I am so glad you asked me to read this post. Very well organised and written.
A few small suggestions:
The sewing machine and threads are an excellent investment, but do try to buy a few sets of needles. I'm old enough to have used these sowing machines and the problem was in buying needles - different thickness etc.
Also, since you have kids and have to think ahead. Buy at some 2nd hand bookshop a set or two of encyclopaedias (it does not matter if they are a decade or two old). Also any other reference books that could help the future start again. Having them on CD etc is not much good if things come crashing down.
Do you remember (or are you too young) the days of small wounds being washed and painted with iodine? (A solution of iodine in ethyl alcohol; applied topically to wounds as an antiseptic) You can still buy it. What if you have to perform some minor surgery? You'll need something to keep the wound protected.
A couple of torches with hand winding system for charging...you might need to dash off into the hills during night.
I'm guessing you already having the basics, like axes...
Endless lists...but even having what you can get increases the chances of survival.
Hmmm, you mentioned chickens. Why not some geese? They are tasty, lay eggs and are marvellous (and fearless) 'guard-dogs'
ciao
:)
Hey Arthur. Am grateful to you for the idea to buy denim and also to contact local farmers for their non GMO seed stocks.
Sabrina & I already have a good selection of sewing needles in our personal kits. I am also pretty good at knitting, which will come in handy in an ice age!
The hunt is on for decent encyclopaedias covering a wide range of topics.
Iodine is in our med kit already, along with a HUGE bag of homeopathy. And yes, I do remember the days when wounds were cleaned with it ;)
Am hoping I don't have to perform any minor surgeries but willing to try and will make sure one of our encyclopaedias covers basic procedures.
I have some super efficient solar torches already. Even a cloudy day will charge them.
Geese are another good idea! Though I think the guarding will be done by actual dogs. There are some amazing local breeds perfect for looking after the animals and home.
Feels like a great big adventure ahead of us!
Thanks. Because your kids are small, which means their smaller body mass makes them vulnerable to extreme cold. I was wondering whether lining leather with denim (for trousers and jacket, would not provide better insulation, while avoiding the leather being against skin - plus absorbing sweat etc. The denim could be attached with clips so that it can easily be removed and washed.
Also, if you are going to be recording for all, the history of such days, you'll need a good supply of extra memory, since I doubt the cloud will be available.
I look forward to hearing what other ideas you come up with - plus I'll be checking your other posts.