foraging for food in an apocalyptic wasteland or visiting museums, you don’t want to carry too much weight. I can tell you something about travel that is different from survival:  In leisure travel, you will overpack. Period.  You probably need half of what you put in your suitcase.  We have traveled for a month in other countries with nothing but a carry-on bag, and you could too. In survival, you’ll need everything you’ve packed at one point or another.

Still, you want to have what’s necessary.  You’ll want to carry enough clothes for the weather, but not so much that it’s a burden to carry.  You’ll want to have access to food and water and have planned out considerations for shelter, whether it’s in a cave or a Holiday Inn. First aid items come in as handy in travel settings as they would in survival settings.  Expect an article in the near future by Amy Alton, A.R.N.P., aka Nurse Amy, on exactly what that kit should contain.

Start off healthy:  As I often mention, one of the keys to survival in a disaster is to be in the best medical shape possible BEFORE the event. While traveling, you’ll do a lot of walking and it makes sense to get in decent physical condition before you embark on your journey. Take regular walks and build your stamina.

Know how to deal with simple medical issues: If you’re a regular visitor to our website (DoomandBloom.net), you’ll have learned quite a bit about dealing with medical problems when advanced care is unavailable. In other countries, you will benefit from not just having medications and supplies on hand, but knowing how to use them.

Air Travel

Obviously traveling abroad means the high potential of air travel, but so does domestic travel.  There are some things unique to air travel that require your attention for safety.

Your EDC needs an update for Air Travel.

Often if you have an every day carry list of items, many of them may not be allowed on the plane in the cabin iteself, overhead compartment or even in your luggage.  You may need to update what you carry and have alternatives that are on the list of allowed items that you can use in different ways.  Learning to use some ‘non-leathal’ items in ways to protect yourself is a vital skill when many EDC items are not allowed.

Be very aware in Airports.

Now is not the time to be hunkered into a corner with your nose burried in your cell phone or tablet.  Keep your eyes open for any suspicious behavior or sudden changes around you.  Keep your carry on items close to your side or attached to you. This is especially important if you are carrying a typical/non-descript bag.

Share your itinarary with loved ones.

Don’t board a plane (train or bus for that matter) without making those you love aware of certain criteria such as flight number, arrival and departure times. Often cell service is not as reliable in airports and they will want to know you are fine. We often use Flight Aware to keep tabs on our loved ones in the air and landing so they are not being called when they cannot answer or having to answere (thus not being fully aware of their surroundings) in a crowded airport while juggling luggage and gates.

All in all we hope these tips will help you to change your surroundings while feeling well prepared in unfamiliar ones. Wherever your journey may take you, we hope that you remain diligent to know that unforseen things can still occur and when you are best  prepared, you’ll be the least affected and the most helpful – no matter where you are!

encouragement pic to make 9downloadencouragement pic to make2A Road Less Traveled

 

 

 

 

Popular Questions

What are some essential tips for well-prepared travels both domestically and internationally?

When traveling, whether within your country or abroad, it's crucial to have a checklist of essential items. Make sure to carry your passport, any necessary visas, and health documentation, especially when traveling internationally. Additionally, familiarize yourself with local customs, weather conditions, and currency exchange rates to avoid surprises. Always have a backup plan for communication, such as printed maps and emergency contacts, in case technology fails.

How can I ensure my safety while traveling abroad?

To stay safe during international travels, adopt the 'Gray Man' principle by blending in with local attire to avoid drawing attention. Stay informed about travel alerts and avoid areas known for safety concerns, especially at night. It's also wise to maintain situational awareness and appear confident in your movements. Preparing for the environment by dressing appropriately for the weather and terrain can further enhance your safety.

What should I pack for a well-prepared travel experience?

Packing light yet effectively is key for a successful travel experience. Focus on versatile clothing that suits the climate and activities you plan to engage in, ensuring comfort and practicality. Include essential items like a first aid kit, water sterilization tablets, and any necessary medications. Remember, overpacking can lead to unnecessary burdens, so aim to bring only what you truly need.

It’s “Squirrel Syndrome” Time of Year

Here at PREPARE Magazine, we’re always delighted when another Author who really walks the talk reaches out to share with us and you.  Today’s Guest Blogger, Abby Artemisia is exactly the kind of grassroots instructor/teacher that we love introducing to you.October2015

It’s interesting that Abby submitted this article while our most recent issue was in at the design desk.  She had no way of knowing, other than that ‘feeling in the air’ what the cover of the most recent issue would be! You can get this exact Issue for FREE if you subscribe before November 15, 2015.

<-  Just take a look at how appropriate it is in regards to this topic!

As with all of our Authors, Abby endeavors to live a more self-sustaining lifestyle. Her steps toward this lifestyle have taken her into her area of expertise.  We are happy to introduce her to you and hope you will connect with her at the end of reading this article.  Look for more from Abby within the upcoming pages of PREPARE Magazine!

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Squirrel Syndrome

By Abby Artemisia,  http://www.mightyoakfromlittleacorn.com/

squirrellAs I write this, it’s mid-October and I’m seriously suffering from Squirrel Syndrome. One of the last times I was in Asheville, my friend pointed to a squirrel, frantically running across the road with a nut in its mouth, and exclaimed, “Look, that’s you!”

We both burst out laughing, but it struck a chord somewhere deep inside of me.  Then she said, “But just think, soon it will be winter and you can stop foraging.” Instead of calming me, that remark panicked me.

So what’s “Squirrel Syndrome” you ask. It’s when I feel like one of those squirrels who tries to run under your tires. I imagine their mouths are full of high-protein, health-supporting, oil-rich nuts, going to the equivalent of their root cellar. I start to believe they’re so hyper-focused on getting in the last of the available wild food, they barely (on a good day) stay alive.

That’s what I feel like this time of year. I have a list of at least twenty species of wild edibles and chickweedmedicinals I want to harvest and preserve before it’s too late. I’ve been trying to get to the wild greens before they’re frost damaged, including things like sochan (the Cherokee word for cut-leaf coneflower) and raspberry leaf for tea. Luckily some greens like chickweed are hardier and will stick around most of the winter.

Sun ChokesThis is the perfect time of year for digging roots. My friend and I have been teaching about roots lately, like dandelion, burdock, chicory, and sun chokes (aka Jerusalem artichoke [neither from Jerusalem or an artichoke]). They’re all in the Aster family, and all have inulin, shown to help balance blood sugar, and prebiotics, the food for probiotics in our body.

walnut

And, of course, who can forget: nuts! Around here, there don’t seem to be many acorns this year. It changes from year to year. How about where you are? They can be a lot of work, but I think they’re worth it. I wish I would have harvested more chestnuts, but there still seem to be plenty of hickory nuts and black walnuts.

 

Instead of succumbing to the panic of Squirrel Syndrome, I’ve decided to remember about Thanksgiving, my favorite holiday. I love this holiday because:

1) you aren’t expected to buy gifts for anyone, and

2) it’s all about gratitude for everything, but especially the abundance of nourishing, fresh food.

In that vein, I’m grateful that I got chestnuts at all this year. I’m grateful that the hickory and walnuts can wait to be processed until squirrel (syndrome) season is over. I’m grateful for the elderberries, pawpaws, and persimmons I harvested when I went home to Ohio to visit. I’m grateful to live in such an incredibly biodiverse region with so much wild food and medicine. I’m grateful, that though foraging is a lot of work, I get to do it in beautiful locations. Most importantly, I’m grateful to the plants for giving parts of themselves or even their whole lives so freely for my nourishment. Now off to gather the last of the nettles! Happy foraging!

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Abby Artemisia is a botanist, herbalist, professional forager and mom living in a small community in the Blue Ridge Mountains. She received her botany degree in Ohio, worked on organic farms across the country, and learned about plant medicine and spirituality from Native Americans. Abby teaches about edible and medicinal plants and mushrooms, while foraging as much as possible. Her mission is to inspire nature (re)connection and health empowerment.

 

Visit Abbey’s Website: http://www.mightyoakfromlittleacorn.com/

Instagram:  https://instagram.com/abbyfrolickingintheforest/

Facebook Page: https://www.facebook.com/AbbyBotanistHerbalist/

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