[Woodenpaddler]

I'm in my forties now, count myself lucky I was thrifty in my 20's and was able to buy a house with an acre of land despite an expensive new england town. I have had goats and chickens in the past and can easily start again; got a garden going again this year, made lots of mistakes but hoping to learn a lot before "it really counts". My house can be heated entirely with wood and passive solar, and have enough winter clothing even without heat. I'm very fit and can bike to work in any weather, and have a bike trailer.

Unfortunately I've got some additional debt from a house addition a few years ago, plus a car payment for the first time in my life this summer. Top goals include getting out of the debt hole I'm in. The new truck is great for hauling home the stuff I need to make preps but it is a stupid vehicle long term so I'm not sure what to do yet.

My focus also includes teaching my young kids more self relient skills: camping, gardening, baking bread, etc. plus cutting down on our possessions rather than aquiring more stuff. It may not be enough to survive a big crash, but it's improving our lives for now anyway.