peace of min

Peace of Mind as a Parent! This Kids Watch does it All!!

I recently found the TickTalk 5 Kids Smartwatch, and honestly — this is one of the best things I’ve ever bought for peace of mind as a parent. 🙌🏽

It’s not just a watch — it’s a full 4G smartwatch with video calling, messaging, GPS tracking, and built-in parental controls. My favorite part? I can actually see and talk to my child anytime, without giving them a phone. The video quality is clear, the battery lasts all day, and the setup was super easy right out of the box.

If your little one is starting to explore more independence but you still want to keep that connection — this is the perfect balance of safety and freedom. 💛

Get Your Peace of Mind Here!

The $10 Corn Peeler That Makes cooking in a small space so much easier.

Lets be real, the corn off the cob taste extremely better than corn from a can. I just bought this corn peeler to save money and buy corn off the cob to save money i didn’t realize it is making my food taste so much better. The frozen corn is just corn off the cob then they hike up the price. In today’s time, we need all the money we can save so peeling your own corn off the cob is way cheaper. Corn on the cob is cheaper as well the average price is 4 cob’s for around 4 dollars. When your cooking for your family the last thing you want to do is wrestle with scaping kernels off by hand. This is what i just came across and used. I can’t believe i lived without this for so long.

This 2 piece Stainless Steel corn peeler comes in. Weather your making taco’s (on Tuesdays),or making a quick salad, this little gadget saves you time, money, energy, and frustration.

This Corn Peeler Does it all!

This 2 pcs Corn Peeler/Corn Stripper Tool is made from durable steel with ergonomic handle which means it’s built to last and comfortable to hold. Each peeler fits perfectly in your hand, helping you strip corn kernels in seconds. This is not your average gadget, its a must-have tool for moms, and anyone who wants quick, clean, efficient corn off the cob.

🔑Key Features

  • Stainless Steel Blades: Sharp enough to out cut through cooked or raw corn smoothly
  • Ergonomic Handle: Comfortable grip for long use-no sore hands or wrist strain.
  • Mess-Free Design: Keeps kernels from flying everywhere.
  • Easy to clean: rinse and go. No complicated parts or attachments
  • Compact and portable: Fits easily in small kitchen drawers for you cooking kit.
  • keep kids safe while involved in cooking (with supervising).

Ready to Upgrade your kitchen?

Grab your 2pcs Corn Peelers, Corn Stripper tool here on Amazon.

This post contains affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, i may earn commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my links. I only recommend products that i personally belive in or would use myself .

How typhoons in China impact U.S. food prices, supply chains, and water use — plus smart preparedness tips and gear to stay ready.

Typhoon Ragasa Slams Southern China After Leaving Trail of Destruction in the Philippines and Taiwan

Southern China came to a standstill this week as Super Typhoon Ragasa, one of the strongest storms in years, roared ashore. Schools, businesses, and airports across Hong Kong, Macao, and Guangdong province shut down as nearly two million people were evacuated ahead of the storm’s landfall2.

🇵🇭 The Philippines: First in the Storm’s Path

Before reaching China, Ragasa tore through the northern Philippines, unleashing torrential rains and landslides. At least 10 people were killed, including fishermen caught at sea, while more than 25,000 residents sought shelter in emergency centers. Flooding and landslides displaced thousands, leaving communities struggling to recover.

🇹🇼 Taiwan: A Natural Dam Collapse Turns Deadly

In Taiwan, the storm’s rains triggered a catastrophic collapse of a natural dam in Hualien County, unleashing 68 million tons of water into nearby towns. At least 15 people died, dozens were injured, and rescuers continue searching for the missing. Bridges were washed away, homes were inundated, and entire neighborhoods were forced to higher ground.

🇨🇳 Southern China: Cities on Lockdown

CNN Reports By the time Ragasa reached southern China, it was packing winds of up to 150 mph (241 kph) — the strongest ever recorded in parts of Guangdong.

  • Hong Kong: Waves taller than lampposts battered promenades, flooding hotels and restaurants. Hundreds of trees were toppled, and more than 80 people were injured.
  • Macao: Streets turned into rivers, forcing rescue crews to use inflatable boats. Power was cut in low-lying areas to prevent electrocution.
  • Guangdong Province: Nearly 1.9 million people were relocated, and coastal cities like Zhuhai and Shenzhen saw massive waves and widespread flooding.

🌍 Why This Storm Matters Globally

Typhoon Ragasa isn’t just a regional disaster — it’s a reminder of how climate change is fueling stronger, less predictable storms. The storm also disrupted global supply chains, with factories in Shenzhen — including Foxconn, Apple’s largest supplier — forced to halt production. That means ripple effects could be felt in everything from electronics to food prices worldwide.

🛒 Preparedness Gear That Makes a Difference

When storms like Ragasa hit, supply chains falter and essentials can become scarce. Southern China, Hong Kong, and Taiwan are major hubs for food, electronics and other essentials. If ports are closed or damaged, U.S. companies (and consumers) can see delays (we don’t really know how long) in shipments and higher prices. Please get prepared now! Having reliable food and water solutions at home is one way to stay ready. Here are some highly rated options available on Amazon:

ProductBest ForKey FeaturesLink
Augason Farms 1-Week Emergency Food Supply KitBudget-friendly starter kit78 servings, 25-year shelf lifeView on Amazon
Augason Farms Deluxe 30-Day Emergency Food SupplyLong-term storage37,080 calories, 11 meal varietiesView on Amazon
4Patriots 1-Year Survival Food KitSerious preppers2,752 servings, 25-year shelf lifeView on Amazon
GE Whole House Water Filtration SystemSmart monitoringWiFi alerts, remote shutoffView on Amazon
Waterdrop Whole House Water Filter SystemAffordable 5-stage filtrationRemoves iron, lead, chlorineView on Amazon
iSpring 3-Stage Whole House Water FilterHeavy-duty filtration150,000-gallon capacityView on Amazon

Don’t forget about:


Portable Power Station (111Wh)

Lightweight (2.3 lbs) and compact, this portable generator delivers up to 80W (120W peak) with 8 output ports, including AC, USB, USB-C, and DC. It can charge phones (6+ times), tablets (3+), laptops (2+), cameras (10+), and even run small devices like fans, mini fridges, or CPAP machines. Recharge via wall outlet or solar panels (not included). Built-in LED flashlight with SOS mode makes it perfect for camping, emergencies, and home backup.

👉 Check the latest price on Amazon


Would you like me to also create a one-sentence version you can use as a quick affiliate blurb inside other blog posts?

✅ Final Thoughts

From the Philippines to Taiwan to China, Typhoon Ragasa has left a trail of destruction that will take months — if not years — to recover from. For those of us watching from afar, it’s a stark reminder of how fragile global systems are in the face of extreme weather. Whether it’s food, water, or technology, the ripple effects of storms like Ragasa reach far beyond the coastline.

Did i miss anything? Leave a comment so others can see so we can all be prepared.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally believe are useful for emergency preparedness and family safety.

The Truth: They want us unprepared!! When the Lights go Out A Mother’s Honest talk about Preparing for Blackouts with Kids.

Here’s the part most people don’t want to say outloud, The ‘government isn’t going to come running right away! In fact, i honestly think they’re trying to catch us off guard.

Blackout’s food shortages, sudden emergencies, when it happens, everyday families like mines and yours are the ones left struggling. Thats why it feels so important to me as a mom that we need to take preparation into our own hands.

When the lights go out, you don’t want to be waiting on “help”. You want to already have what your children need right inside your apartment.

Let me tell you what happened to me one day.

Last winter, i had just picked up the kids from daycare after a long day of work. i prepped dinner early that morning so i didn’t have to do much except put the meat in the oven and make some quick sides. The children was playing in their rooms i heard a loud electricity sound like something had just got shocked. I grabbed the flashlight i keep in the corner of my counter and went to the kids room. They was on the floor crying i grabbed them, sat them on the couch with a tablet, grabbed some snacks and blankets ( it was cold outside) and waited on my husband to get home. My husband came home and made P&J sandwiches with chips and that was dinner. We all fell asleep on the couch. We stayed home the next day from work the daycare had no power. later on that evening the lights came back on. The power went out in our apartment for almost 12 hours. I’ll be honest, it shook me. As a mom with little ones, nothing feels scarier than not knowing how to keep them safe, comfortable, and calm in the dark.

That night, I had two toddlers curled up in my lap asking ” mommy when will the lights come back on”? I didn’t have the answer for them but what i did have was a small flashlight, some extra blankets, and a lot of snacks with prayers.

That experience changed me. I realized that even as a renter in a small apartment, i could and should be prepared. Since then, I’ve started building a simple blackout kit that dosen’t take up much space but gives me peace of mind for my family.

My Blackout Kit for my apartment.

These emergency essentials for families that i personally keep on hand:

  • Portable Power Bank– a lifesaver when you need to charge phones or tablets to keep kids entertained.

Why Mom’s Should Prepare

Prepping isn’t about being scared- its about being ready. In a small apartment or rental, spaces, we don’t always have the luxury of storage or backup power. However even a few smart purchases can make a huge difference.

When your Prepared:

  • Kids stay calmer.
  • You feel more in control
  • The whold family gets through blackouts with less stress.

One Step at a Time

From one mother to another, start small. Add one emergency item at a time. Even just a flashlight and a power bank can change how your family experience the next power outage.

See my suggestions here.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally believe are useful for emergency preparedness and family safety.

Winter Blackouts are coming! 10 Small-Space Hacks to store Emergency Supplies in Your Apartment.

Winter is beautiful-but lets be real, it also brings unexpected storms, freezing temps, and the possibilities of power outages. If your like me, and live in an apartment with children or a small space, you don’t have a basement full of supplies. Thats why prepping smartly-compactly-is a must.

The good news? You dont have to have a bunker to be ready. Just a few well, chosen essentials can make all the difference for your family. If you live in an apartment, you already know space is a luxury. Add kids, pets, into the mix, and suddenly your “emergency stash” feels impossible. But here’s the truth: prepping in small spaces is 100% doable—you just need the right hacks and tools.

Here are 10 Amazon finds that will help you store everything from food to flashlights—without turning your living room into a bunker.


1. Under-Bed Storage Bins 🛏️

That empty space under your bed? Goldmine. Slide in a few clear storage bins and you’ve got room for bottled water, canned food, or first-aid kits.

👉 Shop under-bed storage bins here


2. Over-the-Door Organizers 🚪

Perfect for hygiene kits, flashlights, and even small snack packs for kids. These vertical solutions save tons of closet space.

👉 See over-the-door organizers on Amazon


3. Stackable Pantry Containers 🍝

Rice, beans, pasta—all your blackout-friendly foods—stay fresh and compact in stackable containers. They also make your pantry look organized (a win-win).

👉 Shop stackable pantry containers here


4. Vacuum-Seal Bags for Blankets & Clothes 🧺

Bulky items like extra blankets, winter coats, and baby clothes shrink down flat when you vacuum-seal them. Store them under the couch or bed until needed.

👉 Check out vacuum-seal storage bags here


5. Rolling Utility Carts 🛒

These slim carts fit in tight corners and can hold candles, lanterns, hygiene kits, and snacks. Roll it out when you need it, tuck it away when you don’t.

👉 Shop rolling utility carts here


6. Shelf Risers 📦

Double your space instantly. Great for stacking water bottles, cleaning supplies, or baby wipes without taking up more floor space.

👉 See closet shelf risers on Amazon


7. Multi-Use Ottoman with Storage 🪑

Need extra seating? Hide your prepping stash inside a storage ottoman. Store blankets, non-perishables, or even small solar chargers.

👉 Shop ottomans with hidden storage here


8. Hanging Closet Organizers 👕

These vertical fabric shelves are perfect for organizing food pouches, diapers, or hygiene kits.

👉 Check out hanging closet organizers here


9. Balcony Storage Box 🌆

If you’ve got a balcony, don’t waste it. A waterproof deck box can hold water bottles, propane, or camping gear.

👉 See balcony storage boxes here


10. Wall-Mounted Floating Shelves 📚

When floor space is tight, go up. Store lightweight supplies like flashlights, batteries, or first-aid kits high and out of reach of kids.

👉 Shop floating shelves here


🌟 Final Thoughts

Living in an apartment doesn’t mean you can’t prep—it just means you need to be smart about space. With these 10 Amazon finds, you can stay prepared for blackouts, storms, or emergencies without cluttering your home.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally believe are useful for emergency preparedness and family safety.

Maximize Small Spaces: Emergency Prep Tips

Living in an apartment or small home doesn’t mean you can’t be ready for an emergency. In fact, small space prepping is all about smarter organization. Weather you’re preparing for a blackout, a power outage, or unexpected disruptions, the key is learning how to store emergency supplies without cluttering your living space.

Here are the best small space storage ideas for apartment preppers, urban dwellers, and families with children.

1 Go Vertical With Wall Storage

In apartment prepping, floor space is limited-so think upward.

  • Wall-mount shelves are perfect for storing emergency food, water, and flashlights.
  • Over-the-door organizers hold batteries, first aid supplies, and hygiene items.
  • Pegboards in closets or kitchens let you hang lanterns, extension cords, or hand-crank radios.

2 Use Under -Bed Storage for Emergency Supplies

great to put dry storage under the bed

Small space prepping is about using what you already have. Your bed is prime real estate for hidden storage.

  • Rolling bins can hold bottled water, canned food, or freeze-dried meals.
  • Vacuum-sealed bags reduce bulk and keep supplies protected.
  • For parents, stash kid’s essentials-like diapers, wipes, or snacks-under their beds for easy access during a blackout.

3 Invest in Multipurpose Furniture

Apartment prepping works best when furniture does double duty.

  • Ottomans with storage bins hide blankets, clothing, or first-aid-kits.
  • Coffee tables with drawers are perfect for candles, lighters, and power banks.
  • Bunk Beds with built-in drawers create extra space for families with children.

4 Kitchen Hacks for Urban Prepping

Tiny kitchens can still store plenty of prepping supplies.

  • Cabinet risers instantly double pantry space.
  • Stackable containers organize rice, beans, and pasta while keeping food fresh.
  • Magnetic strips free up drawer space by holding knives and small tools.

5 Optimize Closet Space

Closets are goldmines for hidden prepping storage.

  • Hanging shelves work for blankets, lanterns, and portable stoves.
  • Shoe organizers hold hygiene kits, flashlights, and small tools.
  • Keep a clearly labeled “Grab & Go Bag” in the closet for fast evacuations.

6 Balcony or Outdoor Storage (If allowed)

For city prepping, balconies and patios add extra space.

  • Weatherproof boxes can store water jugs, propane tanks, or blankets.
  • Reserve outdoor storage for bulkier, less fragile items.

7 Use Hidden Nooks and Corners

Every inch counts in small space prepping.

  • Behind couches: flat bins with water or canned goods.
  • Inside unused suitcases: for back up clothes and hygiene kits.
  • Laundry shelves: soap, wipes, and sanitation supplies.

8 Keep it Simple & Rotate Supplies

The best prepping for apartments is quality over quantity. Instead of hoarding, focus on:

  • 2-4 weeks of food and water (FEMA’S recommendation).
  • Multi-use tools that save space.
  • Rotating supplies so nothing goes to waste.

Final Conclusion: Prepping in small spaces isn’t about how much you can store-it’s more about being organized, resourceful, and family-ready. With these storage hacks, even the smallest apartment can be blackout-ready.

What’s the first thing you do when the power goes out? Share in the comments.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally believe are useful for emergency preparedness and family safety.

3 Things to do immediately if the power goes out.

When the power suddenly flickers off and the room goes dark, most people panic. But the first few minutes of a power outage, knowing what to do immediately can make the difference between chaos and calm.

Here are 3 most important power outage survival tips to take away when the power goes out.

1 Secure Light Sources First

Don’t waist time fumbling in the dark. Your first move should be to grab a flashlight, headlight, or battery-powered lantern. Avoid candles if possible, there a fire risk especially with kids or pets.

💡Tip: Keep a flashlight in every major room (especially bedrooms and kitchen) so you never have to search in the dark. This is one of the most overlooked blackout safety tips for families.

Check Your Devices and Save Power

The second step is to protect your communication Tools. Quickly check your phone, portable chargers, and laptop. If your phone is under 50% pit it on low-power mode immediately.

  • Turn off Wi-Fi and Bluetooth to save batteries.
  • Unplug sensitive electronics (TV’s, Gaming systems, computers ) to prevent damage when the power comes back on.
  • Store your portable power bank in your emergency preparedness kit.

💡Parents: Download a movie or offline game before the battery drains-it can keep kids calm during a long blackout.

3 Assess the Situation and Prepare.

Now that you have light and a working phone, find out if it’s just your home or a larger outage.

  • Look outside: Are the streetlights or neighbors homes dark too?
  • Check out map (if you still have internet or cell service).
  • Secure your essentials: Gather water, snacks, and comfort items if you expect a long outage.

💡Apartment Dwellers: Fill your bathtub or sink up with water if you suspect the outage may last-water pumps often fail in extended blackouts. This is one of the most important apartment blackout survival steps many forget.

Final Thoughts

The first 10 minutes of a power outage sets the tone for the entire experience. By following these three immediate steps-secure light, save power and assess the situation- you’ll stay calm, safe, and ready no matter how long the blackout last.

💡Prep Tip: Create a small “Blackout Bag” with flashlights, a portable charger and snacks so you’ll never be unprepared. Check out Blackout Essentials every apartment parent parent should have.

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. This means if you click through and make a purchase, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. I only recommend products I personally believe are useful for emergency preparedness and family safety.

How To Build a $50 Emergency Kit from Dollar Tree

by216GoldGoddess

When disaster strikes, its often without warning- blackouts, storms, water shut off’s or even citywide emergencies. You dont need to spend hundreds to be prepared. In fact, you can create a complete emergency kit for under $50 just by shopping at Dollar Tree.

If you’re a parent, apartment renter, or living in a city where small space is limited, this guide will show you how to get affordable, practical gear without breaking the bank.

Why Dollar Tree is Perfect for Prepping on a Budget.

  • Everything is $1.25 or less (so your $50 budget goes far)
  • No need to hunt for multiple stores-its all in one place.
  • Perfect for small-space storage in apartments.

What to include in Your $50 Dollar Tree Emergency Kit

1.Light & Power

When the light goes out, you need instant light source.

  • LED Flash lights (x2) -$2.50
  • Pack of batteries (AA or AAA, x2) $2.50
  • LED Push Lights (great for hallways or kids rooms) -$2.50

Subtotal: $7.50

2. Water Supply

Water is life-especially during emergencies.

  • Bottled Water (1-Gallon Jugs, x4) -$5.00
  • Collapsible Water Container (for storage) -$1.25

Subtotal: $6.25

3. Non-Perishable Food

Choose items with long shelf life that don’t need cooking

  • Canned Tuna or Chicken (x4)-$5.00
  • Peanut Butter-$1.25
  • Crackers- $1.25
  • Granola Bars (6-pack) -$1.25

Subtotal: $8.75

4 First Aid & Hygiene

Small injuries and hygiene needs can’t be ignored.

  • Basic First Aid Kit-$1.25
  • Bandages (variety pack) $1.25
  • Hand Sanitizer- $1.25
  • Toothbrush & Toothpaste Combo -$1.25
  • Bar Soap (2-pack) $1.25

Subtotal: $7.50

5 Warmth & Protection

Stay warm and safe in the heat of AC fails.

  • Emergency Blankets (x2) -$2.50
  • Ponchos (x2) – $2.50
  • Work Gloves -$1.25

Subtotal: $6.25

6 Tools & Extras

Small tools can make a huge difference.

  • Multi- Tool or Pocket Knife- $1.25
  • Duct Tape- $1.25
  • Whistle (for signaling) -$1.25
  • Notebook & Pen- $1.25

Subtotal: $5.00

Total Spent:

$41.25-leaving you with $8.75 to grab extra batteries, more canned food, or a small storage bin to keep everything together.

How to store your $50 Kit

  • Use a plastic storage tote or backpack for portability.
  • Keep it in an easy-to-reach spot near the exit
  • Check items every 6 months for expired food, batteries and water.

Final Tip

Preparedness isn’t about fear- it’s about peace of mind. A $50 emergency kit from Dollar Tree ensures you and your family are ready for blackouts, storms, or unexpected events without spending a fortune. Start small, and build as you go-your safety is worth it.

5 Blackout Essentials Every Parent that live in an apartment should have

Blackouts in apartments can be stressful- and as a mother with kids, i know it can feel overwhelming with little ones in the mix. From keeping them safe to making sure they stay fed and entertained, parents need a compact, effective prep plan. Here are 5 essential items every parent that live in an apartment should have.

1: Kid friendly Led Lanterns Child-Safe Led Lantern glow in the dark. Candles are to risky with curious hands around. Rechargeable LED lanterns provide safe, long-lasting light and even some double as phone chargers.

💡Parent prep tip: Keep one lantern in your child’s room and one in the living area to reduce fear of the dark.

2: Portable Power bank. A high- capacity power bank keeps phones and tablets running, perfect for keeping kids entertained during a blackout.

💡Parent Prep Tip: Recharge monthly to ensure it’s ready in an emergency.

3: Kid Friendly Food and Water

Pre-Portioned snackes and bottled water for children during a blackout. Stock at least 3 days of water (1 gallon per person/day) and easy-to-prepare, kid friendly foods like cereal bars, canned fruit, and peanut butter.

💡Parent Prep Tip: Pre-Portion snacks into containers – easier for kids to grab and keep things organized.

4: Battery-Powered or Hand-Crank Radio. Stay informed during outages. A battery- powered or hand-crank radio keeps you updated on weather alerts and emergencies.

💡Parent Prep Tip: Radios with built-in flashlights double as night lights for storytelling or comfort.

5: Mini Family Emergency Kit. Family blackout emergency kit with glow sticks, blankets, first aid, and comfort items. Store it in a backpack so kids can help carry it.

💡Parent Prep Tip: Let the kids help organize the kit- it gives them confidence and reduces anxiety during the actual blackout.

Apartment living with kids means prepping smart and compact. With these five essentials, parents can keep their family safe, fed, and calm during any blackout. Start building your kit today- your future (and your children will thank you.