1776PatriotUSA.com

Category: Life Philosophy

  • John Rourke, Dreams, Life……..the Apocalypse

    John Rourke, Dreams, Life……..the Apocalypse

    This is going to be a deeply personal post. I certainly have some apprehensions about posting it. As a kid, I always felt a bit different. Not that I was smarter than everyone else but I felt I was more “aware” of what was going on around me.  At 52 years old I have been divorced and connected with someone that I have absolutely no doubt whatsoever is my soulmate – MainePrepperGirl. I was fired from a job I worked at a company for nearly 20 years and changed careers. I’ve moved several times going from South Carolina to Georgia, back to South Carolina and now we’re in Kentucky.

    My lifelong dream has been to live independently and write. Write stories, books, articles, and be creative. I’ve enjoyed so much connecting with like-minded folks and gaining knowledge and providing advice that others could use to prepare for hard times ahead. I’ve written books, been featured IN books – and been 100% human and screwed up just as everyone else has.

    Over the last 40 years, I’ve been driven by an unrelating feeling that “something” awaits us around the corner that will threaten our very existence. What awaits us is unknown and unpredictable. Regardless – I’ve prepared and called on others to do the same.

    In 2022 we see just an absolute insane series of events unfolding. Inflation is affecting almost everyone as gas prices, food, and almost everything are going up in price. People are wondering how they will put gas in their vehicles AND put food in their children’s mouths. We have a superpower invading a small country and new viruses popping up to threaten our safety. Insanity walks into schools killing our children while politicians make decisions that will affect our lives based on polls rather than principles.

    Born in Massachusets, moved all around the east coast – I now sit in Kentucky living full-time in a camper right along a river.

    Life is unpredictable. What will happen tomorrow? Who knows?

    I’ll be with MPG and we will adapt, overcome, and evolve however we need to.

    Hope all of you will be there with me as well.

    Take care all –

    Rourke

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  • UPDATE: Move to Kentucky is Complete

    UPDATE: Move to Kentucky is Complete

    Our move to Kentucky from South Carolina is officially complete. Over the past 6-8 weeks a lot has happened and it’s not nearly over. I’ve been swamped as we prepped for the move, transferred the camper to Kentucky, then moved my cargo trailer as well.

    Camper during the trip from South Carolina to Kentucky.

     

    Camper in-place on the river.

    Fellow Patriot Brigade member “Doomsday” moved the camper for me as my truck did not have the towing capacity. Back when we purchased the camper plans were to move up to a bigger truck – but I’m sure you know what happened to the truck market. Nope – couldn’t pull that trigger and add to my debt. Thanks Doomsday!!!!!!

    After arriving in northern Kentucky and putting the camper in place, a giant storm came through that night. The camper rocked as the rain went sideways and I have to admit I was more than a little concerned. All was good.No leaks and no damage. Wow! It was something else.

    After getting the camper in place a return to South Carolina was needed as I needed to complete another 6 weeks at my job. MainPrepperGirl had headed to Kentucky about a week before me to start job hunting. As a nurse with a fantastic resume it should not take long for her to find something. My replacement was hired, I worked on some training fro him – and just a few days ago I hooked up my 7′ x 16′ cargo trailer and headed to Kentucky.

    Timbren Rear Suspension Enhancement System – installed on the Ram Warlock

    About a week prior to heading out to Kentucky I installed a set of Timbren’s to reduce the squat of my truck under load. I own a 2019 Ram 1500 Cloasic Warlock – which I love. It has a great ride, however, the rear suspension is very soft. The Timbrens worked great.

    The cargo trailer was loaded at near capacity. It road great with the Curt Sway Bar installed. First few hours of the trip had my nerves fried due to a lot of construction, traffic, and narrow lanes.

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    A couple days ago I arrived after a 10-hour drive. It felt so good to finally be there, although, I’ve had some apprehension as my two boys are still back in South Carolina. Although they are grown with one of them a father and the other is engaged – they are still my two little boys.

     


    Storm Coming Through At Ohio River in Kentucky 
    We are still getting settled and I start my new job Monday. Same company – a lot larger facility. I will walk into the facility and proclaim – “I came here to chew bubblegum and kick some ass……and I’m all out of bubblegum.” Ok – maybe I won’t exactly do that but you get the point.

    I’m looking forward to doing some fishing right out in my backyard and we’ll be exploring the entire area to seek out adventure and increase our quality of life. Hiking. Biking. Exploring. There’s a gym nearby and we’ve been going there each morning. We are prioritizing health and fitness to a new level.

    I need to find a shooting range.

    Over the next several months we are going to be looking to buy a house. Interest rates are heading up and hopefully, prices will start dropping. While we are largely mobile and I’ll be documenting our contingency planning in the Patriot Brigade membership area. We hope to find a place that is out in the country and with few neighbors. 5 acres or more would be good. We’ll see.

    Stay safe folks. It’s getting crazy!

    Rourke

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  • Happy Easter

    Happy Easter

    Hope everyone has a wonderful Easter.

    Stay safe!!

    Rourke

     

    Easter, Happy Easter, Lord, Jesus, God

  • Camper moved to Kentucky

    Short one here: Camper has been safely moved from South Carolina to Northern Kentucky. It’s all set up and as I type this a huge storm is rolling through with high winds.

    Wonderful.

    Rain is going sideways and the camper is being shaken pretty good. The awning has been brought in and we’ll see how it goes. Going to storm all night.

    I’ll update later.

    Rourke

  • Reality

    Reality

    That’s “reality” as in what is real and we experience in life versus “realty” that involves land and property sales. We continue to travel down the path of life and see numerous things pass by us such as Russia/Ukraine, inflation, COVID, the demise of the American foundational principles, etc. The reality is there really isn’t anything we can do about it.

    Many of us have been pissed at elections, politicians, media outlets, and the like and it really is for naught. As individuals we live our lives, go to work, have relationships with people – and that’s it. As individuals there simply is little we can do that will affect international relationships, laws passed in Congress, nor the rules and policies that impact us on a daily basis. We can scream at the city council that zoning should be changed but at the end of the day it is rare things will go the RIGHT way(though it happens…..sometimes).

    I’ll continue to pronounce the words of frequent visitor and commenter here – Mr. John Gault: Live your life.

    Control that which you can control. Live your life and place an emphasis on family and close friends. Make contingencies for that which may happen, prepare for what may occur in the future – including positive outcomes. It may – in fact – all turn out OK. It may also NOT. So, conduct your planning accordingly.


    This is not fun.


    So with all this craziness going on, I see a lot of people that are absolutely swept up and infatuated with the news. Do you want to know what I did this past weekend? I went to the movies and saw, Batman. Good movie. Enjoyed it. I ate too much popcorn and had a really nice weekend.

    This weekend I’m planning on going out and doing something for fun. Balance. Life needs balance. It simply cannot be all doomsday and zombies.

    What are you doing for fun this weekend?

    Rourke

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  • Lone Wolf Mcquade – Chucky Baby!!!!!

    Lone Wolf Mcquade – Chucky Baby!!!!!

    I’ll throw my vote in that the Chuck Norris movie Lone Wolf Mcquade is the best movie ever made. Yeah – it’s full of masculinity and loads of testosterone. Yup – and I think it’s that same stuff that won two world wars and the lack thereof that lost Vietnam and Afghanistan(damn politicians!!).

    Color me reactionary but I tend to look at things as fairly black and white, hot and cold, on and off. Either the equation adds up or it doesn’t.

    Lone Wolf Mcquade has Chuck Norris doing the right things against the wrong people without taking into consideration what race they are, how it might affect the climate, and whether or not celebrities will have a favorable opinion on it.

    Chuck was able to bed Barbara Carrera and kick David Carradienes ass at the same time. He’s my hero and to me – – – this movie represented freedom and the RIGHT way of looking at things.

    Maybe I’m just nuts.

    Rourke

     

    PS – BTW – I’ll have this movie loaded up in the membership area by end of the week so it can be downloaded.

  • Stressed? Let’s Take a Break

    Stressed? Let’s Take a Break

    Seems like every day there’s something else showing up I shake my head at. It’s easy to get swept up in all the negativity and just get stressed out. We all need to keep pushing and driving forward and sometimes we just need to step back and take a break.

    Stressed out? Be tough folks! Please share this video and comment on what you do to keep your sanity and moving forward.

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  • Camper Living…….

    Camper Living…….

    Camper dining….lol. Living in a camper full-time requires adaptations to less space. We cook outside on the grill 85% of the time. Tonight? Grilled cod with rice.
    Paper plates and plastic utensils mean no washing dishes.
    Bon appetite!!!!
    Rourke
  • Thinking about “Life” and Just How Short It Is

    Thinking about “Life” and Just How Short It Is

    Over the past several weeks there have been several deaths in my life. While some of these are people I’ve never met and others people who I considered friends or “brothers” – seems this cluster of misfortune simply sucks(especially for them and their family). Panhandle Rancher passed just a while back. Dave Wolf from Wolf-Fire Firearms passed suddenly and unexpectedly literally days after I met him at Prepper Camp 2021. Dave ad I go way back and we were just talking about putting together a firearms course for Maine Prepper Girl. Just this past week I learned that Serious Survivor on YouTube passed suddenly. Death sucks. Period.

    My own dad died at the age of 65 after battling cancer for a year. I saw him work tirelessly to reach retirement age where he and mom planned to retire in New Bern, NC, and enjoy a life of gold and sailing. Cancer had other plans. I’m turning 52 today and certainly feel a sense of urgency to get where I want to be….soon.

    Over in the member area, I routinely discuss my life at a much more personal level. A recent promotion and an upcoming move afford me an opportunity to accelerate my plans. Now is the time to grab life by the balls and make it happen. Can’t go back in time so everything begins now.

    What do I want? What are my goals? What will make me happy? To establish and complete my American Exit Strategy.

    Enjoy the day. No matter what it IS the first day of the rest of your life. Make it count.

    Rourke

  • GG58 on Panhandle Rancher

    GG58 on Panhandle Rancher

    Here are some words from GG58 about Panhandle Rancher. For those unaware Panhandle Rancher was an extraordinary individual who connected with many in private as well as posted in beliefs publicly on all things life, liberty, patriotism, country, the Constitution…..and much more. You can check out this link as well as this one for more information and insight.

    From GG58:

    John, I spent a lot of time with PR at his place and mine. His views did change somewhat. The last time we spoke about this topic ..  maybe 6 months ago, he had grown disenchanted in the way the media was manipulating the narrative. The crux of it was that you can only perform your function, as a citizen that is well informed. So his question was essential. “How does one remain well informed, in an era of deliberate information manipulation?”. We all have our sources, and we shared encrypted emails between a cadre that felt much the same about the topic. Older wiser men than I, and I was honored to have been included in the cadre.

    The more severe the medical conditions became the tougher it was to be objective and hopeful, as it would be for anyone.  Terminal illness brings on depression, but of course, he used the events to boil it down to a few truths, he felt were the reasons to be hopeful, and to a degree methods.

    Without exception, he felt that the process was severely flawed based on media manipulation, but with occasional sparks of hope and was still recoverable. That the longer it took, the harder it would be. He felt that prayer was essential, as was an understanding of where the grounding of one’s faith comes from. He remained confident that the God he would soon meet had a plan, that he didn’t know what it was, but remained faithful to God’s eventual victory.

    As to methods, he still believed that the process could be used successfully to bring about positive change. Steve was actually a member of the RNC for quite a while. He and his wife Donna pursued involvement deliberately.  He put his money where his mouth was, his entire life.

    He remained active in the FBI agents associations, as a member, as well as support for local LEO’s and Politicians in both the pulpit and gatherings small and large. He was not afraid of sharing what he believed.

    The frailty brought about by his illness frustrated him, as it kept him from sharing at times and took sop much of his energy and focus. Five years was a long time to bear that cross and be bore it stoically. Still, he did what he could, albeit less than he desired. His final email to me was hopeful about his destination and encouraging and thanked me as a friend and brother. Can you imagine? They don’t make men like him anymore. I am glad they once did and hopeful we will again.

    I hope everyone has a blessed holiday…

    JR. Thanks for keeping Steve’s memory alive and sharing the words he no longer can.

    GG58

  • Be Aware: We All Live in a Matrix

    Be Aware: We All Live in a Matrix

    My latest video is a mediocre attempt to explain how we must be aware that we all live in…….a “Matrix”. This matrix is made up of all that you are exposed to including social media, news, entertainment, discussions with friends and family, magazine articles, etc. My main focus in the video revolves around how social media content such as videos on Youtube are fed to you based on what you watch the most. With that said our beliefs and opinions can be manipulated based on the information that is being delivered to you with the intended purpose of keeping you engaged.

    Well here’s the video. Hopefully, it makes more sense than what I wrote above….LOL.

    Take care all –

    Rourke

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  • It’s Time to Fight

    It’s Time to Fight

    I was highly active in a men’s church group where we studied Jesus and believed there’s evidence that he was not a meek shepherd. No, rather we believe he was a warrior of pure heart who stood against evil and darkness. One only needs to go to the last book of the Bible to see Jesus described as a warrior King leading an army into Heaven. Jesus offered Commandments – not options. I mention my study as there are many who view Jesus in terms of grace, peace, purity, soft, kind, and gentle.

    Wranglestar’s video below hit home with me. I thought I would share it with you.

    Rourke

     

     

  • Nostalgia

    Nostalgia

    Over the past several weeks I’ve found myself thinking about things that I had or wanted as a kid, as a teenager, and even young adult. I started searching the ‘net and eBay to see the availability. Some of these items are toys, some books, etc.

    I loved the Sony PSP handheld game system when I was younger. I’ve had one for over 15 years but had lost the power cord and battery. Thanks to eBay I found a new cable and a couple of spare batteries. It still works great and I even added several movies and games. Back in the day, I used to convert DVD’s to digital movie files and put them in a Sony Memory Card to watch on the PSP. Digital used less power and while vacationing I could throw some earbuds in and watch Terminator in the dark.

    I grabbed a copy of Urban Operations FM 3-06. I had an old surplus copy as a teen who was new into survival and preparedness.

    I also bought a used copy of Life After Doomsday by Bruce Clayton. I considered this the bible of survival & preparedness back in the late 80’s. The author and I corresponded several times and even studied the same martial art.

    I’ve searched and searched but have not yet bought an original Daisy 881 pellet gun. The one I had(my father purchased for me) was a metal receiver colored brushed pewter. The modern versions are entirely plastic and just not the same. I spent countless hours back in the early 80’s hunting dinosaurs and evil brigands with the powerful pump-action 881. Original ones in excellent condition are rare – and expensive. Someday.

    Wonder if I can find a mint Pontiac Fiero GT somewhere.

    Hmmmm…..

    Rourke

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  • Jocko: Time Is Running Out

    Jocko: Time Is Running Out

    JOCKO WILLINK is a decorated retired Navy SEAL officer, author of the book Extreme Ownership: How U.S. Navy SEALs Lead and Win, and co-founder of Echelon Front, where he is a leadership instructor, speaker, and executive coach. Jocko spent 20 years in the U.S. Navy SEAL Teams, starting as an enlisted SEAL and rising through the ranks to become a SEAL officer. As commander of SEAL Team Three’s Task Unit Bruiser during the battle of Ramadi, he orchestrated SEAL operations that helped the “Ready First” Brigade of the US Army’s First Armored Division bring stability to the violent, war-torn city. Task Unit Bruiser became the most highly decorated Special Operations Unit of the Iraq War. Jocko returned from Iraq to serve as Officer-in-Charge of training for all West Coast SEAL Teams. There, he spearheaded the development of leadership training and personally instructed and mentored the next generation of SEAL leaders who have continued to perform with great success on the battlefield.

    I’ve grown to be a huge fan of Jocko and especially like his motivational videos. Below is one of my favorite and if needing a boost to get you moving forward towards your goals – give this one below a shot:

     

     

  • A Change in Attitude

    A Change in Attitude

    Rourke: I published the following letter a few years ago and upon revisiting it, I felt it was very valid today. Enjoy!

    We have lived in Alaska for coming on 8 years now and since coming here we have learned a lot about being prepared. We are survivors from hurricane Katrina and evacuated all the way up here to be with family that we hadn’t seen in years. After arriving we quickly learned that an Alaskan lifestyle is a different one. Let me explain. Things here in our fine state move slowly, the mail, stocks of ammo, and fruit comes in green to ripen at the grocery store. We were used to hot weather most of the year and having a garden almost year-round to experimenting with different tactics to grow anything here. So, prepping here is a tad different for us than our brothers and sisters in the lower 48. We have done a great job on building up a food pantry to not only stay off inflation but in case things get interrupted with the shipping, we have ample to survive awhile. Now, with that said, we face a dilemma most don’t and that is if and when the transportation to our state is interrupted at any point, things here will get dicey.

    We have taken a page out of a lot of old-timers books that have lived here for years and paid attention to prices, sales, and things like that to capitalize on building our inventory. Also, coming from a state that had hurricane prep as part of our schooling, we had those kinds of things taken care of, but here with the climate as it is, we were not prepared for the long winters. Sometimes it seems as winter flows right into summer and before you know it, its winter again? A different lifestyle for sure. Anyhow, we have learned that we must keep supplies in our vehicles and ensure we have things to stay warm should we break down somewhere. We also have taken an increased interest in firearms and other weapons that don’t require ammo. This is key, as the prices here are well… crazy. So, we have a backup of a backup just in case.

    So, what change in attitude am I writing about? Not ours, but that of our friends and work associates. It’s amazing to talk with the same people now that a year or two ago thought we were out of our minds prepping. We now get phone calls on how to set up a pantry, or firearms to have. We are helping families here understand that prepping just makes good sense and will help you thru even in the toughest of times. Even my commie liberal friends are getting on the wagon. I find this very interesting.

    I agree with the masses that I hope that nothing happens to our great country, but just paying attention and reading the news outlets of various places, you get the feeling that something is coming.

    In closing, I want to plead with our fellow peppers to reach out to your neighbors and friends and do your best to get them to understand that our way of life is not fanatical but just makes good sense. You will find that now with things as they are, people are more apt to at least listen to you rather than just dismiss you altogether.

    May God bless our country and your family.

    Steve Dearinger

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  • Rest In Peace…….DrJBernDrApt

    Rest In Peace…….DrJBernDrApt

    Long time follow and reader Johnny Bernstein has passed.

    “DrJBernDrApt” has been a follower of mine since back in the early days of my previous website. We sometimes emailed back and forth mostly about spiritual things, and I valued his word so much. He recently lost his battle with cancer and has joined Jesus in the battle against evil and boy do they have a warrior on their side now.

    One thing we all need to remember is when we spend so much time in preparation for something we “think” is going to happen we need to really prioritize time with friends and family – those we love. That is truly what matters.

    Love you, Johnny!!! I will miss your daily emails and messages.

    Rourke

  • Be Deliberate!

    Be Deliberate!

    deliberate – on purpose and intentionally

    People fail to stand back every so often and look at their life – and their actions. People often have good intentions but just do not follow through. You see in today’s world of superficial gestures far too often high importance is placed on societal status rather than things that truly matter.  People often feel like they have accomplished something when in fact all they did was “intend” to accomplish something. Intentions don’t get you very far – actions do.

    How many times has someone told you….”Hey, it has been so long. We need to get together and have lunch. I’ll call you next week!” – and next week comes and goes and nothing. Hey – let’s be honest here – you’ve done it haven’t you? Don’t feel bad – just acknowledge and be aware.

    Back to the title of this post: Be Deliberate!

    Look at what you are trying to accomplish. Maybe it’s relationship improvement with your spouse, son, or daughter. Maybe increasing the size of your emergency fund is long overdue. Possibly it’s time to lose weight and get healthier. Whatever it is be deliberate and make it happen.

    People are judged by their actions, not their intentions. I judge myself in that way. It doesn’t matter what I intended to do what matters is what has been done. I work daily to be deliberate in my actions and inch ever closer to each and every goal.

    With all the craziness going on in the world today, prioritizing and getting things done in the realm of preparedness is more important than ever.

    Be determined. Be deliberate. Make it happen.

    What say you?

    Rourke

  • Goals & Objectives.

    Goals & Objectives.

    I’m a pretty goal-oriented guy. Success for me is directly related to the completion of goals and objectives. I’m always planning for the future and creating lists of tasks to complete that move me constantly forward towards my goals. An inch forward is still an inch forward no matter how you look at it.

    Over the years I’ve searched for numerous ways to keep track of projects and the tasks associated. From a yellow pad of paper(must be college-ruled!) to software – I’ve tried lots of methods. After many years I’ve come down to two systems I use to stay organized and focused:

    1. A Project Spreadsheet

    I’ll post a link to the exact spreadsheet I use below.  Basically, you have a space to place what the goal or objective is – and then under list the tasks that must be completed in order to complete. Beginning and end dates can be added as well as what percentage of completion each task is at.  Feel free to download it and modify it as you wish.

    https://www.dropbox.com/s/qhtk2ifhlbab3em/project-planner.xlsx?dl=0

    2. Google Keep

    Google Keep is a virtual “Post-It Notes.” As you can see from the picture below individual lists can be made and each one customized with color if needed. I use “tabs” that are checklists so as I complete things on the list I check it off.

    Google Keep is portable as it is on my phone and my phone is with me everywhere I go.

    Oh – and it’s free.

    I use these tools for all aspects of my life including preparedness, financial, health, etc.

    Take care all.

    Rourke

  • Grandson

    Grandson

    My 22-year-old son’s baby picture on the left. His son – my grandson – on the right.

    Amazing similarity!!!😊 Love this little guy!!

    Thought I’d share.

    Rourke

  • Talking to Those You Love….For Years To Come

    Talking to Those You Love….For Years To Come

    I tend not to get too personal here in 1776. I make an exception from time to time and will say that over on Patreon I have started, and will be MUCH more in-depth about my personal life. I turned 50 and although starting this November I plan to start going backward I have certainly been reflecting on life and have been thinking about what lies before us – and our children over the coming years.

    Almost 5 months ago my first grandchild was born. I was living several hours away and my ability to be present was limited. I was worried about how things were going and what would happen. My older son – my grandson’s father, has been in a lot of trouble and has some emotional issues. He has a heart of gold – but – still has a tendency to make poor decisions based on emotion rather than logic and commonsense. Regardless, he did great, and seeing pictures of him holding his son after the birth just made me smile and warmed my heart.

    I have visited my grandson several times and he is amazing – simply beautiful. I travel quite a bit and a thought entered my mind during a recent trip –

    “Why don’t I use modern technology to connect with Bentley(his name) for years to come by recording audio messages and videos and save them for him when he is older?”

    I’m sure someone has thought of this before. During one of my trips, I used an app to record a message to Bentley. I recorded it thinking he will be an adult – or close – when he listens to it. As life is unpredictable I may be gone when he comes of age and these messages are a way for me to talk to him for years to come. Maybe I can pass on some knowledge……some wisdom. Maybe he can find comfort listening to me tell him stories about his father. Maybe some crazy philosophy I have about life can guide him in making right decisions. Maybe I can do some good.

    So – I have started recording Bentley messages. I figured I can place these on a USB drive. I can provide backups to make sure something so important cannot be lost. Audio messages may talk about someplace I’ve been – and include pictures so he can visualize them. I might talk about a favorite movie that really had an impact on me – and includes the movie on the USB drive.

    Maybe this is ridiculous. I don’t know. What I do know is I’m going to do it regardless.

    Rourke


    survival, preparedness, prepper, survival, SHTF, WROL$1.00 per month

  • A Change in Attitude

    A Change in Attitude

    Rourke: I published the following letter a few years ago and upon revisiting it felt it was very valid today. Enjoy!

    We have lived in Alaska for coming on 8 years now and since coming here we have learned a lot about being prepared. We are survivors from hurricane Katrina and evacuated all the way up here to be with family that we hadn’t seen in years. After arriving we quickly learned that an Alaskan lifestyle is a different one. Let me explain. Things here in our fine state move slowly, the mail, stocks of ammo, and fruit comes in green to ripen at the grocery store. We were used to hot weather most of the year and having a garden almost year-round to experimenting with different tactics to grow anything here. So, prepping here is a tad different for us than our brothers and sisters in the lower 48. We have done a great job on building up a food pantry to not only stay off inflation but in case things get interrupted with the shipping, we have ample to survive awhile. Now, with that said, we face a dilemma most don’t and that is if and when the transportation to our state is interrupted at any point, things here will get dicey.

    We have taken a page out of a lot of old-timers books that have lived here for years and paid attention to prices, sales and things like that to capitalize on building our inventory. Also, coming from a state that had hurricane prep as part of our schooling, we had those kinds of things taken care of, but here with the climate as it is, we were not prepared for the long winters. Sometimes it seems as winter flows right into summer and before you know it, its winter again? A different lifestyle for sure. Anyhow, we have learned that we must keep supplies in our vehicles and ensure we have things to stay warm should we break down somewhere. We also have taken an increased interest in firearms and other weapons that don’t require ammo. This is key, as the prices here are well… crazy. So, we have a backup of a backup just in case.

    So, what change in attitude am I writing about? Not ours, but that of our friends and work associates. It’s amazing to talk with the same people now that a year or two ago thought we were out of our minds prepping. We now get phone calls on how to set up a pantry, or firearms to have. We are helping families here understand that prepping just makes good sense and will help you thru even in the toughest of times. Even my commie liberal friends are getting on the wagon. I find this very interesting.

    I agree with the masses that I hope that nothing happens to our great country, but just paying attention and reading the news outlets of various places, you get the feeling that something is coming.

    In closing, I want to plead with our fellow peppers to reach out to your neighbors and friends and do your best to get them to understand that our way of life is not fanatical but just makes good sense. You will find that now with things as they are, people are more apt to at least listen to you rather than just dismiss you altogether.

    May God bless our country and your family.

    Steve Dearinger

  • Something Different: “Itchy Boots” Motorcycling the World

    Something Different: “Itchy Boots” Motorcycling the World

    With all the headlines about pandemics, unemployment, economic collapse, and division in this country it is good to get distracted once in a while to recharge your batteries and keep some sanity. Over the past several week’s Youtube has been a major source of news and entertainment for me. I had a buddy send me a video to watch from the channel Itchy Boots. This channel documents a woman who is riding a motorcycle around the world in a variety of countries.

    It really is amazing what she is doing. The scenery, the situations, and the people she comes across are inspiring. What I found most amazing is some of the locales she explores are most often advertised as primitive and violent – especially towards women. In most cases, she is welcomed and treated more than fair and friendly.

    Check out this compilation video showing many of her most favorite moments from her adventure:

     


    Have a great weekend everyone. Take care and take the time and smell the flowers, look at the blue sky, and think about how much you have to be thankful for. Now – if you are in the deep Northeast this 9th day of May, enjoy the SNOW!!

    Rourke

    I’m so excited to have finally found a source for super high-quality first aid products at reasonable prices. Surviveware.com has taken the lead to offer high-value products that everyone can afford.

  • Adventure in Your Heart, and in Life

    Adventure in Your Heart, and in Life

    With everything going on right now – unemployment, pandemic, increasing crime, inflation, etc. – stress and anxiety are on the rise. Life today tends to have us focus on things that lead to tension and stress, rather than to what humans should feel – adventure and joy in their hearts. With many outlets for stress closed(like gyms and movie theaters) due to shelter in place orders, there are still ways to set out and get adventure in your heart.

    Adventure = Hunting. Fishing. Hiking. Shooting. Weightlifting. Traveling. Church. Watching a good movie.

    There are many perspectives when it comes to adventure. What is fun, exciting, and makes someone truly feel alive to one person may be mundane and boring to someone else. That is ok! We are on this planet for a limited amount of time and live only one life – let’s make the most of it.

    Remember growing up as a child and on a daily basis adventure was around every corner? You could just sit and watch cartoons and just get lost in your imagination? Whether playing in your room or running outside the only limitation to the possibilities was your mind.

    mountain bike, transportation, backpacking, hiking, outdoor, survival, preparedness

    Remember being in high school and hanging out with your friends on the weekend? You would get together and just feel tremendously alive in pursuit of fun and adventure – and the opposite sex.

    Why has it changed?

    Society has evolved to create a pre-determined template for each and every one of us to follow – and it is not exciting nor very fulfilling. People fit within these templates and often have no idea what has happened.

    The video below from the movie City Slickers is an excellent example of this pre-determined life template that so many of us have been bound to. To set the stage: Billy Crystal has come into his son’s classroom on career day to describe what he does for a living……

     

    What he said is accurate but it doesn’t have to be. You can get out from under the umbrella of mediocrity and blandness by waking up and taking action. As stated adventure is a matter of perspective.

    Answer these questions(seriously – get a piece of paper and write the answers down):

    • What is your favorite movie and why?
    • Do you identify with any character in the movie and why?
    • What about your childhood did you enjoy the most?
    • What do you enjoy doing that makes you feel most alive?
    • What is it that causes you the most stress in your life?

    When you really put some thought into those questions and the answers you may just find the key to living a more fulfilling life – through adventure! The human spirit was never intended to work a 9-5 job, sit at home and watch TV, and bicker with the spouse. No – God made humans to have incredible imaginations and conceptualize.

    adventure, hiking, life

    Look at the answers to those questions and make a change today. Recapture the vigor, the excitement, and the adventure that you had in your youth. Make a decision to get out from the rut which you may be living in and live a life you were meant to live. This doesn’t have to involve tons of money. It requires your commitment.

    What to do now?

    Get out a calendar and a piece of paper. Write down 5 things you want to do. These things should include your friends, your family, and some just by yourself. Write down on the calendar when you will do them. Go hiking this Friday. Third week of next month go out on a date night with your spouse. On the 23rd go to the range with your neighbor who has an interest in shooting.  Just make it happen.

    Go watch the video above again. Don’t end up being another zombie of society. Make a decision. Make a commitment to yourself. Make the change…..now.

    Throughout the pages of 1776PatriotUSA.com adventure – at least from my perspective – will be featured often. After all I want to live an exciting, fulfilled life just like you.

    Take care!

    JR

    A Few Pictures From My Own Adventures

    [slideshow_deploy id=’165′]

     

     

  • Prayer Request

    Prayer Request

    Hello all. My male Husky Jake has become very ill. He is currently spending the night at a Veterinary specialist. I would really appreciate any and all prayers.  Jake is a member of the family – one of my kids.

    I pray he is OK.

    Thanks,

    Rourke

  • The Sheepdog Concept

    The Sheepdog Concept

     

    January 13th, 1982: Air Florida Flight 90 crashed into the Potomac River. Only six of the 74 passengers survived the crash and ended up in the icy water. While a helicopter was able to come in and snatch four of the 6 passengers one disappeared under the water while another – Priscilla Tirado – helplessly struggled in the 33-degree water.  Unable to hold on to the rope lowered by the helicopter she began to drown. A bystander who witnessed the crash while he was walking home could not take it any longer. He could not stand there and watch this woman drown. He removed his coat and jumped in the water. He swam over to her as she laid just under the water, grabbed her – and pulled her to the bank.

    He saved her life.

    This is the epitome of the Sheepdog.

    Sheep-Dog-D-Grossman

    Not everyone can jump into action and put themselves into harm’s way. Not everyone can be a Sheepdog. Can it be learned or developed? Probably. People are just wired in different ways.

    I have had several situations where things were happening nearby and I could not just sit back and not get involved. Sometimes it was preventing someone from getting hurt. Sometimes it was standing up for someone. Sometimes it was helping someone who was already hurt. Risk evaluation has to be done but sometimes there just isn’t any time.

    Saturday evening I was walking through Uptown Charlotte, NC with a friend. Walking down the sidewalk along the busy street I came towards a metal bench. I wasn’t looking at it rather just walking with my friend talking. In an instant, I saw a child run around from the front of the bench to the back of it and then straight towards the car filled street. I didn’t think about it I just moved. I ran and grabbed the kid – about 2 years old – just inches from the street. Did I save the kids life? I don’t know. The father noticed the kid as well and put his hand out in front of the child right at the same time I got to him.

    My heart was pounding in my chest. My buddy said he didn’t see anything and just saw me take off. Some big, muscular guy said his heart was racing because he thought the kid was going to get hit. I almost said it but didn’t – “Why did you just stand there?”

    The answer to that question is not everyone reacts the same nor has the capability to react the same.

    As for me – I will continue to mind my own business until it’s time NOT to mind my own business.

    JR.

    This post was originally published HERE.

  • Goals & Objectives – 2018

    Goals & Objectives – 2018

     

    I’m a big believer in setting goals. Without them, continuous improvement and positive change – while possible – is less likely. Goals need to be realistic and attainable. One problem most of us have is in the process of making “realistic” goals we set them too low. If we truly are determined and motivated most goals can be easily achieved. It takes massive action to achieve a true goal, which requires massive effort.

    So – for 2018 I am sharing a few of my goals:

     

    Preparedness:

    I feel pretty good at where I’m at and do not plan anything major in my preparedness efforts. There are a few specific tasks that I need to do. Here we go:

    • BUG OUT BAGS – I have my own Get Home Bag but need to build three separate BOB’s. This would be for family members, friends – whomever. My view is a GHB and a BOB are two very different things.
    • FOOD STORAGE – I want to add at least 100 pounds of rice in buckets as well as more beans, salt and sugar. An additional supply of canned foods will be put back. Specific numbers have not been factored but several cases each of corn, potatoes, baked beans, fruits, and soap.
    • DEFENSE – Sitting well overall in this area as well. I want to add a new S&W M&P9 2.0 to the mix and possibly another 9mm pistol. I like the Taurus PT-92. Super reliable and inexpensive. Really the M&P is the only firearm I want to be added to the battery. Ammunition and additional magazines would round everything out. My round count of 45ACP is too low. Would like a couple thousand rounds by year end.
    • EMP – I need to finish my EMP kit which I have started in a galvanized trash can.

    May not seem like much but as stated I feel pretty good where my preps are.

     

    Financial:

    • Debt reduction is the main goal with increasing savings the second. Had a few things happen in 2017 that caused my savings to drain. Need to get it back right while reducing debt.
    • To go along with the above tightening the reins on spending is necessary. Reducing needless spending based on convenience must go.

    These are my most difficult measurable goals to achieve.

     

    Personal:

    • While this may sound selfish my goal on 2018 is to focus on ME and MY HAPPINESS.  That should trickle down from there.
    • Health and fitness are paramount. I need to drop 20 pounds and increase my cardio. In process now.
    • Experience more adventure. Weekend trips and doing things that get the adrenaline going are examples.

    This is my most important area I am focussed on for 2018.

     

    Nothing is written in stone and life has a way of throwing curveballs. Adaptation is always at the ready.

    Anyone care to share theirs?

  • Ignorance is Truly Bliss

    Ignorance is Truly Bliss

     

    I am writing this sitting in a quaint coffee shop in the town which I live. The young and the old are flocking in…lining up to buy these tiny creations of cake, chocolate, fruit fillings and numerous things I cannot pronounce. The guy behind the counter is metro-sexual to the highest level and I would place him at the opposite end of the man spectrum compared to Si from Duck Dynasty.

    Uncle SiYeah….I’m being a bit judgmental as I sit with my Diet Coke and chocolate “torte” in front of me.

    I can tell you I feel about as comfortable in this environment as a Trump supporter at a Hillary rally. My son is upstairs getting tutored for Algebra. Figured you were wondering why I was in here.

    I’m watching these people. One right after the other. Manicures, pedicures, and perms(not that there’s anything wrong with that). They talk….well….gossip really about who did what to whom and how many times. Each seems to be making a fashion statement and consider the importance of the brand of their purse(both men and women) well over the government’s monetary policy or the number of vets that committed suicide today.

    Out front sits a Prius. Is it there? Could it be? Yes! A “Bernie” sticker rides on the back of this car. Fitting.

    A guy just walked in wearing skinny jeans and I am fairly certain black fingernail polish. Hmmmm…..

    I need a beer.

    Of course, they serve wine….no beer.

    These people have no clue. Well, I’m generalizing of course but since I’m writing this I’m allowed. The Federal debt is approaching 20 trillion. They have no clue. Over 300,000 babies will be killed this year because it just isn’t convenient to take responsibility. They have no clue. There is a North Korean satellite flying overhead that MAY contain a nuclear weapon that could send us back to the stone age. They have no clue.  I am sitting here armed…..yet somehow this evil gun doesn’t kill them. They have no clue.

    What the hell is a torte anyways? Seems like a piece of cake to me.

    Ignorance is bliss.

     

    NOTE: This post was previously published on 1776PatriotUSA.com

     *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *  *

    A New Knife Recommendation –

    I received the HX Outdoors Survival Knife a couple weeks ago and in the midst of evaluating. I can tell you this is the sharpest knife I have ever had EXCEPT for a Cold Steel Recon Tanto I owned back in the late 80’s. This thing came SHARP.

    201509251955473928

    Here are a few of the features:

    D2 coated blade and Kydex sheath, more durable, wear-resistance
    G10 material handle
    Tail hammer will help you break the window or hammer
    Two holes of the handle make it easy to make into the spear
    Detachable magnesium rod for firestarting
    Built in diamond sharpener on sheath

    [slideshow_deploy id=’1416′]

    More-Info

     

  • The Sheepdog Concept

    The Sheepdog Concept

     

    January 13th, 1982: Air Florida Flight 90 crashed into the Potomac River. Only six of the 74 passengers survived the crash and ended up in the icy water. While a helicopter was able to come in and snatch four of the 6 passengers one disappeared under the water while another – Priscilla Tirado – helplessly struggled in the 33-degree water.  Unable to hold on to the rope lowered by the helicopter she began to drown. A bystander who witnessed the crash while he was walking home could not take it any longer. He could not stand there and watch this woman drown. He removed his coat and jumped in the water. He swam over to her as she laid just under the water, grabbed her – and pulled her to the bank.

    He saved her life.

    This is the epitome of the Sheepdog.

    Sheepdog, Grossman, Patriot, quote, protect, prepper, preparedness, SHTF

    Not everyone can jump into action and put themselves into harm’s way. Not everyone can be a Sheepdog. Can it be learned or developed? Probably. People are just wired in different ways.

    I have had several situations where things were happening nearby and I could not just sit back and not get involved. Sometimes it was preventing someone from getting hurt. Sometimes it was standing up for someone. Sometimes it was helping someone who was already hurt. Risk evaluation has to be done but sometimes there just isn’t any time.

    Saturday evening I was walking through uptown Charlotte, NC with a friend. Walking down the sidewalk along the busy street I came towards a metal bench. I wasn’t looking at it rather just walking with my friend talking. In an instant, I saw a child run around from the front of the bench to the back of it and then straight towards the busy car filled street. I didn’t think about it I just moved. I ran and grabbed the kid – about 2 years old – just inches from the street. Did I save the kids life? I don’t know. The father noticed the kid as well and put his hand out in front of the child right at the same time I got to him.

    My heart was pounding in my chest. My buddy said he didn’t see anything and just saw me take off. Some big, muscular guy said his heart was racing because he thought the kid was going to get hit. I almost said it but didn’t – “Why did you just stand there?”

    The answer to that question is not everyone reacts the same nor has the capability to react the same.

    As for me – I will continue to mind my own business until it’s time NOT to mind my own business.

    JR.

     

    NOTE: This post was originally published March 14th, 2016.

  • Saturday’s – “What’s on your mind?”

    Saturday’s – “What’s on your mind?”

    Here is a place to share things you’ve been thinking about lately. What kind of things?

    • Recent accomplishments in preparedness.
    • Projects being worked on.
    • Thoughts on world events.
    • Recent purchases & recommendations
    • Current events related to politics, terrorism, crime – whatever.
    • Go on an adventure or have fun? Share it!
    • Whatever is on your mind….

    *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *

    My turn…..

    This has been a crazy week. Way more happened than I needed and unfortunately not all good. I am sooo glad the weekend is here.

    Spent some time cleaning guns this week. They were not terribly bad but overdue. I love Gun Scrubber to get the entire process done quickly. Not the cheapest quick clean but it beats the dishwasher.

    Google+: I’ve never been much for the social media platform “Google+”. Had a buddy of mine at work tell me he really loved it and hardly used Facebook anymore. I decided to check it out since I haven’t messed with my account in quite some time. Impressed. I am definitely going to spend a little more time there. If you are a user my Google+ address is: https://plus.google.com/+1776PatriotUSA

    REMINDER: Use coupon code “1776” for 10% off all orders at Valley Food Storage. This is through the end of the month.

    Project Cherokee: The old Jeep Cherokee I bought for my 14-year-old has had a few more rust spots sanded and primed – and we actually started it the other day. On the project list is a new battery. Summertime money is always tight so I anticipate getting a decent amount of work done this Fall – when the weather cools down some.

    SOMETHING FOR YOU: 

    REMINDER: Want to help support what we do here at 1776PatriotUSA.com? Follow any link from this website to Amazon, make a purchase, and we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Not a single penny more.

    *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *

    Your turn……

     

  • Saturday’s – “What’s on your mind?”

    Saturday’s – “What’s on your mind?”

    Here is a place to share things you’ve been thinking about lately. What kind of things?

    • Recent accomplishments in preparedness.
    • Projects being worked on.
    • Thoughts on world events.
    • Recent purchases & recommendations
    • Current events related to politics, terrorism, crime – whatever.
    • Go on an adventure or have fun? Share it!
    • Whatever is on your mind….

    *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *

    My turn…..

    Kayaking: Hoping to go kayaking again Sunday mornin depending on the weather. In my area of the country, there is a 50% chance of rain all weekend. Need to remind my son to bring his remote control boat out on the river. Bought it for him for Christmas and it hasn’t been taken out of the box yet.

    Hitler: 128-year-old man in Argentina claims to be Hitler.

    EXTENDED SALE THROUGH THE 19TH:  The Sawyer Bucket Kit comes with all necessary components and instructions to attach your Sawyer Mini Water Filter to most any common 5-gallon bucket. Once attached suspect water is poured into the host bucket and clean, safe water comes out the attached Sawyer into any container of your choice.

    The Sawyer Bucket Kit is available now for only $10 with Free Shipping. Filter not included.

    http://sawyerbucketkit.com

    SOLAR CHARGE CONTROLLER: Picked up a new charge controller. Actually, need a couple of these ammo box projects. I also have 45-watt Habor Freight Solar Kit that is several years old and the charge controller doesn’t work.

    charge controller, solar,

     

    REMINDER: Want to help support what we do here at 1776PatriotUSA.com? Follow any link from this website to Amazon, make a purchase, and we receive a small commission at no additional cost to you. Not a single penny more.

    *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *   *

    Your turn……