(Mod edit: this is interesting enough that it needs to be a thread of its own. Ever, please edit the subject line if you don't like what I chose. Sheddi.)
We had a bit of a fire in March. Roof. Contractors. No fire damage to residences. However, a lot of water damage on many floors.
To repair all that damage each floor (in turn) tenants will be required to relocate for a minimum of 12-15 days in August, September, maybe October, depending on when they begin and what floor they're on. We can go where we want but those who have no place to go will be housed in a block of reserved Radisson rooms. Once we're out we cannot return for anything until they tell us to come back.
There's some good news and bad news about this.
the Bad:
- Some projections indicate COVID will be peaking during that time. So not a good time for anyone to be living in a corridored motel setup.
- There is excitement here about it being like a staycation with a swimming pool, weight room, free breakfast in a central area. No covid hygiene for them, just play play play. (I have a bad feeling about what they're going to bring back to the building)
- All other meals must be purchased and I don't think that Raddison has a restaurant so I would, what, walk to a restaurant a couple times a day? I have no car. I have no restaurant priced eating $$ either.
- The rooms have a coffee pot, microwave, and tiny fridge. (I'll have to bring microwavable dishes. Plus utensils)
- The rooms are 120 ft².
- I don't have the $$ to tip the housekeepers to stay on their good side and keep them from ratting on me about cooking in the room.
- My preps back in my apartment will be vulnerable to discovery during that time. Workers and management will be in and out at will while repairing. Which totally sucks.
the Good:
- I just learned to cook on my sterno Inferno so I can cook rice, pasta, quinao, lentils, eggs on it. 👍
- My rolling INCH bag is 'built'. All I need do is remove some stuff for room to load it for a two week stay where I have to carry in everything I'll want for a type of two+ week quarantine. Including enough sterno. Or a two week camp-in that has electricity.
- I have one of those close-up cloth rolling shopping carriers I can fill with canned foods, powdered milk, instant potatoes & oatmeal, nuts, basic spices, etc. to sneak in and live on.
- I have a bunch of disposable plastic containers for food storage in the tiny fridge. And paper plates, napkins, paper towels.
- I have plenty of grocery bags to take for the garbage from two weeks of canned foods, paper plates, napkins, paper towels, and stuff each middle of the night because that's when I'm awake.
- I have the box my keyboard came in so it goes with me.
- Those without transportation will be moved by the management vehicles.
To sum it up, I'm going to bug-in in a 120 ft² room for two weeks and try to not get caught playing with my sterno Inferno.
I'd ditch the inferno for this trip. Hotels tend to freak out over guests using open flame cooking apparatus in their rooms.
Get a one burner hot plate.
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-Single-Black-Burner/53264468?wmlspartner=wmtlabs&adid=22222222222000000000&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=e&wl1=o&wl2=c&wl3=10352200394&wl4=pla-1103028060075:aud-807612879&wl5=&wl6=&wl7=&wl10=Walmart&wl11=Online&wl12=53264468_0&wl14=ONE%20BURNER%20HOT%20PLATE&veh=sem&gclid=5e0800c5a09316ebf7e361c61c5ca94a&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=5e0800c5a09316ebf7e361c61c5ca94a
On the plus side you won't be using up your sterno supplies and won"t have to pay the electric bill.
ETA just noticed the WM link shows OOS.
https://www.amazon.com/ESB-300X-Countertop-Portable-Electric-Temperature/dp/B0006A2ZTS/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=one%2Bburner%2Bhot%2Bplate&qid=1627639602&refinements=p_36%3A1253523011&rnid=386465011&s=home-garden&sr=1-1&th=1
Quote from: flybynight on July 30, 2021, 03:57:33 AMI'd ditch the inferno for this trip. Hotels tend to freak out over guests using open flame cooking apparatus in their rooms. Get a one burner hot plate:
https://www.walmart.com/ip/Mainstays-Single-Black-Burner/53264468?wmlspartner=wmtlabs&adid=22222222222000000000&wmlspartner=wmtlabs&wl0=e&wl1=o&wl2=c&wl3=10352200394&wl4=pla-1103028060075:aud-807612879&wl5=&wl6=&wl7=&wl10=Walmart&wl11=Online&wl12=53264468_0&wl14=ONE%20BURNER%20HOT%20PLATE&veh=sem&gclid=5e0800c5a09316ebf7e361c61c5ca94a&gclsrc=3p.ds&msclkid=5e0800c5a09316ebf7e361c61c5ca94a
On the plus side you won't be using up your sterno supplies and won"t have to pay the electric bill.
ETA just noticed the WM link shows OOS.
https://www.amazon.com/ESB-300X-Countertop-Portable-Electric-Temperature/dp/B0006A2ZTS/ref=sr_1_1?dchild=1&keywords=one%2Bburner%2Bhot%2Bplate&qid=1627639602&refinements=p_36%3A1253523011&rnid=386465011&s=home-garden&sr=1-1&th=1
I strongly second the no-open-flames thingy
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five Star feedback and advice
I desire, 'need', and gratefully embrace feedback like this.
I will get the burner and leave the Inferno and sterno at home.
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on July 30, 2021, 06:27:35 PM⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ Five Star feedback and advice
I desire, 'need', and gratefully embrace feedback like this.
I will get the burner and leave the Inferno and sterno at home.
I never needed a large plate myself.
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on July 30, 2021, 03:41:12 AM
We had a bit of a fire in March. Roof. Contractors. No fire damage to residences. However, a lot of water damage on many floors.
To repair all that damage each floor (in turn) tenants will be required to relocate for a minimum of 12-15 days in August, September, maybe October, depending on when they begin and what floor they're on. We can go where we want but those who have no place to go will be housed in a block of reserved Raddison rooms. Once we're out we cannot return for anything until they tell us to come back.
...
To sum it up, I'm going to bug-in in a 120 ft² room for two weeks and try to not get caught playing with my sterno Inferno.
Ever, you got this. There's no-one in your entire apartment block better prepared. It's a two-week mock bugout with A/C and breakfast :D
I'm definitely not a road warrior (do we have any here?) but I've done two weeks in a hotel now and again. It's not difficult but can be boring; I usually catch up with my ebook reading list and watch a lot of Amazon Prime.
I've got a microwave soup bowl like this one on Amazon (https://www.amazon.com/Soup-Bowl-Handle-Vented-Cover/dp/B0742R111Y) although mine came from Poundland (a "dollar store" equivalent). It's big enough for any single meal.
Between that, the inclusive breakfast and the fridge / microwave / coffee machine you should be comfortable enough.
PS if you're feeling adventurous you can cook stuff in a coffee machine (although some hotels have switched to Keurig machines which are a lot less use):
https://www.kitchensanity.com/coffee/cooking-food-in-a-coffee-maker-101/
I don't know if they still make these or not, but awhile back Campbell's made versions of their soups you could make with a Keurig or Keurig type coffee maker.
Basically it was a little K cup with broth you put in a Keurig, put a dry soup mix (the one I most commonly saw was chicken noodle soup, but there were two or three other varieties) in a mug and use the Keurig like you normally would.
The hot water from the Keurig would heat up the broth and then pour into the mug of dry mix. A quick stir and you'd have a hot mug of soup.
I never personally tried them, but that's mostly because I didn't have a Keurig at the time I saw these things on the shelves.
Ever, if you've got a Big Lots or a Dollar Tree nearby, you may see if they've got anything like that. Big Lots seems to be a gold mine for odd or obscure foodstuffs.
At least the ones in my AO are. My best find was some Orange Crush soda flavored Pop Tarts. Had I known these were a limited time thing, I'd have bought every box the store had.
👍 on the suggestions.
Cooking in a coffee pot. She does her pancakes on the coffee pot warmer. LOL
Making soup in a Keurig type coffee maker.
Microwave safe bowls.
Big Lots, Dollarstore, Poundland.
This, as sheddi rightly surmised, is my all-in-one Get Out bag, my I'm Never Coming Home bag, and my Bug-out bag, because the thing is I can't carry much of anything and even my original GO backpack was a school rolling backpack because of the weight which when tested was though lighter in weight was less stable and maneuverable going fast down flights of stairs than this one has turned out to be.
Plus there's a probability there's no vehicle waiting for me to jump into and drive away so I'm on foot when I do 'get out'. And this will stand up to debris and across dirt/grass/rocky areas. Even a rolling piece of backpack luggage wouldn't hold up long with those conditions. It can be broken down into its separate pieces if a ride is found, then reassemble.
So until I get a better idea this is it, my all-in-one on a luggage carrier. Which has a full length bag that fits over it when I get out to mute all details underneath, hopefully to look more like a bag lady than something desirable at first glance. As well as for inclimate weather.
(https://ufozs.com/smf/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=142.0;attach=422;image)
I've now been told there may be a possible time revision as they move repairs down the floors due to less water damage to repair. Top floor has multiple apartments that are having to movr out everything they own before remediation can begin. It's a nightmare for management and tenants alike.
My floor is two below top so management's current thinking is each following floor may go quicker, but to
plan on longer just in case.
We have tenants with family in town who will go there. We have tenants who will be in the Radisson that have cars and $$ who can eat out or order in twice a day.
Tenants with no car but $$ for ordering in.
And tenants with no cars or $$ who are told to brinh everything they can think of they'll need, including all food. Which means me. They have several hundred boxes to use if needed, and they will haul there and back.
But at this point I think I can get everything including canned goods in this updated bug-out set up. Which they will haul there and back.
- The middle red bag is a rolling shopping bag I acquired lightly used some years back, just because it was free. Looked like it could be useful somewhere, sometime.
- The left stack is on a luggage carrier almost identical to mine my own on the right. Which management has loaned me to use during the move from now through return & unpack.
- Each attached piece seen is attached to dolly and each other with 3/4" velcro wraps cut to size, and can be disassembled, removed, replaced, or restructured at will.
And my keyboard in it's original box which someone with a car has offered to transport for me.
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on August 02, 2021, 05:14:23 AM
👍 on the suggestions.
Cooking in a coffee pot. She does her pancakes on the coffee pot warmer. LOL
Making soup in a Keurig type coffee maker.
Microwave safe bowls.
Big Lots, Dollarstore, Poundland.
In all seriousness, let me know if you need help with a menu or suggestions. I've cooked for 1 with no gear in the woods all the way up to 900 on a daily basis in a commercial kitchen. All I need to know is equipement $$ amount and food allergies :smiley_coolpeace:
First things first: What Ever is experiencing is a real bug out. There's nothing "mock" about it. Everyone at some point in their lives will face their own personal disaster, large or small. The idea that one only needs to prep for TEOTWAWKI, or that bugging out must involve an epic overland trek to some remote location, just isn't reality. In fact, it gets in the way of understanding the importance of a BOB, go bag, etc. These kinds of preps aren't just for doomsday scenarios; they're also for the occasional setbacks and challenges we all encounter (AKA: "Life").
Being forced to temporarily abandon your home due to a building fire is absolutely a true, real-life bug out. So, the lessons Ever learns and shares with us about this experience are absolutely legitimate and valuable.
RE: living in a hotel.
Count the number of doors between you and the nearest fire exit. This is something you should do anytime you're staying in a hotel, regardless of the circumstances. In the event of a fire/total power failure, it'll allow you to quickly and reliably locate the way out in low/no-visibility situations.
I know you listed it in the "Bad" section of your original post due to potential COVID exposure, but take advantage of the hotel facilities if you can. As Sheddi pointed out, being holed up in your hotel room can get pretty boring. And spending too much time in your own head is never a good thing during stressful situations. If you can do so safely, use the guest amenities and common areas to keep your morale up. That's important in a disaster situation – it helps you be more emotionally resilient.
In other words, make the best of it. At the very least, it's a break from your routine and you have an enthusiastic and engaged audience for your sit-reps.
RE: money issues.
1) Contact your local office of the American Red Cross. Besides blood drives, helping people displaced by fire and floods is one of the most common things ARC does. They may be able to hook you up with resources including financial assistance.
2) Don't be bashful about grabbing extra food from those hotel breakfasts to stash in your mini fridge. I'm shameless when I stay in a hotel. Fruit, yogurt, juice, those cute single serve cereal bowls and even DIY egg and bacon sandwiches wrapped in a paper napkin have been known to follow me back to my room.
3) It couldn't hurt to reach out to building management and inquire about filing a claim for your extra costs with the contractor's liability insurer. Nothing ventured, nothing gained.
4) When you get a clearer idea of when your floor will be required to vacate, try to suspend some of your home services (cable, internet) while you're staying at the hotel. It might save you a few dollars and help go towards those housekeeping tips.
RE: Leaving your apartment unattended.
If you don't already have a detailed inventory of your household possessions, at least take copious cellphone pictures of every room, corner and closet. If something is disturbed or missing upon your return, that could be evidence of prior ownership.
RE: your rolling bug out bags.
Bloody brilliant, especially rolling luggage carriers with pull-over outer bag/rain cover. Is that a coiled bicycle lock I see on one of your bags? Smart. I want more pictures and an after-action report on how that worked out for you. I know you have mobility issues, but do you plan on using one of them during your hotel bugout to walk to a store for a supply run? FYI: If the mood strikes you, look up the Bug Out Cart thread on the old ZS forums.
RE: Transportation.
You said building management will get you and your bug out kit to/from the hotel. You also mentioned that you know someone with a car who can transport your keyboard. Is this someone who also lives in the building? Whoever they are, nurture that relationship. Now would be a good time to discuss with that person their being your emergency transport should the need arise again. Even if they're cool to the idea of making a firm commitment, it'll put you and your circumstances on their radar in case disaster strikes again.
RE: Hot plate vs Sterno Inferno.
+1 on the hot plate for all the reasons already stated. You've got electricity, take advantage of it. In the spirit of adventurous cooking ideas, do you have a George Foreman Grill? I read a fascinating article once that a large and unexpected market for George Foreman Grills is made up of people who are housing insecure. It's a highly portable way to prepare hot meals without access to a kitchen or even a pot or pan. The article said there's an extensive oral knowledge base out there of gonzo recipes developed specifically for the Foreman grill. Apparently, you can do a lot more with one than make grilled cheese sandwiches. (Although really, who doesn't like a grilled cheese sandwich? Everyone does. That's why it's called 'grilled cheese sandwich') :awesome:
Don't forget the dish washing soap!
Quote from: majorhavoc on August 02, 2021, 07:11:33 PM
Being forced to temporarily abandon your home due to a building fire is absolutely a true, real-life bug out. So, the lessons Ever learns and shares with us about this experience are absolutely legitimate and valuable.
RE: living in a hotel.
Count the number of doors between you and the nearest fire exit.
In the event of a fire/total power failure, it'll allow you to quickly and reliably locate the way out in low/no-visibility situations.
I know you listed it in the "Bad" section of your original post due to potential COVID exposure, but take advantage of the hotel facilities if you can. As Sheddi pointed out, being holed up in your hotel room can get pretty boring. And spending too much time in your own head is never a good thing during stressful situations.
If you can do so safely, use the guest amenities and common areas to keep your morale up. That's important in a disaster situation – it helps you be more emotionally resilient.
In other words, make the best of it. At the very least, it's a break from your routine and you have an enthusiastic and engaged audience for your sit-reps.
Advice heard and taken.
- I will count the number of doors to the nearest exit. I will have a plan. I will have COVID hands and face gear ready to don at first alert, flashlight ready, main bags always ready to zip & run.
- Being imunocompromised and a day sleeper I will request accommodations:
- I will request using the facilities in the middle of the night.
Housekeeping
- I will request all emplyees entering my room to wear a mask.
- I will request enough sheets & pillow cases as well as towels and washcloths to last my stay, in my room from the day I check in.
- I will clean and disinfect my own quarters.
- I will request enough TP & trash bags & soap for my entire stay, in my room the day of my arrival.
- This will reduce housekeeping entrance down twice weekly vacuuming during which I climb back in bed with ear plugs and return to sleep when they shut the door behind them.
- I will invite management to do a twice weekly middle of the night quick inspection wearing a mask if they need that to feel comfortable about me and my housekeeping of their room.
- I will remove my own trash daily... in the middle of the night.
- I will bring used towels, washcloths, and bedding to the desk or wherever they wish me to take it... in the middle of the night.
The housekeeping will help keep me active part of my time so I'm not just sitting, talking, typing, watching TV, or reading.
And I will feel safer in a rampant Delta COVOD situation by not mixing with travelers from who knows where, and most of my floor who think COVID ended last month.
If they allow me to swim in the middle of the night I will!
If they allow me use of the patio fire pit in the middle of the night I will!
If they don't... at least I can say I gave it a shot and this thread will have feedback on the Radisson chain.
hmm...
Have re-thunk using their public pool.
From the CDC:
More than 1 in 5 (21.6%) of American adults do not know swimming while ill with diarrhea can heavily contaminate water in which we swim and make other swimmers sick.
the Mayo Clinic:
Crypto infections can result from ingesting the one-celled parasite; after the parasite has made its way to your intestinal track, it likes to make its home in the walls of your intestines, at which point it begins producing more cells and releasing them into your feces. How exactly does one ingest Cryptosporidium, you ask? Any number of ways, one of which is — you guessed it — swimming in contaminated water and accidentally swallowing it. You can also end up with Crypto in your guts after touching something that's been contaminated and then putting your hand to your mouth. Indeed, the CDC notes that Crypto is particularly tough to eradicate; chlorine doesn't necessarily kill it, and it can survive up to 10 days even in treated water.
Among the many studies on swimming pool water to choose from, so, nah, the swimming pool is not for me at this particular time.
Dang and drat.
Quote from: lurkedthere on August 02, 2021, 09:58:22 PM
Don't forget the dish washing soap!
Good call, lurkedthere! Now on my list
Quote from: SCBrian on August 02, 2021, 12:35:32 PM
In all seriousness, let me know if you need help with a menu or suggestions. I've cooked for 1 with no gear in the woods all the way up to 900 on a daily basis in a commercial kitchen. All I need to know is equipement $$ amount and food allergies :smiley_coolpeace:
Willingly and happily accepted!
I have an offer to take me to the Radisson at 8am to get a look at the fridge and maybe the room. Then I'll get better knowledge about how to set us a cooking and washing station outside of the inclosed toilet area. (with it's aerosoling of flushed matter)
I have a chocolate allergy and the tiniest number of food items I don't like. None of which I will have available anyway. Sugar, both white and brown screw with me so they're off the table. I sweeten with dried fruits or ufiltered honey when necessary. Have to drink lactose free milk and on any given week I will drink a gallon and a half.
At first glance...
Protein will come from canned chicken and salmon. I will also bring quinoa and lentils. And peanut butter.
Carbs will be pastas, white rice, oats, canned sweet & whte potatoes, and instant potatoes. I often eat oatmeal seasoned like potatoes. Or with red pepper.
Veggies for you to choose from will be canned okra, green beans, peas, spinach, asparagus, tomatoes, roasted tomatoes, tomatoes and jalapenos, lima beans, and carrots. Plus dehydrated onions & spinach.
Fruits to choose from are canned peaches & pears, dehydrated apple slices, raisins, dried cranberries & dates.
Nuts to choose from are peanuts, cashews, walnuts, almonds, and pecans.
A little colby cheese and lots of shaker parmesean.
How the fridge/freezer turns out will determine how much milk and frozen scrambled eggs I can bring. I will pack the fridge with lactose free milk if I can and the tiny freezer with frozen srambled eggs. And the scrambled eggs can be part of something else if desired.
I have couscous and instant refried beans.
Canned beans are pinto, northern, black.
My taste in spices leans toward Heavily spiced. Hot is no problem. Heavy curry no problem. Heavy dill, again no problem. Garlic, lay it on. Pepper, red or black, yum. Chili powder, cumin, oregano, salt, no issues there. Odd mixes of herbs and spices are like candy to me so go bold, get as wild as you want.
I use olive oil almost exclusively and very little butter and cheese. (lactose intollerant)
At first lance.
But I do not like licorice in any shape or form.
I'm still debating on my confidence of partaking in the offered breakfast, even to grab and go, because it's a small area, are the cooks gloved and wearing masks? How many people will be there at the same time?
Say, I can probably see it being served when I go to the Radisson in a couple of hours!
I generally eat breakfast around 4pm anyway because I stay up all night now and sleep all day.
Grouped food dishes will generally be easier to cook and clean up in the room I think. As opposed servings of different dishes. But that's just a thought and you might have a better idea.
But I do enjoy breakfast heavy on the protein, lunch heavy on the veggies, and dinner heavy on the starches. But I'm not married to that regime so go for it how You see it. I'm open.
And thank you in advance for any ideas you come up with!
Quote from: sheddi on July 31, 2021, 04:53:50 AM
Ever, you got this. There's no-one in your entire apartment block better prepared.
🆗!
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on August 03, 2021, 06:08:26 AM
I'm still debating on my confidence of partaking in the offered breakfast, even to grab and go, because it's a small area, are the cooks gloved and wearing masks? How many people will be there at the same time?
Generally gloved, yes. Depending on the law in your AO they may be masked as well. I've found the hotels have 'surges' of when people show up... Ask the cook what the best time is to show up if you don't want to deal with a crowd, they will let you know, because they don't want a larger crowd either! :)
I would suggest limiting the amount of Curry/etc used in this situation as it has a ...lingering... effect in an enclosed space, but Garlic and other spices are easy. Do you by chance have any nutritional yeast? Ever do faux Chicken Alfreado? I see you like Cashews, pasta, garlic, chicken... :)
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on August 03, 2021, 06:08:26 AM
And thank you in advance for any ideas you come up with!
No problem. let me know what's available as far as equipment. :) My suggestion off the bat echo's what a few others have said. Take advantage of the breakfast bar, even if it's to load up for later.
Also - Try joining the Radisson Rewards program. I believe it is free, and it's possible (Up to the hotel) you can have your stay there counted for the 'earn free nights'. Makes it extra nice, since you're not paying anyway...
The dorm burner arrived yesterday.
Now, the microwave and burner use different materials to cook in. One of the things I've been mulling over is a pot to port there to use on the burner. I have two, one average size, one really large. gahhh, another thing to bug out with.
Then I thought of my little beat up camp pot. I 'think' there's some caution about thin aluminum pots and electric burners because of the focused hear on metal burners. Correct me if that's wrong.
But I tried it on really low. Then low. Then almost medium. Then medium. Then med high.
Didn't notice a problem with the pan.
Cooked lentils by bringing it to a slow boil, turning off the the burner and letting it sit a couple of hours. Perfectly cooked.
Presumably rice & pasta will be the same. Pasta maybe not as long.
Old camp pot should be fine. Thin aluminum or no, it shouldn't be a problem as long as you have food/liquid in it. It's when it boils dry that the thin metal might pose a problem.
Quote from: majorhavoc on August 02, 2021, 07:18:54 PM
RE: Transportation.
You said building management will get you and your bug out kit to/from the hotel. You also mentioned that you know someone with a car who can transport your keyboard. Is this someone who also lives in the building? Whoever they are, nurture that relationship. Now would be a good time to discuss with that person their being your emergency transport should the need arise again. Even if they're cool to the idea of making a firm commitment, it'll put you and your circumstances on their radar in case disaster strikes again.
Right ho. Measured steps begun.
Have a fun idea for my cutlery. Found my old never used, heavy as..... Ozark Trails folding fork knife spoon + camping cutlery set.
Way too heavy unless car camping or something. But as they will be in a rolling bag this time what the heck, let's test em out. Barely useful set. But they're mine, there here.
(https://th.bing.com/th/id/R.ae14bd6fc628169266956ab964c3bd65?rik=CjG1A1erIzvM5Q&riu=http%3a%2f%2fimg.auctiva.com%2fimgdata%2f2%2f6%2f3%2f6%2f0%2f0%2fwebimg%2f478723712_tp.jpg&ehk=5xXVVoudjDX3TtlfBrkENCpMTqKJMJKyjRWPd6Hrx50%3d&risl=&pid=ImgRaw&r=0)
Plus a pair of stainless stiring/eating sticks I've had since the gods know when that I got who knows where.
(https://m.media-amazon.com/images/I/81HAxkkuCQL._AC_SX425_.jpg)
Urgent call out for suggestions!
The first wave of residents moved into the Radison yesterday.
They are reporting visible parts of the AC and bathroom vents are covered in black dotted mold. Taking a flashlight to see through the AC & bathroom vents, it is fuzzy with obvious growing mold.
The room has no window that opens. The only door opens into the typical narrow hallway the other rooms open into. Radisson employees not observing epidemic contagion mitigation protocols. Out of town guests not seen to be observing mitigation protocols. covid aerosol in poorly ventilated areas like that hallway can stay suspended up to several hours. Multiply that by high day and evening traffic in the hall. Therefore opening to door for fresh(er) air an unsound idea.
Requests to move to non-mold rooms has proven fruitless; each room offered has same mold issue showing.
My management flatly said they can't make Radisson do anything.
Does anyone have ideas for guests attacking the mold themselves?
This pic shows the AC unit. Can this be unplugged, opened, and cleaned with clorax wipes?
(https://media.iceportal.com/102147/photos/61384804_XXL.jpg)
Or any other ideas. At this point thinking out of the box for ideas is welcomed because...
1. I will be over there for my floor's stay in around 2 1/2 weeks.
2. I have respiratory problems. And get headaches from black mold.
3. There will be no help from any PTB.
Nobody's going to help. We/I am on my own.
Edit additional information: It is an LG ac unit
Was waiting for an update on your Radisson bug-out thread, Ever. (Aside: I refuse to call it a mock bug-out b/c as I said previously, there's nothing "mock" about your situation.
Thought #1: this just goes to show that one shouldn't count on an outside entity to solve your problems in any kind of emergency situation. I know that doesn't help you personally, but I'm trying to speak to the larger prepper concern here. Because I bet a lot of people are following this thread.
Thought #2: contact your city and/or possibly county/state health department. Find out who is responsible for inspecting hotels for compliance with health standards and if those standards include black mold mitigation. You may have to wait until you're placed in the hotel before you have legal standing to lodge a complaint/request an emergency inspection.
Thought #3: bring a jug of unscented bleach (a good prepping item to have on hand regardless) and a spray bottle. And a brush of some sort that can get in and around those AC louvers. If all else fails an old toothbrush would probably work, but I bet you can do better than that. Maybe a screwdriver as well to remove the front panels of your AC unit so you can really get in there to disinfect. Give the hotel management one shot to rectify the problem. If they don't assist, and they catch you taking apart your AC unit, dare them to charge you for trying to address an obvious health hazard that they refused to take care of.
I may have other thoughts later, but this will get the ball rolling. We're pulling for you, Ever.
Quote from: majorhavoc on August 24, 2021, 06:09:49 PM
(Aside: I refuse to call it a mock bug-out b/c as I said previously, there's nothing "mock" about your situation.)
Righty-O then, title has been updated to reflect that. And approved from the beginning to do so anyway: "Ever, please edit the subject line if you don't like what I chose. Sheddi."
Quote
Thought #1: this just goes to show that one shouldn't count on an outside entity to solve your problems in any kind of emergency situation. I know that doesn't help you personally, but I'm trying to speak to the larger prepper concern here. Because I bet a lot of people are following this thread.
Thought #2: contact your city and/or possibly county/state health department. Find out who is responsible for inspecting hotels for compliance with health standards and if those standards include black mold mitigation. You may have to wait until you're placed in the hotel before you have legal standing to lodge a complaint/request an emergency inspection.
Thought #3: bring a jug of unscented bleach (a good prepping item to have on hand regardless) and a spray bottle. And a brush of some sort that can get in and around those AC louvers. If all else fails an old toothbrush would probably work, but I bet you can do better than that. Maybe a screwdriver as well to remove the front panels of your AC unit so you can really get in there to disinfect. Give the hotel management one shot to rectify the problem. If they don't assist, and they catch you taking apart your AC unit, dare them to charge you for trying to address an obvious health hazard that they refused to take care of.
I may have other thoughts later, but this will get the ball rolling. We're pulling for you, Ever.
Is unscented bleach regular ole bleach w/o foo foo added scents? Or is it a special no-bleach-smell bleach?
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on August 24, 2021, 09:23:47 PM
Quote from: majorhavoc on August 24, 2021, 06:09:49 PM
Thought #3: bring a jug of unscented bleach (a good prepping item to have on hand regardless) and a spray bottle.
Is unscented bleach regular ole bleach w/o foo foo added scents? Or is it a special no-bleach-smell bleach?
Yeah, it's just regular household bleach, without any added foo foo scent. Good for purifying water, disinfecting clothing/surfaces during pandemics, etc.
An air purifier may not fix the problem, but will do a lot to minimize it. Normally a smaller bedroom size one is in the $50 to $60 dollar range, but they might be hard to find right now with all the forest fires creating smoky conditions everywhere.
Something on par with this one.
https://www.target.com/p/holmes-aer1-desktop-hepa-air-purifier-with-visipure-filter-viewing-window/-/A-14919605#lnk=sametab
Quote from: RoneKiln on August 24, 2021, 10:48:17 PM
An air purifier may not fix the problem, but will do a lot to minimize it. Normally a smaller bedroom size one is in the $50 to $60 dollar range, but they might be hard to find right now with all the forest fires creating smoky conditions everywhere.
Something on par with this one.
https://www.target.com/p/holmes-aer1-desktop-hepa-air-purifier-with-visipure-filter-viewing-window/-/A-14919605#lnk=sametab
I have 3 of those. They seem to work ok in sleeping areas, but I'd want something with much more power if black mold were involved.
In re the HVAC unit. Take photos with your phone. Go down stairs and ask to speak to the manager. Show him/ her the photos. Ask him/her if they would like these photos posted on Tripadvisor as part of a review.
Then say you wanted to know their answer before your meeting with your personal injury attorney to go over the deplorable hygiene in the room and how it has exacerbated your respiratory condition.
Then say the answer is simple ... get an HVAC guy there to clean the unit and he/she will not have to drink from either cup.
If that does not motivate them the post the photos on tripadvisor and make sure they know about it.
Raptor's reply is a good one!
Regarding bleach, if you choose to take matters into your own hands then something like this might help (there should be something similar on the "cleaning" aisle of your supermarket):
https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/264514881
(https://digitalcontent.api.tesco.com/v2/media/ghs/6e843419-09b8-4d3b-9ec5-fa680884d8a7/b79cf16f-e0cc-4161-a710-b353d721495e_156446390.jpeg?h=540&w=540)
QuoteSpecially formulated with a powerful bleach to easily remove even ingrained mould and mildew.
No need to scrub
Contains active bleach
Kills 99.9% of Bacteria & Viruses
Pack size: 750ML
Per 100g product: 2.2g Sodium Hypochlorite, Contains less than 5% of Non-Ionic Surfactants, Parfum: None
Quote from: RoneKiln on August 24, 2021, 10:48:17 PM
An air purifier may not fix the problem, but will do a lot to minimize it. Normally a smaller bedroom size one is in the $50 to $60 dollar range, but they might be hard to find right now with all the forest fires creating smoky conditions everywhere.
Something on par with this one.
https://www.target.com/p/holmes-aer1-desktop-hepa-air-purifier-with-visipure-filter-viewing-window/-/A-14919605#lnk=sametab
Done! Just ordered two. Stats say something like good for 102 ft², room is 120 ft²... so two to err on the side of caution with mold.
Quote from: Raptor on August 25, 2021, 12:12:44 AM
In re the HVAC unit. Take photos with your phone. Go down stairs and ask to speak to the manager. Show him/ her the photos. Ask him/her if they would like these photos posted on Tripadvisor as part of a review.
Then say you wanted to know their answer before your meeting with your personal injury attorney to go over the deplorable hygiene in the room and how it has exacerbated your respiratory condition.
Then say the answer is simple ... get an HVAC guy there to clean the unit and he/she will not have to drink from either cup.
If that does not motivate them the post the photos on tripadvisor and make sure they know about it.
Will do. I anticipate they won't care, so will post them as suggested. Don't know an injury lawyer thou so that'll have to be a bluff.
Quote from: sheddi on August 25, 2021, 12:51:50 AM
Raptor's reply is a good one!
Regarding bleach, if you choose to take matters into your own hands then something like this might help (there should be something similar on the "cleaning" aisle of your supermarket):
https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/264514881
(https://digitalcontent.api.tesco.com/v2/media/ghs/6e843419-09b8-4d3b-9ec5-fa680884d8a7/b79cf16f-e0cc-4161-a710-b353d721495e_156446390.jpeg?h=540&w=540)
QuoteSpecially formulated with a powerful bleach to easily remove even ingrained mould and mildew.
No need to scrub
Contains active bleach
Kills 99.9% of Bacteria & Viruses
Pack size: 750ML
Per 100g product: 2.2g Sodium Hypochlorite, Contains less than 5% of Non-Ionic Surfactants, Parfum: None
Nice. Will see if Dillons carries this, or is this a UK brand I get online?
So that's done & dusted.
Excellent, and I must say Fast work on solving that problem. Thanks bunches, ufozers! I was actually trying to imagine what living in an n95 for my time there would be like.
It is my plan to loan the air purifiers to someone on succeeding each floor below me in their turn.
✔ safer air
✔ single burner to cook on
✔ SCBrian's cooking tips
✔One of the reisdents over there now and I are sharing a King flat sheet as a touchable cover over the people-do-fun-but-yucky-things-on-motel-comfortor/bed spreads.
Quote from: SCBrian on August 03, 2021, 03:56:29 PM
Ask the cook what the best time is to show up if you don't want to deal with a crowd, they will let you know, because they don't want a larger crowd either! :)
Will do?
Quote
I would suggest limiting the amount of Curry/etc used in this situation as it has a ...lingering... effect in an enclosed space, but Garlic and other spices are easy.
Advise taken!
QuoteDo you by chance have any nutritional yeast?
No but I have flax seed. Could that count?
QuoteEver do faux Chicken Alfreado? I see you like Cashews, pasta, garlic, chicken... :)
Have I ever! Okay, no I haven't. Can I do it in one pan or a microwave? Cause I'm up for it.... if I can use cannned chicken.
Quote
My suggestion off the bat echo's what a few others have said. Take advantage of the breakfast bar, even if it's to load up for later.
😷 ummmmm, maybe. 😷 I 'will' check it out though!
Quote
Also - Try joining the Radisson Rewards program. I believe it is free, and it's possible (Up to the hotel) you can have your stay there counted for the 'earn free nights'. Makes it extra nice, since you're not paying anyway...
LOL maybe 😃
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on August 25, 2021, 01:47:21 AM
Quote from: sheddi on August 25, 2021, 12:51:50 AM
Raptor's reply is a good one!
Regarding bleach, if you choose to take matters into your own hands then something like this might help (there should be something similar on the "cleaning" aisle of your supermarket):
https://www.tesco.com/groceries/en-GB/products/264514881
QuoteSpecially formulated with a powerful bleach to easily remove even ingrained mould and mildew.
No need to scrub
Contains active bleach
Kills 99.9% of Bacteria & Viruses
Pack size: 750ML
Per 100g product: 2.2g Sodium Hypochlorite, Contains less than 5% of Non-Ionic Surfactants, Parfum: None
Nice. Will see if Dillons carries this, or is this a UK brand I get online?
Dettol is a UK brand but there's bound to be a US equivalent. Maybe like this (I can't read the label in the picture but it says bleach, and I'm not sure whether "Original" is scented or not):
https://www.dillons.com/p/clorox-cleanup-cleaner-bleach-original-spray-bottle/0004460001204?fulfillment=PICKUP
Ok, quick and dirty.
Planning on a dorm burner, microwave, some bowls, pots, pans...
Some are just thoughts, and basics, some I dropped full recipes in... let me know what you like/dont and I can drop some more. there are some great apps out there for "This is what I have, what can I make?" "Supercook" and "Myfridgefood" are great. Just keep in mine the limited heat sources.
Breakfast
Scrambled Eggs (duh)
Breakfsat in lobby - and leave with full pockets
Breakfast quesadillas (Can you get/eat tortillas?) - So many variations! Chicken, Cheese, Chicken & Cheese, tons of veggies...
Breakfast burritos - Same as above...
Frittata. Microwave - Add some butter to a microwave safe dish. Nuke until melted. Add some Chicken, spinach, garlic, onions, pepper, whatever, etc. Nuke for 1 minute or so. Add lightly beaten eggs (The frozen ones, thawed) some salt. Nuke until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean 2-3 minutes depending on power. Let stand 5 min. Cut, serve, refrigerate.
Fried potatoes... open can, dice into small cubes, fry until GB&D, Add cheese, maybe chicken,
Lunch
Vegetable roll ups/wraps
Tons of salad options especially with the nuts/raisins/cranberries/salmon.
Dinner
Chicken Bog (Onions, carrots, rice, garlic, chicken & (Chick juice/stock if you don't have stock, don't drain the canned chick.) Hint: Add some diced sausage from breakfast!
Chicken and Cheesy pasta.
Chicken/White Chili. Chicken, corn, Northernpeas, chicken broth...
Rice medley - Rice, green beans, corn, cream of (whatever) soup, Chicken...
Chili - Grab beans, diced tom w/chili add spices, top w/ chz...
Cheesy tomato eggs (Microwave) - cooked / reheated rice, diced tomatoes on top, raw egg on top, then cheese on top. Microwave on high 1-3 min or until egg is done.
Shakshuka - In a microwave - Microwave safe bowl, Add: tomato sauce/marinara, chickpeas,(Drained/rinsed) red pepper flakes, salt, mic. Make a depression in center of sauce and crack an egg. Microwave for ~1 minute then cook in 15 second bursts until it's done.
Faux Chicken Alfredo - key is the sauce. cook pasta, add chicken pour sauce over. Sauce needs to be started the day before and will take work without a blender.
Soak 1 cup cashews in water overnight. Drain, rinse.
Mash the hell outta them. mix, mash, repeat. crush them and get the frustration from the day out!
Once you have them approaching a paste like consistency (Smother is better), add:
2 garlic cloves, minced. 1/2 tbsp lemon juice. 1/2 cup diced onion(minced is better), 2 tbsp nutritional yeast*, 1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp dried rosemary, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
Then Mash/mix/beat/berate/etc as much as possible. Beat it up unti your arm gets tired and the neighbors are concerned(We want smooth). Heat low and slow until warm. Pour over chicken/pasta
*Nutritional yeast gives it a cheesy flavor. Try adding parm cheese instead.
Chicken peanut butter ramen - Take peanut butter, pepper flakes, garlic, little soy sauce (Or use the ramen packet), and mix in a bowl. Bring 3 cups water to a boil. Add 1/4 cup boiling water to the bowl, mix until creamy. prepare noodles in remaining water, drain. Mix noodles and PBmix. Add chicken if desired, diced green onions/scallions/peas on top is a nice touch.
Tons of soup/stew options. the instant potatoes make great thickeners.
Desert: (Note: I have not tried this with the subs, so it could prove a disaster)
Peach/pear/apple cobbler in microwave.
1 can Peaches (Un drained)
1 Tsp. Ground Cinnamon
1 Tbsp. Butter
2 Tbsp. All-purpose Flour
2 Tbsp. Milk (Or sub)
2 Tbsp. Honey (or 4 if fruit is not syrup packed)
¼ Tsp. Vanilla Extract
¼ Tsp. Baking Powder
Pinch of Salt
In a small microwavable bowl, combine peaches, 1/2 the honey, and ½ tsp. cinnamon. Heat in microwave on high for 1 minute or until peaches are warm. Stir mixture. Place butter into a separate microwavable bowl. Heat on high for 30 seconds or until butter is completely melted. Evenly pour peach mixture over butter. Set aside. In a small mixing bowl mix flour, milk, ½ tsp. cinnamon, balance of honey, extract, baking powder, and salt. Spread flour mixture on top of peach mixture. Heat in microwave for 1 minute or until dough is done. Do not overcook. Remove from microwave and immediately sprinkle cinnamon on top.
Sub Oatmeal for flour and you should be able to do the same.
*For reference a basic cobbler recipe is 1:1:1 milk, sugar, flour. and it cooks fine, I'm using your subs and avoiding the sugar. Plus working some microwave magic...
I do it camping, with a can of peaches, a box of yellow cake mix, and about 10 oz of h20...
Quote from: SCBrian on August 25, 2021, 08:08:32 PM
Ok, quick and dirty.
Planning on a dorm burner, microwave, some bowls, pots, pans...
Some are just thoughts, and basics, some I dropped full recipes in... let me know what you like/dont and I can drop some more. there are some great apps out there for "This is what I have, what can I make?" "Supercook" and "Myfridgefood" are great. Just keep in mine the limited heat sources.
Breakfast
Scrambled Eggs (duh)
Breakfsat in lobby - and leave with full pockets
Breakfast quesadillas (Can you get/eat tortillas?) - So many variations! Chicken, Cheese, Chicken & Cheese, tons of veggies...
Breakfast burritos - Same as above...
Frittata. Microwave - Add some butter to a microwave safe dish. Nuke until melted. Add some Chicken, spinach, garlic, onions, pepper, whatever, etc. Nuke for 1 minute or so. Add lightly beaten eggs (The frozen ones, thawed) some salt. Nuke until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean 2-3 minutes depending on power. Let stand 5 min. Cut, serve, refrigerate.
Fried potatoes... open can, dice into small cubes, fry until GB&D, Add cheese, maybe chicken,
Lunch
Vegetable roll ups/wraps
Tons of salad options especially with the nuts/raisins/cranberries/salmon.
Dinner
Chicken Bog (Onions, carrots, rice, garlic, chicken & (Chick juice/stock if you don't have stock, don't drain the canned chick.) Hint: Add some diced sausage from breakfast!
Chicken and Cheesy pasta.
Chicken/White Chili. Chicken, corn, Northernpeas, chicken broth...
Rice medley - Rice, green beans, corn, cream of (whatever) soup, Chicken...
Chili - Grab beans, diced tom w/chili add spices, top w/ chz...
Cheesy tomato eggs (Microwave) - cooked / reheated rice, diced tomatoes on top, raw egg on top, then cheese on top. Microwave on high 1-3 min or until egg is done.
Shakshuka - In a microwave - Microwave safe bowl, Add: tomato sauce/marinara, chickpeas,(Drained/rinsed) red pepper flakes, salt, mic. Make a depression in center of sauce and crack an egg. Microwave for ~1 minute then cook in 15 second bursts until it's done.
Faux Chicken Alfredo - key is the sauce. cook pasta, add chicken pour sauce over. Sauce needs to be started the day before and will take work without a blender.
Soak 1 cup cashews in water overnight. Drain, rinse.
Mash the hell outta them. mix, mash, repeat. crush them and get the frustration from the day out!
Once you have them approaching a paste like consistency (Smother is better), add:
2 garlic cloves, minced. 1/2 tbsp lemon juice. 1/2 cup diced onion(minced is better), 2 tbsp nutritional yeast*, 1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp dried rosemary, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
Then Mash/mix/beat/berate/etc as much as possible. Beat it up unti your arm gets tired and the neighbors are concerned(We want smooth). Heat low and slow until warm. Pour over chicken/pasta
*Nutritional yeast gives it a cheesy flavor. Try adding parm cheese instead.
Chicken peanut butter ramen - Take peanut butter, pepper flakes, garlic, little soy sauce (Or use the ramen packet), and mix in a bowl. Bring 3 cups water to a boil. Add 1/4 cup boiling water to the bowl, mix until creamy. prepare noodles in remaining water, drain. Mix noodles and PBmix. Add chicken if desired, diced green onions/scallions/peas on top is a nice touch.
Tons of soup/stew options. the instant potatoes make great thickeners.
Desert: (Note: I have not tried this with the subs, so it could prove a disaster)
Peach/pear/apple cobbler in microwave.
1 can Peaches (Un drained)
1 Tsp. Ground Cinnamon
1 Tbsp. Butter
2 Tbsp. All-purpose Flour
2 Tbsp. Milk (Or sub)
2 Tbsp. Honey (or 4 if fruit is not syrup packed)
¼ Tsp. Vanilla Extract
¼ Tsp. Baking Powder
Pinch of Salt
In a small microwavable bowl, combine peaches, 1/2 the honey, and ½ tsp. cinnamon. Heat in microwave on high for 1 minute or until peaches are warm. Stir mixture. Place butter into a separate microwavable bowl. Heat on high for 30 seconds or until butter is completely melted. Evenly pour peach mixture over butter. Set aside. In a small mixing bowl mix flour, milk, ½ tsp. cinnamon, balance of honey, extract, baking powder, and salt. Spread flour mixture on top of peach mixture. Heat in microwave for 1 minute or until dough is done. Do not overcook. Remove from microwave and immediately sprinkle cinnamon on top.
Sub Oatmeal for flour and you should be able to do the same.
*For reference a basic cobbler recipe is 1:1:1 milk, sugar, flour. and it cooks fine, I'm using your subs and avoiding the sugar. Plus working some microwave magic...
I do it camping, with a can of peaches, a box of yellow cake mix, and about 10 oz of h20...
I thought I was full until I read this. Suddenly I'm hungry again ...
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on August 25, 2021, 02:41:53 AM
Quote
I would suggest limiting the amount of Curry/etc used in this situation as it has a ...lingering... effect in an enclosed space, but Garlic and other spices are easy.
Advise taken!
Curry smell is a bonus!
Quote from: sheddi on August 25, 2021, 07:47:40 AM
https://www.dillons.com/p/clorox-cleanup-cleaner-bleach-original-spray-bottle/0004460001204?fulfillment=PICKUP
👍 Found it and picked some up, for there and through the coming months here.
Quote from: SCBrian on August 25, 2021, 08:08:32 PM
Ok, quick and dirty.
Planning on a dorm burner, microwave, some bowls, pots, pans...
Some are just thoughts, and basics, some I dropped full recipes in... let me know what you like/dont and I can drop some more. there are some great apps out there for "This is what I have, what can I make?" "Supercook" and "Myfridgefood" are great. Just keep in mine the limited heat sources.
Breakfast
Scrambled Eggs (duh)
Breakfsat in lobby - and leave with full pockets
Breakfast quesadillas (Can you get/eat tortillas?) - So many variations! Chicken, Cheese, Chicken & Cheese, tons of veggies...
Breakfast burritos - Same as above...
Frittata. Microwave - Add some butter to a microwave safe dish. Nuke until melted. Add some Chicken, spinach, garlic, onions, pepper, whatever, etc. Nuke for 1 minute or so. Add lightly beaten eggs (The frozen ones, thawed) some salt. Nuke until a knife inserted in the center comes out clean 2-3 minutes depending on power. Let stand 5 min. Cut, serve, refrigerate.
Fried potatoes... open can, dice into small cubes, fry until GB&D, Add cheese, maybe chicken,
Lunch
Vegetable roll ups/wraps
Tons of salad options especially with the nuts/raisins/cranberries/salmon.
Dinner
Chicken Bog (Onions, carrots, rice, garlic, chicken & (Chick juice/stock if you don't have stock, don't drain the canned chick.) Hint: Add some diced sausage from breakfast!
Chicken and Cheesy pasta.
Chicken/White Chili. Chicken, corn, Northernpeas, chicken broth...
Rice medley - Rice, green beans, corn, cream of (whatever) soup, Chicken...
Chili - Grab beans, diced tom w/chili add spices, top w/ chz...
Cheesy tomato eggs (Microwave) - cooked / reheated rice, diced tomatoes on top, raw egg on top, then cheese on top. Microwave on high 1-3 min or until egg is done.
Shakshuka - In a microwave - Microwave safe bowl, Add: tomato sauce/marinara, chickpeas,(Drained/rinsed) red pepper flakes, salt, mic. Make a depression in center of sauce and crack an egg. Microwave for ~1 minute then cook in 15 second bursts until it's done.
Faux Chicken Alfredo - key is the sauce. cook pasta, add chicken pour sauce over. Sauce needs to be started the day before and will take work without a blender.
Soak 1 cup cashews in water overnight. Drain, rinse.
Mash the hell outta them. mix, mash, repeat. crush them and get the frustration from the day out!
Once you have them approaching a paste like consistency (Smother is better), add:
2 garlic cloves, minced. 1/2 tbsp lemon juice. 1/2 cup diced onion(minced is better), 2 tbsp nutritional yeast*, 1 tsp salt
1/4 tsp dried rosemary, 1/4 tsp black pepper.
Then Mash/mix/beat/berate/etc as much as possible. Beat it up unti your arm gets tired and the neighbors are concerned(We want smooth). Heat low and slow until warm. Pour over chicken/pasta
*Nutritional yeast gives it a cheesy flavor. Try adding parm cheese instead.
Chicken peanut butter ramen - Take peanut butter, pepper flakes, garlic, little soy sauce (Or use the ramen packet), and mix in a bowl. Bring 3 cups water to a boil. Add 1/4 cup boiling water to the bowl, mix until creamy. prepare noodles in remaining water, drain. Mix noodles and PBmix. Add chicken if desired, diced green onions/scallions/peas on top is a nice touch.
Tons of soup/stew options. the instant potatoes make great thickeners.
Desert: (Note: I have not tried this with the subs, so it could prove a disaster)
Peach/pear/apple cobbler in microwave.
1 can Peaches (Un drained)
1 Tsp. Ground Cinnamon
1 Tbsp. Butter
2 Tbsp. All-purpose Flour
2 Tbsp. Milk (Or sub)
2 Tbsp. Honey (or 4 if fruit is not syrup packed)
¼ Tsp. Vanilla Extract
¼ Tsp. Baking Powder
Pinch of Salt
In a small microwavable bowl, combine peaches, 1/2 the honey, and ½ tsp. cinnamon. Heat in microwave on high for 1 minute or until peaches are warm. Stir mixture. Place butter into a separate microwavable bowl. Heat on high for 30 seconds or until butter is completely melted. Evenly pour peach mixture over butter. Set aside. In a small mixing bowl mix flour, milk, ½ tsp. cinnamon, balance of honey, extract, baking powder, and salt. Spread flour mixture on top of peach mixture. Heat in microwave for 1 minute or until dough is done. Do not overcook. Remove from microwave and immediately sprinkle cinnamon on top.
Sub Oatmeal for flour and you should be able to do the same.
*For reference a basic cobbler recipe is 1:1:1 milk, sugar, flour. and it cooks fine, I'm using your subs and avoiding the sugar. Plus working some microwave magic...
I do it camping, with a can of peaches, a box of yellow cake mix, and about 10 oz of h²o...
<Takes off hat and bows to you>
This is just OMG! Dang, thanks, SCBrian.
Serious thanks.
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on August 26, 2021, 06:55:09 PM
This is just OMG! Dang, thanks, SCBrian. Serious thanks.
Da nada. I enjoyed the thought exercise of working with different ingredients and limited cooking equipment. :) Its a challenge. :) I work professionally in kitchens for a couple of places and I do some catering on the side. I was born an engineer but never followed that path (been a mechanic/steelworker/Kitchen manager) , so I joke that I can "Not only cook you a frittata, but build you a souped up food truck around it, and live stream the whole process"
Let me know if you want more. I didn't really touch on 'lunch' because salads are pretty personal (If that makes sense). I know what I like on mine is totally different from what the wife likes on hers... Tried to keep the regional cooking out, but chicken bog is an easy meal. I didn't touch on collard green sandwich, so there's that :smiley_blink:
Most of the dinners are going to be multiple servings (Especially the ones with rice) unless you watch your portions. :)
Quote from: majorhavoc on August 25, 2021, 08:21:06 PM
I thought I was full until I read this. Suddenly I'm hungry again ...
There's a reason I have to keep dieting... lol :clownshoes:
Quote from: RoneKiln on August 25, 2021, 10:41:04 PM
Curry smell is a bonus!
I pray you leave good tips for housekeeping...lol ;)
We were just given the firm move date, Sept 20th. With currently scheduled return the 29th.
Barring unforseen circumstances.
The Target purchased Holmes air purifiers arrived today and up and running.
Nice size, nice weight, comfortable sound running on high.
Am adjusting packing for nine days.
I'm really craving potato chips and hot dogs with all the fixins right now.
Quote from: RoneKiln on August 24, 2021, 10:48:17 PM
An air purifier may not fix the problem, but will do a lot to minimize it. Normally a smaller bedroom size one is in the $50 to $60 dollar range, but they might be hard to find right now with all the forest fires creating smoky conditions everywhere.
Something on par with this one.
https://www.target.com/p/holmes-aer1-desktop-hepa-air-purifier-with-visipure-filter-viewing-window/-/A-14919605#lnk=sametab
Well I must say, this little Holmes desktop purifier is a gem, presuming it lasts the three year warranty it came with.
I've heard stories about air purifiers over the years I've lived here of pushing them around, taking up space, water(?) sometimes, loud. I haven't ever been swayed to get one.
And these little things arrive yesterday.
After 24 hours of running them, am I imagining this, the air in this place is different. Lighter, or something like that. But their combined effectiveness is only said to be 2X109 ft² (218 ft²) and this place is a whopping 455 ft².
One of the big annoyances for tenants here is there is so much more dust than we've ever had the 'un'pleasure of battling. (This problem doesn't happen in apts with carpet padding though)
Anyway--- Dust. I have an excellent vacuum, I even prefer the outdoors and dust is just part of the package. And I prefer our southwest deserts, so dust is no prob. Exept This insufferable building dust. Our AC is single apt circulation circuit so dust not coming from air ducts frm rest of building.
And here's a thing: these two lovelies are visibly pulling dust off 'stuff'. The top of my computer and TV screen need dusting daily.
Not today.
So... less visible dust, and if I'm not imagining it the air breathes lighter, smells lighter.
Plus they move around easy. (haven't quite decided where they go)
Too good to be true so I don't trust my observations yet.
But I did order two more just now, just in case. 😄
Oh yeah, I haven't been coughing today either.
So far I like these as much as I like my sterno Inferno.
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on August 29, 2021, 01:00:18 AM
Quote from: RoneKiln on August 24, 2021, 10:48:17 PM
An air purifier may not fix the problem, but will do a lot to minimize it. Normally a smaller bedroom size one is in the $50 to $60 dollar range, but they might be hard to find right now with all the forest fires creating smoky conditions everywhere.
Something on par with this one.
https://www.target.com/p/holmes-aer1-desktop-hepa-air-purifier-with-visipure-filter-viewing-window/-/A-14919605#lnk=sametab (https://www.target.com/p/holmes-aer1-desktop-hepa-air-purifier-with-visipure-filter-viewing-window/-/A-14919605#lnk=sametab)
Well I must say, this little Holmes desktop purifier is a gem, presuming it lasts the three year warranty it came with.
I heard stories over the years lived here of push around, space taking, water(?) sometimes, loud, meaning I haven't ever been swayed to get one.
And these little things arrive yesterday.
After 24 hours of running them, am I imagining this, the air in this place is different. Lighter, or something like that. But their combined effectiveness is only said to be 2X109 ft² (218 ft²) and this place is a whopping 455 ft².
One of the big annoyances for tenants here is there is so much more dust than we've ever had the unpleasure of battling. (This problem doesn't happen in apts with carpet padding though)
Anyway--- Dust. I have an excellent vacuum, I even prefer the outdoors and dust is just part of the package. And I prefer our southwest deserts, so dust no prob. Exept This insufferable building dust. Our AC is single apt circulation circuit so not coming from air ducts in rest of building.
And here's a thing: these two lovelies are visibly pulling dust off 'stuff'. The top of my computer and TV screen need dusting daily.
Not today.
So... less visible dust, and if I'm not imagining it the air breathes lighter, smells lighter.
Plus they move around easy (haven't quite decided where they go)
Too good to be true so I don't trust my observations yet.
But I did order two more just now, just in case. 😄
Oh yeah, I haven't been coughing today either.
So far I like these as much as I like my sterno Inferno.
After battling various environmental allergies for years, I finally got an air purifier this year. I ended up with a Blue Air 311, which is slightly oversized for my bedroom, but I figured that was better than getting one which was too small. The answer to whether it was worth it is yes, absolutely! Allergies are much better controlled now and I can actually hear it ramping up / down (it has an air quality sensor) after things like cooking or vacuuming (which stirs up dust). I'm just annoyed with myself that I took this long to finally get one... :headbang:
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on August 29, 2021, 01:00:18 AM
Well I must say, this little Holmes desktop purifier is a gem, presuming it lasts the three year warranty it came with.
After 24 hours of running them, am I imagining this, the air in this place is different. Lighter, or something like that. But their combined effectiveness is only said to be 2X109 ft² (218 ft²) and this place is a whopping 455 ft².
I only need one of those small ones for my 430 sq ft cottage. I don't need all the air in the entire place perfectly cleaned every 2 hours. I can just leave it running on low and let it clean the air volume about once every 24 hours.
One summer we noticed my adopted niece breathed and had better sinuses when visiting my place for a week. I sent her home with one of those smaller ones. It has kept them comfortable in their 500ish sq ft apartment during wildfire smoke so thick they couldn't see across the street. Like me, they're not sensitive enough to anything to need the entire air volume scrubbed every two hours.
In a place with black mold in the ducts during a time of serious concern about lung infections, I can understand wanting two.
For normal allergies in normal old building dust, one is probably fine even in 450ish sq ft. One in the bedroom and one in the common room will probably be phenomenal.
I'm glad to hear you're enjoying their effect and that they'll get used beyond this trip.
When I had carpet, I found regularly using a carpet cleaner with just hot water and no shampoo pulled tons of allergens out and significantly improved my health. If anyone has carpet and issues with allergies and/or dust, I highly recommend cleaning the carpets in addition to getting an air purifier.
I also recommend just getting rid of carpet. It's awful for air quality. :smiley_tongue_fierce:
Hmm. I wonder if I should take one of mine up to the office, since they don't seem to make a dent in our house. Construction starts this fall up there...
I wonder if maybe using the full-on HEPA filters might be counterproductive in a dusty environment.
Quote from: RoneKiln on August 30, 2021, 12:16:07 AM
I only need one of those small ones for my 430 sq ft cottage. I don't need all the air in the entire place perfectly cleaned every 2 hours. I can just leave it running on low and let it clean the air volume about once every 24 hours.
Good to know
QuoteOne summer we noticed my adopted niece breathed and had better sinuses when visiting my place for a week. I sent her home with one of those smaller ones. It has kept them comfortable in their 500ish sq ft apartment during wildfire smoke so thick they couldn't see across the street. Like me, they're not sensitive enough to anything to need the entire air volume scrubbed every two hours.
Also good to know.
Quote
I'm glad to hear you're enjoying their effect and that they'll get used beyond this trip.
👍
QuoteWhen I had carpet, I found regularly using a carpet cleaner with just hot water and no shampoo pulled tons of allergens out and significantly improved my health. If anyone has carpet and issues with allergies and/or dust, I highly recommend cleaning the carpets in addition to getting an air purifier.
Interesting you mention carpets, and I realize your reference was to holding allergins. But on another track, when I first moved into this den of dust that wasn't making sense to me, I eventually ran into a contractor who came to examine this. His take was the carpet itself. Extremely poor quality, looser weave than most, sitting directly on cement. The carpet probably grinding cement dust that was passing up through the weave.
I had already done in home tests with my Oreck vacuum. (I use heppa bags) One time I vacuumed a 16ft² area for half an hour, then tested for change by laying a black plastic bag on the area. Literally no change in the amount of 'dust' the bag still attracted. Which I thought might be anecdotal evidence the contractor may be on the right track given that the few tenants that have a pad between carpet and cement, also have no dust problem.
Quote
I also recommend just getting rid of carpet. It's awful for air quality. :smiley_tongue_fierce:
Indeed. But a lease violation for sure as well as the porous cement floor underneath. 😄
Quote from: CG on August 30, 2021, 06:54:52 AM
Hmm. I wonder if I should take one of mine up to the office, since they don't seem to make a dent in our house. Construction starts this fall up there...
I wonder if maybe using the full-on HEPA filters might be counterproductive in a dusty environment.
A few years ago I took in a kid that was going through a real bad stretch and let him live in my unfinished tiny house. It's really just an insulated shed with a single electrical outlet at this point. The place was a mess and he needed a place quick, so I let him just deal with the mess. Over that winter he had serious allergy and sinus issues and he bought an air filter like mine. It didn't help much. He was still really struggling. For some reason I had to stick my head in his place and I saw he hadn't cleaned it up at all after several months. Piles of sawdust were still all over. He was pretty much living up in the loft out of a duffel bag.
After pointing out the mess and asking if he really thought an air purifier would help much with piles of sawdust everywhere, he properly cleaned the space up. His allergy and sinus issues cleared up in two days.
To be fair, none of that mess was his. He just never got the place cleaned up after "moving in."
An air purifier can only do so much. Vacuum cleaners can only do so much. Sometimes a place really needs to get scrubbed out before those can help much. Even with my air purifier running on low all the time, sometimes I need to wipe everything down with damp cloths to get the dust captured and out of my home.
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on August 30, 2021, 09:18:07 PM
Interesting you mention carpets, and I realize your reference was to holding allergins. But on another track, when I first moved into this den of dust that wasn't making sense to me, I eventually ran into a contractor who came to examine this. His take was the carpet itself. Extremely poor quality, looser weave than most, sitting directly on cement. The carpet probably grinding cement dust that was passing up through the weave.
I had already done in home tests with my Oreck vacuum. (I use heppa bags) One time I vacuumed a 16ft² area for half an hour, then tested for change by laying a black plastic bag on the area. Literally no change in the amount of 'dust' the bag still attracted. Which I thought might be anecdotal evidence the contractor may be on the right track given that the few tenants that have a pad between carpet and cement, also have no dust problem.
I had similar issues in a place I rented for years till I finally talked the landlord into allowing me to install wood laminate floor. The cheap carpet was over a decade past its lifespan. The first time I used a proper carpet cleaner on it was life changing for me. Even after several years of regularly cleaning it, the water would still come up black. Usually I'd just "hit it quick" with one pass of hot water.
Sometimes I'd really clean it good though. I'd hit it first with water to get the easy stuff up. Then I'd hit it with the proper carpet shampoo. Then I'd hit it a 3rd time with hot water again to get any leftover shampoo residue up. The third pass would still come up black. Some of that was probably dye from the cheap carpet coming up, but the carpet was a very light, pale blue. The water was black.
It was worth the effort for my lung and sinus health.
Lift off to the Radisson is Monday at 8:30am so am in the final take/don't take, pack/don't pack, need/don't need, Want/don't want/yes I do/no I don't bug-out count down.
Reports from tenants already back vary widely from wonderful! could have stayed longer 👏 -to- couldn't wait to get out of there (urine odor, not clean, musty, TP war, etc.).😠
About a 70/30 split among tenants I've run into.
I'm looking at it like I'm in an event shelter, or maybe at a low dollar camp retreat, with electricity, AC, my own bathroom and room. It would actually be the kind of thing that would be an adventure to me if it wasn't for dodging Delta and long covid.
I will stay offline during the stay because I don't have device defences against dodgy wifi. Someone in cyber security will get this.
Oh. And tenants are reporting coming home to find their apts covered in dust from the work in the hallways. So I asked and got mgnmt permission to completely seal my door edges with painter's delicate surfaces masking tape as a preventive measure.
👍
Mental image of Ever returning from bug out.
Roaring up on commandeered black matchless motorcycle. Short barreled shotty strapped to handlebars. Bush sword strapped to her back. Necklace of shrunken zombie skulls and the scalps of vanquished marauders hanging from her war belt. " Well that was fun, But now I'm back home again ! Wonder what's going on at the boards?" :awesome:
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on September 18, 2021, 04:17:23 PM
Oh. And tenants are reporting coming home to find their apts covered in dust from the work in the hallways. So I asked and got mgnmt permission to completely seal my door edges with painter's delicate surfaces masking tape as a preventive measure.
👍
Air vents are likely a far greater problem than the edges around the door.
Didn't you make one of those box fan with taped hvac cleaner boxes? Leaving that running would do a lot for the dust. The smaller air purifiers you ordered will be easier to take with you anyway.
My sister-in-law told me about the vents just last night! I had no idea. Thanks, @RoneKiln for bringing up the vents thing because it was only luck that she happened to mention it.
Otherwise you would have been my only hope, Obi-Wan Kenobi.
Quote from: flybynight on September 18, 2021, 09:48:17 PM
Mental image of Ever returning from bug out.
Roaring up on commandeered black matchless motorcycle. Short barreled shotty strapped to handlebars. Bush sword strapped to her back. Necklace of shrunken zombie skulls and the scalps of vanquished marauders hanging from her war belt. " Well that was fun, But now I'm back home again ! Wonder what's going on at the boards?" :awesome:
Ah yes, you do know me so well, friend flybynight!
Signing out 🙋
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on September 20, 2021, 02:02:42 AM
Signing out 🙋
Good luck, take care and we'll see you when you get back, Ever. :smiley_clap:
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on September 18, 2021, 04:17:23 PM
Lift off to the Radisson is Monday at 8:30am so am in the final take/don't take, pack/don't pack, need/don't need, Want/don't want/yes I do/no I don't bug-out count down.
[snip]
I'm looking at it like I'm in an event shelter, or maybe at a low dollar camp retreat, with electricity, AC, my own bathroom and room. It would actually be the kind of thing that would be an adventure to me if it wasn't for dodging Delta and long covid.
[snip]
Exactly the right attitude to have: vigilant optimism. A positive state of mind has been proven to be a valuable coping skill in emergency situations. And in dire circumstances, the difference between life and death.
This bug out is a rare opportunity to test both your preps and your state of mind. A learning experience, surely. (Ever: "Yes, quite true but please stop calling me Shirley.") Stay safe and looking forward to your after action report.
Am back and for some odd reason sleeping a lot. Now the bed there was m.a.r.v.e.l.o.u.s. and slept really well. I was moved there and back with my few things so that wasn't any kind of stress. So don't know why all the sleeping going on. 👵
But will be back with BO reporting of the good, super good, the bad, and one Super Fail much sooner than too much later.
zzzzzzzzzzz
Quote from: majorhavoc on September 20, 2021, 07:06:04 PM
This bug out is a rare opportunity to test both your preps and your state of mind. A learning experience, surely. (Ever: "Yes, quite true but please stop calling me Shirley.")
Airplane
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on October 09, 2021, 02:54:19 PM
Quote from: majorhavoc on September 20, 2021, 07:06:04 PM
This bug out is a rare opportunity to test both your preps and your state of mind. A learning experience, surely. (Ever: "Yes, quite true but please stop calling me Shirley.")
Airplane
Looks like I picked the wrong weekend to stop sniffing glue
Food and drink.
One of the notable overall things was I ate, maybe, ten to fifteen percent of the food I took. Not all that surprising to me as I have 'always' overestimated my food consumption when camping/hiking. Plus that a plentiful motel breakfast offered each morning could be taken to the room for consumption, and the fruit, yogurt, hard boiled eggs, bagels, coffee & tea part of it could be held for snacking during the day. Not bad at all if one is without vehicle for nine days in a motel!
I used adaptations of @SCBrian's recipes at least 50% of the time I actually cooked, which was about 25% of the time I ate. Even my adaptations with what I carried were Good, so I can imagine how good they would have been had I precooked all recommended ingrediants and frozen in servings or had all the ingredients with me to do a proper job in the room. I made the Chicken Bog, peanut butter chicken ramen, fried potatoes, chicken and cheesy pasta, & chicken chili. um um good!
If I'd known that little dorm fridge provided would freeze everything in it no matter how low it was turned I would indeed have precooked and feasted every day on your fine cooking, SCBrian!
Because of the freezing fridge all drinks were room temp, iced, or microwaved hot. The drink choices taken can be improved upon.😁
Now, that little room coffee maker had no pitcher. You set the cup under the drip for one cup pouches. Which I learned was too strong for my liking with the first cup. (that blew the top of my head off) so.... I learned to heat the water in the cup in the microwave. Then dunk the teabag-like coffee thingy in the cup to my preferences. Save the bag to use for four more cups through the morning. um um ummm "Now, that's a good cup of coffee."
In my years at ZS I learned many sharable wise things. One memorable thing was "When you are a refugee eat what's in front of you." So, younglings, bringing it to our now-home, UFoZS... in a bug out, conserve any packed items you carry if safe food is offered. "Eat what's in front of you." 👵
Quote from: flybynight on October 09, 2021, 05:32:27 PM
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on October 09, 2021, 02:54:19 PM
Quote from: majorhavoc on September 20, 2021, 07:06:04 PM
This bug out is a rare opportunity to test both your preps and your state of mind. A learning experience, surely. (Ever: "Yes, quite true but please stop calling me Shirley.")
Airplane
Looks like I picked the wrong weekend to stop sniffing glue
👍 Also
Airplane
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on October 09, 2021, 06:56:25 PM
Quote from: flybynight on October 09, 2021, 05:32:27 PM
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on October 09, 2021, 02:54:19 PM
Quote from: majorhavoc on September 20, 2021, 07:06:04 PM
This bug out is a rare opportunity to test both your preps and your state of mind. A learning experience, surely. (Ever: "Yes, quite true but please stop calling me Shirley.")
Airplane
Looks like I picked the wrong weekend to stop sniffing glue
👍 Also Airplane
Roger Ever... What ?
Quote from: flybynight on October 09, 2021, 08:16:31 PM
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on October 09, 2021, 06:56:25 PM
Quote from: flybynight on October 09, 2021, 05:32:27 PM
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on October 09, 2021, 02:54:19 PM
Quote from: majorhavoc on September 20, 2021, 07:06:04 PM
This bug out is a rare opportunity to test both your preps and your state of mind. A learning experience, surely. (Ever: "Yes, quite true but please stop calling me Shirley.")
Airplane
Looks like I picked the wrong weekend to stop sniffing glue
👍 Also Airplane
Roger Ever... What ?
Also
Airplane.
😄 😄
Being cooped up in a motel for nine days:
I wasn't!!!!
The motel was a no-mask facility but from my door to the outside was a brisk 13 second walk in my n95.
I was at the edge of town and walking in the fresh air the majority of my waking daylight moments. It was bliss. Kept my cane with me just in case, but never had to use it. The sounds of the bugs, the tall prairie grass, and best of all was being in a place I had a 360° view of the big blue cloud filled sky with birds flying and a breeze blowing.
Being the the outdoors that often for that long was the best time I'd had in 23 months because, annually, the day before Thanksgiving I go into flu season semi-isolation due to my health.... which was 2019, which turned into a pandemic before flu season was over and I don't have transportation to travel safely 'during' one. So... 23 months.
I turned on my tv the first an only time the last night I was there. I didn't read any books, I had no idea what was happening in the state, country, world, or even the city.
At night I was outside at the firepit talking to travelers. Everyone had a story to tell.
I rarely saw one of our tenants. (yay)
I told several people I know that I was staying. 😄
Quote from: Ever (Zombiepreparation) on October 23, 2021, 01:33:55 AM
Being cooped up in a motel for nine days:
I wasn't!!!!
The motel was a no-mask facility but from my door to the outside was a brisk 13 second walk in my n95.
I was at the edge of town and walking in the fresh air the majority of my waking daylight moments. It was bliss. Kept my cane with me just in case, but never had to use it. The sounds of the bugs, the tall prairie grass, and best of all was being in a place I had a 360° view of the big blue cloud filled sky with birds flying and a breeze blowing.
Being the the outdoors that often for that long was the best time I'd had in 23 months because, annually, the day before Thanksgiving I go into flu season semi-isolation due to my health.... which was 2019, which turned into a pandemic before flu season was over and I don't have transportation to travel safely 'during' one. So... 23 months.
I turned on my tv the first an only time the last night I was there. I didn't read any books, I had no idea what was happening in the state, country, world, or even the city.
At night I was outside at the firepit talking to travelers. Everyone had a story to tell.
I rarely saw one of our tenants. (yay)
I told several people I know that I was staying. 😄
YAY! :awesome:
You made the best of it and actually had a respite from apartment life. That's what we were hoping for you and so glad that's how it turned out. Other bug out scenarios are unlikely to be that kind of picnic, but the universal takeaway here is to maintain a positive attitude. Which is always helpful to remain resilient and flexible in the face of an emergency situation. It's just as important (if not more) as your physical preps.
Sounds like getting out of doors is a real hassle for you in your apartment building. Has this positive experience got you thinking about moving to a different rental situation?