Post 55: Wherein the Author Finds She Has Too Many Books, and Resolves to Walk to the Library Instead

As usual this holiday season I've received at least one gift card to Barnes and Noble, a present that is always welcome, no matter how many times I receive it. I will always use a gift card on books. Most people who know me, know this.

My dilemma this year is as follows: I live in a tiny room, with only one bookshelf and one wall shelf. Although in my childhood room my books overflowed the bookshelves, I had four of them. And more space for overflow, such as windowsills, a window seat, and a very large desk. (NB: I have many many more books than I will ever need!) I occasionally bring even more books to my apartment from my childhood home, but have to start moving them the other way or my room will be positively overrun by books! Furthermore, I have decided (finally) to start cleaning out my room in my mom's house. So I need to stop buying books. Seriously. Being not only a reader but a bibliophile and a pack rat complicates this goal.

So how do I spend this gift money without buying more books? DVDs are a good alternative. There are even a few I want. Though I shouldn't start stocking up on DVDs, either.

Instead of buying books, I'm going to attempt to borrow more from the library. Even if it does mean I have to spend even more time outside in the cold, walking to and fro. Walking is good, it's healthy. So is fresh air. Which I will be telling myself every time I go.

Doesn't solve my gift-card/too-much-stuff problem, but it might prevent me from buying all the books I'd like to read, and I can focus my attention and money on buying the books I really will read more than once, and will really love. Some of the books I've taken off my old shelves this holiday have made me wonder why in the world I had to have them years ago. Others, old friends, read at least half a dozen times, will hopefully be with me until I settle down, wherever/whenever that happens.

Randomly, I don't think I've mentioned that I was completely impressed by Simeon Varlamov's first two games between the pipes in the NHL - and am looking forward to seeing him in net again soon! What a talented young man.

Holiday Greenery

For all that e-cards save trees and paper, and even money (how much do stamps cost these days?), I would rather send the traditional snail-mail holiday cards, even if I do spend a dollar on every international stamp I use. They're more fun, and I still prefer getting mail in my real mailbox as opposed to emails. Emails are so common these days. And there's none of the romance a hand-written letter has. Not to mention the pretty holiday cards and envelopes.

Well. This year, I started a little late (blame the cookies) ... as in, I started today. Since it's a little too late to expect many people to receive the card before the end of December, I've gone with e-cards 100% this year. Although I did save time, money, and trees, I feel a little guilty about not spending more time on them, and a little sad that I didn't get to spend the time writing the holiday greetings and yes, even the addresses.

The good part about the e-cards is that they don't use consume fuel while traveling across the country/ocean, and they don't waste paper, destroy trees or get thrown out (accidentally or intentionally).

So I may not always be as green as this year when sending out holiday cards, but I will incorporate it at least a little every year from here on out.

Another "green" holiday activity I've started doing recently is to cut up holiday cards I've received in previous years and use them as To/From cards on gifts. Which reminds me. Received a package of gifts for others that included brown paper instead of packing peanuts, which has worked really well as wrapping paper.

Good News from Britain

Evidently, Great Britain has been taking care of its waterways, and British otters have taken note. Who'll drink out of the Thames, now that it's good enough for otters? :)

Interesting fact: Otters can grow to be four feet long. That's almost four-fifths the height of the average American woman.

On Drinking Water

Bottled water? Only until I buy a Kleen Kanteen or SIGG water bottle...

Filtered water? Well, I didn't drink it because the filter never gets changed in time, and they only filter out certain contaminants, not everything.

Tap water? Currently my water of choice, though I believe that will change... Generally, the standards for tap water are more strictly designed and enforced than bottled water, but I suppose the exception occasionally proves the rule. Thank you, Washington Aqueduct, for making tap water in DC and Northern Virginia the exception.

I think it's about time we changed the filter on our Brita pitcher.

Oh Tannenbaum, Oh Tannenbaum

On the last day of November (happy belated Advent!), I went shopping at Merrifield Garden Center, one of the most exciting places to shop for plants and such. I had earlier in November been introduced to a living Christmas tree, personally, which transformed a vague interest in living trees into determination to have one. I think the clincher was that one can start them small and keep them in a small pot until one is ready to grow it, which makes it ideal for a single young person living on her own. Although a bit heavy, it is remarkably easy to transport (a little easier than this). There are plenty of advantages to live Christmas trees, to which I'm happy to add the above, and main, reason that I chose one this year.

So I have my Christmas tree for the next three decades, which is one thing I won't have to worry about during future holiday seasons. I have a little bit of Christmas at my apartment, and when the season is over, I'll have a house companion. Kind of like a cat, but much easier to take care of. And free of allergens.

After buying my new Christmas tannenbaum, I had to find decorations for it. Which proved to be harder than I thought, given that this tree is almost two feet tall. Putting normal-sized ornaments on this tree would have been like wearing earrings the size of baseballs. Uncomfortable, and unbalanced. So I eventually ended up at Target, on the advice of a friend, and fortunately they had several sets of ball ornaments cheap. Also, I picked up some mini candy canes while I was there. The candy canes complete the decorations. Definitely they add a certain pizazz to my little tree. Also I now have a bunch of candy for the holidays. Especially satisfying since I missed out on Halloween candy this year...

The only thing missing is a star for the crown.

A Tupperware Party With A Reusable Twist

Saturday my plans for a new kind of party came to successful fruition. I've always enjoyed planning and having parties, especially when they go off without a hitch. I'm not talking large raving, drunken parties - I never have enough energy for those, for hosting or for cleaning up after them. But small dinner parties and the like... much more fun.

So my latest plan, which came to me in a flash, like intuition or an epiphany, a lightning bolt sent from the heavens... you get the idea. Anyway, all of a sudden, I thought, what a great way to update and clear out my wardrobe, by throwing a party and exchanging them with other peoples' unwanted clothes! Voila'! The Thanksgiving Clothes Swap was born.

Ayah. Some people, not into the idea of reusing other peoples' clothes, might not appreciate how brilliant my idea was. Others might like to try it for themselves.

Five of my girlfriends came over, with bags of clothes they didn't wear anymore, and I put some wine on the stove to mull while we chatted and I created a hasty party soundtrack. We thought about some different strategies for the exchanges, and ended up with the easy, chaotic, and fun idea of just tossing the clothes out on the floor and just going for it. Then, we spent an hour trying on multiple pieces of clothing, and picking out what each of us liked best. One of the most useful things about trying on clothes with girlfriends is the way they'll tell you when things look good, and when they don't.

Some guidelines that we found useful, though not entirely necessary:

1. Everyone must have fun.
2. Everyone must bring something, and exhanges only are to be made. You must end up with exactly the number of things you brought, unless at the very end people still want to give items away and there aren't enough things left over to exchange.
2.5. Exchanges should be made at an even ratio, so everyone ends up with a similar number of items at the end
3. There will be no negative judging of clothing
3.5 Clothes must be tried on and viewed by others, who may comment on how well it fits (or doesn't). Honesty is strongly recommended.
4. There will be a contest at the end to see who can come up with the most outrageous outfit created out of the items that everyone has brought. I will work on a prize for this.
5. Leftovers that are not exchanged may be given away (see rule #2) but everything must go to charity, which is not exchanged or given away. No throwing away any items of clothing will be permitted!

6. There will be gossiping. We will require full disclosure.

The best perks? Free clothes that have been reused, giving clothes a second chance, seeing the delight on friends' faces when they try on a flattering piece, and the gossip and good times that accompany the swapping.

Oh yes, and the "craziest outfit" included a beret, a sparkly black top with a cut-out back, a teal knee-length skirt with a flower print, and cowboy boots. Unfortunately the words don't do the outfit justice, but I hope to get a picture up eventually.

THE Musem of American History, Renewed - For Better, or For Worse?

The National Museum of American History just re-opened on the National Mall in Washington, DC this past Friday. As part of the Smithsonian Institution, it has an excellent reputation to live up to - even though reviews it received before remodelling were negative.

So I've been looking forward to this re-opening for months now, cultural history being the most interesting kind of history in my opinion.

Then, I read something like this.

I never read movie reviews before I go see a movie because I'm very easy to please when it comes to moving pictures entertainment, and often the critics are, well - very critical. So I will go see this museum, even though I've read a disappointing reveiw of it. And what do you know, I may like it. I'm sure it will be an educational experience no matter what impression I end up with.

A Day in the Life of a Young Granny

Last night the Caps played again in California. This time against the LA Kings. Originally, the game was scheduled to start at 10. I'm pretty positive about that. But it's like those dreams I sometimes have, where later I convince myself what happened in my dream happened in real life- only it didn't. Conversations about those dreams are super-fun and occasionally awkward.

To get back to the point, I found out last night at 10:04pm that I had to wait "another 26 minutes" until the game started. Blargh. I have enough trouble staying up to watch the first period when the game begins at 10. I pretty much had no chance last night. Because I'm a granny, and I need at least 7 hours of sleep to function properly the next day.

Lately I've been getting annoyed with the Capitals announcers, because they're all about "color", I think it's called. Sure, the trivia and jokes make the game more entertaining to watch when the games themselves lack action and excitement, but seriously, they almost never announce the actual plays in the game. So, based on my experience when I was out at IKEA last week, I tried to listen to the radio coverage of the game. (Last week I was at IKEA again, my favorite store. We were out late, and then with traffic and accidents on the Beltway would have missed most of the game were it not for the AM radio.)

Turns out the radio is a few seconds ahead of the TV.

So I watched some of the first period, and when the little voice in my computer screamed "he scores!" I looked up, only to think I'd missed the play. A few seconds later I saw the goal. Duh.

After the first period I turned off the TV and got ready for bed, listening to the game in my room. Tried to stay awake another 20 minutes, which isn't that long... and completely failed. I'm going to blame my new down comforter.

So I hear that the Caps were still in the game in the third period, which is good to know considering the final score of 2-5.

More on My Love/Hate Relationship with Heating Appliances

It appears to be a bad winter for heaters.

I probably shouldn't count my own situation at home, because my little space heater is doing just fine. Brought my room temp from 58 to 68 this morning. I'm so proud. But that I had to buy one adds to the instances in which heaters have appeared in my life. They haven't played a big role before this year.

Heat at the museum, where most of my coworkers spend their days, is non-existent. Luckily my office isn't as cold, but I've heard stories (and seen evidence firsthand) about blankets used to keep warm at desks. I have a space heater in my office (slightly illegal, as we all know) and so do half a dozen others I know of.

Just had a story this morning about a friend whose heater died last night, and then was revived, only to overreact in its new lease on life and stay on for two straight hours, making the room temperature a steamy 98. She said she opened her front door to bring in some cold air; I would have opened my windows, too.

Now. It might seem to some that I'm a little hung up on these heating appliances, but I'm not. I swear. I predict that my next post will have an entirely different subject.

Space Heater Part 3

So I bought my space heater last night!! I'm very excited. I tried it out, and my room was 68 degrees Fahrenheit! Instead of the 55 it had been before I turned it on.

Started out at Home Depot, but they had a pretty pathetic selection, so on my cousin's suggestion we went to Target, luckily not that far away. Ended up with a Honeywell, with a digital display, and it oscillates, and it was inspected and tested by Underwriters Laboratories, which I wanted in my space heater. It's reassuring to know that the heater has been tested for safety by a recommended laboratory. I won't go into it, but it had everything else I wanted, too, except maybe a remote control. How decadent would that have been.... Sigh.

Because space heaters make me nervous (and I know you're going to laugh when you read this) I also purchased a smoke detector for my room, a carbon monoxide detector (both of which I'll install this weekend) and.... a fire extinguisher! As my coworkers have just told me, Fire Marshal Bill and Smoky the Bear would be proud of me. Shiny.

Postscript: Space Heaters

Some websites to check out if you're in the market for a space heater. Besides the ones mentioned in my last post, there's also a great review on ConsumerSearch.

Then, for a cute picture and another list of top space heaters, read this. Although it's a little disappointing, because I expected the reviews to have some green basis and that doesn't appear to be the case, still it's worth a look. Some of the favorite types overlap on both websites.

Some of the reviews mentioned on both of the above websites are Amazon, Viewpoints and Epinions, for reference purposes.

Problem: Being Cold. Solution: Space Heater

I hate being cold. Period. If I'm out of doors, having fun, say playing in the snow or something, then I can tolerate it. I tolerate being cold in the winter on my walks from work. I can't stand being cold indoors. There's just something inherently wrong, in these days with heating units and indoor temperature controls.

I live in a sunroom. It's a beautiful sunroom, and warm during the day when the sun coming through the windows heats the room beautifully.

NB: If you get direct sunlight through a few windows, it might help keep a room or two warm in your house/apartment if you leave the windows clear. On the downside, when they're not covered and the sun is not shining light directly through, it will be colder. In which case, you might want to cover it with heavy curtains or plant some shrubberies outside for insulation.

So, if you're like me and you hate being cold, live in a sunroom, and don't live in the tropics, you might be interested in space heaters.

First step, in my hunt for a reliable, safe, high performance, shall we say perfect, space heater, is to research safety. And what I should be looking for in the perfect space heater. I found a brilliant website earlier this week, but managed to lose it - here is another, an article produced by the U.S. Consumer Product Safety Commission in February 2001, which seems to be the latest edition.

But I'm very into this safety-of-product information, especially when such a high percentage of house fires are caused by space heaters. "For the years 1999-2002, there were about 9,900 residential fires per year and about 190 deaths per year associated with portable and stationary space heaters " (CPSC 14 Dec. 2005). Pretty scary.

Here's to being an informed consumer - Powers That Be willing, I will not burn down the apartment.

Organic Dairy, Organic Meat, Organic ... Beer?

True story! According to the Green Guide (here), the next big organic product is beer. Well, I might be exaggerating. But Anheuser-Busch, Miller and New Belgium have already brought out organic products. There are also a number of microbreweries and smaller labels that brew organic beers.

Read a pretty thorough article on why one should drink organic alcoholic beverages (yes, it includes wine and even "teetotalers"! Also has a section on buying local beer, as opposed to imported or mainstream American labels.

Read this article (also by the Green Guide) for more information on buying local and the reasons to drink organic when you want to get foxed. Or buzzed, if you're like me. This article includes some pretty creepy and unsettling facts about non-organic beer and other spirits.

Here are some things I learned: Reasons to drink organic include saving birds and fish that die after ingesting pesticides and fungicides sprayed on fields. If you're democratically minded and would like to see small family owned and local organizations gain more business, instead of financing large corporations (which are rarely well-read on ethical behavior, IMO), buying local, which can also be organic, wins. Lastly, they taste good! Perhaps it's similar to the difference between tap water and filtered water. Though last I checked tap water doesn't cause cancer...

To Do List: Taste organic beers.

Read these informative articles and enjoy, maybe with an organic brew in hand!

Responsibility

Is recycling a responsibility? Yes. To nature, to all living things on Earth, and to the future generations of said life.

For whom should recycling become a responsibility, and who should recycle? Individuals, corporations, government - everyone plays a part.

Is it always convenient, or an easy responsibility to perform? No. Sometimes counties, cities, municipalities, apartments, condominiums, or neighborhoods don't have the most convenient or complete recycling programs on offer.

Does this mean that people should only recycle when it's convenient? Emphatically, no! If everyone only did what was convenient in every aspect of his or her life, then our societies would be in chaos. Imagine a father not caring for his children because it's inconvenient. Or a daughter not looking after her aging mother because it's not convenient. Try employers not going to work because it's inconvenient. What about corporations who don't look out for their employees because it's easier and more convenient to look out for the big head at the top? Or people as a whole not participating in government elections and procedures because maybe it's not convenient to stand in line for four hours just to cast a vote. There are other examples I haven't listed, but I'm sure the idea comes across.

I have now taken on the responsibility of recycling for my whole apartment (that's three people total, and a lot of recycling!). Because, my roommates don't worry about recycling - it's not a concern of theirs, that the landfills grow bigger every day, that toxic chemicals are left sitting around, that plastic and styrofoam are left to decay over thousands of years. Granted, I'm not perfect - I bought a coffee this morning that came in a styrofoam cup. Had I thought of that as I passed Starbucks, I may have changed my mind and bought coffee there. I didn't.

What bothers my roommates are appearances. So having bags of recycling in the kitchen and the living room bothers them, because it doesn't look pretty. Nevermind that the landfills are much, MUCH uglier than our crowded kitchen. The other reason for their lack of motivation to recycle is that our apartment has just the bare minimum of recycling bins set out in the basement. So in order to recycle most of what we don't throw away (which is paperboard, as opposed to glass and plastic, and white paper, as opposed to newspapers) must be recycled at the local recycling center. Read here to find out more about recycling in your area. Our center is only about four blocks away, a two minute drive... a trip I can't make by myself, as I don't own or have regular use of a car. Though I am going to look in to Zipcars. Someday. I may be able to walk to the grocery store, but there's really no practical way to walk to the recycling center, with all the recycling we have.

But. My roommates don't care to drive there. Because they just don't want to. Personally, I think sorting and throwing things into bins and or dumpsters is kind of fun, especially if you're along with a friend. I'm not the only one, either. Well, I've looked for the quote and can't find it, but to paraphrase: Will Ferrell has said he looks forward to driving up to the recycling center in his plug-in hybrid.

They don't have the time, yet there are 24 usable hours in every day (watch Empire Records to find that quote). Sure, subtract some hours for sleep, and on weekdays some for work, and for hanging out - how many people don't have downtime during the week? An hour? That's all it takes.

So, even though I'm not as concerned about appearances as my roommates, I am the only one who cares about the future of the planet. Did I mention I turn off lights we're not using? And I make sure the TV and cable are off when we're not using them? And I unplug appliances that aren't in use, even if they're off. Pat yourself on the back if you do, too. Because degrees of cleanliness reflect on one's immediate surroundings, and on a small, small part of our individual worlds, but recycling positively affects our entire Earth, and everyone in it.

Dear Readers,

I know I've been absent for awhile. I thought I'd research for the next post I wrote, but have definitely not been motivated. Instead, I've been getting stuck into researching my family history. Luckily for me, through the Navy, I have free access to some websites that have US Federal Census records, as well as Draft Registration records from World War I ... it really is fascinating. I'm so interested, I'm re-thinking that thought I had about not being an historian when I grow up.

Autumn is definitely my favorite season of the year, but I just re-discovered the reason I don't like running in cold weather: the cold air burns the throat, and causes congestion to loosen. I survived, though, and even had a great, challenging run. The trees are beautiful in their red and orange and yellow coats, and my feet make soothing noises as they tread on the trees' lost leaves.

The greenest news I have is that I planted trees again this past Saturday, with Casey Trees and some very lovely people. I enjoy it so much that it doesn't really matter that I have to get up at 7am on a Saturday morning, or take public transportation and walk to the site, which involved an hour each way last weekend. I think I might become a Citizen Forester, which is a person who knows enough to lead groups in the planting of trees. Apparently there's no commitment - they give you the training, and then they shoot you an email, "if you'd like to come out this Saturday..." which is my kind of commitment!

I'll work on that interesting topic I've been meaning to discuss.

That is all,
Your lazy blogger.

P.S. Another great man who feels the way I do: "Our lives begin to end the day we become silent about the things that matter." - Martin Luther King, Jr.

Yes We (Still) Can Change

I suppose I'll jump on the bandwagon (read this and this) and cheer for Obama, who as President-elect of the United States of America, is our hope for the future.

I would like to mention that expectations for his success are extremely high. In Obama's own words, we as an American people, can change the course of the future. He has just accepted one of the most powerful positions in the world, and from there will have ample opportunity to create positive change, but he won't succeed without help. Sure, he'll have his advisors - but let's all ride the wave of enthusiasm, participation and hope by continuing to act. Voting Yes to Obama was only the first step. Don't lose momentum now!

I know as a young professional, I personally felt more involved and important in this election than I did four years ago. Whether that's due to an individual adjustment, or the historical aspect of this campaign, or even Obama's appeal to the youth of our nation, I'm not sure. Most likely it's a result of all three. Perhaps it also has something to do with my being in the country.

At any rate, as a result, I followed the campaigns, and the election. I voted. I know many other contemporaries who did as well. I intend to continue to participate in creating our future, and I hope others feel the same. We can notify our congresspeople of changes we want and problems we see; applaud or protest actions taken (or not taken) by the government. By continuing to act, we can continue to make a difference.

There is no better time than now. Actively support this opportunity, and we will BE the change.

In the words of Mahatma Gandhi, who needs no introduction: "You must be the change you wish to see in the world."

Halloween History Lessons

Conversation I had on the street in Dupont Circle on All Hallows Eve:

(Random, to me): What are you?

(Me): Artemis

(Random): I have no idea what that is.

(Random on other side of me, as I walk past): Greek god! Man, go to history class!!

Ghost Ship Barry

Forgot to write this post last week, but here it is.

Last Friday, The Navy Museum had an event they call "Ghost Ship Barry". Which pretty much explains what it is: a haunted ship. Last year I missed out because I was visiting family in Michigan, but this year had the opportunity to go.

My co-workers, who organized part of the event, mostly the games and candy for the kiddies, used the term "given free reign" when referring to the sailors who had altogether too much fun scaring willing customers.

Going through with one other friend, at a lull in the traffic, was a bit lonely - and possibly creepier. I was elected to go first, which in my opinion is not the scariest position, but anyway. Probably what set the tone for my first trip through (yes, we went twice) was what happened when we encountered the very first ghoul. I hopped down the stairs, turned a corner, and walked halfway down the hall before my friend shrieked. I turned around, and look! There's a man all dressed in black with fake blood running down his face. Oooh. So we're stopped before we even start, have to wait while someone alerts all the creepy people to get ready to scare.

The first time, we walked through pretty quickly, I think mostly because I didn't want to stick around and wait for goblins and dead people to pop out at us. Lots of them were hiding behind black curtains, or on the other side of glass walls (we were on a ship, remember). Apparently something followed my friend for a while, and kept putting claws on her shoulder and whatnot. At one point, I turned around and he tried it with me, and I said, "oh hi there!". Someone else banged on the walls quite a bit, and then at one point one of them, I think he was trying to show us the way, flashed a little red light in my eyes. Not nice. Nor scary. Mostly though, the whole time through, I kept cracking up at how scared my friend was. She caught the brunt of the scaries, and I don't think I was in the right frame of mind... So I spent our first run through laughing.

The second time, we'd added one more person, and I ended up going first again. This time we cruised through a little more slowly, so the creatures had more time to scare my buddies. The second time worked out better in terms of scare-factor. I had someone hanging onto my purse (my "luggage") from behind almost the whole way, which actually freaked me out at the beginning. The scariest part though, had to be when I saw someone all dressed in black ahead, and he fell down to his hands and feet and started rapidly crawling towards us. Remember, I was in the front! And he didn't stop! I thought he'd stop, but he got right up to me, and then melted away. Also, the fake spiderwebs got to me. I know, I know, they're fake. Evidently that doesn't make a difference.

All in all, a very fun evening. Though I'm sure the sailors had more fun than anyone who went through the ghost ship.

Economy and The Saving of Energy Versus Warmth: Where is the Line?

For me, the line is drawn significantly in front of freezing in the office. Just moments ago, I had on three layers, one of which is some kind of wool blend, and fingerless gloves, also a wool knit blend (%60 wool, %20 angora, %20 acrylic), and I still felt cold! I have decided to put my coat on, even though it somewhat restricts my shoulder movment, and confuses my keyboard into opening strange windows. My fingernails are not blue, not yet, but they feel as though they might be.

How does Lucky say it, in 101 Dalmatians? "My nose is froze, my toes are froze, my ears are froze..." I've misquoted, for sure, but the point remains the same. Nobody should have to wear her coat in the office. Coats are for outdoors. There was a day not too long ago, on which I can remember noting the fact that I didn't even have to button up my (winter) coat, before going outside - because it. already. was.

Thankfully, I am not working in the museum, whose thermometers yesterday measured the cozy temperature of 60 degrees Fahrenheit. But with all the people coming and going from our building, and our position right next to the foyer, and the glass wall that forms part of the exterior wall, it's still not warm.

Now, I'm all for saving energy, and if that means not having a really nice 72 degree temp in the home or office, I can handle that. But 60 degrees I definitely do not do. Nor do I appreciate 65 degrees. In fact, whenever I feel cold and prickly all day long, I'm not comfortable, and quite frequently as a result, do not work productively. There's an old saying that seems relevant here, although it leaves the audience with a negative impression of the speaker/writer: "I can't work in these conditions!" Quite literally, I can't. Just like when a person has to pee really badly, the discomfort of being cold completely overrides all other thought processes. All I think about is how cold my fingers are, and how uncomfortable wearing my coat for 5 hours is, and even how cold my toes (in socks and boots!) feel.

Color me unimpressed and very cold, and unproductive. Did I mention irritated?

Environmental Do-Gooding

I planted my first tree today! Got up before the sun, made my way to DC to work with Casey Trees, an organization that helps restore the urban tree canopy. Good thing they had coffee, and even though I arrived early, I didn't have to wait long for a hot cup. Styrofoam-ish, but what can you do. I hope eventually the improvements I make by helping to plant trees outweighs the styrofoam cups I've used. Though next time I may bring my own mug.

Our tree was perfect. Well, nearly. Straight, but with a slightly crooked trunk, nearly deep enough in the ground. We had to deal with massive root systems left behind by ground cover and an earlier generation of trees. Lifted out a root-and-dirt carpet about 5 inches deep at one point. The trees our team planted were sugar gum, which I'd never heard of before, but they're quite pretty with star-shaped leaves and closely resemble the maples that we were replacing.

I learned how to use a pick-ax. Not sure I'm entirely comfortable with them, but they're not difficult. Just want to be careful not to puncture anyone. Could cause a nasty wound.

Got dirty and looked like a vagabond on the Metro ride home, and didn't feel the cold for at least an hour, we were working so hard. That's the first time in a long time I've had a chance to play in the dirt. All for a charitable cause, too. Can it get any better?

In the end, I can't write enough positive things about this new experience. Furthermore, I'm proud of having accomplished something as unique as planting a tree. What a great and productive way to spend a Saturday morning. Probably this is something I'll do more than just the once.

Before I sign off, a nod to Tyler Sloan, who tonight scored his first NHL goal while playing for the Caps in Dallas. Let's Go Caps!

The Sant Ocean Hall

Took a trip to the Smithsonian on this lovely autumn afternoon (crisp air, turning leaves, warm sunshine). National Museum of Natural History, to be precise. They have a new exhibit there, called the Sant Ocean Hall. Only opened last month, and unfortunately everyone else in the city also decided to visit the new exhibit today. Incredible exhibit, with very wide scope, as one might imagine for an exhibit whose subject amounts to 70% of the earth's surface. Not too detailed, instead very succinct panels and then more specific information about the many models, photographs and especially preserved remains of various species. Learned that the weird-looking creature I found once on East Sands at St Andrews is called a - well, I've forgotten the name now, but it's similar to a star fish. Only more wormlike. Ah, yes. Brittle stars. Point is, good to know, finally. Didn't have time to explore everything, but some of what I did included North Pacific Cultures (a traditional canoe hangs above here) whales - one in particular, called Phoenix - and coral reefs and the Poles, north and south. Another room I couldn't investigate had fossils, a jawbone of an ancient (and much, much, larger) great white shark. Called Megamouth, or something (carcharodon megalodon, technically). I could step through the jaws without ducking or hitting the three, four, five rows of teeth, I think. Shiver. Saw a video projected onto a sphere to represent the earth, and watched a theater presentation on submarine diving (to the deep ocean, approximately 2 miles under the surface).

Verdict: Well worth a visit. And then a second, and maybe a third, to get all the information. Good thing it's FREE!!! (God, I love living in DC some days)

Rediscovering "Family Time" at Dinner

There's something about eating with friends and family that just equals comfort. Comfort food on another level, if you will. Growing up, we always had dinner together as a family. Now that I live on my own, it happens far less frequently. Not all the siblings can gather together at the same time, because sometimes one is really busy and another is on travel or on the other side of the country. Only once have I lived with flatmates in a situation where we ate together most nights, because we alternated cooking dinner. All of us enjoy cooking, and they had a talent for it, luckily for me.

But I'm rambling. As a young adult, living on my own, eating together happens very infrequently. Last night, for the first time, my newish roommates and I finally got around to having a "roomies dinner". And I discovered how much I miss cooking for people. Not that I'm exceptionally talented, nor do I have the time or inclination to cook for people every night, but once in a while I do really enjoy it.

So last night I cooked a chicken, which I haven't done since I first moved in. It all started with the usual debate about what kind of chicken to buy, the choices being chicken (not free range, unfortunately) not given antibiotics or fed bits of other animals, and preserved without immersing it in water (evidently the Europeans do it differently) and then organic. Look at Green Guides for an article on different safety/environmental labels for beef (not sure if they have one specifically for chicken). I went for the cheaper version, because it seemed healthy and at the same time was $4 cheaper than the organic birds. Of course we were running late, so had to rush a little in the eating, but it's not even so much the eating with others I enjoy as the cooking part. A glass of wine; chopping veggies; putting the bird in the oven; mixing the cookie dough; occasionally munching on the food that's supposed to be cooked; and chatting all the while.

Who else can't wait for Thanksgiving?

Happy Discovery of America Day!

"In fourteen-hundred-ninety-two, Columbus sailed the ocean blue..." yadda yadda yadda. Today was a federal holiday. Those of us who work for the government and didn't go to work to have the day after Thanksgiving off, well, didn't have to go to work today. No matter that there doesn't seem to be any real point to it. There's nothing to celebrate, like our country's independence, no feasts to be prepared and then shared, no presents to be given... it's just a day off. For some of us. I'll admit, up front, that I love having three-day weekends and I wouldn't want to get rid of Columbus Day, because that would bring the total down to nine. And I want as many holidays as I can get!

However.

Most people know by now that Columbus did not actually discover the North (or even South) American continent, but a tiny island (in comparison) called Hispaniola. Or rather, which he named Hispaniola. Strong work there, Chris. Not only that, but he wasn't even aiming for a new world! Some might say that whether or not he succeeded - in his actual goal or in discovering the New World - he brought awareness of the new world to Europeans. Sure. Obviously they didn't know about it prior to his visits, because he claimed to be the first. And didn't even imagine when he got there that where he was wasn't, in fact, India. Furthermore, other explorers discovered the "new world" centuries before Columbus. Take Lief Eriksson, for example. Lived five centuries before Columbus and established a colony in Canada.

My point is, Columbus is given more credit than he probably deserves. Not that he doesn't deserve any, he just isn't the only important explorer. In light of the above, why not call it "Discovery of America" Day, and teach the elementary students about all the sightings and discoveries of America. These days, being politically correct is so important. The name for this holiday could better describe the important historical event, in my opinion. While we're at it, why don't we celebrate the establishment of all the various colonies? Who's for it, eh?

P.S. The Caps won today, "spanked" (a word I heard from a disappointed Vancouver fan on the Metro ride home) the Canucks with a score of 5-1. Sat four rows from the boards today, where the players seem much, much bigger than they are from the 400 level sections, and where the action is even more exciting. Shiny.

News Bulletin

Good news! The allergies I ranted about in my last post have mostly subsided. I don't want to jinx anything (cross your fingers and no, I'm not superstitious), but they have been at a very manageable level for the past few days. It appears that the change in allergy meds worked.

In other good news, I finally put up a shelf in my room. Very excited, because now I have a place for some of my extra books and my oxygen, clean-air producing houseplants. Which are all thriving, so far. Now, about my pumpkin... that might be a different story. I write "might" because I've been neglecting it yet again, and don't have any idea how it's faring. :(

Tomorrow I'm going to see the Capitals play the Vancouver Canucks!!

Lastly, I recently took one step closer to playing a greater role in saving the planet by signing up to volunteer in the area! Some weekend in the near future I look forward to helping clean up the Anacostia river. Among other things.

That's about it for this broadcast, check back later for more.

A Little Rant About Allergies

Because ranting is cathartic.

My allergies used to be normal. Excessive, but normal. As in, stuffy nose, sneezing, watery eyes... those of you who have them will know the basic symptoms. Now, for some reason, everything is bypassing my nose - which is very uncomfortable. I won't go into details, because it's rather gross, which is why I find it depressing, too.

The Ent doctor doesn't know why it started (sometimes viruses like the cold can last for a longer time, causing similar problems, but the only cold I've had recently didn't begin till the allergies had been worse for weeks), which means there's no easy fix. A change in medicine, he suggested, and guafenisine, which tastes nasty, in case anyone's interested. Neither of these things have cleared it up yet. The only other solution, according to the Ent, is to get tested for allergies so they can make me a "special sauce" and then give me shots - I've heard twice a week, once a week, for a year... Shots! Also, they have to monitor their victims for an hour after they administer the "special sauce", which means time off work...

I'm also wading through health insurance for the first time, and the plan I thought was great, really isn't that great if you've got to get expensive shots during office visits once a week for the next year.

The latest Green Guides issue has a short article on allergies... and how global warming contributes to them and makes them worse. As in, with warmer weather, the trees and flowers and grasses have longer pollinating seasons, which can make allergies last longer. More pollen can be produced, too. Not only that, but allergies evidently used to be an urban problem - until mass transit like trains transported the pollenating particles to the country. Then, in places like Arizona, which used to be a pollen and allergy-free state (it being desert), city planners started bringing in trees and bushes and flowers, etc to make it look less like a desert. Short-sightedly, most of those trees were male, which are the gender of trees that distribute pollen. Semen, if you will. Apparently, according to these city planners, having fruit drop on the ground was much more unpleasant. Hah.

So here I am, about to start the next, expensive, part of my life getting shots in the arm every week. Hopefully the inconvenience and pain will be balanced by some kind of correction of my allergic reactions to just about everything.

Fish Supper

Finally, after weeks of not having time or, admittedly, the inclination, to go to the grocery store, I grocery-shopped like it was my job. Kind of lost my head in the produce department, ending up with the usual bell peppers, bananas and spinach, but also asparagus, oranges and bok choi. I've decided I like asparagus and bok choi, both newly acquired tastes.

I even bought fish! That was exciting. At the fish counter I learned it's possible to get some of your "pound" of fish frozen, in individually wrapped packages. How cool is that? There's no way I can eat a pound of tilapia in one night, so it worked out well.

Per Nigel Slater's British recipe (because, let's face it, the British have to be the best at fish suppers), I fried my tilapia and made some fluffy mashed potatoes in lieu of chips (a.k.a. fries to the Americans). I can roast veggies, but chips are beyond me. Boiled some asparagus to go with it, and presto! Dinner was served.

I have regained my enthusiasm for home-cooked dinners. Not just eating them, but making them, too.

Filling in the Gaps Between Now and Nashville

Dear Readers,
(yes, all four of you!)

My sincerest apologies for disappearing for so long. While in Nashville, I had very limited access to the internet. I came back, found myself very busy, and then came down with a cold.

(As I watch the debate: entitlements? And who hasn't given up on social security already? Who seriously expects change without having to pay for it? There's an old saying about free lunch...)

In between now and Nashville, I have spent time in diverse ways. I'm going to start from the end, and work my way back to the beginning. This weekend, I went hiking in the Shenandoah. The main point of the expedition was to catch the predatory bird migration; according to my guidebook, thousands of hawks can be seen flying overhead in one day. Unfortunately, all we saw were black vultures circling high above us. The hike was short but sweet, and challenging, as that was day 2 of the cold. The trees have started turning here in Virginia, but I will need to go again when the leaves change and become even brighter. Nature is without a doubt the best part about hiking; it helps calm and center me, and lifts some of the stress from my life. The combination of dirt, sun, trees, fresh air, birdsong and insect noises creates a soothing environment. It also serves as an excellent reminder of the reasons to make changes to help save the environment. Fortunately, this time I did not run into any spiderwebs.

The cold started late on Friday night after I went out in Dupont Circle, to a lovely little wine bar called Veritas, which has fantastic customer service, a low-lit, pleasant atmosphere, and an obliging behind-the-scenes DJ. They even have wines from the very inclusive selection on tap! Had a lovely evening there with a friend. Space was limited, so we ended up sitting with two very nice young women at a small table. A very fun, but late evening.

Thursday was special. Thursday a coworker invited me to a Washington Capitals Season Ticket-Holders party at Six Flags in Maryland, where I got a hat signed by some of the players. Woot! Woot!

The rest of my life since Nashville has included much work, nearly enough sleep, and sadly enough, lots of television.

Yours truly,
Me

NashVegas!! (a.k.a. Nashville)

Didn't really see much of the NashVegas part, actually. Only, we drove down Music Square, where some of the big recording studios are, and I got some kickin' cowboy boots."These boots were made for walkin'..." That's right. That's what they do. I love 'em.

I will admit that Nashville does not appeal to me. What little I saw of it didn't feel like a city. Lots of distinct neighborhoods, some of them very beautiful (in one of the latter, passed by Reese Witherspoon's parents' house). Downtown, we went to the Country Music Hall of Fame, which brought back my childhood and made me feel very nostalgic for my country music-listening days. Nashville has one very unique aspect, as Music City - it has music boxes on the street corners! Classical music next to the symphony hall, country music next to the Hall of Fame. I started singing when I knew the words... Maybe I shouldn't mention that.

One of the most fascinating things I saw there was the print shop my friend (I hope she's watching the debate) works at which is the second oldest... in the city? Excuse my hazy details. There, they use old hand-cranked presses with block type and images that are arranged by hand. Some beautiful posters are made in that shop. There are also two resident, though shy, cats. Unique atmosphere, there.

Mostly, though, I spent time on the farm. Not Bob Evans style, however. Not sure if that jingle popped into anyone else's head... It's located on a beautiful property, with an excellent view of the sunset from the front porch, or even the hammock. Unfortunately I forgot about mosquitos while I was there, and came back with several bites. But, the sunsets were worth it. I watered some cows, which grow like house plants when watered, apparently. Let's see, I napped, hung out in the hammock (pun intended), read a lot, and washed plenty of dishes by hand. Essentially, I relaxed. Though not the beach, the vacation passed tranquilly.

Hurrah for using up the last of one's vacation time.

Dear Diary: I am a horrid gardener

Dear Diary,

I spent the week catsitting at my mom's house (I miss the kittens already), living a life of luxury with a car, a giant house (as compared to my shoebox apartment) all to myself... the WHOLE time I was there, I comPLETEly forgot to check on my vegetable garden. Read: I have no idea if I'm growing a pumpkin that needs to be protected from ravaging racoons, or rabbits, or opossums... (which reminds me, I was in a museum in Sweden once, where opossums were considered a rare rodent creature in the creepy dark nighttime/underground section, whose main habitat is a small area located in and around northern Virginia).

I guess that's not entirely true, because I did spray it with fungus-killer last weekend. No new fruits then, so maybe there still aren't any. Finally saw the beautiful orange pumpkin flower when it was open. It's large, star-shaped, and about two shades lighter in color than the pumpkins themselves. My tomato plant, when I sprayed them all to kill the mold, was encroaching on my bell pepper plant, but hopefully hasn't overtaken it yet. Speaking of which, I'm sure they all need weeding, too. Bah.

Well, I did get back to my apartment last night to find all of my house plants thriving, a little bit taller and a little bit crookeder than they appeared when I left, which means they got enough sun and didn't miss being watered. So I won't complain about having a black thumb. Not yet, at any rate. But I won't claim it's green, either.

Yours truly,
a forgetful gardener

Montpelier

I had originally planned to go hiking yesterday, to Marys Rock where supposedly the bird-watching in autumn is excellent, due to the migrations of various birds of prey. Instead, I chose to visit Montpelier, restored home of president James Madison. They just finished restoring it recently, and had their grand opening last week, I believe. Unfortunately, "finished" did not include furniture. Some of the walls were painted, most were coated with varying stages of plaster application (there are three different coats if one chooses the plaster route, apparently). Unfinished rooms aside, it's a beautiful home for the most part, with the most amazing triple-paned windows (designed by Thomas Jefferson) in the drawing room, which opened far enough to become doors! Aside from the main house, I walked through a very small cottage, built probably at the end of the 19th century, which was used for guests in the early 20th century (rustic vacation, anyone?), checked out the gardens briefly - I love gardens, but the very formal style I just don't find interesting or beautiful at all; and briefly peered at the furniture, which is being kept in a barn for the time being. Lastly, I went for a walk in the Landmark Forest, which had three trails that added up to about a mile of walking. I had to quit early, though, because I wasn't enjoying it nearly as much as I should have. The potential existed, it merely stopped short of being realized. I must have been the first person in months to walk the paths, as I kept running into spiderwebs running across the path - some with spiders still in them! Shudder. On the way back, managed 43 mpg, going pretty much the speed limit (attention drivers! Driving the speed limit does have its advantages), though I burned quite a bit trying to pass a couple cars that could not achieve a consistent speed. Note to self...

Halfway to St Patricks Day? And Antibiotic Tissues?

Who knew? Not I. But apparently in the DC area, Halfway to St Patricks Day is a valid celebration. Or perhaps it's a marketing ploy disguised as a valid celebration, created to convince consumers of beer and other alcoholic beverages to go out and spend more of their money mid-week than perhaps they would normally. Usually I'm against these things, but this time I had a great night out, and snagged (through the footwork of a friend) a free green Washington Nationals Cap, which I was unable to purchase months ago when they had their "green" event.

On another, completely random note, what's the deal with antibiotic tissues? Sounds weird, doesn't it? They look weird, too, with little blue dots all over them that remind me of the microbeads in my shower gel. All these antibiotic products may seem great on the surface ("Kills 99.9% of germs!") but really, how true is that claim? More importantly, how quickly does that other tenth percent become Super Bug?

Triathlons: the Finish Line

I spent Sunday morning this past weekend in a surprisingly interesting fashion: I waited at the finish line for The Nation's Triathlon (to benefit the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society), just a block away from the Federal Triangle Metro stop at 12th and Pennsylvania.

I got up late yesterday morning, so I didn't have time to eat breakfast before I left, so I brought it with me, even on the Metro (without drinking my coffee, which was hard -though it did keep my hands warm in the air-conditioned train car). I found a spot directly in the path of the hot, hot sun (Brother Pele's in the back, sweet Zina's in the front, cruisin' down the freeway in the hot, hot, sun), and ate my breakfast under the keen eye of a neighbor's dog, who was very interested in my bacon... Mine, puppy. Mine. Anyway, once I finished my breakfast and coffee I started clapping for everyone who ran by, because I know that if I were just finishing something so incredibly impressive like a triathlon in the hot, humid weather of DC in early September, I would want someone to clap for me. A big moment, you want somebody to notice, right?

I went because a friend of mine, who has apparently been doing this for five (!?!) years now - and every time she tells me that, I can't believe it - ran this one. So I looked really hard at every short (and I can say that instead of the euphemism "vertically challenged" because I'm short, too) woman as she finished, and of course nearly missed my friend! She ran by, and I yelled in a sort of knee-jerk reaction, forgetting to whoop and even to clap, before I crossed over to look for her.

I feel this is a good time to promote the use of sunscreen: Use it! Even at 10am in the morning I felt like my hairline was burning, and then my ear started heating up... not so much fun. Made me wish I'd brought my cap like I thought I might, before I left the house. Luckily, I don't have a stripe of sunburnt forehead today, but it was a close thing.

I've just recently become a sports fan (hockey, college football and tennis are my favorites) but even so, I never thought watching people run the last 10 yards of a race would be as interesting as it was. Instead, I enjoyed it more than I expected to. I guess one of the main attractions is that it was really good people watching. Not only is a spectator watching people, but the people are running, and the different strides can be fascinating. The other reason I had so much fun watching must have been that the part of the race I watched amounted to the most emotionally exciting section: the Finish Line.

How To: Avoid the Evils of Junk Mail

Just visited another article on New American Dream's website, that lists and explains the various ways one can reduce junk mail. It also contains a link to an electronic petition, which follows on the success of the Do Not Call legislation.

The Trials And Tragedies of Growing a Vegetable Garden: Story of a Pumpkin

This year, at the Navy Museum, I participated in a children's program on Earth Day, whose purpose was to create "victory gardens" (click the link for Wikipedia's definition). Victory gardens began during World War II, as efforts to reduce pressure on the public food supply. Families were asked to create their own vegetable, fruit and herb gardens so canned and other goods could be sent overseas to the sailors and soldiers fighting in the war.

Out of all the seeds we had available, I decided to grow a pumpkin. Though I must admit, I decided in part because I expected it to fail. Ironically, it succeeded beyond my expectations, and to make a long story short, I now have a pumpkin plant growing in my backyard. Along with tomatoes and bell peppers, but that's another story.

Before long, I noticed my pumpkin had a disease called powdery mildew. Not fun stuff. Spreads fast, and according to the gentleman who helped us at the garden center, also always in the air. So I'm growing this mini-vegetable garden, which reduces my dependence on packaging and emissions while increasing oxygen production and other good natural things, while at the same time, produces free produce for me to enjoy! (Hopefully, eventually we'll get that far).

Also, at the store today I was shown a chemical spray to help get rid of the mildew. Fortunately the gentleman I mentioned above happened by just about the same time I asked what damages the product might have on the environment, and he pointed me toward a brand called Safer, whose active ingredient is sulphur, which also gets rid of the mildew, and is organic! Yay!

So now I'm fixing the mildew problem, I need to get started on rodents. Something ate my only pumpkin. Yes, I had a pumpkin, it was bigger than a softball but smaller than a basketball, and I came home one evening, and it was gone. This was only two days after I discovered it, mind. So the next project is a fence of some kind. I think we're going to re-use the bamboo we're trying to get rid of, as stakes, and wrap some wire mesh around it. But if any knowledgeable gardeners happen to read this, I would appreciate suggestions of better methods.

So far, I think the bell peppers and tomatoes are doing alright. Gardening is harder work than I thought! Turns out it's not just digging, planting and weeding.

The Washington Post Goes Green All Over

Attended an event this past Wednesday at the Washington Post, a Q&A session with Post writers. Only stayed for the first half, which was quite interesting. But I'm jumping ahead.

When we arrived, we received a green publication, and a bingo-like card to fill as we walked around each of the tables, which were set up as a small Going Green expo. Everyone who visited every table got a raffle ticket. There were too many window companies, in my opinion, but at one of the window companies' tables I got a free reusable shopping bag!

Ironically, most of the tables were handing out half a dozen pamphlets and brochures each.. most of them white paper, which is easily recycled, but some not - and the first step is to not create that paper, so that it doesn't need to be recycled, which unsurprisingly uses more energy than not having anything to recycle in the first place.

I found the panel session to be fascinating. Firstly, the MC asked a question, which made for a great ice-breaker, IMO. Not only that, it was a pertinent question: Is this new green consciousness a fad, or is it here to stay? The members of the panel almost unanimously agreed that trends show it seems to be here to stay. Although on trips up to Massachusetts over the Labor Day weekend, they noticed just as many cars speeding (which uses more fuel than going the speed limit) there were, they mentioned, fewer cars on the road than in previous years. (I took the train). More effort is being made by companies to create big changes, like NASA, which is moving toward eliminating coal plants in the near future. Furthermore, Jura Koncius, writer for the Home section, mentioned that green labels are selling more. Incandescent lightbulbs are being phased out, and apparently will soon be outlawed in the US (haven't checked up on this and am a bit sceptical). Also on the rise are farmers markets.

The last point made in answer to this question was the one main motivating factor: Greed. It all comes back to money. If green products become cheaper, or even if they're statistically cheaper over the long run, consumers will start buying them, and corporations are going to market what sells.

Question number two asked why all the focus is on consumers. One panel member responded that it is also a political question (hint hint: if you're not already involved in politics, get started!!). Marc Kaufman put it this way: Obama says environmental policies are going to change, McCain says they're going to change, Biden wants change, Palin doesn't.

One attendee asked why green products like Seventh Generation detergents aren't on the shelves, and the answer was: Speak to the store manager. If that doesn't work, write the company itself. Also, Proctor and Gamble (according to a panel member not the most environmentally conscious company) has started packaging its detergents in more concentrated forms, which cuts back on transportation emissions and materials used in the packaging itself.

Lastly, a lady asked if organic food, which evidently sits on shelves longer, isn't less healthy than normal produce. One panel member's opinion was that organic food, no matter how long it's sitting on the shelves (I wouldn't buy fuzzy vegetables) is healthier, because there are no pesticides. Statistically the produce that gets the most pesticide treatment is the peach, followed by apples and lettuce. I'm never going to not wash my produce again, and when I wash my lettuce you can bet I'm washing the insides of the leaves, too. No doubt.

Some useful websites:
Environmental Working Group (for lists of produce that are grown with pesticides)
Green Pages (lists of companies that sell green products)

Keeping Your Refrigerator Happy

A friend passed me this link, a Consumer's Report about how to get the most efficient and cost-saving use out of one's refrigerator:

Consumer Report's Happy Refrigerating Tips

If I had cash, I'd go home tonight and perform the "dollar test".

To Do: Check refrigerator operations.

Boston, Day 4: the MFA

Got up early this morning to have breakfast (coffee yummm and cereal) and headed over to visit with my other family in Topsfield. Got a tutorial from my eleven year-old cousin on how to solve a Rubik's cube - apparently she and her brother watched a video on YouTube which explained the theories and "algorithms" behind solving the puzzle. The whole thing was very impressive, and way over my head.

After a game of Bananagrams (in ways, much more fun than Scrabble) and headed into Boston to see the MFA, where I dragged my poor cousins through the sections full of ancient Egyptian, Greek and Roman art and history. The Greek pottery was interesting - such fascinating subjects painted on pots, vases and amphoras. We also got to see the exhibit on Art Nouveau Jewelry, which included plenty of beautiful pieces. Made me want to go jewelry shopping! Also I've decided someday, when I have a place for it, I'm going to find a replica amphora of red figured Greek pottery, or whatever the technical term is.

That evening, we stopped by the Gelateria in North End to have traditional Italian-style ice cream (I missed it; it's much better than American ice cream, IMO)

The train ride home was long, but uneventful. It's almost good to be back.

Why Bother?

I know a few readers and I have been having something of a debate to answer the question: What effect can one individual have on the Big Problem? (Whichever problem one might be referring to at the time, or indeed, all of them at once). In this case, however, we'll stick to the Green Problem.

This article, by Michael Pollan of the New York Times, proposes to answer the question, Why Bother ? Why bother growing your own garden, or turning off your water faucet while you wash your hands or brush your teeth? Why bother using a clothes line instead of a dryer, or handwashing dishes instead of using a dishwasher (see post about Dishwashing Dilemma, and article at Slate.com for more on that issue, however)... Why bother opening windows instead of turning on the AC in the summertime? Why re-use and recycle when the trash can is right there? Why make all these little changes in your life when it's easier, and more habitual, to go on as you always have?

What can one person do, when the crisis is already here? Does it really require legislation and different technology before the change can be effective? Then again, what happens when 300 million people make the decision to bother?

Things Metro Could Learn from T

1. Flat rate fees (each T ride is only $2! Imagine that...)
2. Day, weekly, monthly passes. Seriously. Discounted fares for these passes. This might (gasp!) lead to more commuters using Metro.
3. Following on from #2, let's update and repair the system, so more commuters can ride without worrying about it falling apart.
4. Increase the number of neighborhoods in the DC Metro area serviced by Metro (excepting maybe Baltimore, that might be a little ridiculous).
5. Service to Dulles (with a cool color like silver). I know this has been in and out of the works for a while now, but let's get a move on!
6. More advertisements (hey, more revenue so you don't have to overcharge your customers!).
7. This has been said before, but it is possible that the escalators don't need to run constantly - motion detectors would reduce energy usage and cost to keep them running and maintained.

Boston, Day 3: Or Rather, Topsfield

Today I was supposed to travel on the commuter rail from Boston to North Beverly. No go. I get to the station, and follow signs for "tickes". I wait in line, and find out that the ticket counters are only for buses, and the actual train station is in a different building. By this time, I'm cutting it short. I get to the train station, and I stand in line again, and just before I get to the only open counter, I realize I'm traveling north, and I'm at South Station. No biggie, I thought, I'll just get to North Station and take the next train. So I call my friend for a ride, but she doesn't pick up... so I call my family, to let them know I'll probably be a little late, having run into a tiny hitch in my travel plans. However, it turned out to be easier to take the T all the way to the end instead, and get a ride from there. So I had to find a map or a Person, who could explain to me the easiest way to get from the wrong station to North Station to North Beverly... My only recommendation for the MBTA is that they consolidate North and South Stations, so careless travelers such as myself don't make the mistake of going to the wrong one and end up missing their trains. Ah well. It all worked out.

I spent part of the afternoon lounging on a boat in Marblehead, which was incredibly enjoyable and relaxing. I recommend boating for stressed people. Seriously. We went on a little tour of the harbor, which was pleasant. We also looked at and commented on all the little, big and bigger boats on the water and the mansions on the shore. Evidently there's one house with a collection of Dutch Masters. Do you think if I ask nicely he'll give me a tour?

The last and possibly greatest news, is that I had Lobster!! Yes indeed, I had the most wonderful dinner that started with the sweetest, tastiest lobster I've had in a while. Mmmmm. Pretty soon I'll be a lobster-eating expert. I already know that 3-5 inches of water is considered fine for the pot when boiling them. And although we didn't race the lobsters tonight, there's no saying that tradition won't be reinstated in the near future. I think I'll start planning my next trip to Boston... ;)

Tomorrow is unfortunately my last day in Massachusetts, but I have great plans for that, too. Stand by.

Boston, Day 2: Various

So, the beach didn't happen. The skies threatened to rain, and the forecast was grey, so we didn't go. Turns out it was a pretty nice day throughout, and we probably would have been fine. There goes my last outdoor swim before Labor Day, I guess.

The highlights for Friday include the Nichols house, which was interesting but not fascinating. An average and slightly rambling tour that took us through a house built in 1808 (hence my interest) but was really about the last inhabitant, an eccentric old woman who lived in the 20th century. Which is definitely not as interesting as early 19th century history, IMO.

We first though, had brunch at Zaftig's, in Allston or thereabouts. Very good, worth a 20 minute wait, but definitely not worth an hour and a half wait. Try the challah french toast.

We walked around the beautiful Beacon Hill, and the Boston Common. Then we walked along Newbury St, where I managed to avoid emptying my bank account on merchandise I don't need and can't afford, and can't bring home either, due to limited suitcase space. Bravo me!

Later that night we went out, to the very touristy (it's on the Freedom Trail) Bell in Hand, where I watched Michigan Uni lose to Utah :( Followed by a unique party on a rooftop. I took pictures, but owing to my camera's automatic flash capabilities, can't be assured that any of them will come out. We left in time to take the T home, and that was that.

Boston, Day 1: The Freedom Trail

Spent most of today (about 4 hours) walking the Freedom Trail, which I found difficult to navigate until after I got to the Visitors' Center and picked up a map ... and then noticed the red trail, about a foot wide, that runs down the middle of the sidewalks and through crosswalks. Doh.

The trail itself is quite interesting: I walked through or around at least three burying grounds, inside a beautiful church, where I boldy asked someone else's tour guide why some of the benches face backward (seriously, who wants to crane his or her neck around to try to look at the preacher who's talking behind one?). Turns out, the children probably sat there, presumably so the devout parents could keep a warning eye on their children who assuredly had short attention spans. I took pictures of quite a few old buildings, and walked over the cobblestone circle that marks the spot of the Boston massacre, where five Bostonians were shot ... by accident? At least, that's how the history books and tour guides tell it. Peeked over plenty of shoulders to try to see some break dancers in front of Faneuil and around the Quincy, South and North markets, Haymarket... skipped Paul Revere's house because I'd seen it before. Then, because I had some extra time on my hands, I walked across the Charles River on the Charlestown Bridge. Where I stopped about a third of the way along, and swore silently when I noticed that the middle section IS WIRE MESH. So I was walking on a bridge where I could SEE THE RIVER BELOW ME. Nobody mentioned that, so I paused a moment to gather my courage, and walked across with my eyes on the beam I made sure to keep under my feet. Then, after I witnessed the amazingness of the children's hands-on section of the USS Constitution Museum, I did it again! Still directly over the supporting beam, though, and I'm pretty sure my speed picked up as I neared the end.

Finally I got back to the North End, where I had great coffee, excellent tiramisu', and an excellent (and expensive) seafood dinner. Yumm. Said goodnight to the host in Italian - Buona sera, signore - think I got a reply in Italian, yay! Probably I could be very comfortable in Boston's very Italian North End.

I think the beach is on tomorrow's schedule - stay tuned.

A Couple of Green Thoughts From Boston

First up: Transportation. I rode the 'Green' (how appropriate) line today, no mistakes or mishaps! The 'T' is very different from the Washington, DC Metro - similar to Chicago's 'El' in my opinion, though I've only ridden each of those a couple of times. The 'T' feels more like a trolley than a subway, but that's maybe only because the 'B' line is mostly above ground. Fun to ride, but hard to balance if there's no room to sit. Plenty of times I thought I'd pitch right into another unsuspecting passenger, but thankfully that never actually happened.

Secondly: Walked about 20 minutes this morning to find a local coffee shop where I could have breakfast, and ended up at one that advertised ice cream as well - the coffee wasn't bad, but what's the deal with coffee shops immediately offering throwaway cups even after you tell them you'd like to eat in? Not only that, but this particular coffee shop offered me my scone on a plastic plate. How many of those do they run through in a month, I wonder?

A Quick Note On Vacation

I did it! I have tickets for Nashville. Travel itinerary still to be worked out, but I have a month to do that.

In other news, tomorrow I leave for Boston! Spent some time last night congratulating myself on getting tickets for a train that leaves at 11am... so I can sleep in a little bit tomorrow, if I manage to finish packing tonight. Note to self: Charge iPod.

I'll try to keep a travel diary here for the weekends I'm away, and will try to include some greenery in both the travel and the diary, to keep with the theme of the blog.

More to come from Boston!

To Do: Nashville, TN

Unfortunately, I'm a late planner. So when other people know they're going on vacation from date x to date y several months in advance, I start looking at flights oh, the month before I'd like to go on vacation. For Boston it wasn't such a big deal. For Nashville at the end of September, it makes a huge difference.

So I'm planning my trip, which now involves not only the Metro and two flights each way, it also involves a MARC train to BWI. Which could be fun, and only takes an extra half an hour. But it seems a bit ridiculous. Thank goodness it's also cheap.

Usually I prefer to take a POV to the airport, it being more comfortable and less reliant on my ability to leave and arrive in time to catch my flight. But in this case, it will fit in with my efforts to travel more by train, as a preferred method of (greener) public transportation. The MARC also, surprisingly, can travel to BWI faster than I can get there by car. So there are at least two advantages, plus the money I'll save by not traveling out of Reagan or Dulles airports.

Now I just have to make sure I can get there without any mishaps.

Autumn Breeze Trumps Air Conditioning

Hands down. I am 100% all in favor of fresh air, whenever the temperature makes it comfortable. Today the weather has been cool enough that I felt cold eating my lunch outside on a bird poo-infested picnic bench. Furthermore, I've been able to keep the window open all day, without melting into my seat. Not only does this mean that my office has smelled fresh and outdoors-y, and that I haven't been wasting money and energy on air conditioning, it means most importantly that I have not felt my fingers, nose and toes turning into little organic blocks of ice. Now if only I could get this to work in my tiny apartment that has no air circulation...

Going Green at Wolf Trap, With the Backstreet Boys!!

I realize this makes me uncool in the extreme, but I definitely enjoyed myself last night at the Backstreet Boys concert.

Before you laugh so hard your drink exits through your nose, however, let me just point out that the concert was sold out, and attended by people of varying ages. And too many teenie-boppers in too-short dresses. But nevermind.

Girlicious started off the evening with hip hop beats that 'featured' stars like Sean Kingston (they made a recording, so he was there digitally, at least). For the uninitiated, Girlicious was created by the Pussycat Dolls. Essentially the same band, with maybe one fewer member and ten fewer years on them.

Then we waited, and waited.... and waited. Finally the house lights went down, the stage lights went up, and a voice announced... the Backstreet Boys! I still can't believe I actually attended their concert. To start, it was sort of a joke. "Ha ha, wouldn't it be funny if..."

Much to my surprise, they are (still) very good performers. They even opened with a blow-up boxing rink, where they did their uniform dance moves and pretended to battle. The dancing did not disappoint. Same stuff they used to do 10 (15?) years ago. Of course, they sang the classics (I'm sure everyone knows what they are ;), and plenty of songs I hadn't heard before (I wasn't that big a fan as a pre-teen). They all have their own solo thing going on now, so they sang some songs individually - AJ's had to be my favorite. At one point, he even came out wearing a Run DMC t-shirt, which I found particularly interesting. Some of his dance moves ought to be checked out on YouTube, if there are any videos up.

Throughout the whole concert there was much screaming, clapping, arm-waving, and singing, as there should be at any pop concert worth its speakers. And, to finish the night off on an especially good note, we left before the traffic got so bad we would have had to spend an hour in the parking lot. All in all, a very good, if late, night.

I feel I should also mention that Wolf Trap's concessions stands have gone green, with all biodegradable plastics and glass and plastic recycling. If you don't mind that they're made out of corn that people all over the world could be eating, go ahead and waste your money buying food in plastic containers at Wolf Trap. Though it is more fun to bring your own picnic (drinks and food allowed into the park).

Confession #1

I threw out a yoghurt cup today.

I could have used it to hold flowers in a too-large pot.

The Peanut Hotline. Or, How To Recycle Styrofoam Packing

A colleague of mine contacted me today about recycling some packaging peanuts she didn't want to waste. Previously this year I was handed a stack of stapled papers so that I could remove the dozens of staples before recycling the white paper (which is all that is officially recycled at the museum). My determination to re-use and recycle is well-known here. The offer was presented with a laugh, and I willingly spent the next 10 minutes de-stapling the pages by hand (I don't have one of those nifty staple-removers that remind me of the back end of hammers).

To get back to the main point of the story, I told my co-worker that I didn't actually have any idea how to recycle packaging peanuts, except to re-use them in later shipments. I offered to do a little research to find out how and where plastic loose fill can be recycled. Very quickly I found The Plastic Loose Fill Council, which has a very convenient online form to find drop-off centers in your area. There is also the Peanut Hotline, which refers thousands of customers each month to nearby drop-off facilities for packing peanuts.

Labor Day in Boston!

It's done. I'm going to Boston over Labor Day weekend. Traveling by train, for what is probably only the second time in my entire life. In the United States, that is. Trains are used much more frequently in Great Britain, where I spent four years, and I took many trips from St. Andrews to Edinburgh, just to go shopping and see castles. That trip, unlike the upcoming trip, only takes about an hour.

I'm quite excited. It will be good to bypass the traffic in Connecticut, which is always a pain when driving to New England. Unfortunately will be unable to stop at Rein's Deli, a traditional stop on family drives to visit relatives for Thanksgiving. On the other hand, if I remember to bring enough food with me, I will not have to buy snacks on the snack train, and can avoid wasting the excessive packaging used to protect and preserve sub-par snacks.

Definitely looking forward to that lobster.

The Dishwashing dilemma

Shuffling into the kitchen after a wonderful family dinner, my mom yells after me to put the dishes in the dishwasher. I scrape the food off the plates and stack them next to the sink as I prepare to load the machine. I’ve always had a hard time trusting that the machine will truly clean the really grimy plates, and thus, I rinse off the plates before stashing them away in the strategically designed dish-washing shelves.

As I developed an environmental conscience, I began to question the need for another machine in our everyday lives when we are perfectly capable of doing the job ourselves. I brought this issue up with the kitchen master – my mom – and she claimed that using the dishwasher actually uses less water than what we would use hand-washing the dishes. I accepted this claim for a while and now I’m beginning to wonder if it’s really true.

Water conservation is not the only issue here. There are all the materials used to make the dishwasher, the energy used to put it all together, the energy used to run it, as well as the environmental damage done when it’s not disposed of properly.

I came across an informative article on Slate.com that discusses a German study that compares hand-washing versus the machine and it seems as though the results support the use of the machine. Yet, the study does not take into consideration the issues mentioned above.

The conclusion: both methods have their perks. If you choose to hand wash- use the method mentioned in the Slate article. If you use the machine, don’t rinse before hand- just scrape.

To Do: Train Fare to Boston

My vacation hours expire at the beginning of October, so right now I'm looking at spending those hours in faraway places. Well, sort of far away, at any rate. First on my list is Boston, then Nashville. Unfortunately, Nashville doesn't have a train station, nor are there any others in central Tennessee. Imagine my disappointment when I found out I couldn't take the train west, as in the olden days. "Go west, young man". Or something.

However. Boston has not one, but several train stations. I signed on for Amtrak Guest Rewards, so by buying tickets within three months of joining, I get extra points (very like frequent flyer miles).

Probably most people have seen that commercial for the national railways, where they say one train can go 423 miles or so on one gallon of gas? Well, that's one reason I'm taking the train north. Also, it might be cheaper than flying, especially because I'm a last-minute planner. Not to mention the rising gas prices and extra costs and fees being placed on airlines (and thus customers). I just hope the scenery makes the nine hour trip enjoyable.

Lobster dinners, here I come!!