Many parts of the country are facing wintry weather right now (or it's predicted in the coming days). Now, I know the old joke about what happens when snow is expected: everyone runs to the store to buy milk, bread, and toilet paper. So, I thought I'd do a quick blog post about having your pantry prepared for snow.

Here are some basics that you should always have handy:

• at least a week's supply of any prescription medication
• at least 6 rolls of toilet paper
• candles and matches
• flashlights and batteries
• a battery operated radio
• blankets
• firewood and firestarters (if you have a wood-burning fireplace)
• foods that can be eaten without cooking (in case the power goes out and you have an electric stove) — pro tip: make sure you have a manual can opener!
• powdered milk — it works in a pinch, especially if ice cold and used in recipes
• ingredients for 2-3 of your favorite long-cooking meals — think chilis, stews, and soups
• ingredients for 2-3 simple go to meals that store well
• ingredients for a favorite treat — I always have the ingredients for a batch of chocolate chip cookies
• a stack of books, magazines, games, and/or craft projects to keep you amused if the cable and Internet are out

What do you always need to have on hand?