Doing anything different for this year?

I bought the generator last year, so this year I'm buying 2-3 more gas cans. Won't fill 'em until there's actually a threat, but I never thought they'd be impossible to find when I needed 'em.

Will pack a more complete bag for bug out purposes. Probably won't drive north, but I would like to be as comfortable as I can if I have to go to a shelter.

Already stocking up on a couple of weeks of non-perishables (hey, this is a big deal... I eat out a lot. :-) ).

Bought 6 of these (Reliance Aquatainer 7 gallon plastic containers) last year for water storage. Will clean and refill for this year.

I need to find some sort of area light. Flashlights are great until you just want to sit and read or eat or listen to the radio or... Recommendations?

I've hired a lawn guy to come cut the remaining brush / trees back and away from the house. Had new fencing installed to replace the easily blown over rotted out stuff that still managed to survive from last year.

Bought several tarps to use for emergency hole repair.

Bought a battery operated FM radio.

Will buy a small inverter to run various things off car battery. Also need to get a car adapter for my cell phone.

Looking for a camp stove to cook / reheat with. Also, some small metal cookware.

Mostly, I'm just trying to get ready before there's even a watch issued. Last year, I didn't prepare until it was too late, then couldn't catch a break between hurricanes to catch up. Among other things, a power outtage is boring. No internet, no TV. I'd read all the stuff I had, so mostly I just listened to the car radio. I think I'm going to buy some books and such and put 'em away until either the next black out or this fall, whichever comes first. <img src="/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

I guess that's mostly it. If I don't get a direct strike, it's just a question of staying in the house (with or without power) for a week or more.