Summer Blog Challenge: Day 48

Today's Challenge: List five things to do if the power goes out. 


I guess this could be taken one of two ways: Either list things to do to entertain yourself if the power is out, or things to do to make preparations if the power goes out. I am choosing the first of these (because it's more fun).

I have plenty of recent experience with enduring a power outage, since ours was recently our for 48 hours in 105 degree weather. I hope I don't have to go through that again anytime soon! How did they stand southern summers before air conditioning? Having two kids at home, we had to find ways to keep everyone occupied in order to take some of the focus off of the heat. If you have a similar situation in the future, these are my recommendations for things to do during the outage:

1. Play board games. Our favorites are Sorry and Monopoly and Life. All of these are great for the whole family. They also take a while to play, which is good when their is no television, internet, or video games. We especially liked playing games in the evening by candlelight when the dark prevents very much movement. 
2. Read. If you've been putting off that book because you didn't have time, well now you do. There are very few distractions so sit back, relax, and get to it. If you don't have a good book waiting for you, grab some magazines when you go out for ice or other supplies. Reading is a great way to transport yourself to a better, cooler place for a while, even if it is just your imagination.
3. Go swimming. Swimming is a great way to cool off and get active at the same time. Nobody feels like much activity when they're hot and bored, but take them to a nearby lake, river, pond, or pool and they're likely to forget all about those troubles. If you can, head for the ocean, where the cool breezes coming off the water are an added benefit. Bonus: The kids will be ready for bed early and you won't have to entertain them after dark.
4. Go for a drive. I am a fan of the old-fashioned Sunday drive anyway. When it's 105 degrees and you don't have so much as a fan? Well, I don't recommend you spend the day in the car, but a country drive in an air conditioned vehicle is a great way to get some relief from the heat outside and cool irritable tempers, too. Try visiting local historical markers to add a little education to the trip. 
5. Go to a park. If you can't get to a nearby shady park, just take a walk. When you're outside for a purpose, you don't think so much about the luxuries of power. You are used to doing without lights, television, and air conditioning when you are at the park. The fresh air is easier to breathe than the stale, stifling air in the house, too. And if there's a breeze, it will feel even better. 

My husband and 2 of the kids cool off in the inlet at Pawley's Island.

I hope you don't need any of these helpful hints anytime in the near future! Have you had a long power outage recently? What did you do to keep yourself and the kids occupied?