Fake Earthquake, Real Consequenses

In church this afternoon there was an announcement: On Saturday, there had been a devastating fake earthquake which drastically affected Portland and the surrounding areas.

As part of our stake's emergency preparedness plan, leaders decided to run a preparedness drill. For those who are not familiar with the Mormon lingo, a stake is a geographical area which encompasses several congregations. Our stake includes 8 congregations which total about 1,300 families. Part of the drill was to see how well our communications system was set up and how long it took to make contact with church members immediately following the fake earthquake.

But that's not all.

This fake earthquake comes with a serious aftermath.

We were asked to pretend that the fake earthquake has left the grocery stores either inaccessible, depleted of inventory, or both and to eat for the next SIX DAYS from our food storage.

Our food storage.

Naturally, Robert thought not going to the grocery store for 6 days was the best idea he'd ever heard.

My first thought was a little different: Trader Joe's doesn't count, does it?

My second thought: The milkman doesn't count. He's not "going to the store," he's coming to us. And I'm sure he can make it over the fake rubble, etc. to deliver fresh milk and eggs.

"Nope." Robert said. "Cancel for one week."

"You don't mean...?"

"Yes. Powdered milk."

(cue dramatic music)

So, we are going to take the challenge: No grocery store for 6 days.

Last week, I think I went to the grocery store every day except Sunday, so this will definitely be an interesting exercise.

I'll be sure and let you know how it goes.