Cal Orey's Blog, page 4

Prepper Panty--Squirreling Away for Pre-Fall

 Tahoe Prepper Pantry: Squirreling Away for Pre-Fall

News | Aug 10, 2025 Tahoe Daily Tribune

Cal Orey, M.A.Last weekend, while basking in the sunshine on the deck amid my tree garden, I watched a squirrel scurry past me. It was an “aha!” moment—a subtle hint that autumn days will be coming around the mountain sooner than later. Back in 2021, after returning home following the Caldor Fire evacuation, I found myself morphing into “squirrel mode,” diligently replenishing my pantry. Like me, many of us were still a bit disoriented after such a close call with Mother Nature’s wrath. Yet, putting our lives back in order is what we do as resilient creatures around the lake.  It’s time to build a pantry during the peak of summer season to ensure having a balanced diet, support your immune system, and provide comfort during the coming seasonal challenges. Here’s a few groups of superfoods for a fall stash, and why they are must-haves. [Images of photos are from big dipper wax works. Yeah, the squirrel is here with me for fall.]Lentils (Black Beans, Chickpeas): Why it’s healthy: Yep, lentils are an excellent source of plant-based protein and dietary fiber, good to fill up on–not out. During colder months, hearty meals are comforting, and lentils can be included in soups, stews, and chili, providing energy and warmth. Their long shelf life makes them a Tahoe-ish pantry staple. Whole Grains (Oats, Brown Rice): Why it’s healthy: Whole grains offer complex carbs, fiber, and essential B vitamin, providing energy. As temps drop, you may crave more energy-dense foods. Oats are good for warm, quick breakfasts, while brown rice and quinoa can be the base of comforting dinners, helping you to prevent the “winter slump.” Nut Butters (Peanut Butter, Almond Butter): Why it’s healthy: Nut butters are a good source of healthy fats and protein, helping to keep you full. They are seriously spot-on for quick snacks or during blackouts to late summer challenges. Adding to trail mix, or spreading on whole-grain toast, offers a nutritious snack when you need an energy boost on a cold or hot day. Herbs and Spices (Dried): Why it’s healthy: Dried seasonings not only add flavor to your meals but many also possess antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Having a well-stocked spice rack allows you to enjoy natural, whole foods used in home-cooking during the colder months. So as you forage foods now for your prepper pantry, think low-sodium canned fruits and vegetable, flours, and local raw honey, it has a long shelf life and is healthier than sugars or artificial sweeteners. Don’t forget bottled coffee and teas so you can enjoy off-season despite nature’s autumn weather surprises around the lake. CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws: The Heart of a Siamese Cat, (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and The Ghost Ships. Currently, she is writing the new, revised 2nd ed. of a popular Healing Powers book, 2026. She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is http://www.calorey.com Share this story

CA Wildfires and Poor Air Quality Have Arrived...

 SOS to protect yourself from unhealthy air: Foods and beverages for poor air quality

Healthy Tahoe | May 19, 2025

Cal Orey UPDATE: Today, the Tiger Fire 50-60 miles from South Lake Tahoe is creating poor air quality on the South Shore. But note, Central CA and Southern CA are like what we endured during the Caldor Fire back in August of 2021. So, air purifiers on. Indoors. Allergy pill. Tea. Repeat... I know the drill. Yes, it is climate change. In my twenties, I ventured to the South Shore with my dog, eager to bask in the sun. But I recall our fun trip was affected by surrounding wildfires affecting the Tahoe Basin. The sky was a dull grey, devoid of sunshine, and found myself lamenting, “I can’t get a tan.” Unbeknownst to me, the unhealthy air posed risks not only to my health but also to my dog’s well-being. All I could sense was that the once-pure mountain air had vanished, casting a shadow over our escapade.

Fast forward to present-day in the springtime…Did you know poor air quality can affect both your body and mind? Even when you can’t see smoke or particles in the air, harmful pollutants can still be present and cause or worsen health issues. Breathing in these pollutants can lead to symptoms like a sore throat, itchy eyes, headaches, and sneezing.

Worse, the irritants can inflame your respiratory system. Prolonged exposure to unhealthy air can contribute to anxiety and stress. It’s important to stay informed about air quality to protect your health for you, your kids, and pets. 

Why is the Tahoe Basin Vulnerable to Dark Skies?

The Tahoe Basin can have bad air, especially in late spring, summer, and fall, even when there are no wildfires. Blame poor air quality on a few reasons: mountain geography trapping pollutants, temperature inversions keeping bad air close to the ground, increased traffic and development during tourist seasons, natural dust from dry conditions, and pollen from plants in spring and summer. 

Foods and Beverages for Poor Air Quality

Here’s a list of what to consume, and why they are beneficial.

Fruits and Vegetables: Berries are rich in antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation in the lungs.Leafy Greens: High in vitamins they may help fight oxidative stress caused by poor air quality.Citrus Fruits: Packed with vitamin C, which is known to bolster the immune system may help mitigate respiratory issues.Nuts and Seeds: Contain omega-3 fatty acids that have anti-inflammatory properties good for heart health.Whole Grains: Provide essential nutrients that support heart health.Fatty Fish: Rich in omega-3 fatty acids can reduce inflammation throughout the body.

Beverages: Green tea contains antioxidants that may improve lung function and reduce inflammation. Water helps thin mucus in the airways making it easier to breathe.

Savvy Tips for Managing Indoor Air Quality

Use Air Purifiers: HEPA filters can trap particulate matter from smoke.

Close Windows and Doors: This prevents outdoor pollutants from entering your home.

Be ready for wildfires that impact air quality.

Monitor Air Quality Resources: airnow.gov and Accuweather South Lake Tahoe

By focusing on these dietary and practical tips, you can better manage your health during periods of poor air conditions caused by wildfires or other environmental factors.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws: The Heart of a Siamese Cat, (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and a sci-fi trilogy–The Ghost Ships.  She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Currently, Orey is writing the 2nd ed. of on of her most popular Healing Powers books, 2026 summer release date.

Top Best Seller on Amazon--The Healing Powers of Honey (Sept. is National Honey Month)

The Buzz is The Healing Powers of Honey is the Bestselling Honey and Health Book on the Shelves!
Cal Orey Home  Healing Powers  health & fitness  cooking  The Healing Powers of Honey
The Healing Powers of HoneyThe Healthy & Green Choice to Sweeten Packed with Immune-Boosting Antioxidants

by Cal Orey

Published by: Kensington

Series: Healing Powers

Imprint: Kensington

416 Pages, 4.10 x 6.70 x 1.03 in

ISBN: 9781496712547On Sale: 02/27/2018HEALTH & FITNESS / Naturopathy

$8.99 (USD)

   Formats:                                             Paperback                                             eBook                                             Paperback                                     AmazonBAMBarnes & NobleBookshop.orgHudson BooksellersTargetWalmartDescriptionAuthorBoost your immune system with antioxidants, lower your risk for the flu, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and more—with honey—the healthy sweetener that’s also the green choice for today’s fast-changing world!

Drawing on the latest honey buzz and interviews with medical doctors, beekeepers, and researchers, this charming and enlightening book (sweetened with stories about honey bees and humans) reveals 30 healing honey varieties paired with cinnamon and teas, tells you how to incorporate honey into Mediterranean-style, heart-healthy recipes like Honey Custard French Toast, Honey-Glazed Game Hen, and Filo Pear and Honey Tarts, and provides more than 50 home cures that combat digestive woes to skin woes, while boosting immunity. You'll also enjoy Cleopatra's milk-and-honey beauty treatments and eco-friendly beeswax household uses--all made with the amazing honey bee's gifts!

Did you know?...

Known as Mother Nature's "nectar of the gods," honey was praised for its healing powers as far back as 5,000 years ago by Egyptians.

Eating honey can help lower the risk of heart disease, cancer , diabetes—even help reduce body fat and unwanted weight!—and increase longevity and raise immunity.

Pure, raw, unprocessed honey is a healthier sweetener than table sugar and high fructose corn syrup. It's chock-full of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins—and only has 21 calories per teaspoon.

Super "bee foods" (including nutrient-rich bee pollen, propolis, and royal jelly) are used and touted for their healing powers by beekeepers and medical experts in the present-day.

Honey can relieve a variety of ailments, including allergies, coughs, fatigue, pain, and stress, as well as boost libido.

The honey bee pollinates about one-third of the food we consume (including nutritious fruits and nuts).

"A fascinating read about a natural remedy that is a rich source of antioxidants." —Ray Sahelian, M.D., author of Mind Boosters

"This eye-opening book provides you with a delicious truth of the traditional Mediterranean diet: Honey is a sumptuous route to optimal health." —Dr. Will Clower, Ph.D., author of The French Don't Diet Plan

Courage with Paws Hits #55 Best Seller on Amazon (Cardiology) -- Told from a Feline's Heartfelt POV

 Courage with Paws: The Heart of a Siamese Cat

Title: Courage with Paws
Subtitle: The Heart of a Siamese Cat
Author: Cal Orey
Publisher: AuthorHouse
ISBN: 979-8-8230-3345-9
Pages: 48
Genre: Illustrated Metaphor / Poetry / Children’s Story / Inspired by a True Story
Reviewer: Beth Adams

Read Book Review

Although the statistics for heart disease vary, it can be justly concluded to be the most awful killer in our society.  Often sneaking up on people unsuspectedly and killing instantly in the form of a heart attack, this unforgiving disease needs to be brought to light – and lessons of survivors have to be shared.  This is the underlying theme in the latest of award-winning and prolific author Cal Orey’s books titled, Courage with Paws – The Heart of a Siamese Cat.

 Cal Orey tells this story vicariously through the eyes of her Siamese-mix Cat, given the most royal name of Sir Whiskers McPurrington.  Living in the high country of Lake Tahoe, one sunny afternoon Sir Whiskers felt odd – short of breath – and his heart began racing.  “Rushed to the animal hospital things got serious quickly,” the narration explained.  The story goes into an NDE, near-death-experience, telling how Dr. Furryheart saved Sir Whiskers.  The doctor recommended surgery saying, “Time is running out, Mr. Whiskers. Your heart is very, very weak.”  But “No” said Sir Whiskers, relying on his sixth sense cat-intuition to avoid further risks.

Sir Whiskers was told of a wizardly lion named Professor Pawsworth at BIG UNIVERSITY who performed miracles in medicine. “I can do tricks, A ‘puff-up magic’ gentle heart helper,” Professor Pawsworth roared, “using small Balloons to open up blocked areas in the heart.” I cried, “Yes, fix!”

 This of course, is referring to an angioplasty, a minimally invasive procedure to widen narrowed arteries.  Once completed, Sir Whiskers McPurrington regained his strength over time, and the book ends with a positive feline feeling of having faced fear and overcoming it with friendship and compassion, enabling him to continue creating art and laughter – “spreading courage with paws far and near.”

Courage with Paws combines many elements showcasing Cal Orey’s finesse of creative writing.  Artfully interleaved with excellent illustrations to highlight the theme of the story, along with photographs bringing in credibility of this being a true story, plus with the icing on the cake of having whimsical character names in the genre of Dr. Seuss, the book congeals into an art form with a stern message; that being to understand heart-health. As children are at risk as well, everyone needs to pay attention to this awful disease, which will only grow as a percentage in our population over the decades ahead.  This book should be recommended reading in all children’s healthcare organizations as well as family libraries to drill in the importance of heart-health.  Remember, not all of us have the cat-like quality of possessing Nine-Lives, so we need to pay attention to the One we have.

Courage with Paws is a must-read for animal lovers and anyone who believes in the profound impact pets can have on our lives. The book offers an uplifting reminder that courage and love are qualities that can transcend species, leaving readers with a renewed appreciation for the animals who touch our hearts in unexpected ways.

buy on amazon

Natures Rx to Chillax During Hot August Days and Nights

 Nature's Rx to Unplug and Unwind  (Click link to read article inside! by Healing Powers series best-selling author Cal Orey)

It's Landed! The Ghost Ships Audiobook! Sample 5 Minutes--A Thrilling Escape into 3025!

 

Author Cal Orey, Healing Powers Series-2000-2026+@CallieSimon
Fresh audiobook! Take a listen Free 5 minutes. http://Amazon.com: The Ghost Ships: Journey into the Void (Audible Audio Edition): Dawn Steinman, Cal Orey, Jerry Dugan, ACH Publishing: Books --I made the protagonist half human, half feline come alive! MEOW!

The Buzz is The Healing Powers of Honey is the Bestselling Honey and Health Book on the Shelves!

Home  Healing Powers  health & fitness  cooking  The Healing Powers of Honey
The Healing Powers of HoneyThe Healthy & Green Choice to Sweeten Packed with Immune-Boosting Antioxidants

by Cal Orey

Published by: Kensington

Series: Healing Powers

Imprint: Kensington

416 Pages, 4.10 x 6.70 x 1.03 in

ISBN: 9781496712547On Sale: 02/27/2018HEALTH & FITNESS / Naturopathy

$8.99 (USD)

   Formats:                                             Paperback                                             eBook                                             Paperback                                     AmazonBAMBarnes & NobleBookshop.orgHudson BooksellersTargetWalmartDescriptionAuthorBoost your immune system with antioxidants, lower your risk for the flu, cancer, diabetes, heart disease, and more—with honey—the healthy sweetener that’s also the green choice for today’s fast-changing world!

Drawing on the latest honey buzz and interviews with medical doctors, beekeepers, and researchers, this charming and enlightening book (sweetened with stories about honey bees and humans) reveals 30 healing honey varieties paired with cinnamon and teas, tells you how to incorporate honey into Mediterranean-style, heart-healthy recipes like Honey Custard French Toast, Honey-Glazed Game Hen, and Filo Pear and Honey Tarts, and provides more than 50 home cures that combat digestive woes to skin woes, while boosting immunity. You'll also enjoy Cleopatra's milk-and-honey beauty treatments and eco-friendly beeswax household uses--all made with the amazing honey bee's gifts!

Did you know?...

Known as Mother Nature's "nectar of the gods," honey was praised for its healing powers as far back as 5,000 years ago by Egyptians.

Eating honey can help lower the risk of heart disease, cancer , diabetes—even help reduce body fat and unwanted weight!—and increase longevity and raise immunity.

Pure, raw, unprocessed honey is a healthier sweetener than table sugar and high fructose corn syrup. It's chock-full of antioxidants, minerals, and vitamins—and only has 21 calories per teaspoon.

Super "bee foods" (including nutrient-rich bee pollen, propolis, and royal jelly) are used and touted for their healing powers by beekeepers and medical experts in the present-day.

Honey can relieve a variety of ailments, including allergies, coughs, fatigue, pain, and stress, as well as boost libido.

The honey bee pollinates about one-third of the food we consume (including nutritious fruits and nuts).

"A fascinating read about a natural remedy that is a rich source of antioxidants." —Ray Sahelian, M.D., author of Mind Boosters

"This eye-opening book provides you with a delicious truth of the traditional Mediterranean diet: Honey is a sumptuous route to optimal health." —Dr. Will Clower, Ph.D., author of The French Don't Diet Plan

Author Cal Orey's Soulmates with Paws (Collection of Published Stories) Attracts Animal Lovers! "Powerful Storytelling"

 Reading Soulmates with Paws wasn’t just reading a book — it was like being wrapped in a warm, healing embrace that tugged at memories I didn’t even know I still carried.

As I turned the pages, I wasn’t just reading stories of pets and their people — I was remembering Max, the golden retriever who belonged to my late grandmother. I was a child then, and Max wasn’t just a dog. He was family. When she passed, I remember him lying beside her favorite chair for days, refusing to eat, refusing to move. It was like he knew. That silent loyalty — that grieving — stayed with me. And your book brought it back with such tenderness and truth that I had to put the book down and just sit with it. That’s how powerful your storytelling is, Cal.

You didn’t just share tales; you shared truths — unspoken, universal, soul-touching truths. The way you wove in the voices of legends like Betty White and John Steinbeck only amplified the reverence and richness of the human-animal bond. But what moved me most was your honoring of everyday heroes — the people who adopt, protect, grieve, and love their pets in the quiet corners of life. You brought those stories into the light with grace and compassion.

One of the most gut-punching parts for me was the reflection on pets sensing danger — how animals, in their purest, most intuitive form, often know things we can’t articulate. It reminded me of a client who swore her rescue cat wouldn’t stop meowing at the basement door — only to later find a dangerous gas leak had formed. That kind of connection — the unexplainable, instinctual bond — is something your book captures better than any I’ve read.

The lesson I walk away with? Unconditional love is real. It’s raw. And more often than not, it comes with four legs and a heartbeat.

Soulmates with Paws is more than a book — it’s a sanctuary. It’s where hearts that have loved and lost come to remember, to heal, and to feel seen. Cal, thank you for writing this. Thank you for reminding us that even in a chaotic world, there is still gentle, unshakable love walking beside us — sometimes with muddy paws and wagging tails.

This is a must-read for anyone who has ever loved deeply, mourned silently, or needed to believe again in the quiet magic of connection.

 

 

 

 

⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐  5-Star Reviews (Positive and Warm)

1. Angela R., Pediatric Nurse
“This book felt like a warm hug after a long shift. Each story reminded me of the quiet strength and emotional healing pets offer us — something I see daily in our therapy dogs at the hospital. I cried reading the chapter about pets sensing danger; it hit home. Thank you, Armani, for putting this gift in my hands. Soulmates with Paws is soul medicine.”

2. Malik S., Retired Firefighter
“Cal Orey brought me back to the bond I had with my rescue dog, Rex. After 9/11, that dog was my reason to get out of bed. The stories here — especially those about loyalty in times of crisis — struck me deep. Armani, thank you for the copy. This book should be in every home, and every firehouse.”

3. Emma T., Freelance Illustrator
“From the first page, I felt like I was curled up next to a fireplace with a loyal pet by my side. Cal’s storytelling is so vivid and empathetic — I saw my own cat’s strange protective instincts in those pages. Armani was right: this book is a treasure.”

4. Carlos M., Psychology Professor
“This is more than just a pet book. It’s a study in empathy, grief, healing, and love — wrapped in fur. I especially appreciated the section on pandemic adoptions and the emotional coping pets provide. Thank you, Armani, for sharing something truly restorative.”

5. Linda K., Hospice Volunteer
“I’ve seen the way pets stay beside the dying and the grieving — the stories in this book are a testament to that sacred connection. This isn’t just a book, it’s a ministry of love. Thank you, Armani, for putting this into my hands at the fair.”

⭐⭐⭐⭐  4-Star Reviews (Positive)

6. Nathan G., Public Librarian
“I loved the blend of famous pet lovers and everyday stories — there’s something for every reader here. Some chapters felt a bit repetitive, but the emotion and sincerity more than made up for it. Armani, thanks for this thoughtful recommendation!”

7. Shelby F., High School English Teacher
“A beautiful, feel-good book with some powerful takeaways about loyalty and intuition. I’ll be reading parts of this to my students during mental health week. Thanks, Armani — you were right about this one!”

8. Renee J., Animal Shelter Manager
“I really appreciated the spotlight on homeless pets and their humans. The book gave voice to so many invisible stories we see every day in rescue work. Cal’s compassion is evident in every paragraph. Thank you, Armani, for the kind gesture.”

⭐⭐⭐  3-Star Reviews (Neutral with Suggestions)

9. Darius P., Engineering Student
“I’m not the usual reader for pet stories, but I gave it a shot after Armani handed me a copy at the fair. It was heartwarming in parts, though I found myself wanting more structure or narrative flow between chapters. Still, a meaningful read.”

10. Marissa L., Bartender and Poet
“Some stories hit hard emotionally, but others felt like magazine reprints more than a cohesive book. I appreciated the depth of love and loss, though. Armani was very kind, and I’m glad I gave this book a chance.”

11. William C., Software Developer
“Soulmates with Paws had great intentions and sweet stories, but I was hoping for more depth into the science or history of the pet-human bond. Still, a gentle and thoughtful book for those seeking comfort. Thanks, Armani.”

12. Jillian H., Stay-at-Home Mom
“The book made me cry and smile in equal measure, but I wish there were more pictures or pet profiles. It’s a lovely tribute to animals, though. Armani, your passion for the book was infectious — thank you!”

BOOK COVER FEEDBACK by Armani Klein

1. Commendation:
The cover of Soulmates with Paws radiates tenderness and sincerity — a perfect visual extension of the book’s emotional core. The soft, inviting tones and imagery of beloved animals instantly connect with the heart. It gently communicates that what lies within is not just a read, but a healing experience. For animal lovers and empathetic souls alike, the cover makes a sincere promise — and delivers.

2. Suggestion:
While the design is warm and emotionally aligned, a minor enhancement might bring it to life even more — perhaps the inclusion of subtle texture or a dynamic focal point (e.g., a silhouette of a person and pet under starlight or paw prints over a faded map). These elements could add visual depth while preserving the current serenity. I personally believe that even the most beautiful things in this world can still be made more perfectly beautiful.

Overall Rating: 9/10
This is a near-perfect cover that speaks volumes emotionally. I rated it 9 out of 10 not because of any flaw, but because I believe there’s always room to elevate a strong piece into an unforgettable one — and this book deserves that extra spotlight.

📊 Top 5 Target DemographicsPet Owners & Animal Lovers – Naturally, this is the primary audience drawn to emotional and soulful stories of companionship.Mental Health Advocates & Therapists – Especially those who incorporate emotional support animals in therapy.Grief & Healing Readers – People processing loss often look for comfort in stories of unconditional love and presence.Senior Citizens & Retirees – With time to reflect and deep emotional investment in lifelong pets.Young Adults & College Students – Particularly during transitional or isolating periods, these stories can provide reassurance and emotional warmth.  *AVAILABLE AT ALL ONLINE BOOKSTORES.

The Healing Powers of Honey Author Speaks Out--"First Lady--Nectar of the Gods"

By Cal Orey

Tune Into a  Buzzworthy Past Podcast  with  Ann Louise Gittleman 
 

A Perfect Summer Storm for High Anxiety--Healing Powers Series Author Faces Tahoe Brownout!

A perfect summer storm for high anxiety

News | Jul 26, 2025 Tahoe Daily Tribune

Cal Orey, M.A. Picture this. It’s a hot Tahoe summer day and you’re in bed, waking up to a world without the internet, electricity, or even basic climate control…After you brew your morning coffee, you find your computer offline. Suddenly, the stereo falls silent, the fish tank’s bubbles cease, and the cable box goes dark. A neighbor mentions a potential power restoration time of 7:30 p.m. Meanwhile, a heatwave intensifies, pushing temperatures into the mid-high 80s compounded by poor air quality. Without fans or air purifiers, your senior Australian Shepherd pants heavily, and your fluffy cat appears distressed. This scenario quickly escalates into a perfect storm for high anxiety. Sound familiar? If so, welcome to a brownout which like a blackout is a result from a drop in electrical supply.

Yeah, the combo of heat, poor air quality, power outage, and the well-being of pets—creates a perfect storm for high anxiety. So, here’s a checklist of how to deal with a stressful scenario—like the one described, focusing on chill out tips.

For Your Body:

Your mission is to keep you and your family safe and out of harm’s way. Stay calm and face the challenges.

Stay Informed (If Possible): While the power is out, try to find alternative ways to get info. For a while, I had access to my smart phone.  If you have a battery-powered radio or a car, tune into local news or emergency broadcasts for updates on the situation.

Cool Down: Go ahead–move to the coolest part of your home. Close blinds to block sunlight. Use any available fans (battery-operated) to circulate air. Consider using ice packs (this works!) or cool cloths on your body (neck and face) to chillax.

Air Quality: If the air quality is poor, close windows. Stay hydrated. Use the portable fans.

Pet Care: Don’t ignore your pets’ comfort. Ensure they have access to fresh water. If your dog is panting excessively, try to cool them down with cool water on their fur and placing them in a cool area. For cats, provide a cool, shaded space.

Personal Needs: Focus on your own well-being. Practice deep breathing exercises to calm your nerves. If you have any ready-to-drink teas use them…

For Your Mind:

Since I’ve experienced parts of this situation before (not all three challenges at once!), it’s wise to plan for future events.

Medication Management: Refills: As I’ve experienced during a wildfire, getting a prescription refilled pronto can be difficult. Always request refills well in advance of needing them.

Emergency Kit: Include a battery-powered radio, flashlights, extra batteries, a portable phone charger (keep computer and phone charged), car with a full tank of gas, and non-perishable food and water. Have N95 masks. Have food, water, a leash and/or crate(s) for your pets.

Backup Cooling: Consider investing in a battery-powered air conditioner or fan.

Deep Breathing: Practice deep breathing. Inhale slowly through your nose, hold for a few seconds, and exhale slowly through your mouth.

Positive Self-Talk: Remind yourself that the stress response is temporary and that you will get through it.  

By mid-afternoon, I drove to a hotel—some of South Shore still had power. But fleeing with pets presents other stressors. So, I headed back home ready to divide the family… and surprisingly, the power was back on! Note to Self: Consider getting a generator for future brownouts and blackouts this summer and year-round.

CAL OREY, M.A., is a bestselling author-novelist specializing in topics such as adventure, health, nutrition, and science. She holds a bachelor’s degree and master’s degree in English (Creative Writing) from San Francisco State University. Her books include the popular Healing Powers series, and Courage with Paws: The Heart of a Siamese Cat, (Book 2) Time-Traveling Tabby, and The Ghost Ships. Currently, she is writing the new, revised 2nd ed. of a popular Healing Powers book,2026.   She is a South Lake Tahoe local. Her website is http://www.calorey.com