An apology to Digging4Truth and Edward Anglin

[missourimary]

Originally Posted by Digging4Truth

...There are lots of things that a person can do to become self sufficient but the main thing is this... I used to use my wealth to obtain more debt and, therefore, new & cool stuff.

I now use my wealth to decrease my dependency upon and my need for additional wealth. I feel this is wise for me and I walk according to that wisdom.

Originally Posted by deltaguitar

You know everytime we have a tornado or hurricane or something I always think that it would be a good idea to have a was to be self-sufficient.

Originally Posted by rgcraig

But, what can a single woman like me do?

I can't hunt.

RGC I'm single too. There are things we can do, no matter where we live or whether we are single or not, that will help.
Prepare for a long term emergency.
Get a kit together with candles, coal oil lantern, oil and wicks, food, small outdoor grill that could burn wood, alternate heating source if you own a home (wood stove?), extra blankets and coats, even needles and thread... look around your house.
Leave the lights off some nights. Look for the benefits of not having phones or electricity (more rest, peace and quiet). Mental preparation.
Make note of the things that you use daily, and consider how you would manage if you didn't have access to those that rely on a system (water, plumbing, natural gas, gasoline, electricity). You don't have to do without them to consider what you would do without them. Convince yourself it wouldn't be "bad" but might be "challenging". Think of how you could benefit (better health, produce products or teach skills others would need)
Gather a few simple items that can be stored long term which would help if you couldn't access utilities, couldn't go to the store, etc.


I have canned and dry goods that I use and replace regularly. I own a home with a small yard, but have planted several fruit trees and perennial herbs that should produce most of the spring/summer. I have books on homeopathic medicine, including herbs I have in my house and yard. I maintain good health so that I can walk or bike if fuel and cars are not available.

I want an alternate power source (solar for my area) but haven't gotten there yet. I have considered buying a few acres in the country, but transportation to them if I'm not living on them is a problem, and defense of them if things get really bad and people try to steal my fruit, veggies, animals and so forth would be difficult.

Of course, I like the idea of living off the grid and living creatively. I've joked with my parents (also concerned) and told them if this really happens, I don't know what they plan to do, but I plan to move in with them!