Pepper, the Highlander & the Dead Guy

“Shelf-space is so important to a prepper as are these can dispensers like the type you see in stores, where you slide one can out and the next one falls into place,” I said demonstrating. “It allows you to keep your dated cans in order so you use those that will expire before the others. You can find the can dispensers just about anywhere and, in any size, but as always you’ll find links on my website to a few places.”

I continued on, pointing out how organization with one’s stock is essential for a prepper.

I grabbed my clipboard that hung off one of the shelves. “Keep a list of your stock and when you use something cross it off the list, so you have updated information on what you have and what you’ll need. You might be curious as to why I use pen and paper instead of a tablet to keep my list. I always remind everyone that pen, and paper is always there, not so the Internet and electricity. I do, however, also keep a copy on my tablet.”

I moved on to the section where I keep my dry food. “I like putting my flour, cornmeal, rice, and such in clear containers. It makes for easy carry and use in the kitchen. I mark expiration dates on each and any directions that I might require.”

I finished at my meal basket shelf. “Pre-prepared meal baskets are the best.” I picked one up to demonstrate. “Grab a box of pasta of your choice, I have rotini here, a can of artichokes, a small can of black olives, an onion, and don’t forget your spices.” I reached in the basket and held up a small container of pre-prepared mixed spices. “I chose Italian spices for this meal. Put it all in a basket or container, whatever works for you. I use regular baskets.” I pointed to the empty stack on the top shelf. “And add it to your prepared meal shelf.” I placed the basket back with the others and pointed to the bottom shelf. “Keep your portable, propane, two-burner stove, and a propane container where you can easily get to it. Now you have the makings for a quick meal and the stove to cook it on if all other means have failed. Now it’s your turn. Share some quick meal basket suggestions in the comment section and I’ll get them together in one document and ready for you to download.”

I finished with my usual line. “Now you’re prepped and prepared. Until next time, this is Pepper the Prepper wishing you a great day.”

I found myself hungry after all that talk of food. Besides it was almost two and I hadn’t eaten since a light breakfast hours earlier.

Mo and Roxie came running as soon as I opened the container of shredded roasted chicken I had cooked. They love roasted chicken. I like to keep some on hand since it makes a quick and delicious meal. I fixed them each a bowl or they’d never let me eat in peace and was about to grab lettuce from the fridge when Mo started barking.

Someone was here that he didn’t know.

Instinct had me grabbing my phone and I realized I’d missed a call from Ian. I hit return call as I opened the door.

“I have a proposition for you, my dear, that will make you wealthy,” Martin Sands said and rushed inside.

Mo was by my side in an instant staring up at the grinning man, letting loose with a low rumbling growl. Roxie joined him as well, licking her paw and showing her claws.

Martin sneezed, an awful pretend sneeze.

“I’m allergic, please put them away,” he said.

“Neither will leave my side when a stranger enters my home uninvited,” I said. “Stay where you are so Mo doesn’t attack you, though Roxie’s claws can leave some painful slices.”

Martin actually paled.

“Are you there?” I said into the phone.

“I’m on my way,” Ian said. “Keep Mo by you and don’t hang up.”

“Will do,” I said and looked at Martin. “If this is about selling my property, you’re wasting your time.”

“And your wasting millions by not investing in a sure deal. You could have a beautiful condo or townhouse looking over the lake with no cost to you and money in the bank from the sale.”

“I can look over the lake anytime I want and without a bunch of strangers around me. I am not now, nor will I ever be interested in selling my property, Mr. Sands. Now leave.”

“If you give me a few minutes, I’ll have you changing your mind,” he cajoled, with an underlying look of annoyance.

“Did you not understand what I said?” I asked and heard a vehicle pull to a stop.

“I’m sure I can convince you—”

“Enough,” Ian shouted, appearing at the open door.

Martin Sands turned ready to work his wiles.