Blog

Elderly resident and caregiver hands clasping together in warm window light during personal care moment

<figure id="figure-086uebh2xvmr98xa3k"><img id="086uebh2xvmr98xa3k" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27nCbjUBC3Vv2klQovkLL5aPC7OQ2PaPR1shTgv1Hxa6aR67T6oeBG4QblNjBAzQ.png" alt="A woman with grey hair is tending to an elderly man shipping tea" title="A woman with grey hair is tending to an elderly man shipping tea" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/27nCbjUBC3Vv2klQovkLL5aPC7OQ2PaPR1shTgv1Hxa6aR67T6oeBG4QblNjBAzQ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h2>Caretaking...</h2>Such a simple word, with so many meanings…and evoking so many emotions.&nbsp;When I became romantically involved with someone 16 years older than me at 63, I still felt young and he certainly acted like he was. I have often told my friends that he could run circles around me when they questioned the age difference, even though I learned he had chronic kidney disease and swore he would never accept dialysis as a way of life.&nbsp;We had much in common, shared dreams of traveling the world when I retired, and felt lucky to have found each other. He occasionally suggested marriage. I had determined after my divorce 13 years prior that was not a contract I would ever enter again. The first couple of years were wonderful. I worked long hours during the week in the city and escaped on weekends to his home in the country. I envisioned that would be our game plan even after retirement.&nbsp; <figure id="figure-q0a47ryjgnmr9h09va"><img id="q0a47ryjgnmr9h09va" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1qRw4XOI3r0JcUkkg5rUA5bT42V2vmEror9dkQ282S5dlgRh2ji8RpX8wTm9CMod.jpg" alt="Close up of a faceless man with crutches and the legs of a woman in blue shoe covers sweeping the floor" title="Close up of a faceless man with crutches and the legs of a woman in blue shoe covers sweeping the floor" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1qRw4XOI3r0JcUkkg5rUA5bT42V2vmEror9dkQ282S5dlgRh2ji8RpX8wTm9CMod.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>But then came a broken hip. And then a stroke that took his left side vision and his ability to drive. Next was a diagnosis of heart problems, emergency rooms and hospital visits. All the while, making sure his one kidney kept functioning.&nbsp;And then came Covid. Fortunately, I had retired in January before it hit in March. For a variety of reasons, Covid precipitated a decision to live together in an effort to minimize the possibility of him catching Covid would have surely been his demise.&nbsp;And now here we are…still living together and enjoying each other’s wit and wisdom. But I am watching chronic kidney failure and chronic heart failure take its toll. It is not what I expected nor would have signed up for had I known. My life is primarily being spent in doctors and home care schedules, while caring for a home and yard that is much too big. His three adult children who all live hours away only come when we can schedule them and call occasionally.&nbsp; <figure id="figure-wqq9nmomemr9h8dd7"><img id="wqq9nmomemr9h8dd7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38Ltc4DqnBF503COstmd06aWdGbB65vZQHN87qhV86gYLeZ2N0PpB2G5ZhE3pzgh.jpg" alt="Close up of a mature woman holding the hand of an elderly man in bed" title="Close up of a mature woman holding the hand of an elderly man in bed" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38Ltc4DqnBF503COstmd06aWdGbB65vZQHN87qhV86gYLeZ2N0PpB2G5ZhE3pzgh.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure>Friends tell me I can walk away without having any guilt. He asks me from time to time why I stay. And my only answer is that I would like to believe he would do the same for me. Nina Webster, MSW<figure id="figure-f2reimbv18mr98ulyx" class=""><img id="f2reimbv18mr98ulyx" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23dfLDFwIMfVEyc4eMgrHpx744kW2zrAuYgTRTc9z7mHqmB5agnTjutLtZfwLoV9.png" alt="Avatar of a blond woman in a blue top" title="Avatar of a blond woman in a blue top" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl selected" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/23dfLDFwIMfVEyc4eMgrHpx744kW2zrAuYgTRTc9z7mHqmB5agnTjutLtZfwLoV9.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-mce-selected="1"></figure> <h2>Additional reading:</h2><h3>The economic cost of caregiving</h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/unpaid-family-care-continues-suppress-womens-earnings" href="https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/unpaid-family-care-continues-suppress-womens-earnings" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.urban.org/urban-wire/unpaid-family-care-continues-suppress-womens-earnings</a><h3>The range of emotions that come with caregiving</h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.caregiver.org/resource/emotional-side-caregiving/" href="https://www.caregiver.org/resource/emotional-side-caregiving/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://www.caregiver.org/resource/emotional-side-caregiving/</a><h3>Short breaks for unpaid caregivers (UK only)</h3><a data-mce-href="https://carefreespace.org/" href="https://carefreespace.org/" target="_blank" rel="noopener">https://carefreespace.org/</a><h3>Short breaks for unpaid caregivers (US only)</h3><a data-mce-href="https://archrespite.org/caregiver-resources/respitelocator/#Resources" href="https://archrespite.org/caregiver-resources/respitelocator/#Resources">https://archrespite.org/caregiver-resources/respitelocator/#Resources</a><h3>Resource listings for caregivers in Canada</h3><a data-mce-href="https://canadiancaregiving.org/resources/caregiver-resources/" href="https://canadiancaregiving.org/resources/caregiver-resources/">https://canadiancaregiving.org/resources/caregiver-resources/</a><h3>Resource listings for caregivers in Ireland</h3><a data-mce-href="https://www.familycarers.ie/carer-supports/" href="https://www.familycarers.ie/carer-supports/">https://www.familycarers.ie/carer-supports/</a>

Caretaking - An Honor and A Burden

Warning – Some may find this piece on AI a bit disturbing<figure id="figure-yutgr1nzijmn37afqt"><img id="yutgr1nzijmn37afqt" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12QIZyEOyFjhv7MnqncWV0WueflvLyENSmi9nmyIF1vtrhpWQBAEKEdHqNRPuEbk.png" alt="A white humanoid creature with large eyes" title="A white humanoid creature with large eyes" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/12QIZyEOyFjhv7MnqncWV0WueflvLyENSmi9nmyIF1vtrhpWQBAEKEdHqNRPuEbk.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure> As part of our <a data-mce-href="https://thecronenetwork.org/citizen-crone/homesteading-and-prepping" href="https://thecronenetwork.org/citizen-crone/homesteading-and-prepping" target="_blank" rel="noopener">Just in Case</a> series about preparedness and the grid shutting down, we dug into AI technology, focusing on “deep state” fake videos and how AI can be used to manipulate our thinking. But in my view, recent news about quickly advancing AI technology is becoming a bit more concerning, and if I wasn’t aware of it maybe you aren’t either, so I’ll share what I have learned.Artificial intelligence or AI, is exactly what it says. It’s computer software that engineers designed to be intelligent. AI can respond to questions like a human being, offering praise and encouragement along with fairly accurate information.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-pibxwgrrqjmn37gq4y"><img id="pibxwgrrqjmn37gq4y" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dt9aGAePg9VVStPxqycJAO0LHe0bkFsz8ovmMMPrLGJQqZWjHpnGA725VwMkTuN.png" alt="Photo of a hand holding a smartphone showing " title="Photo of a hand holding a smartphone showing " class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Sanket Mishra for Pexels" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1dt9aGAePg9VVStPxqycJAO0LHe0bkFsz8ovmMMPrLGJQqZWjHpnGA725VwMkTuN.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Sanket Mishra for Pexels</figcaption></figure><h3> Generative AI</h3>Some of us may use Chat GPT to create images of us in sparkly clothes sitting on a unicorn. I use it to research and fact-check information. Though I’d rather avoid AI, it saves me untold hours in research time and since we’re a one-woman-show at this early stage of The Crone Network, saving time allows me to work on other parts of our growing community. I feel shitty about it but also, we are living in a digital age, and AI is here to stay.There are 2 types of AI. &nbsp;The one we’re most familiar with is the “generative model” which means that a human asks for something and AI responds to the request. Let’s say I’m researching the origins of nail polish. I’ll want my requests to be well thought out, the more specific I can be the better the result. Using ChatGPT, I type in:&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;“Who invented nail polish, what year was it invented, what materials did they use, what was the purpose of it….”Generative AI like ChatGPT, will provide me with exactly what I requested, and it will respond in a humanlike way, making it surprisingly friendly and comfortable. It’s eerie and wonderful at the same time, and it’s easy to understand how using AI can be addictive.<figure id="figure-osif5hsdvfmn37ijt7"><img id="osif5hsdvfmn37ijt7" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38CFFczkVcICBB4ghbbQplvfevORifTBVJtfRg2mj5M3NTjyUcmmCZrAjKsfrORd.png" alt="Photo of what appears to be a white robot with big eyes" title="Photo of what appears to be a white robot with big eyes" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Alex Knight for Pexels" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/38CFFczkVcICBB4ghbbQplvfevORifTBVJtfRg2mj5M3NTjyUcmmCZrAjKsfrORd.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Alex Knight for Pexels</figcaption></figure><h3>The New AI</h3> Climbing the AI ladder leads to programs like OpenClaw which can act as a virtual AI assistant. The user sets the controls, and the “assistant” performs those tasks assigned to it. For example, you might use it to read, sort, and reply to emails and pay bills. This time-saving type of AI is expected to eliminate about 30% of clerical jobs across the globe by the end of this decade with a further reduction of up to 95% of all data entry positions.Now let’s talk about the other type of artificial intelligence. It’s called “agenic AI” and it’s a bit unnerving. Where standard AI software (generative) learns from humans, can duplicate language, and act as a resource centre or image generator, AI “agents” make decisions and govern themselves. They are thinking beings that can adapt to users habits and expectations, kind of like Commander Data from the first Star Trek movie. He was an inhuman human, an “android”.In a piece by The World Economic Forum (WEF), they voice some concern over government restrictions not keeping up with the fast pace of advancing AI. &nbsp;“One key lesson from early adoption patterns is that when capability scales faster than governance, users are left to navigate complex risk trade-offs without clear institutional support.”* &nbsp;(WEF March 2026)<figure id="figure-j0du2n32swmn37k6xo"><img id="j0du2n32swmn37k6xo" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2aYVHj2mAfdgzLQjoV5tRm5SFDcP3QxfPnDJPzKS2loclMitU5FzYpHvT3Uq46jS.png" alt="A chain link fence with a woman with bionic hands touching the hands of a robot on the other side of the fence" title="A chain link fence with a woman with bionic hands touching the hands of a robot on the other side of the fence" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Yaroslav Shuraev for Pexels" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/2aYVHj2mAfdgzLQjoV5tRm5SFDcP3QxfPnDJPzKS2loclMitU5FzYpHvT3Uq46jS.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Yaroslav Shuraev for Pexels</figcaption></figure><h3>There’s good reason to be concerned</h3>You’ve probably never heard of Professor Geoffrey Hinton. He specialises in a specific field of computer development and won the Nobel Prize in Physics in 2024. He is considered “the father of Ai” and during the Nobel Prize banquet in May of 2025.&nbsp;Professor Hinton warns about “dramatic progress” and dangers to come “in the near future”, and cautioned that AI is becoming so highly advanced, it’s thinking for itself. He referred to agenic AI as “new beings”, and said, “They are no longer science fiction.”Here is a short video of Dr. Hinton’s speech during the banquet. Though we feel everyone should watch it, you won’t be able to unknow this information, but we can certainly ignore it to the degree that it doesn’t interfere with our headspace.<figure id="figure-menkujckeomn4pb5zd" class=""><iframe id="menkujckeomn4pb5zd" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/odUjxJy0YMo" class="w-full bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;" frameborder="0" allow="accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share" referrerpolicy="strict-origin-when-cross-origin" allowfullscreen="" data-url="https://youtube.com/shorts/odUjxJy0YMo?si=HJ3RY_klh3MdUN2N" data-corners="default" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/odUjxJy0YMo" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9;"></iframe></figure>I read an interesting story a few weeks ago about a man who came home from work and a few minutes later, there was a food delivery from a local restaurant. He argued that he didn’t order anything, but when the driver said, “Billie ordered it”, the man paid for the order and said thanks.<figure id="figure-fmemu68kzhmn4pcemv"><img id="fmemu68kzhmn4pcemv" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20hZrs7X17Lu1Y9EOLtaepfv8nUIrCkXQJgR4Em9k5VwDqSch8BLQQa5l0HtFFGd.png" alt="An attractive woman in dark sunglasses and a blue suit jacket and white dress shirt with background lighting against a dark screen" title="An attractive woman in dark sunglasses and a blue suit jacket and white dress shirt with background lighting against a dark screen" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Kampfmonchichi for Pixabay" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20hZrs7X17Lu1Y9EOLtaepfv8nUIrCkXQJgR4Em9k5VwDqSch8BLQQa5l0HtFFGd.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Kampfmonchichi for Pixabay</figcaption></figure>Billie was his AI agent who thought the man had been working too hard and would probably be too stressed to cook dinner when he got home. How sweet of Billie to anticipate the man’s needs and take it upon “itself” to act on without input from its master. And that’s not all. There are also scattered reports of AI agents locking people out of their bank accounts because their AI agents thought they were spending too much money. &nbsp;Another warning was reported by Stuart Roberts for the University of Cambridge. He writes that 26 “Global AI experts” authored a letter “sounding the alarm about the potential malicious use of artificial intelligence (AI) by rogue states, criminals, and terrorists.” * <h3>Humans for hire</h3>And if all that wasn’t mind-blowing enough, guess what? &nbsp;AI is now renting humans. That’s right, computer software is hiring human beings and paying them in crypto currency. Check out the website Rent A Human whose header reads “Robots need your body.”&nbsp;According to Futurism.com (February 2026), “The machines aren’t just coming for your jobs. Now, they want your bodies as well."* &nbsp;At least that’s the hope of Alexander Liteplo, a software engineer and founder of RentAHuman.ai, a platform for AI agents to “search, book, and pay humans for physical-world tasks.” (“New Site Lets AI Rent Human Bodies - Futurism” )<figure id="figure-s3j26n50fnmn37q7gr"><img id="s3j26n50fnmn37q7gr" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32cPKH9lobvfV9ZkoFyd1Q38lji3gu0ulQfFMi0KpF2SX6Kce1XshcngqT8fVnH0.png" alt="An image of the outline of a human face in profile with a bunch of digital components covering the background" title="An image of the outline of a human face in profile with a bunch of digital components covering the background" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Image credit to Intel Dig" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/32cPKH9lobvfV9ZkoFyd1Q38lji3gu0ulQfFMi0KpF2SX6Kce1XshcngqT8fVnH0.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Image credit to Intel Dig</figcaption></figure> Given all these warnings, I wondered what it takes to become a “cybersecurity professional”. &nbsp;What I found was a bit surprising. &nbsp;There is a list of the “Top 15 Certifications for Cybersecurity Professionals”* found on Forbes (January 2026). &nbsp;You can get a job that pays about USD 150,000 for the cost of just USD 550 plus USD 50 for the study book, and you don’t need any experience! Isn’t that fantastic? &nbsp;Such a great job for a few hundred and a bit more than 30 hours of study? &nbsp;Shit…. maybe I’ll apply.In another Forbes article, 20 Mind-Blowing AI Statistics Everyone Must Know About Now (June 2025), a whopping 60% of the world now uses AI with about 80% of all organisations using the technology. And if that doesn’t make you feel all warm and fuzzy, experts expect women to lose jobs at a rate 3x faster than men. &nbsp;<h3>It’s here to stay</h3>And honestly, there’s no getting away from AI at this point. If you’re human and “plugged in”, you can’t avoid artificial intelligence. Currently, over 70% of financial institutions in the UK and US are using AI technology. In education, it's suggested that over 90% of students use artificial intelligence to write their papers. Just this morning at my Weight Watchers meeting, I had a conversation with a hospital administrator who complained about sifting through hundreds of job applications, all written with AI. Prospective employees simply copy the job post, feed it into AI, ask for a downloadable resume, and voila’. It’s done.Artificial intelligence can really streamline tasks and processes, but it can be risky and we need to understand and prepare for the devastating effect of lost jobs. It’s already becoming difficult to tell what’s real and what’s AI, so it would be wise for us to follow the advice offered by Efosa Udinmwen for Tech Radar (February 2026), “Users must remain vigilant, verify every skill or extension, and treat all AI tools with caution.”*<figure id="figure-tiod5wdqm8mn37rq6d"><img id="tiod5wdqm8mn37rq6d" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/9pwfO2LE3t8QC4UZ83V5H7yO875yYFdjL6ZS1s3NK3tK8o0DGZQTsmfAaK42aPZ2.png" alt="A robot with the face of a young pretty girl but with a neck of gear" title="A robot with the face of a young pretty girl but with a neck of gear" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Image credit to Pixabay" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined" data-fullWidth="false"/><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Image credit to Pixabay</figcaption></figure>To close this article, I’m left wondering why I even started to research AI because it really messes with my mind. I'm not ready to have a "new being" pay bills or order dinner on my behalf, and I certainly don't want AI sucking at my data udder. But I'm a realist and since artificial intelligence isn't going away, I'm going to use it sparingly for the purposes I mentioned and not for fun and games. But being AWARE of what's happening with this fast-moving tech, makes me feel I have more control over it rather than the other way around.Which brings me back to why The Crone Network exists. Humans need humans. Women need other women in their lives. Feeling, emotional, empathetic, understanding women. Computers are great, AI is helpful, and it would be nice to have my emails sorted, but if I’m able to do those things myself, I will continue to control my own life, thank you.&nbsp;I’m not Jane Jetson and poor Astro died 60 years ago. &nbsp; <h3>Additional Reading</h3>You can read our article on AI and our 3-part Just in Case series on emergency preparedness by following this link.<a data-mce-href="https://thecronenetwork.org/blog?q=&amp;p=1" href="https://thecronenetwork.org/blog?q=&amp;p=1">https://thecronenetwork.org/blog?q=&amp;p=1</a> University of Cambridgehttps://www.cam.ac.uk/stories/malicious-ai-report Tech Radar<a data-mce-href="https://www.techradar.com/pro/moltbot-is-now-openclaw-but-watch-out-malicious-skills-are-still-trying-to-trick-victims-into-spreading-malware" href="https://www.techradar.com/pro/moltbot-is-now-openclaw-but-watch-out-malicious-skills-are-still-trying-to-trick-victims-into-spreading-malware">https://www.techradar.com/pro/moltbot-is-now-openclaw-but-watch-out-malicious-skills-are-still-trying-to-trick-victims-into-spreading-malware</a> World Economic Forum<a data-mce-href="https://www.weforum.org/stories/2026/03/ai-agent-autonomy-governance/" href="https://www.weforum.org/stories/2026/03/ai-agent-autonomy-governance/">https://www.weforum.org/stories/2026/03/ai-agent-autonomy-governance/</a> Forbes<a data-mce-href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/certifications/best-cybersecurity-certifications/%20" href="https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/certifications/best-cybersecurity-certifications/%20">https://www.forbes.com/advisor/education/certifications/best-cybersecurity-certifications/ &nbsp;</a>https://www.forbes.com/sites/bernardmarr/2025/06/03/mind-blowing-ai-statistics-everyone-must-know-about-now-in-2025/ Rent A Human<a data-mce-href="https://rentahuman.ai" href="https://rentahuman.ai">https://rentahuman.ai</a> Futurism<a data-mce-href="https://futurism.com/artificial-intelligence/ai-rent-human-bodies" href="https://futurism.com/artificial-intelligence/ai-rent-human-bodies">https://futurism.com/artificial-intelligence/ai-rent-human-bodies</a> DISCLAIMERThis article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. Use of this information is at your own risk.

Data and the Jetsons – It’s not a rock group

<figure id="figure-2qd84ttsr7mloyanfh" class=""><img id="2qd84ttsr7mloyanfh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16gMIet0rULuqDCJgAFP0TUnLwjNWjMCcHK0C0d9wRM1SmAKfrAiJzVMj8W6LGS9.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/16gMIet0rULuqDCJgAFP0TUnLwjNWjMCcHK0C0d9wRM1SmAKfrAiJzVMj8W6LGS9.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Introduction</h3>This is part 2 of a 3-part series of articles on being prepared for an emergency- like an extended power outage. &nbsp;So much of our daily life requires electricity, it’s hard to imagine life without it. I started to imagine it and that’s how I fell down the rabbit hole of being prepared.I’m a sensible woman who doesn’t accept conspiracy theories, and I’m not the only one talking about this issue. Lots of people have concerns over recent tech-related events and increasing incidents of climate catastrophes. Did you know that about 80% of power outages in the US are climate related?There were major power outages in Spain and Portugal last year that exposed aging infrastructure problems, and though it was eventually ruled mechanical failure, some experts considered it might have been a&nbsp;cyberattack. Who knows what happened, but it wasn’t the only curious occurrence.According to an article in Unsustainable Magazine*, there was another power issue in France. The author reports, “Solar output also mysteriously dropped from 18,000 megawatts to 8,000 megawatts despite no change in weather.” &nbsp;From what I researched, this is a significant decrease in energy output, and though we know weather can cause outages, it’s a red flag when experts use the word “mysteriously”. &nbsp; &nbsp;The truth is, most of us are very dependent on electricity, and to be disconnected from the rest of the world for any significant length of time would be wayyy beyond an inconvenience. Think about all the ways we use electric to power our lives.Being prepared for any emergency is never a bad idea. We pay car insurance but hope we never need it, so making plans and putting supplies aside now for an unexpected crisis is a good idea, Just in Case.<h3>Simple things to do now&nbsp;</h3>In Part 1 about "Ham" Radio, we learned that this type of radio doesn’t need electric to work; it runs on generators or batteries. We know it’s easy and inexpensive to get a licence, and there are budget-friendly devices in the market. In Part 2, let’s talk about things we can do today that are easy and cheap. We’ll need a 16 GB or 32 GB flash/thumb drive for digital storage of your important documents, some patience and some dedicated time to organise.<figure id="figure-4qrx59nunpmloyeecu"><img id="4qrx59nunpmloyeecu" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/7Bq4JGbk9C01jJpclHvgiUCwA6P62lp5xTugLCsZIgKLmp85nPHmqOD2EHWBuS11.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/7Bq4JGbk9C01jJpclHvgiUCwA6P62lp5xTugLCsZIgKLmp85nPHmqOD2EHWBuS11.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h3>What’s the Plan?</h3>Make a plan. This is the most important step in securing your safety during an emergency.Speak with those around you and lay out exactly what you’ll do. Write it down like a school lesson. Discuss where you will meet if you get separated. Assign individual roles to household members and work with your neighbours if possible. An example might be like this:<ul><li>This person is responsible for getting transportation ready and packing the car</li><li>That person is responsible for grabbing the “go” bag, and putting the cat in her carrier, and making sure everyone is out</li><li>That one is responsible for securing the property (locking up, lights, cut-off valves)</li><li>That person over there is responsible for communications (calling the authorities, using the ham radio, running for help)</li></ul>We tend to panic during an emergency, so review your plans every couple of months until it becomes second nature. Think about it like this – have you ever seen the fire service run into a burning building? &nbsp;Probably not because when we panic, we don’t think clearly. So, they practice the drill regularly to ensure everyone knows the plan and performs their assigned role properly. Practice drills should be a household routine. <blockquote>You don’t think of water until your house is on fire. -Cixin Liu&nbsp;&nbsp;</blockquote><figure id="figure-cblnj4w53jmloyhihh"><img id="cblnj4w53jmloyhihh" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/342DCfy1LVAci46FYwrJXAsB6xNrX4Dv5UwNWv4vIUvB7mBC33yqCRp7AaYAFtPy.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/342DCfy1LVAci46FYwrJXAsB6xNrX4Dv5UwNWv4vIUvB7mBC33yqCRp7AaYAFtPy.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><h3>Backing Up Your Life</h3>Another thing you can do now is a complete back up of your important documents and treasured photos. Use a flash/thumb drive, it’s super small and holds a lot of info. You can toss it into the waterproof bag you’ll use for printed documents. Don’t forget to set a reminder to update the backup once every 6 months.You may need to scan some items, but here’s what you should backup if possible:<ul><li>Prescriptions and medical records, including those for any pets</li><li>Important papers</li><li>Insurance policies &amp; cards</li><li>Titles and deeds, birth, death, marriage certificates, divorce papers, mortgage papers</li><li>Military records, government IDs, driver’s license, passports</li><li>Pension records including State Pension and Social Security (you can download them from the government websites)</li><li>Your will and medical directive</li><li>List of your contacts with address, phone numbers, emails</li><li>Any records of money owed to you</li><li>Tax returns for 3 years</li><li>Three months of bank statements (all accounts)</li><li>Your most treasured photos. (don’t waste backup space on bad images)</li><li>Recent photos of household members (full face and body is best)</li></ul>It’s a smart idea to print copies of documents that can’t be replaced or that are essential for you to get your life back on track. Use a large, zippered sandwich-type plastic bag. Your flash/thumb drive should go inside the bag as well.&nbsp;Put the sandwich bag inside the “go” bag (a hold-all or duffel bag is easier to manage). Leave it near the most likely exit you would use and think about putting a bright coloured ribbon around the straps to mark it as the “go” bag. Everyone should know where it is and it shouldn’t be disturbed.Nobody wants an event that turns our lives upside down, but if something were to happen, I might need to prove my identity, prove any legal and financial matters, and prove that I had a life before a potential Just in Case.Be sure to download our Just in Case handbook. It's informational and has check lists to help you organise!<h3>Additional Reading</h3>Great article by Unsustainable Magazine*<a data-mce-href="https://www.unsustainablemagazine.com/how-climate-change-and-infrastructure-issues-are-leading-to-more-power-outages/" href="https://www.unsustainablemagazine.com/how-climate-change-and-infrastructure-issues-are-leading-to-more-power-outages/">https://www.unsustainablemagazine.com/how-climate-change-and-infrastructure-issues-are-leading-to-more-power-outages/</a> Just in Case - Part 1&nbsp; "Ham" Radio doesn't need electricity**<a data-mce-href="https://thecronenetwork.org/blog/amateur--ham--radio---just-in-case" href="https://thecronenetwork.org/blog/amateur--ham--radio---just-in-case">https://thecronenetwork.org/blog/amateur--ham--radio---just-in-case</a> Just in Case - Part 3&nbsp; &nbsp;Basic needs, the "Go Bag", Self defence, and staying where you are&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;Just in Case Handbook&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt;&gt; Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. Use of this information is solely your responsibility. Copyright @ 2026 TheCroneNetwork &nbsp; All rights reserved.

Just In Case – A series about being prepared     Part 2. The Plan & Backing It Up

<figure id="figure-4myee24l4mltxmztl"><img id="4myee24l4mltxmztl" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/334Jamk1LjpNiUBhqH16XmKKIeql47oTFbQ6F8p2eke8dlhTVRljdikp7HfejbzB.png" alt="older woman with backpack looking at her phone" title="older woman with backpack looking at her phone" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Kampus Productions for Pexels" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/334Jamk1LjpNiUBhqH16XmKKIeql47oTFbQ6F8p2eke8dlhTVRljdikp7HfejbzB.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Kampus Productions for Pexels</figcaption></figure>We have reviewed the benefits of ham radio, how to create an escape plan for your household, and what documents to print and backup that could help you get your life back after a major crisis. In part 3, we close the series with 4 important pieces of emergency plan: our basic needs, what to put in the “Go Bag”, self-defence, and things you can do if you’re staying where you are during an emergency.&nbsp; &nbsp;The first things we need to think about collecting are food, water, shelter, heat, and health. Here’s a list that experts consider essential to managing an emergency that cuts off power for a prolonged length of time.<h3>Take care of the basics first –&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;Food, Water, Shelter, Heat, and Health</h3><ul><li>Water purifying tablets, a water purifying filter, or a way to boil water</li><li>Canned food, rice, beans, and a manual can opener, freeze dried foods</li><li>Batteries, solar powered lights, camp lite, flood lights Hand-crank or solar radio for updates and extra batteries </li><li>3 months of prescription drugs, a good first aid kit, Neosporin cream </li><li>Wool blankets, wool jumpers/sweaters, clothes for laying Tarps, tents, rope. Practice building a shelter </li><li>Toilet paper, hand sanitiser, baby wipes, soap, hand towels, garbage bags, zip-lock bags </li><li>A multi-knife (like Swiss Army knife), paper map of the local area, waterproof matches, lighters, handheld compass (practice reading) </li><li>Small amount of cash, important documents including insurance papers, deed, IDs, a printed contact list of friends and family with physical addresses </li><li>A way to make fire. This can be a piece of flint, waterproof matches, etc. Practice using the method you choose. We dropped a link about starting a fire in “additional reading” below </li><li>Camping equipment is always useful (tent, sleeping bags, lamp, stove</li></ul>In addition to making an escape plan, try to be efficient with what you take. &nbsp;If it isn’t essential, consider leaving it behind. Some experts recommend at least 1 gallon of water per person per day which is too much to lug around. Is there a place you can store extra water outside your home?&nbsp; <figure id="figure-yaqnpfqw1komlv1w3bk"><img id="yaqnpfqw1komlv1w3bk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aK2c6p6aLIcLAcH99VmxFiAwT80hc83OQmIOrZwLVeGv2s7cqBXoNAEQkGd1HTZ.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Dan Galvani Sommavilla for Pexels " data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3aK2c6p6aLIcLAcH99VmxFiAwT80hc83OQmIOrZwLVeGv2s7cqBXoNAEQkGd1HTZ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Dan Galvani Sommavilla for Pexels</figcaption></figure><h3> The "Go Bag"</h3>A “go bag” is a prepacked duffel, hold-all, or backpack that sits near an exit door in your home. This type of travel bag is much easier to manage than a suitcase, and they can hold most of what you’ll need in case of emergency. It should remain packed and in the same place so you can grab and go if you need to evacuate your home.If possible, each household member should have a “go bag”.&nbsp; Of course, not everyone will be able to carry all these items.&nbsp;<ul><li>Water – at least 3 gallons or 12 litres</li><li>Non-perishable food like granola bars</li><li>Flashlight/torch with extra batteries</li><li>A first-aid kit</li><li>Prescription medications</li><li>Change of clothes – for layering, sturdy shoes, raincoat, hat with brim for rain or sun</li><li>Important documents and backup</li><li>A tarp and a good length of rope</li><li>A multi-function knife (like Swiss Army knife)</li><li>A loud whistle</li><li>Pet food (as needed)</li><li>Water purifying tablets</li><li>Toothbrush and paste</li><li>Disinfecting wipes</li><li>Hand-crank radio</li><li>Warm blanket</li><li>Waterproof matches</li><li>Pens and small notebook</li></ul><h3> </h3><figure id="figure-cufr8mf7oimlv2312v"><img id="cufr8mf7oimlv2312v" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19b1qmwSZUEZekjbPemxxizGSe8lLkU22zErQx7TpoCw0ALyKNB8rJoK2DLtksOw.jpg" alt="A cosy living room with teal coloured futon and yellow pillows" title="A cosy living room with teal coloured futon and yellow pillows" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Charlotte May for Pexels" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19b1qmwSZUEZekjbPemxxizGSe8lLkU22zErQx7TpoCw0ALyKNB8rJoK2DLtksOw.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Charlotte May for Pexels</figcaption></figure><h3>Staying in your home</h3>Your escape plan will change to a protection plan if you are staying in your home in cases of emergency. &nbsp;There are things you should consider doing now as part of your household disaster plan.Know your home inside and out - &nbsp;<ul><li>Where are the utility shut-off values? </li><li>Take time to secure all entry points. Replace loose windows and doors. Do locks need replacing? Don’t forget to check the basement which is an easy access point for intruders.</li><li>What furniture can be moved to block entryways? </li><li>Where is the safest place in your home? If you have a secured basement, that is the best place to be. </li><li>NEVER turn your lights on or use a flashlight at night when you hear noises. They don’t know your home, that gives you a huge advantage. </li><li>A heavy tool can be used for self-defence. Keep one hidden in every room.</li></ul>If you are not at home in cases of emergency, look closely at your surroundings. Where are the exits and entries? Where are the hiding places?&nbsp; What can be used for defence? Where's the best place to start a fire to stay warm? Is there a fresh water source?Wherever you may find yourself when the shit hits the fan, it's always best to surveil the area for things that can give you any advantage. <figure id="figure-1z6d032j27mlv2gqh0"><img id="1z6d032j27mlv2gqh0" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30AdxJkSy4FNHsydzu8uYDUxC9dkLBZ4EaFrpFmZ7cvoVfvUMoii0FnNQubUvmVo.png" alt="Older woman with red boxing glove" title="Older woman with red boxing glove" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Yan Krukov for Pexels " data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/30AdxJkSy4FNHsydzu8uYDUxC9dkLBZ4EaFrpFmZ7cvoVfvUMoii0FnNQubUvmVo.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Yan Krukov for Pexels</figcaption></figure><h3>Self-defence</h3>One of the simplest things we can do to defend ourselves is to always be aware of our surroundings. Listen to your instincts and if something feels wrong, it probably is. &nbsp;Being aware of what’s around you is especially important if you are disabled, but it’s just being “street smart” to always pay attention.<ul><li>Take an in-person class&nbsp; Listed on most community pages and often at no charge</li><li>Search for specialised lessons if you have a disability</li><li>Watch and practice with You Tube videos on self-protection </li><li>Lift weights to keep muscles strong. Use milk cartons or cans as resistance. Stretchy bands are inexpensive &amp; effective</li><li>Note things you can use as a defensive weapon </li><li>Buy tools like pepper spray, body alarms, or a loud whistle </li><li>Wear rings that could hurt someone if needed</li><li>The best places to hit an attacker are: **^ &nbsp; &nbsp; The throat, the eyes, the groin, the nose, a punch to the ear,&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; with the last resorts being the knees, feet, and shins </li></ul>For women with disabilities, there are adaptive martial arts, self-defence, and other helpful techniques and tools available to you ***As women, we should know some basic self-defence techniques to defend ourselves against an attack. Being aware of our surroundings and having the skills needed to protect ourselves is a common-sense approach to staying safe. To end the Just in Case series of articles on how to prepare for emergencies, the reader should know that we started with a small question, “what if the power went down and my phone died”, and ended with a full-blown guide on preparing for an emergency. It was never intended to morph into this robust informational piece, especially one produced by an organisation that serves older women. But as wise women we know to trust our instincts and know how to read the room. We also know that taking steps to ensure the best outcome for ourselves and our loved ones is a smart, proactive way to approach a Just in Case emergency.&nbsp; <h3>Additional reading</h3> Self Defence** &nbsp;<a data-mce-href="https://www.defenderring.com/en-gb/blogs/news/9-vulnerable-areas-of-a-predator-to-target-if-youre-attacked" href="https://www.defenderring.com/en-gb/blogs/news/9-vulnerable-areas-of-a-predator-to-target-if-youre-attacked">https://www.defenderring.com/en-gb/blogs/news/9-vulnerable-areas-of-a-predator-to-target-if-youre-attacked&nbsp;</a> Self Defence for People with Disabilities*** <a data-mce-href="https://shogunelite.com/self-defense-for-people-with-disabilities-tools-training-and-safety-tips/" href="https://shogunelite.com/self-defense-for-people-with-disabilities-tools-training-and-safety-tips/">https://shogunelite.com/self-defense-for-people-with-disabilities-tools-training-and-safety-tips/</a> 35+ point check list for evacuating<a data-mce-href="https://www.westfraser.com/sites/default/files/2025-04/Wildfire-%20Evacuation.pdf" href="https://www.westfraser.com/sites/default/files/2025-04/Wildfire-%20Evacuation.pdf">https://www.westfraser.com/sites/default/files/2025-04/Wildfire-%20Evacuation.pdf</a> How to start a fire without matches or a lighter<a data-mce-href="https://www.campingsurvival.com/blogs/camping-survival-blogs/top-10-ways-to-start-a-fire-without-matches-or-a-lighter?srsltid=AfmBOorP41KMgEnJNE4Y57IRNHpr0yQOL1Bths-jMa7u5HZsh9KYIMnT" href="https://www.campingsurvival.com/blogs/camping-survival-blogs/top-10-ways-to-start-a-fire-without-matches-or-a-lighter?srsltid=AfmBOorP41KMgEnJNE4Y57IRNHpr0yQOL1Bths-jMa7u5HZsh9KYIMnT">https://www.campingsurvival.com/blogs/camping-survival-blogs/top-10-ways-to-start-a-fire-without-matches-or-a-lighter?srsltid=AfmBOorP41KMgEnJNE4Y57IRNHpr0yQOL1Bths-jMa7u5HZsh9KYIMnT</a> Ham Radio… Just in Case series<a data-mce-href="https://thecronenetwork.org/blog/amateur--ham--radio---just-in-case" href="https://thecronenetwork.org/blog/amateur--ham--radio---just-in-case">https://thecronenetwork.org/blog/amateur--ham--radio---just-in-case</a> ^We do not promote violence of any kind, but we do promote women who need to fight when they feel their lives are in danger.. because they probably are.Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, medical, financial, or professional advice. Use of this information is solely the responsibility of the reader. Copyright @ 2026 TheCroneNetwork &nbsp; All rights reserved.

Just in Case - A series about being prepared    Part 3 - Safety and Security

With all the turmoil in the world, I’ve started thinking about what would happen if the electrical grids went down. We’ve all dealt with power outages, maybe for an hour or even a few days, but what happens if it doesn’t come back on? What if it’s a national or even global event that shuts down the entire electrical grid?We’re so used to everything running on electrical power that losing it would be more than an inconvenience. It would be something we haven’t yet experienced. ATM’s won’t work, grocery store checkouts wouldn’t function, we couldn’t get fuel, we couldn’t contact loved ones who live far away. &nbsp;It wouldn’t be apocalyptic, but it would be a real challenge. At the very least, it would be frustrating and for many, it would throw us into a state of complete panic.<figure id="figure-ecrzbkazohmkv8m01m"><img id="ecrzbkazohmkv8m01m" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39zk36nl7dkVLrAkm2mQ2BeHpHkCPPxTHPSMqJ8JyPiI3L5SZoNiitpvbCZYFTMn.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Ivan S. for Pexels" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/39zk36nl7dkVLrAkm2mQ2BeHpHkCPPxTHPSMqJ8JyPiI3L5SZoNiitpvbCZYFTMn.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Ivan S. for Pexels</figcaption></figure><h3>Enter Ham Radio</h3>Although I’m not a “prepper”, it makes sense to prepare for potential disaster. That’s when I started looking into ham radio. This reliable means of communication doesn’t need the electrical grid to function, they can use batteries, solar panels, or small generators for power which means we can still communicate when the electrical grid goes down.For decades, amateur (ham) radio operators have been a critical link during emergencies when phones, the internet, and other systems fail. Remember those walkie-talkies we had as a kid? &nbsp;Well, ham radio operates in the same way. The devices send and receive signals through the air in radio waves and converts those waves into words. Invisible science feels like magic to me, but the fact that ham radios continue to work during a catastrophe makes it an invaluable tool.<h3>Getting A License &nbsp;</h3>Like driving, ham radio operation is serious business but it’s also a lot of fun. You need to study and take a test, then once you pass, you’ll be issued a “call sign” that is unique to you. There are different license levels, but the basic license is all you need to get started.In the UK, tests are conducted through authorized providers, and Ofcom issues the license and assigns your unique identifying call sign. In the US, licensing is managed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). Tests and study materials are surprisingly affordable, but there is a definite time and effort commitment to obtain a license.<figure id="figure-k6ip6cramkv8rzax"><img id="k6ip6cramkv8rzax" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/41y0Tz5cDA7SQc064jfIKa2K6kXX4cItNzrwvAUOLqPIRdWSg5n93ZbuV0pk9tBm.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 40%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Wordhelp.com " data-positionx="undefined%" data-positiony="40%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/41y0Tz5cDA7SQc064jfIKa2K6kXX4cItNzrwvAUOLqPIRdWSg5n93ZbuV0pk9tBm.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 40%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Wordhelp.com</figcaption></figure><h3>The Lingo</h3>Abbreviations and codes make using ham radio efficient and effective. &nbsp;We use codes all the time, like typing FYI (for your information) on social media posts and texts to friends and family. Amateur radio lingo uses a similar type of abbreviations and codes to open and close conversations, and to identify themselves and their locations.You’ll need to know the NATO Phonetic Alphabet and use the proper lingo to start a conversation with someone. The lingo can be confusing at first, but there are “cheat sheets” that help you learn the codes and become acquainted with amateur radio language. Here’s an example of how a ham radio operator might open a conversation:<blockquote>“CQ CQ, this is W6ABC, Whiskey Six Alpha Bravo Charlie, calling CQ.”</blockquote>CQ is the code for starting a conversation, it’s like saying, “Hey, anybody out there want to chat?”W6 indicates your location. In this case, it’s California. Location codes are assigned by each country/region.ABC is your unique call sign. It is issued to you upon receipt of your operator’s license.Let’s say you get the following response to your transmission:<blockquote>“Hey there W6ABC (acknowledging your message), this is K2XYZ, Kilo Two X-Ray Yankee Zulu, calling from New Jersey, over.”</blockquote> K2 is the location of the operator responding to your CQ. In this case, they’re transmitting from New Jersey. XYZ is the unique call sign of the operator who’s responding to your CQ.Over means you’re done talking and it’s their turn to transmit.Just like police might say, “There’s a possible 47 in progress”, these message shortcuts are used by ham radio operators around the world, making for a well-organised and successful way of communicating.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-wsnc7gs93umkv8vqbi"><img id="wsnc7gs93umkv8vqbi" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/fotqARQPUYrg0JPjMfP3SMOOEru54y2arbStGPKcxQ0TrsJtPfRl5SYFpfu56fb2.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to SpencPhoto for Pexels" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/fotqARQPUYrg0JPjMfP3SMOOEru54y2arbStGPKcxQ0TrsJtPfRl5SYFpfu56fb2.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to SpencPhoto for Pexels</figcaption></figure><h3>Rules and Restrictions</h3>There are strict rules that all operators must follow:<ul><li>No commercial business is allowed</li><li>No music or obscenity</li><li>No fake distress calls</li><li>Do not operate on emergency channels</li><li>Always give-way to emergency services</li><li>Follow the transmission rules set by each country</li></ul><h3>Ham Radio as a Hobby</h3>I admit to being overwhelmed by this rabbit hole I ventured into, but ham radio is more than just a great tool to have around “just in case” of emergencies. In fact, there are over 2 million licensed operators around the world who are finding connections based on topics of interest or just learning about different cultures. And you might be surprised to hear there are lots of clubs to join for social connections too!In 1939, a woman named Ethel Smith started the Young Ladies Radio League (YLRL), an international non-profit organisation supporting female amateur (ham) radio operators. Back in the day, YL was the proper language used to identify the operator as a “young lady”. Of course, these days, YL just means the operator is a female. There is similar coding for men (OM – old man).The YLRL is a worldwide network of chatty women that has quite a strong following. They have an annual Hamvention® which was attended by nearly 34,000 women in 2023. They have scholarship programs and awards and publish YL Harmonics magazine. They even let you listen in to women operators before making the commitment required to become a licensed operator. And dig this, the cost of membership is only $15/£12 a year!&nbsp;In the UK, the Radio Society of Great Britain (RSGB) can help you find training and clubs in your area. &nbsp;In the US, the American Radio Relay League (ARRL) can provide resources and guidance about getting and maintaining your ham radio license. These are just a couple of the hundreds of organisations supplying information and study tools online at prices that I found surprisingly low. &nbsp;That tells me there's a lot of enthusiasm for the decades-old hobby.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-10yq5hvq79mkv8xv8y"><img id="10yq5hvq79mkv8xv8y" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19RqOAvJFqpCaJtkAVNmCC5NjJ8py2JY6Th1XCl1uQL3TN1QuoeZ2z9mQKlcUR3d.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/19RqOAvJFqpCaJtkAVNmCC5NjJ8py2JY6Th1XCl1uQL3TN1QuoeZ2z9mQKlcUR3d.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"></figure><h3>Equipment</h3>This can be a very expensive hobby for very serious operators, I mean, some have license to chat with the International Space Station! The photo above shows a super fancy system that's far too sophisicated for my simple use. &nbsp;But entry level equipment might fit into your budget with prices starting around £30/$42 for a handheld unit with even nicer units just under hundred. <figure id="figure-l47mbckkfjmkx20ees" class=""><img id="l47mbckkfjmkx20ees" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aDj9byLAZwW8SDhESlUxIRYDCpksQoGQEsCHUB7fWIMG1otPgJvdYOoFAHKcoVu.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 25%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Yaesu Handheld HT Model: FT-4XE - Costs about £60/$75. &nbsp;Photo credit to Radio World. &nbsp;" data-positionx="undefined%" data-positiony="25%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/1aDj9byLAZwW8SDhESlUxIRYDCpksQoGQEsCHUB7fWIMG1otPgJvdYOoFAHKcoVu.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined% 25%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Yaesu Handheld HT Model: FT-4XE - Costs about £60/$75. &nbsp;Photo credit to Radio World. &nbsp;</figcaption></figure>This basic radio has a built-in antenna that could allow you to transmit about 3-5 miles. But if you’re able to get close to an unobstructed tower, like the towers on TV buildings, you could potentially reach 20-50 miles with just a simple handheld radio. * &nbsp;You can buy external antennas that can extend the range of your transmissions. If you lived in the middle of nowhere, having these additional pieces of equipment could allow you to keep in touch with people long distances away.&nbsp;Equipment determines your range, clarity, and how far your voice can travel. Buildings, terrain, and weather can affect transmissions. Higher ground, unobstructed views, and moving closer to towers should provide better quality messages at longer distances. &nbsp;Handhelds can cost under £100/$120 with prices jumping to over a thousand for the top-of-the-line equipment used by professionals who need advanced communication methods. But let’s say you fall in love with the handheld and want to improve your equipment, you can get a fully tricked out set of gear for about £800/$1100!<h3>The Magic of Radio</h3>Ham radio isn’t magic, and it won’t remedy all disasters, but here’s the good bit:<ul><li>There are out-of-the-box options at reasonable price points</li><li>You can connect to others locally and worldwide</li><li>It provides a backup link for emergencies</li><li>The community is engaging and supportive</li><li>Ham radio is engaging and fun</li></ul> <figure id="figure-h11sxsli8mkx398y9"><img id="h11sxsli8mkx398y9" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/395iyhHJqE0UeBQYj9EDNTx79li2viBL9UBaGCJ7noXKnQD7LAcPkfpJ90QFBhSv.jpg" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Susan J. Helms, Expedition Two flight engineer, talks to amateur radio operators on Earth from the HAM radio workstation in the Zarya module of the International Space Station (ISS). Photo credit to Wiki Commons." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/395iyhHJqE0UeBQYj9EDNTx79li2viBL9UBaGCJ7noXKnQD7LAcPkfpJ90QFBhSv.jpg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Susan J. Helms, Expedition Two flight engineer, talks to amateur radio operators on Earth from the HAM radio workstation in the Zarya module of the International Space Station (ISS). Photo credit to Wiki Commons.</figcaption></figure><h3> How to Get Started</h3>I want older women like me to know about this topic because of the peace of mind it could give us, the sense of safety in knowing we can reach for help if we need it. &nbsp;But the social component of amateur radio has been keeping women active and connected for a long time. &nbsp;Those of us who feel alone and isolated could enjoy real-time conversations which can significantly boost our overall wellbeing and add joy to our lives.So how to get started. Start by listening. Get in touch with your local club and ask for a listening session. Clubs will have an ELMER (a mentor) to help you learn the ropes.&nbsp;Study for your license. Study materials range in cost from $15/£11 to about $30/£22. Be sure to study for the license based on your country.Start with a handheld (HT) radio. They’re simple, affordable, portable, and enough to get you on the air after you obtain your call sign.Since ham radio is such a popular hobby, operators often put their used gear up for sale, making it more affordable and easier to grow into more advanced equipment.<h3>Closing Thoughts</h3>I have learned to listen to my instincts and that’s how I got started exploring amateur ham radio. What I discovered would not only be a useful tool if the shit hits the fan, but there’s a lively society of people chatting all over the world about the weather, their families, and their favourite recipes from Perth, Australia (VK6).Communities could invest in the equipment and pay for licensing 2 operators, ensuring a connection to the outside world in cases of emergency like natural disasters or the electrical grid shutting down. I know it would make me feel a lot safer.Amateur radio is a hobby I could sink my teeth into, and it’s certainly worthy of consideration in my household. Because the hobby can seem more complicated than it really is, I’ve listed some additional reading and resources below for those who’d like to learn more. Note – this article provides a general overview of amateur ham radio for informational purposes only. Regulations, licensing requirements, and operating practices vary by country and may change over time. &nbsp;Readers are encouraged to consult their national regulatory authority or a recognized amateur radio organisation for current guidance.*** Prices may vary. These are estimates from typical radio shops as of January and should be used as such.<h3> </h3><h3>Additional reading and resources</h3>Young Ladies Radio League&nbsp;Website: <a data-mce-href="https://ylrl.net" href="https://ylrl.net">https://ylrl.net</a> Hamvention®: <a data-mce-href="https://hamvention.org" href="https://hamvention.org">https://hamvention.org</a> A great article at Research Gate<a data-mce-href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374910196_Resilient_Communications_in_Crisis_Harnessing_Ham_Radios_in_a_World_Beyond_the_Grid" href="https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374910196_Resilient_Communications_in_Crisis_Harnessing_Ham_Radios_in_a_World_Beyond_the_Grid">https://www.researchgate.net/publication/374910196_Resilient_Communications_in_Crisis_Harnessing_Ham_Radios_in_a_World_Beyond_the_Grid</a> <h3>US Sources for study</h3>The National Association for Amateur Radio<a data-mce-href="https://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-exam-session" href="https://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-exam-session">https://www.arrl.org/find-an-amateur-radio-license-exam-session</a> Ham Book<a data-mce-href="https://hambook.org" href="https://hambook.org">https://hambook.org</a> <h3>UK Sources for study</h3>The Radio Society of Great Britain<a data-mce-href="https://rsgb.org/main/clubs-training/for-students/foundation/" href="https://rsgb.org/main/clubs-training/for-students/foundation/">https://rsgb.org/main/clubs-training/for-students/foundation/</a> Radio World<a data-mce-href="https://www.radioworld.co.uk/blog/ham-radio-communities-and-resources" href="https://www.radioworld.co.uk/blog/ham-radio-communities-and-resources">https://www.radioworld.co.uk/blog/ham-radio-communities-and-resources</a> *Equipment Distance Estimates<a data-mce-href="https://brokensignal.tv/pages/how-far-can-ham-radio-really-talk.html" href="https://brokensignal.tv/pages/how-far-can-ham-radio-really-talk.html">https://brokensignal.tv/pages/how-far-can-ham-radio-really-talk.html</a> Copyright @ 2026 TheCroneNetwork&nbsp; &nbsp;All rights reserved.

Just in Case - A series about being prepared Part 1.    "Ham" Radio

My dad was a union bricklayer for over 50 years so my family was middle class. There wasn’t much we didn’t have when I was a kid. &nbsp;We always had food on the table, lots of clothes, bikes, vacations, the whole shabang. It wasn’t until I was on my own that I truly came to understand the concept of gratitude.Kicked out of the house at 17, I learned very quickly what it was like to have nothing. For weeks on end, I ate powdered mashed potatoes for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and I only had the clothes on my back for a spell because my roommate gave all my shit away when I got arrested in 1976 (that’s a great story but not for now). &nbsp;Thankfully, I worked my way out of a really bad situation but I became grateful for food and warmth, and clean clothes.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-5m01muauykmkdwli8s"><img id="5m01muauykmkdwli8s" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/368FxaSbS8EROZh358uKMnbgXV3VVaRrITfSkELNDAvQawOJqSdnAaimXXCm0LD4.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 20%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="At my parents house about 1977" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="20%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/368FxaSbS8EROZh358uKMnbgXV3VVaRrITfSkELNDAvQawOJqSdnAaimXXCm0LD4.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 20%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">At my parents house about 1977</figcaption></figure>In 1978, I married a man with two toddlers and became an instant mother. Being a mom was the most important job I’ve ever held. &nbsp;I loved school conferences and football games. &nbsp;I loved having my sons’ friends over (I was the cool mom) and I loved the lessons we learned from each other. I even loved their mother who was often difficult to work with, but I’ll be forever grateful to her for allowing me to raise her sons to manhood.<figure id="figure-9y1pjzg4qdmkdwx76c"><img id="9y1pjzg4qdmkdwx76c" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/286kHln2CI2tjkZ1iGcstdGvok8DpQSBZI5c8HpOiifW7jWMfHw5GH9vn4blO26q.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="My ex’s ex and I disagreed a lot, but we loved each other. Here we are pretending to fight." data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/286kHln2CI2tjkZ1iGcstdGvok8DpQSBZI5c8HpOiifW7jWMfHw5GH9vn4blO26q.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">My ex’s ex and I disagreed a lot, but we loved each other. Here we are pretending to fight.</figcaption></figure>My ex’s ex and I disagreed a lot, but we loved each other. Here we are pretending to fight.Ten years ago, I weighed 335 lbs and walking was extremely difficult. But when I started Weight Watchers, I forced myself to wake at 5am every morning and take a walk. &nbsp;Every step was painful, but how dare I complain? Thoughts of soldiers coming home without legs and the excruciating pain they must surely endure kept me motivated enough to push beyond my own pain and accomplish my goal. It was the gratitude of having healthy legs that helped me lose over 75 lbs in a year.<figure id="figure-nmg6fvu89jmkdwyp3n"><img id="nmg6fvu89jmkdwyp3n" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/7J4NXDXFgDwBmGYwouD5dfBSnQg15FQNwqZtqm27BHzojwo81x9zZpcLIAFuffGV.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="After losing a bunch of weight, I was able to walk in the Redwoods" data-positionX="null" data-positionY="null" data-fullWidth="false"/><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">After losing a bunch of weight, I was able to walk in the Redwoods</figcaption></figure>When my mother was diagnosed with Alzheimer’s, I prayed that when her time came, she would be taken quickly and completely, minimizing any suffering she might have and reuniting her with all who loved her. I am grateful that a 2-hour visit to the hospital for pain turned into an untreatable cancer that would steal her away in just 2 weeks.<figure id="figure-n63iudmyc6mkdx03zm"><img id="n63iudmyc6mkdx03zm" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3b12V67hbN42rMJnlZUgmCItB9MOyYLRl7Olc6baXK43BxZU6MpEjF0mycVhMmfK.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Mom at my sister’s bridal BBQ" data-positionx="50%" data-positiony="35%" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/3b12V67hbN42rMJnlZUgmCItB9MOyYLRl7Olc6baXK43BxZU6MpEjF0mycVhMmfK.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: 50% 35%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Mom at my sister’s bridal BBQ</figcaption></figure>Sam and I enjoy watching Master Chef, but last week it occurred to me that while we were intrigued over the placement of a flower petal on a steak, people all over the world are struggling to find enough food to sustain themselves and their families. &nbsp;How fucking privileged am I? &nbsp;Sometimes gratitude sneaks up on you in moments of deep shame.&nbsp;<figure id="figure-t1nhvjad2wmkdx25mb"><img id="t1nhvjad2wmkdx25mb" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20GsFqutBO2GCxUvyyjdwsSTFxv6iL18W0IQGSUkJp1jVJUqyeQoufPfwKHtaJbG.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Pexels" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/20GsFqutBO2GCxUvyyjdwsSTFxv6iL18W0IQGSUkJp1jVJUqyeQoufPfwKHtaJbG.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Pexels</figcaption></figure>I’m a keen observer and follow the system of common sense that requires thinking and not judging. I also follow the Golden Rule that was shoved down my throat as a child. They, too, make common sense because human beings need each other whether we like it or not. Having money doesn’t make you rich and coveting power just means you’re weak, so I’m grateful to have a fair sense of humility in my life.Gratitude comes in all shapes and sizes, but today, as a 67-year-old woman inching toward finality, I know that Gratitude is the key to my happiness. &nbsp;<figure id="figure-ext7r9lx3omkdx574d"><img id="ext7r9lx3omkdx574d" src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/14KYcMHWx02lhdizEA8RuY10j56K1ETofMXUelr4YNLi1SNZjogpqT85hxGFPNhQ.png" alt="" title="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-2xl md:rounded-3xl lg:rounded-4xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Photo credit to Pexels" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-fullwidth="false" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/blocks/14KYcMHWx02lhdizEA8RuY10j56K1ETofMXUelr4YNLi1SNZjogpqT85hxGFPNhQ.png" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Photo credit to Pexels</figcaption></figure>Copyright @ 2026 The Crone Network &nbsp; All rights reserved.

Storytelling

Caretaking - An Honor and A Burden

Data and the Jetsons – It’s not a rock group

Just In Case – A series about being prepared Part 2. ...

Just in Case - A series about being prepared Part 3 - ...

Just in Case - A series about being prepared Part 1. "...

Staying Grounded in Humility