Small Prepper Success, Failure

Small Prepper Success, Failure

Failure is the best teacher, but sometimes it is good to celebrate the minor victories.  Let’s be real for a moment.  Most of us will only experience minor successes because catastrophes are not likely to happen.  But, if they do, we will be in better position to survive than 95% of people.

Mermaid flew to Wisconsin next week where the weather is expected to be -20 degrees with 36″ of snow.  I couldn’t believe she actually requested I prepare some things for her in case she gets temporarily stranded.  Hey, that’s a HUGE development because it means she is starting to realize that there is some practicality to some of this stuff and it might be beneficial to have some specific items just-in-case.

I reached into my Every Day Carry (EDC) backpack and pulled out a small sack that I quickly customized for her.  Now she has a small bag with some food, mylar blanket, fire starting ‘stuff’, some minor first aid supplies, headlamp with fresh batteries, and some other goodies.  I had to make some adjustments for TSA rules, but I was pleased how easy it was to assemble because I already had it at my fingertips.  Then I realized something.

How much power is too much power? 

Mermaid specifically requested an auxiliary power bank for her phone.  I suggested she take two of them.  It was only then that I fully comprehended a likely over-prep.  I carry three of those – two small ones each about the size of a roll of pennies and a larger one about the size of a deck of cards, but thinner.  Not to mention I have a boatload of AA and AAA batteries for things like flashlights, headlamps and radios.  Furthermore, my wind-up radio has a USB port for charging things.  I can easily cut some weight just by rethinking my actual power needs.

Prepper Fail

I read Salty’s article about the NYC emergency suggestions and realized I don’t remember seeing my water filter in my EDC.  Where did it go?  I dug a little deeper in the bag and did not find my wind-up radio, either.  Somebody has been playing with my bag.  Where is my knife? What else am I missing?  Where is my super-bright flashlight?  Urgh.

One of the problems with having some pretty cool stuff and everyone knowing “Daddy has one in his bag” is that it is sometimes treated as a community toolbox.  I really don’t mind family or close friends using my stuff, but puh-leeze put it back. 

My bag changes over time as my needs change.  I think I will make a list of things I carry and check it occasionally.