Things we forget…

Monday holidays always screw me up. I completely forgot that is is tuesday today! I’ve been thinking about this column since I got comments back on last weeks, so I’ve decided to make it about things we might forget.

In the rush to make sure that we remember to stock enough oatmeal for the family, and wheat for bread, and veggies, we may forget some of the other things that go along with those things.
Maple syrup comes to mind…it’s a natural sweentener and if things got really bad one year, you could learn to make it yourself. However, having it for your oatmeal or pancakes would be a great lift to the spirits. People don’t always think that it’s ok to get the little things that make your meals special.
In times of crisis, it’s hard enough to get through the day without having meals that taste bland and unfamiliar. If you have to change your diet completely in a long term emergency, that can also lead to tummy upsets, not to mention a revolt from your little troop!
I suggest laying in a stock of gravies, baking supplies for making cookies, pies and cakes, also some things that spice things up for your meals. One great place I have found to get all the seasonings you may need is: http://www.atlanticspice.com/
Though they sell everything in 1 pound bags, they last a long time. You could also go in on an order with friends. If you live on the west coast, their sister company in Pacific Spice (.com).
Put some hard candy back (repackage and vacuum to make it last longer) and perhaps a few mixes (cake & frosting) if you use them. I put in the cupboard some “quick” meals also…canned beef stew, mac & cheese as well. This will come in handy if you are tired from working outside or sick. If all you have is time intensive meals, the cook won’t be happy!
Beverages are something that people forget as well. A blizzard and ice storm suddenly become cozy and nice if you are snuggled in front of the fire with cups of hot chocolate! A hot day in the summer can be fun with a pitcher of lemonaid. Coffee is a must have if you are addicted to it, like many of us are! Although, caffiene is not something I want to be addicted to, so I have started using “half-cafe” and will gradually wean us off, but it’s still something that needs to be included in your pantry for nothing else but comfort. Koolaid is still a favorite of most kids, and it doesn’t take up much room in the cupboard. Water will always be king, but most kids and adults can only drink it for so long without a bit of taste. Consider those “one bottle” drink packets.
Salt annd pepper will help make things taste better, and mayo is something you’ll want for making tuna sandwiches more familiar…buy small containers of mayo in case the power is out, or learn how easy it is to make your own mayo.

I know you readers will come out with other things that are your favorite comfort foods! The point is, though stocking up on food preps is serious and important stuff, don’t forget to add the extras that make meal times fun and interesting!