2. Make a 72-hour survival kit

I did it! And it has been so fun. Here's the photographic evidence. Read below for the full story about it.



The BYU 2nd Stake presidency had as a stake goal that each member of the stake should make a 72-hour survival kit. And our awesome ward supported that goal--to such an extent that they gave us each a "starter kit," complete with an 8-week plan for building it up at an economical rate. (Somehow I ended up with 3--the one I got the one my VT got for me and one I got for my VT.) I thought it was a great idea, seeing as I had never done one. My family had one and we occasionally rotated it and practiced with it, so I was familiar with them. Just hadn't done my own. And now, with triple counsel to do so decided I would.
However, Week 1 included get a container for it. I never made it past that step because I was SOO busy. It just did not become a priority when every day I was fighting for survival.
I did keep one full starter kit, intact, but I pillaged the others and used the toilet paper, tuna and little flashlight for my own good at the time.

In August, I was visiting my parents and the Hope Br. President gave his 5th Sunday lesson the need for 72-hour survival kits (ie. being prepared and following the prophet's counsel). The main stated thing I took from the lesson was that in AR, my kit must include insect repellant. The main unstated thing I took was a realization that I was a real adult, with a real home, and I needed to obey the prophet; first step: make a 72-hour survival kit.

So, I started when I moved into my new place. I skipped the container--using a shelf on my built in book shelf (which fortuantely has glass doors, so that as the weeks progressed the overflow didn't fall). Eventually I found a couple of containers and many other things. I followed the 8 week plan and this week I finished. I like the systematic approach that allowed me to spend money gradually so I didn't go broke, but got 'er done. (If anyone wants a copy, let me know. I'm supposed to be getting it to Mother and Laura and would be happy to add on others. It's a good general guide, adaptable at will.)

If you know me, you know that I love having a goal and working toward it, so I think that's why it's been such a blast. But, truly, it has given me great pleasure these past couple of months. I'm excited to have completed it. But a little sad too, that it's over.

Yes, there's enough food for 3 people (but I didn't want to undo packages). Yes, I can carry it all. I've carried heavier loads in that same black bag. Yes, I am kind of hoping for an emergency so I can use it. Yes, I have insect repellant.

And yes, obeying the prophet brings its own happiness and peace into your life.

And yes, I am now going to work systematically on food storage. Now, if that doesn't make me feel like a real grown-up--kind of terrifying.