It's About Survival

Since leaving modern conveniences behind 12 years ago and basically living as if we've taken a large step back in time, I've learned what is absolutely necessary and what is just nice.  Here is a list that I consider necessary:

1) Water

2) Means to provide yourself and your critters with food (a garden, close hunting..)

3) A warm and comfortable home

4) Wood cook stove (the heart of the home)

5) Firewood

6) Tools - you can get as complex or simple, that depends on you.  I'm a simple girl and the simpler the better.  I like hand tools (easy to maintain and fix) and I don't mind the extra labor most of the time.  My essential tools list would consist of:

 Axe, hatchet, saws (bow, hand, cross-cut) a chainsaw is quite nice too, hammer and nails of all sizes, scythe, pitchfork, knives (from pocket sized to a nice buck-knife for hunting),