I've been casually viewing the forum for the past couple of months whilst learning about preparedness and trying to work out what it means to me. I started out a year or so ago by practicing bushcraft, I love nature and the outdoors, before I realised it I was carrying water purification tools, fire lighting equipment, various shelters etc and learning how to use them with a view to heading for the hills if something were to go disastrously wrong at home. It was at this point I became aware of preparedness and a whole world of things opened up to me.
I've learnt there's a lot more to preparedness than just the end game shtf scenario, it's about making the elements of life that unexpectedly kick you in the nether regions, suck less. I think it's important not to get caught up in the doomsday ramblings and hellfire and damnation that is easily found when you start talking about preparedness, as this can lead to a downward spiral of expense and life changing practices.
The most useful practice I have adopted is utilising a small EDC bag with a few simple items that lives in my car. I've lost count of the times it's come in useful in every day situations. Ive also learnt how to fish and to gut and prepare a sizeable catch, and I've learnt a lot in the last year about keeping livestock and growing my own produce. (My partner and I bought our first house last year and we have some chickens and a small vegetable garden.) All of which give me great enjoyment to spend time outdoors and to live a healthier more self sufficient lifestyle.
Anyway, that's enough of an essay for now. I look forward to learning more from you all in the future.
Thanks.
Grayman
