Signed up for Bushclass USA

I just signed up for Bushclass USA on the BushcraftUSA forums.  I am very excited to start the basic course work.  The instruction is from people with real world experience.  The courses were designed by a retired qualified Air Force SERE instructor.  I will be posting videos to YouTube for purposes of certification as well as documenting with photos and journal via this blog. Stay tuned for all the updates.

2011 Prepping Goals - the year in review.

So after a long time away from blogging I am back to give an update on my progress towards my 2011 GOALS.  Here we go.

1. build a Go-BAG for all members of my immediate family - Basics are done, but constantly revising and improving.  I also added one for the primary BOV (my 4X4), and I am currently working on one for the backup BOV (wife's mini-van).
2. purchase at least $30 worth of preps each pay period - This was difficult to get past the wife on many occasions but as winter started to set in and as the outlook for the economy did not improve we have been getting things saved up pretty well.  We started with getting the cupboards full first, and are working on more long term and sustainable food, fuel and water options.
3. get first aid certified (completed)
4. get CPR/AED certified (completed)
5. take at least one training course per month (good so far) - I have completed more courses from FEMA as I had shown you via previous posts, but I discontinued posting the certificates as I did not feel it was necessary.  I also supplemented my training by following some courses from various bush craft sites.  They are not accredited but the classes are great.  I also began individual study of knots and rope skills.
6. exercise at least 3 times per week- I was going strong on this one for most of the time away.  There was a time when I was not able to get in as much time as I wanted to due to illness and work schedules.  However, I have maintained a healthier diet and I do get in cardiovascular exercise at least 3 - 5 times a week.  I am also working on Cross fit like exercises (not as intense) because I have limited space, time and attention span when it comes to fitness.
7. practice a skill at least once per week - I have been practicing knot tying and rope skills (lashing, whipping) along with some remedial wood working.  I also have been working on fire building and leather working off and on.  I know I still need to work on stitching and darning skills.
8. gather resources when available
9. work to pay off debt - I did pay off a 2 loans at the end of the year and with some of the savings I was able to begin paying off other debt faster.  This snowball affect will only compound as I make more payoffs.  I am using the extra money saved each pay period to purchase essentials and pay for classes and training.
10. get my family involved in prepping- my wife has started making more meals at home using long term preps for meals.  She is also doing sewing and quilting and more craft work.  She is involved in all the purchases as well as interested in taking some of the training.  This is a big step for her and I am very proud that she is willing to take it.  My daughter is always with me and I have taught her many of the skills I have learned and I involve her in the preparations as well.  She is all for it.  I think she sees that it makes sense to be prepared.