What To Stock Up On In March
I love sharing what to stock up on in March! Here’s the deal: let’s save money when we purchase the things we need or use most often this time of year.
I call it my stock-up on savings this month! I have a post for every month during the year to help us remember the best time to buy certain things. I just picked up some really good-looking vegetables. I love buying in-season produce. It tastes so much better with a natural flavor when it is fresh from the field and garden!
You may be paying more this year than last for the same items. We’ve been hearing a lot about inflation in food prices, and I think we’ve all seen it no matter where we live and the stores we frequently visit.
In the fall, wild storms, fires, hurricanes, and cold weather have been reported in Florida, North Carolina, and California, two states we rely on for early-season food items. As farmers try to get back on track with planting and harvesting schedules, we may see some food shortages for a while.
March is also a time for some St. Patrick’s Day holiday gatherings and March Madness basketball viewing. Whether it’s full meals with pizza, pasta, rice side dishes, fish offerings like salmon, or snacks and treats like chips and dip, yogurt, and plenty of soda, we must be ready.
What To Stock Up On In March
Seasonal Fruit and Vegetables
I love oranges, and they are on sale! Tupperware Orange Peeler
I love all of these veggies lined up on the shelves.
In March, look for the following fruits and vegetables at their best freshness and lowest prices:
- Broccoli
- Cabbage
- Lettuce
- Radishes
- Leeks
- Lemons
- Limes
- Oranges
- Grapefruit
- Artichokes
- Avocados
- Peas
Frozen Food
I was so glad to finally have the frozen onions in stock and on sale! Here’s the deal: I stock my freezer with frozen onions. I can toss them into omelets, Sloppy Joe’s, tacos, etc. I don’t have to wash, slice, or chop them! There is no waste ever! I also stock frozen carrots now that Chris told me about them for soups and stews!
Watch for coupons galore to stock up on frozen goods and save a few bucks. I love to buy frozen peas, corn, peppers, and chopped onions. Cooking from scratch saves me not only money but also a lot of time.
With it being National Frozen Food Month, who knows what kind of savings you’re likely to find at your local store? You might find great deals on your favorite ice cream flavor with all the parties going on. Don’t be shy about trying some store labels, too. We’ve fallen in love with Kroger’s “Death By Chocolate” ice cream; try it.
Garden Seeds
Please stock up on garden seeds. If you haven’t ever had a garden before, this is the year to start growing your food. The food price is likely to continue to rise, so save some money by growing some of your own food. The weather has been erratic, the cans and jars manufacturers and packagers use are in short supply, and the challenges continue. We must grow some of our food. This is where I buy my garden seeds: SeedsNow
Consider trying some different garden produce this year. Consider beets, cauliflower, green beans, garlic, and other herbs and spices for regular meal preparation and when you want salads and side condiments available.
Related Topic: Best Vegetables to Grow in Pots
How I store my garden seeds: Plastic Photo Container and Label Maker
Candy
Candy aisles always make me smile. I like chocolate the best, but check out these cuties!
Many stores put candy bags on sale to attract buyers. Not just grocery stores but pharmacy-type stores have a lot of candy on sale right now.
Some of the candy products are good old bags of chocolate, but they are also gearing up for Easter.
If you wait until it’s closer to Easter, the prices will go down, but you may not be able to find the perfect candy you like for those Easter baskets. If you can be patient, you’ll save much money on candy the day after Easter.
I use my FoodSaver to stock up on M&M’s. I sometimes find the candy 70% off, and that’s when I stock up. I call it my sweet food storage emergency stash.
If you like to munch on a piece or two of chocolate every day, look for boxed chocolates. Since March is between Valentine’s Day and Easter, the stores want to be ready for spring treats, so you’ll see some great markdowns.
Easter Supplies
I love holidays, and Easter is no different. I enjoy coloring eggs with the kids and grandkids if they visit. I’m ready for an Easter egg hunt if I have some baskets in the closet!
Countertops
If you’re remodeling your home, this is the month to look for countertops for the kitchen, laundry room, or bathroom. It may be a cosmetic update, or you may feel your house is too dated due to its age.
If you have countertops that need replacing, check out your local big box stores or specialty stores.
In March, many communities had just finished having Home Shows near the convention center or a Parade of Homes, where open houses displayed the latest home designs. Some awesome updates to countertop colors and styles include granite and quartz. Check them out before you make
Therefore, the stores specializing in countertops want to offer huge discounts to those visiting the model homes they designed.
Flooring
This is another item after a home show-type event where retailers promote discounts for their carpeting, tile, and hardwood floors to those who visit their model homes.
You may want to check with the stores for big markdowns. It doesn’t hurt to mention you saw their work at the Home Show.
Space Heaters
If that happens to me or one of my neighbors, I like keeping one of these in my emergency preps to thaw frozen pipes. Honeywell Ceramic Space Heater
This is a great month to check your local stores for markdowns on space heaters. The stores need to make room for the air conditioners, and fans headed their way.
Watch for huge discounts on the space heater you may need for your desk or to thaw your frozen pipes.
Exercise Equipment
I want to be a bit stronger, and I just need to do it. Balance From GoFit All-Purpose Dumbbells in Pair or Set with Rack
You may have considered your exercise regime again, and this month is one of the best times to purchase indoor exercise equipment. When the weather changes, people want to go outside to get exercise.
The weather is getting warmer, and people want to go outside and enjoy the beautiful landscapes and weather.
This is also a great month for winter exercise apparel. Watch for the clearance racks to find the outfit you want drastically reduced. The stores want to clear out the old and bring in the new.
Just think, you’ll be ready for that next cold spell, and these clothes items seldom change much from year to year.
Golf Clubs
The sports stores want to unload last year’s models to make way for the new brands coming in the next month. Remember to look for rain gear, golf shoes, golf gloves, and everything left on the clearance racks.
This is the time to stock up for your golf season just around the corner. It could be a great time to get the golf clubs you have dreamed about.
Winter Clothes & Equipment
The stores want to unload winter coats, parkas, gloves, and scarves. Anything warm you may need may be on sale. Check the clearance shelves and racks. Stock up for next winter.
Ski or Snowboard Equipment
If you want new skis or snowboards, check out the sports stores for big markdowns. You may want to check out ski resort shops and ski rentals for used equipment.
They want new equipment for next year, so they must clear their inventory to make room.
You know how fast kids grow out of their winter gear. You may be able to sell it for what you paid for it and use the funds to buy new equipment. If you buy it right, you can sell it for the best price in the newspaper or on Facebook.
When my girls were young, we passed down equipment, but sometimes, we couldn’t. We always looked for gently used equipment. It’s all about saving money.
Running Shoes
Who can’t use good running shoes to get in shape after winter, right?
This is the month to purchase those overpriced running shoes at a discount. The weather has been freezing for months, and now people want to get out and walk or run for exercise.
The sports stores typically have springtime sales, so this is the time they want to let go of last year’s models and be ready for this year’s newer ones.
Sandals
The stores know you are looking for something sassy for the summer, so they put a few sandals on sale to excite you for spring and summer. So get ready for summer, my friends! This is also a great time to stock up on your favorite sandals for next year.
Luggage
Whether you take road trips or fly, sometimes the suitcases fall apart! After a while, the duct tape doesn’t hold it together anymore, so gorilla tape is even better!
If you think about it, the stores are stocked with the latest and greatest holiday luggage. However, because they may be collecting dust, the stores want to unload last year’s models.
This makes for significant savings if you plan on traveling. New suitcases or luggage items will start showing up for the warmer months. You can save a lot of money by buying last year’s luggage.
Garden and Yard Supplies
I love working in my garden!
This is the time of year when seed companies send out seed catalogs, and stores send emails to customers. It is a good month for lawnmowers or other big-ticket garden items.
I have seen stores have a flash sale for ONE-DAY-Only bargains. If you missed getting gloves when they were half-price last year, you may be lucky if you watch for the big discount days.
This is when you may be able to purchase garden soil, fertilizer, and all garden supplies at drastically reduced prices. If your shovel is beyond repair, check the inserts in your newspaper or mailbox.
Jewelry
After Valentine’s Day, most stores slow down their jewelry sales, so it’s a perfect time to pick up that piece of jewelry you may want for Mother’s Day or your anniversary. It’s also a perfect month for getting perfume marked down.
Craft Supplies
March is National Craft Month, so the stores will entice you to get your favorite craft items on sale. It’s a great time to sign up for craft classes at your local craft store. You will see many items at rock-bottom prices to use in your craft projects.
Cleaning Supplies
I’m so happy when my house is super clean!
If you’re like me, spring always means deep cleaning after a long winter, as in Spring Cleaning. This is an excellent month to stock up on cleaning supplies that are marked down.
Check for great coupons and mailers to give you extra savings. It’s all about saving money on the things you use every day.
St. Patrick’s Day Items
I love any holiday, and St. Patrick’s Day makes me smile big time!
This is a great month leading up to the holiday to purchase those “green” items you want to make for your family on St. Patrick’s Day. As with any holiday, the longer you stall to purchase, the more you will save.
But you may not be able to find the exact items you want, so be aware.
Of course, after the holiday, you will find drastically reduced “green” items you can store for next year’s party.
March 20th is National Ravioli Day, so watch for restaurants and stores with coupons to buy meals at a discount. Grocery stores will have frozen ravioli on sale.
Floor Mattresses On Sale
I saw these mattresses at Costco.
If you are looking at replacing that mattress for your bedroom, you may find some drastically reduced because the newer ones are heading to the stores in the spring. It’s a great time to compare the prices of the ones you have been looking at purchasing.
What To Stock Up On March + Year-Round
- What to Stock Up On In January
- What to Stock Up On In February
- What to Stock Up On In March
- What to Stock Up On In April
- What to Stock Up On In May
- What to Stock Up On In June
- What to Stock Up On In July
- What to Stock Up On In August
- What to Stock Up On In September
- What to Stock Up On In October
- What to Stock Up On In November
- What to Stock Up On In December
Unique Holidays in March
- March 1: Peanut Butter Lover’s Day
- March 2: Old Stuff Day
- March 3: Peach Blossom Day
- March 5: World Day of Prayer
- March 6: National Frozen Food Day
- March 7: National Cereal Day
- March 8: International Working Women’s Day
- March 9: Panic Day
- March 11: Johnny Appleseed Day
- March 11: Popcorn Lover’s Day
- March 12: Plant a Flower Day
- March 13: Jewel Day
- March 14: National Pi Day (the mathematical term)
- March 15: Everything You Do is Wrong Day
- March 16: Tea for Two Tuesday
- March 17: Corned Beef and Cabbage Day
- March 18: Awkward Moments Day
- March 19: Poultry Day
- March 20: National Quilting Day
- March 21: World Poetry Day
- March 22: National Goof Off Day
- March 23: National Puppy Day
- March 24: National Chocolate Covered Raisin Day
- March 25: Waffle Day and Pecan Day
- March 26: National Spinach Day
- March 27: Passover begins
- March 28: Palm Sunday
- March 30: Turkey Neck Soup Day
- March 31: National Crayon Day
Final Word
What to stock up on in March is a great way to save our precious dollars to buy what we need when they are at rock bottom prices. If I can get 50% off or more, which I need, I will snag it. Please be prepared for the unexpected. May God bless this world, Linda
Copyright Images: AdobeStock_142142188 by Benjamin Nolte
Good suggestions Linda. It’s always good to stock up at bargain prices:)
Our nasty weather has made it harder to get out so I stock up,when I can get out. ❄️❄️❄️❄️❄️
Hi Rita, I don’t remember ever seeing this many bad storms in one year all over the world. What a crazy winter! Stay safe, girlfriend! Stay well! Linda
Linda,
St. Patrick’s Day Items
Thanks for the heads up. I always forget this and we like Corned Beef, both with cabbage and other things, so I’ll be looking for upcoming deals.
March 20th is National Ravioli Day, so watch for restaurants and stores with coupons to buy meals at a discount. Grocery stores will have frozen raviolis on sale.
We’ll be watching for this since we love Ravioli and Perogies.
It seems that every culture has their own version of a dough wrapped filled fried dumpling, and we like most of them, LOL.
Hi Ohio Prepper, I love ravioli’s as well. It seems like the month of March my brain says, “get some corned beef”. Mark says “it’s not my favorite”. LOL! But it’s all about tradition! We have to have corned beef in March!! Life is so good! Linda
I have noticed here that canned Veggies are on sale. My local store had Best Choice veggie for 2/1.00. I went a store in a town about 12 miles away and they had canned asparagus for 3.29 it was green giant but 3.29 who can afford it. In a different store ad FRESH asparagus was 1.19 for a bunch. Why buy canned?
Hi June, I love hearing you found a good buy on canned veggies. I went to Costco yesterday and boy are the shelves becoming empty. The bags of rice are gone, I no longer can use 50 pounds of rice! LOL! The bottled water shelves were empty. The toilet paper was almost depleted. I think people are starting to understand the need to stock up. Stay safe, stay well, Linda
Dear Linda, unflavored cans of sparkling water are on sale for 36 cents per can (vs. $1.29 each for the blue water cans). What do you think about stocking up on those, and just letting them get flat before drinking? I know they won’t last 50 years (neither will I, heehee), and may not taste as good, but I’m hoping they won’t leak like every other storage method I’ve tried.
Hi Roxanne, that’s a great price. I won’t last 50 years either! LOL! I looked up how long unflavored cans of sparkling water last. It says 12-18 months if kept in a cool dark place. BUT it also says it will last much longer. The comment I read if it smells bad, it has gone bad. It may have the taste of the can unlike the BLue Cans (they have an insert) but the price is right at 36 cents. I’m not sure about the leaking. It says it will go flat just like any soda but hey, it’s cheap. Linda
Linda, great list of items. I’m so glad we are preppers. It’s not safe to be out on the roads.
Hi Deborah, glad you’re staying home. Stay safe, Linda
I have to if I want to live. LOL Two of our three dogs love the snow. The other ones has to be put outside to do her business. They are all so funny.
There are rolling blackouts going on in Texas. We haven’t had one yet, but others have. We don’t use excessive power to start with. I would love to be able to live without it if needed. Not permanently though. Just if needed. We grew up without air conditioning. Sometimes I wish we had never gotten used to it. Now, heat, I want heat. I can take the heat better than the cold. I’m thinking of making a big pot of bean soup today. It just sounds good.
Hi Deborah, I grew up without A/C as well. I never thought we needed it until we got it. LOL! We had a swamp cooler for a while and my hair had a permanent part down the middle every time we walked down the hall! But, hey it was better than no A/C! I keep hearing about the rolling blackouts! I agree I can take the heat more so than the cold. It wouldn’t be pretty but I could walk around in my swimsuit if I had to!! Crazy weather! I’m so glad you’re okay for now. Linda
Hi Deborah, I’ve seen empty grocery shelves in San Antonio, TX on TV. I’m so glad we are preppers. People are in cars lined up to gas for their cars in some areas of Texas. This is unreal, so many people are not prepared for this. This is truly a catastrophic situation. Crazy!! Linda
I have never been so glad to be a prepper. The only thing I don’t have is my thyroid meds. I don’t know if the pharmacy is getting deliveries or not. And I’m not getting out, if I could. Hubby knows how to drive on this stuff, but I don’t want him out in it either.
Hi Deborah, oh my gosh, can you call the pharmacy? It’s not worth driving out, but I bet the pharmacy may deliver IF they have them stocked. Dang, keep me posted. Do to drive in this stuff. Linda
Our pharmacy doesn’t deliver. I’m not driving on this. I don’t know how, and I’m too old to learn how. Hubby knows how to drive on this, but I don’t want him out either. Hopefully it won’t be long before we can get out. Although, tomorrow it’s supposed to get down to 10 degrees again. I haven’t told him I’m out.
Hi Deborah, I will not drive on ice, no way. Hopefully, the temperatures will improve. Stay safe, Linda
Deborah: IF you have a hypothyroid condition, you can try to use liquid iodine on your abdomen for awhile. I used to do this for my thyroid everyday. Just put a couple of drops on your abdominal skin in a place where it doesn’t show and won’t stain your bras. Let is dry on the skin before covering. It will help you, not fix you, but help. The body uptakes the iodine (I use atomidine or nascent iodine, which is safer than Lugol’s) and the painted spot you put on your skin will eventually disappear! I must say, though, if all I had was Lugol’s in your situation, then I’d use it! Used to do it regularly before I knew about Atomidine, etc. It is good to be taking iodine semi-regularly, anyway, in case of a nasty radiation event! The iodine prevents your thyroid from being overly damaged by cancer-causing byproducts of nuclear radiation & fallout.
Dr. Brownstein is famous for his work on iodine and the thyroid. He has a thyroid/adrenal support supplement called “Actalin”, which I started taking about 5-6 days ago. So far, I have noticed an uptick in energy and ability to climb stairs, even with my AFib problem. 🙂 Here’s a link if you want it delivered to your door! https://www.amazon.com/Actalin-Thyroid-Supplement-Day-Supply/dp/B00CEF8H54/ref=sr_1_1_sspa?crid=1RME9E714K9K3&keywords=actalin+thyroid+supplement&qid=1677681583&sprefix=actalin%2Caps%2C111&sr=8-1-spons&psc=1&spLa=ZW5jcnlwdGVkUXVhbGlmaWVyPUEyUFlYNUVOS0ZSNURJJmVuY3J5cHRlZElkPUEwMDM3MzAxMTBDWk43NUNCVEhDWSZlbmNyeXB0ZWRBZElkPUEwMTk3NDU1MzJWODlGUjVQNTBZTiZ3aWRnZXROYW1lPXNwX2F0ZiZhY3Rpb249Y2xpY2tSZWRpcmVjdCZkb05vdExvZ0NsaWNrPXRydWU=
Hope this is helpful! Joyce Stotts, Newark, NY 14513 CNHP since 2006
Hi Joyce, thanks for sharing this information! Linda
You mentioned stocking up on things. I have been without water for 3 days now. A plumber came out this morning and there is nothing they can do right now cause the access is frozen shut. I am so glad I have saved up water. This doesn’t bother me as much as some people cause I do stock up.
Also you have mentioned a shortage on jars and cans for veggies. I bought my best friend jar flats for Christmas. She only keeps a box or 2 at a time and then when she needs them she has problems finding them. Not any more.
Hi June, oh my gosh, 3 days without water, those darn frozen pipes. I’m so glad you have water you have saved. Your best friend is so lucky to have you! There’s nothing worse than needing jars and you can’t find any. I sure hope you get running water soon and your pipes do not break. Stay safe, Linda
I have never seen any Mennonite nor Amish store that was out of jars nor lids,not even in the middle of harvest season. It is such a big part of their lifestyle, they never seem to allow their stores to run out!
HI Jess, interesting, then why do our stores have so much trouble? That’s interesting!!! Linda
I think the Mennonite and Amish have their own supply lines, and the purchasers are fewer than what regular stores have, so the demand may be a little less than big (box?) stores. On the other hand, they still live in a culture where they use a LOT MORE of the lids and jars per family than the regular American family would. If you stop at Amish stores and bring cash, you can often find wonderful buys and wonderful items that cannot be easily had in other locations. I love that about them…you can always find a new shovel or pitchfork handle to replace a broken on, and good work gloves abound, too! Lanterns, oil lamps, anything needed for a self-sufficent life that is not too technologically advanced. I have even found very fine pots and pans in those stores!
JESS
HI Jess, oh, and the quality of their products!! I have only gone to Amish stores once in Pennsylvania, oh what a treat!! I was in awe the entire time!! I would need a truck to bring back what I would love to have but now I have very little space to enjoy those things!! Love this comment! Linda
Linda, we are getting more snow. Big flakes this time. It’s still below freezing, too. We’re still warm, toasty and dry. And staying home!
Hi Deborah, more snow and bigger flakes!!! Glad you don’t need to leave your house! WOW! Linda
Hi Linda, I don’t know which is worse, the Covid lockdown or being homebound because of the Artic freeze that has hit us here in Northern Texas. We have been hit by weather that is unheard of in Texas. With temps. down as low as 3 degrees at night and a high of 18 degrees daytime. Let me tell you, we have gone NOWHERE! in nearly a week. I am SO GLAD that I am a prepper. We could eat meals for many, many weeks with my food store in a spare bedroom. And because I DON’T listen to my hubby to stop water delivery temporarily, we have enough 5 gallon bottles of H2o to last us 2 weeks. Also, I am able to bake bread or any other baked item that we may want.
So, I just wanted to let you know that we preppers are ‘prepared to weather any storm’.
Stay warm, healthy ad stay safe
SuzyQ
Hi Suzanne, oh my gosh, I love hearing you are okay, these snowstorms are crazy!! I’m so glad you are a prepper too! Good to hear about the water! Stay safe, stay home, and stay warm. Keep us posted. Linda
SuzyQ, we’ve gotten down to -1. And we’re in the same boat as you. Snowed in. The staying home doesn’t bother me. Except for running out of one prescription, mine, we’re both good.
Another East Texan.
I’ve tried several (12) times to call the pharmacy. I either get a busy signal or no answer. They say they are open 10am till 3pm. I just want to know if they have the prescription ready.
Hi Deborah, it’s so frustrating because right now, it may not even be open. Let’s hope tomorrow the phones will work. Hang in there my friend, Linda
What brand of N95 facemasks do you recommend?
Hi Michele, I typically buy the 3M brand because they’ve been around for so long. But there are so many options. They all fit differently as well. But ten of one brand, and ten of another brand, Test because you buy 100 or more. Stay safe, Linda
Your lists are a blessing.. kitchen has two full size pantry cupboards. Yesterday I straightened both so I know what we need. It also let me see what we need to use before they expire. Normally, we would have “cooked down ” in preparation for the next season. The last two years have been different. We have stayed stocked up. Your wisdom has made me grateful for all I have learned. We live in Western New York, between Buffalo and Niagara Falls. We average about 85 inches a year, this year we got 52 inches in January alone. We try to get out once a week if the weather cooperates. Doctor appointments, blood test and dentist are scheduled in the late spring or fall. The high gas prices will hit us hard when the weather breaks, because drives in the country are our only pleasure.
Hi Chris, thank you for your kind words, my friend. The last two years have really been different for sure. I can almost visualize the drives in the country, let’s hope the gas prices ease up. Hugs from Utah! Linda
Linda, I always enjoy your what to stock up on articles and, yes, I got my email fixed so I’m receiving your newsletter again.
Oh, the nurseries in AZ now have vegetable plants for sale in case people haven’t started their own from seed yet.
Hi Ray, oh, I’m itching to get out there and garden but the building of the new small home is so slow. Please keep me posted on your remodel, I can’t wait to see pictures!!! Linda
Linda,
Cabinets, sink, faucet and countertops are done. Most of the painting is done. Flooring is done. I’m waiting on an appliance guy to install our new Range Hood. New blinds are being installed tomorrow afternoon–except for the ones on the French Doors which are on hold until I get them painted. I still have to paint the bathrooms and a bunch of other doors but I’ve been waiting for it to warm up enough so I can open windows and air the place out. Neither Jane nor I like fresh paint smell.
I went to Vegas today to get my eyes checked and found (not at all to my surprise) that my cataracts are growing. Like I had’t noticed the decline in vision acuity. So, I’m biting the bullet and getting my lenses replaced. First surgery is next month and they’ll do the second eye the month after that. Sure would be nice if TS didn’t HTF until after all that’s done.
Now there’s a self improvement investment for you.
Hi Ray, oh how exciting about your home!! This has been a huge project but so worth it!! I had my cataracts done a few years ago. Plus I have Glaucoma, I had to have two operations to relieve the pressure. They put in stents, oh the life of getting older. It is indeed a self-improvement investment!! No one told us what happens when we get older. LOL! They keep a secret! LOL! Linda
Onions are one of my go to items when I cook. I buy onions frequently when Winn Dixie has them buy one get one. It is somewhat of a pain to stand and chop six pounds of yellow or Vidalia onions at a time, but to go to the freezer and grab a bag and “not” have to chop an onion every time I want one is a blessing. Guesstimate is I get about 19 cups of chopped onions. I do the same with green onions since they go bad so quickly and I love those green scallion tops to stay crunchy.
HI Carolyn, I love freezing regular onions but never thought to freeze the green onion scallions!! Love this, Linda
Linda,
One final word on this article. M&M’s rock, and I do the same thing with both plain and peanut varieties.
This unseasonable, (for us in AZ) cold is stunting the plants I started in my open-to-the-weather-on-one-side greenhouse room. Even using a heat lamp isn’t helping–and it’s also delayed me getting more baby chicks as they MUST be kept warm.
On the other hand, by fruit trees are all breaking bud. Hope it’s not too early with this cold.
HI Ray, I know, right, this weather is crazy! I can’t even use the USDA Zone planting list anymore for planting, the weather is off the charts! OH, I hope your trees keep up this good work, and you can get some chicks! Linda
Hi, Chris from Western New York! Guess what? We almost moved to E. Aurora a few decades ago, and unbeknownst to us, we would have moved to the CENTER OF ALL THE WESTERN NY snow and ice! Thank God we decided to stay put over here in Central New York, 20 mins. north of Geneva, NY. It is so lovely over here, and with snow but not like you all get out near Niagara Falls/Buf. area! We really have it good over here, honestly! We have our own mini-orchard, and many superfood berry bushes, including aronia berries on top of LOADS of blueberries, purple raspberries (YUM!!) and giant blackberries to boo, along with rhubarb, asparagus, etc. We do get snow and ice, but not bad at all most years. Of course, you have to take into account that when we were first married almost 42 years ago, we lived in Antartica…..uhmmmm, I mean in Minnesota!!! ANYTHING we’ve ever seen over here has been down right TROPICAL next to -40 with -60 wind chill temps. We are so fortunate to live within short distance of so many orchards, including several ORGANIC farms and orchards!!! I’d just about bet that out where you are located, you can still find many Amish and Mennonite stores to purchase prepper supplies from, too.. We wish you well out in the snowiest part of New York and we are glad, so very glad we stayed near the Fingerlakes, where the weather is kinder and the farms and vineyards are PLENTIFUL!! Best to you, though. I learned to drive on snow and ice up in the foothills of the Adirondacks, so it does not bother me as much as some people, but we DO ALWAYS have the best snow tires we can get on our vehicles!!! Happy March. Time to start those seedlings for next May’s garden!!
Hi Jess, I love your comment!! Love it!! Linda
Another thought for those afraid of driving in snow. When I was young, the adults trying to teach us to drive in winter weather conditions would always take us out to a large empty parking lot and we would practice steering into a circle or a loop and slamming on the brakes versus pumping the brakes or handling them semi-softly, to understand and learn what the car would do under those conditions. One of the worst things you can do is slam on the brakes in fear! That will only make you slide into something OR slide off the road! We would practice these manuevers several times over a few weeks, until we figured out what worked best for handling a vehicle in snow or ice. Sometimes you even have to steer into the slide and then steer back the other direction when things start to get more manageable!! The best advice is really to SLOW DOWN and don’t freak out by slamming on brakes. AND if you are going down a hill and lose control of your vehicle in a “slide”, the local police say to take the car out of gear and just steer it where you want to go. If you leave it in gear, then the car’s engine will continue to push you forward too fast for that kind of condition, so take it out of gear and let the momentum take you forward more slowly. You can use your brakes like that, too, but NOT TOO HARD!! I Always SLOW DOWN AND DON’T FREAK or SLAM ON THE BRAKES IN SNOW OR ICY CONDITIONS!! Same for when you see critters (including deer) on a snowy road! Really, I am unsure this is as clear to anyone else as it is to me, but I certainly hope it will help someone who is terrified of driving in snow. Maybe do a Google Search for how to drive in snowy condtiions? FOR ICE, same but stay home if you can until things start to melt.
ALSO, if you get stuck somewhere, where you cannot get traction to get out of a ditch or snowbank, or something like that, we northerners know to carry in the trunk some old carpet samples or metal grids to put under the rear tires, so you can back up. Some people keep bags of sand in their trunks for the winter, but I’ve always found the little samples of carpet work like a dream and don’t mess with your gas mileage nor fill up your trunk. All you need is a little traction, and you usually can get out of that predicament, as long as you stay calm and go MEDIUM-SLOWLY! Gee, I do realize this is about food storage, of which we do plenty, but I hope you will not mind a northerner’s advice on how to survive winter driving! Hope this helps someone!!
HI Jess, oh I LOVE LOVE LOVE this comment. Everyone needs to take notes on this comment! People drive way too fast here or at least many do when flashing signs everywhere are saying slow down. Great tips!! Linda
There is also the fact that you can put a small shovel with folding handle in your trunk for getting out of snowbanks, along with the carpet samples….OR putting the car into a lower gear, though the local police say to take it OUT of gear totally if sliding down a hill out of control. That way you get zero engine power “propelling” you forward. 🙂
We just drove to 1/2 hr.+ outside of NYC this past weekend. That’s a 5 1/2 hr. trip in what was predicted to be snowy and icey conditions. They had predicted “maybe dangerous conditions”, but we wanted to visit our kids who just moved down there in December. SO…..out came the sleeping bags just in case of being stranded and a little extra food and water, just in case. I brought some Long Johns and some snow boots (plus gloves), too, to put on if there were an emergency. Temps were in the high 20’s when we left to go south. A thermos containing a hot drink is also recommended.
Like often happens, the weather was FINE, as opposed to the scare tactics used by the weathermen! IF we’d had lost power or seen ice on the trees and roads, we would have stayed home to be safe. We had icing the night before, but it was not on the roads anymore by the time we needed to leave. We had alerted our “kids” that if the weather was dangerous for real, we would reschedule and stay home to keep watch on our freezer and pipes, in case of lost power. We did have a deer jump out in front of us only 15 mins. from home on our return, and my husband was quick to SLAM ON THE BRAKES, but there was zero snow on the road, thankfully! Thus, all is well that ends well…
I told my doctor’s nurse yesterday about the comments on driving in snow and ice I left for you all. She replied “Yup, that’s about all, isn’t it?…Oh, YEAH! We were ALL taken out to an empty (large) parking lot as young drivers to learn how to do ‘wheelies’ in the snow or on ice, weren’t we?”
HI Jess, oh, the deer here in Utah scare me when I see them close to the side of the freeways. I’m glad your husband saw the deer in time and the roads were not icy. You certainly were prepared in case you got stuck somewhere, I applaud you! Great comment! Linda
And make SURE if you land in a snowbank, to check to see your exhaust pipe is not clogged with snow! If it is, you could risk getting “gassed”by trying to keep yourself warm with the car heater, and you DON’T WANT THAT!
SORRY, this winter driving stuff seems to go on and on. I’ll quit now! Best of luck to you all! Joyce E. Stotts from the beautiful Fingerlakes Region of NYS! Have a good winter, now…
JESS
HI Jess/Joyce, we have so many accidents in the icy snowy weather, we can use more tips like you are sharing! I LOVE them! Linda
A number of years ago, I was driving on the 65 mph. NYS Thruway, going to a class for our 2-yr. course in Botanical Medicine. The speed limit was 65 and many people often (in good weather) take that up to 75 mph.! I ended up getting there only 5 mins. late by driving 38 mph!! So, when I say in dangerous conditions, you MUST slow down, I mean SLOW DOWN!! YES, the 38 mph. was also scarey, cause there were plenty of other people driving like crazy around me. BUT, I made it there and back safely while many of them were smashed up along the sides of the road with few emergency workers coming to help under those conditions! So, slow down means SLOW DOWN until you can feel that the tires are not slipping on the pavement! O.K. I really am done now! 🙂
You just need to turn on your flashers when driving that slowly, that’s all. Sorry, I forgot to add that!
Hi Jess, yes, flashers work great to warn others. Thank you, Linda
HI Jess, see, slowing down does payoff! You made it safe and sound. Love it! Linda
Linda,
As always I love your what to buy articles. While reading your post I saw today (3/3/24) is Peach Blossom Day which is appropriate since all of my fruit trees are in bloom.
The tomatoes I started in January inside in my mini-greenhouse are now two feet tall and I’m starting to harden them off. I also started broccoli, cabbage and cucumbers inside, though not until February, and they are progressing nicely. In about two weeks I’ll be transplanting the varieties I started inside.
Meanwhile I’m starting melons and squash in the mini-greenhouse.
Outside in my raised beds Broccoli, cabbage, chard, carrots and peas are up and thriving.
HI Ray, man, you have the best life other than the bad shoulder! I love hearing about your gardening, but you know that by now!! Love this, Linda
Hi, Linda et al.: Well, we are back from Uganda now, and I was trying to catch up on what the prophets have been talking about, plus what Bo Polly has suggested will happen in the next 60-90 days with our money. My suggestion is set aside some money to buy ANYTHING you don’t have enough of, because according to multiple sources, the BRICS are going to take down the US dollar soon and people will become SCARED when their world goes Topsy Turvey. On the other hand, I was very blessed to share a message God gave me to take to Uganda for the month of Feb.: NO FEAR! Jesus is enough! If anyone would like a copy of my notes, I can email them to you. Just let me know and give me your email. While in Uganda, at one meeting, one visiting Pastor asked me politely for a copy of the “Message for Uganda” and another told the staff member we went there with that he was co-opting my message because it was from God and he wanted to preach it (so it didn’t belong to me!). WOW! Actually, I believe that message is for everyone right now, and not just for Uganda, but the Ugandans were very open and very thankful for the encouragement. Gotta go feed my sick husband now. We both came home with a nasty virus caught from a 3 year old who had not idea what “preventing the spread” means!!
On the other hand, at one Bishop’s home, we were greeted by the teen dance team giving us the Ugandan National Tribute dance/song RESERVEDC for theIR PRESIDENT!!! HOLY SMOKES!!
Best with hugs for all,
JESS
Hi Joyce, please send me a copy, foodstoragemoms@yahoo.com
Wow, what a wonderful experience. What a blessing for involved. Hopefully, the nasty virus you picked up with clear up soon!! Hugs and love, Linda
OH, of course, stupid auto correct changed my “sick husband” to sucky husband! STUPID SPELL CHECK!!
JESS
Hi Joyce, I just fixed the spell check, all is well except your sick husband! Linda
Linda –
I always read these “What to Stock Up On” posts but find that so many things on the list are things I don’t need!! For example, I have plenty of clothes, my mattress is not about to wear out, etc. Since I always try to stay stocked up on food, water, and other essentials, I don’t think about these things often. If I see something on-sale that I want, and if it fits my budget, I purchase it.
I have found that I rarely use a whole onion when I make soups/stews or other recipes, I chop a whole onion and freeze the leftover. I do the same with other veggies like carrots, bell peppers, and the like.
Something that I have switched to is instant coffee. The pods for my Keurig coffee maker were: too expensive, too wasteful and frankly, not as tasty anymore. I tried grinding my own coffee but that was such a pain in the mornings for my 1 cup of coffee!!! So I tried a few instant coffees and found one I like. I was getting it at the local grocery store but found it less expensive through Amazon! I personally want to stop using Amazon but, MONEY TALKS. If I can save $4.00 on two jars of coffee through Amazon, I must do that! Now I use the Subscribe and Save option and have it automatically shipped every 2 months. (Just checked and now I am saving almost $8 over the price at the local store!!
I love the Tupperware citrus peeler!! I have 4 or 5 (Tupperware and Pampered Chef). I remember going to Tupperware parties and those things were given out as door prizes!! The Tupperware ones are far superior for peeling citrus. The advantage of the Pampered Chef ones is that those have a zester on them as well. BUT, PC peeler thing tends, after time, to lose its ability to bite into the peel – the tip bends and it is then pretty worthless as a peeler!!
Hi Leanne, I should do that subscribe and save on my instant coffee, great idea. I only have the Tupperware orange peeler, it’s awesome. I had to stop the Keurig it was too expensive for me as well. It’s good for those that need a reminder to stock up on each month. I agree, we have most everything we need. I did need to buy a new mattress when we moved here, but it was on sale. Money talks is so right, Linda
Here we are one year later than when I posted about our trip to and the message for Uganda.
That message is still valid. FEAR NOT! No matter what the Deep State throws at us, we are protected by the Lord God Himself, if we are part of the blood covenant promised through his son (Y’shua). I am so grateful!!
Almost no more room to store anything more, except that I continue to buy a few Silver Eagle Coins 99.99% pure whenever I have the money. Just bought 1 small gold coin, too, but doubt that will happen very often. They are just TOO DARNED EXPENSIVE! I did invest in Zion Oil & Gas in Israel, though, as I heard FOUR prophets and preachers speak about that option in only 1 week! You can go to Zionoil.com to get in on the cheap stock prices right now with no fees and a guarantee to be able to buy more stock from them at a cheap price in the future. However, this special event to get into their stocks cheaply that they are hosting ends by the end of this week/this month, so if you are interested, TODAY is the day to still get in on it! I am NOT a financial advisor or anything like that, but I did contact my financial advisor before buying stock from Zion Oil & Gas, and he told me they have started drilling in an area with water and that the water contains significant amts. of hydrocarbons, which is a sign that there is oil in that area…plus there’s another big oil well not far from where they are drilling. So that means, it might be worth the risk to get in on this investment while you still can. NO, I am not a stock broker nor a financial anything, so you do what YOU think is good for you and yours!!
Hi Jess, that was a great trip to Uganda!! Yeah, I won’t be able to invest in anything right now. I’m excited for you. Food is the only thing I can invest in right now. Linda