TMR Frugal Living Tip #32

I have really missed posting these daily tips. Today's thrifty tip is have a well stocked pantry. This helped me tremendously after Hurricane Gustav barreled through my area. I had close to 10 gallons of drinking water, canned goods, and many other basic staples like flour, sugar, rice, baking supplies, and such. I was able to feed my family well for several days. We did leave after four days since my mom had electricity at her house. Because I was prepared, we didn't have to panic about how we were going to eat since it took several days for grocery stores to reopen. There will always be a natural disaster anywhere you live from snow, earthquakes, hurricanes, or something else. It is always a good idea to have at least 1-2 week supply of food in your pantry.

All Systems Go!

We got our cable, phone, and internet services back Monday afternoon. I went to the local office to let them know, and it was up and running that afternoon! YAY! Thanks Charter for restoring it all. I do think we might get a basic phone line with AT&T so we can have phone service when the power goes out. I love how cheap Charter's phone package is, but it won't work without power. There wasn't a cell signal either for 3 days after Gustav. It's quite sad how accustomed I have become to all the technology we use on a daily basis. We did play board games as family and cards. I will try to continue my daily thrifty living tips starting tomorrow. I'm back and will try to update my blogs soon this week. Thanks again for all the great comments and emails. It was very nice to read them all. You guys rock!

Bring Your Files with You!

I love having a flash drive to keep all my important documents, files, and pictures. They are so thin and light weight that you can put it in your key chain, purse, or pocket. I can download them to any computer and I won't lose my important pictures to a hurricane. If you don't have one, then I would highly recommend buying one. They are very inexpensive so no excuse not to get one.

We're Back!!!

First I have to thank everyone for their very kind words. It really meant a lot to me to see all the great comments that supported me, prayed for me, and wishes for our safety. I just can't thank you enough and it was wonderful to read them.

We came back last Thursday and have moved in with my mom. We were told that we wouldn't have electricity for up to 6 weeks. We got it back last night. YAY! But we won't have cable, phone, or internet for who knows how long. BOO! I'm very grateful we at least have our house, with no serious damage, and cold A/C again. I don't want anyone to think I've abandoned my readers, but it's going to take some time until I get back to a more normal life.

I am going to start pushing them pretty hard next week to get my services back. They love to give you the run around about why they can't come to send a technician to look at the line. At least I'm getting a credit for the weeks I haven't had any service so that does help. I hope to get it all back by next week. I'll be able to check in until we go back home this weekend. I just wanted to update that we are safe and sound.

Leaving for Hurricane Gustav!

I just wanted to let know everyone know that we are leaving for higher ground. We heading to Jackson, MS which will still feel some weather but not what I would feel here on the coast. I hope everyone stays safe. If you haven't left and live near the coast in Louisiana, then please do so tomorrow. At the very least get the house boarded up and hunker down. I hate to have a vacation this way, but sometimes you have to do what is necessary. Take care everyone. I am posting this all on four of my blogs.