5 Things to Do if the Power Goes Out

During the past few years, there have been quite a few severe thunderstorms, high wind storms (similar to being in a tornado, but not as severe), and blizzards. During some of those weather situations, the power has gone out.

For the future when the power goes out, here are five things that we could do once we have notified the company that provides electricity to the home that we don't have power; and made sure that everyone (family members, pets, and livestock) are safe:

1. Read a book by a battery-operated lantern or outdoors (if the weather is nice). This is a great time to relax and read a book that's been on a "would-like-to-read-but-never-have-enough-time" list.

Sophia reading a book outdoors.

2. Play a board game. If the lantern gives off enough light, playing a game together helps pass the time.

Sophia and Olivia playing Farm-opoly.

3. Do a project that we have been putting off doing. The project could be done individually or one another. Folding clothes, cleaning drawers, coloring, painting, or doing something creative...all are options.

One of the mandalas I colored with 

Prismacolor color pencils.

4. Invite some friends and/or family over for a grilled meal. If the power has been out for quite a while, we might as well use the food that will go to waste if we don't use it.

Olivia grilling some food one afternoon.

5. Go through your home and de-clutter. Get rid of things we no longer need or will use (e.g., food, household goods, clothing). Put them in a bag and get them ready to be donated as soon as weather is better and the power is back on.

A bag filled with items to donate to the food shelf.

Hopefully these ideas have given you some ideas to pass the time when the power goes out. What are some things that you do if the power goes out?