Build Your Own Food Storage Shelves

Many years ago, my dad designed and built several food storage shelves out of wood for small canned goods (soups, fruits, veggies, tuna, etc.).  I just realized he has the plans online.  If you're in the market for food storage shelves and want to try and make them yourself, they are very sturdy!  In the picture, mine are stacked 3 1/2 high (I have a 1/2 shelf in there, too!).

Retaining Heat During an Emergency

I've been wanting to be better prepared in keeping the house warm in case of an emergency.  Our main floor is pretty open with a lot of open doorways, so I've wanted to section off the family room with the fireplace and the kitchen.

I thought it might be smart to buy some foam board and cut it to fit in the doorways.  Shortly after purchasing the foam board, I went to a neighborhood class on emergency light and heat.  The instructors suggested taping those space blankets in your doorways. Duh!  That would have been a lot easier and cheaper than foam board!  Oh well, but I do think these will do a better job.

We had enough for solid pieces in some of the doorways.

But others I had to piece together.  It was easiest to cut with a utility knife like you're cutting sheetrock.

We're storing them in our garage suspended against the wall near the ceiling.