>Take The Pledge (we really need it)

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This site/campaign has been all over Facebook this past week. It is overtly suggested towards people in the U.S., the biggest gas guzzlers on the planet, but I’m sure it wouldn’t hurt if others took this pledge as well…we may live in separate countries–and indeed have distinct languages and cultures–but we are all connected and part of the same human race.

I recently played the “car passenger game” while riding my bike, meaning I looked at cars as they passed to see how many had more than the driver in them. I only rode about a mile or so, and it was during rush hour so there were a lot of cars, but I kid-you-not that during the entire mile of pedaling I only saw 3 or 4 cars with more than the driver in them…one person each in those enormous metal shells. If everyone feels the need to be propelled (alone) by a gas-fed vehicle maybe we should all ride Vespas…it would be more efficient and way more fun on a hot summer’s day.

Anyhow, I also have to mention (confess) something during this blog post. Here I am babbling on about a Weekend Without Oil and I actually drove my truck today (alone; the only person in it)…only 4 times in the last 6 weeks, but felt like I had to mention this as I sat on my high horse talking about Vespas and bikes.

To take the pledge, click here. What I find interesting is that the items/actions they suggest (the criteria for the pledge) are not that difficult, sort of common sense in many respects…and if you are a regular reader of this blog something tells me that this will not be that difficult of a pledge to take. Maybe we should collectively take this pledge once a month…just imagine.

I’ve really been feeling lately how it is truly up to us (the people alive on this planet right now) to do something, however big or small…even the smallest steps will make a difference. This is our legacy…this is what we are leaving for our future generations. To put it a different way, imagine what it would be like if we knew that our grandparents or great grandparents knew back then what we know now–that our actions can have a direct impact on the planet and generations to come–and they did nothing about it. I personally do not want to be that ancestor. I hope that everyone reading this takes the pledge (or as much of it as they are able), we need it more than ever.

I’d be interested to hear what others thought about this site and their suggested pledge.

Au Contraire, Hollywood

I love this cartoon…it goes against everything American society says is the image of success and happiness. I originally came across it in a magazine more than 10 years ago, and have it hanging in a small frame in my kitchen. I was prompted to re-post it after reading this article on the Treehugger website.  It was linked to this article at Slate’s website citing how Hollywood moguls equate not having a car to being a loser. Well, I’m sorry Mr. Hollywood big shots (and I consciously use the masculine address), but not having a car does not make a person a loser. As stated in many previous posts I am not car-free, but I am car-lite, and I really feel the people who can afford a car but choose not to are real heroes in the times in which we live…I hope to eventually have the courage to go entirely car free. I can’t tell you how how often I get weird vibes from people when I state that I choose not to drive when I can…it’s not always a direct inquiry as to why (but sometimes it is…to which I’ll often reply, “because I like to walk or ride my bike instead”), but sometimes it’s just a little sideways comment. And at times I’ll even begin to question myself, why at nearly 50 am I riding a bike. Then I get on one and remember why I do it. On my way home tonight I was taking a short-cut through a parking lot (ironic, right?) and it was on a slight incline. Ahead of me was another cyclist.  I was on my Mundo and going slightly faster than them and when I approached I could see that it was a women on a Dahon folder. As I passed her I said good evening and asked how she liked her bike, that I had a similar one at home. She told me she was recovering from surgery and hadn’t been able to get on a bike for more than a month…and that it felt so good to ride again, “I told my family I was going around the block and I’ve been out more than an hour…I feel like a dog with it’s head out the car window,” (nice analogy, I thought, and more irony)..

I’ve also posted the below video before, but it’s one of my favorites so I thought I’d post it again. If you’d like additional reinforcement towards a car-lite or car-free life click here (pdf file), here, here, or here. So, au contraire, Mr. Hollywood, when I choose to not use my car I am far from a loser…I’m free, and I’m a winner.


>Au Contraire, Hollywood

>

I love this cartoon…it goes against everything American society says is the image of success and happiness. I originally came across it in a magazine more than 10 years ago, and have it hanging in a small frame in my kitchen. I was prompted to re-post it after reading this article on the Treehugger website.  It was linked to this article at Slate’s website citing how Hollywood moguls equate not having a car to being a loser. Well, I’m sorry Mr. Hollywood big shots (and I consciously use the masculine address), but not having a car does not make a person a loser. As stated in many previous posts I am not car-free, but I am car-lite, and I really feel the people who can afford a car but choose not to are real heroes in the times in which we live…I hope to eventually have the courage to go entirely car free. I can’t tell you how how often I get weird vibes from people when I state that I choose not to drive when I can…it’s not always a direct inquiry as to why (but sometimes it is…to which I’ll often reply, “because I like to walk or ride my bike instead”), but sometimes it’s just a little sideways comment. And at times I’ll even begin to question myself, why at nearly 50 am I riding a bike. Then I get on one and remember why I do it. On my way home tonight I was taking a short-cut through a parking lot (ironic, right?) and it was on a slight incline. Ahead of me was another cyclist.  I was on my Mundo and going slightly faster than them and when I approached I could see that it was a women on a Dahon folder. As I passed her I said good evening and asked how she liked her bike, that I had a similar one at home. She told me she was recovering from surgery and hadn’t been able to get on a bike for more than a month…and that it felt so good to ride again, “I told my family I was going around the block and I’ve been out more than an hour…I feel like a dog with it’s head out the car window,” (nice analogy, I thought, and more irony)..

I’ve also posted the below video before, but it’s one of my favorites so I thought I’d post it again. If you’d like additional reinforcement towards a car-lite or car-free life click here (pdf file), here, here, or here. So, au contraire, Mr. Hollywood, when I choose to not use my car I am far from a loser…I’m free, and I’m a winner.


Giant Tomato Eating Slugs

No, the title of this post is not the name of the latest punk band (though it would be a good name, wouldn’t it?), and no, also, that these are not actually slugs. They are called hornworms but are actually a giant caterpillar…the largest I’ve ever seen. But I’m getting ahead of myself; let me backtrack a bit.

My garden has been doing really well this year. Last year I had a problem with urban rabbits (click here and here to read those posts). This year I purchased some organic rabbit repellent and that seems to be doing the trick (in addition to a really fat stray cat that stalks my garden). So I was surprised yesterday when I noticed some of the tomato plants had been nibbled on and that there were a few chewed green tomatoes lying on the ground (even more odd because I didn’t think rabbits ate tomatoes). Then today I looked and some of the tomato plants that only two days ago stood 3-feet tall were down to stubs. Naively still thinking it was rabbits (and wondering how they got to the top leaves of a plant) I decided to pick some of the half-ripe tomatoes to try to save them and allow them to ripen later. Then, as I reached for the green tomato in the photo above I almost jumped out of my shoes (I’m sure I screamed a little…it’s OK my neighbors probably already think I’m a little nuts). I had never seen a bug this big, at least not outside a zoo or science museum…it was like a small animal. When I tell you I could actually hear this thing chewing I mean it.

Here’s a scenario that Tammy stated at her website:

You get up one bright and shinning morning and decide to go out and pick some fresh tomatos… only to find this horrific sight: Your formerly beautiful tomato plants have been ravished by giant, four inch long worms. This bad dream can be a reality in many parts of North America, and unfortunately our garden was recently introduced to this menacing creature — the Tomato Hornworm and Tobacco Hornworm (Manduca quinquemaculata L. and Manduca sexta L., respectively).

I’ve been growing tomatoes for years (my favorite plant) and have never had a problem with these critters. Here’s a couple photos of the devastation in my front yard garden (click for a larger view), the backyard–which only has a couple tomato plants–seems OK at present.

I came across the below video when I googled these creatures. It’s a good example of the devastation these things can cause. Six of my beautiful and healthy plants are down to twigs because of a caterpillar (I’ve yet to find more). If you’re a vegetable gardener I cannot emphasize enough how much these Avatar-sized caterpillars can consume. If you would like more info, this site (University of Minnesota) looks like a pretty good source.




>Giant Tomato Eating Slugs

>

No, the title of this post is not the name of the latest punk band (though it would be a good name, wouldn’t it?), and no, also, that these are not actually slugs. They are called hornworms but are actually a giant caterpillar…the largest I’ve ever seen. But I’m getting ahead of myself; let me backtrack a bit.

My garden has been doing really well this year. Last year I had a problem with urban rabbits (click here and here to read those posts). This year I purchased some organic rabbit repellent and that seems to be doing the trick (in addition to a really fat stray cat that stalks my garden). So I was surprised yesterday when I noticed some of the tomato plants had been nibbled on and that there were a few chewed green tomatoes lying on the ground (even more odd because I didn’t think rabbits ate tomatoes). Then today I looked and some of the tomato plants that only two days ago stood 3-feet tall were down to stubs. Naively still thinking it was rabbits (and wondering how they got to the top leaves of a plant) I decided to pick some of the half-ripe tomatoes to try to save them and allow them to ripen later. Then, as I reached for the green tomato in the photo above I almost jumped out of my shoes (I’m sure I screamed a little…it’s OK my neighbors probably already think I’m a little nuts). I had never seen a bug this big, at least not outside a zoo or science museum…it was like a small animal. When I tell you I could actually hear this thing chewing I mean it.

Here’s a scenario that Tammy stated at her website:

You get up one bright and shinning morning and decide to go out and pick some fresh tomatos… only to find this horrific sight: Your formerly beautiful tomato plants have been ravished by giant, four inch long worms. This bad dream can be a reality in many parts of North America, and unfortunately our garden was recently introduced to this menacing creature — the Tomato Hornworm and Tobacco Hornworm (Manduca quinquemaculata L. and Manduca sexta L., respectively).

I’ve been growing tomatoes for years (my favorite plant) and have never had a problem with these critters. Here’s a couple photos of the devastation in my front yard garden (click for a larger view), the backyard–which only has a couple tomato plants–seems OK at present.

I came across the below video when I googled these creatures. It’s a good example of the devastation these things can cause. Six of my beautiful and healthy plants are down to twigs because of a caterpillar (I’ve yet to find more). If you’re a vegetable gardener I cannot emphasize enough how much these Avatar-sized caterpillars can consume. If you would like more info, this site (University of Minnesota) looks like a pretty good source.




Fresh and Super-Delicious Tomato Sauce in 10 Minutes Using Four Easy Steps

This is a basic tomato sauce recipe that I make all summer long with fresh tomatoes and basil from the garden. At the end of the season I usually make a larger batch and freeze it in increments (click here to see a previous post regarding a large batch). This is so easy to make and also versetile. Because it’s made with fresh tomatoes and aerated in a blender it takes on an almost creamy texture, but there is no actual cream in it. I usually use it as a pasta sauce but it could just as easily be used as a braising sauce for chicken, fish, or pork…or as a base to a soup. Once you have the ingredients diced, the actual sauce takes minutes…about as long as it will take to bring a pot of water to a boil to cook your pasta. Anyhow, here it is in 4 easy steps.

Saute diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil; I also add a few crushed pepper flakes and fennel seeds.

Next add the diced tomatoes and a cup or so of liquid. I like to add chicken broth, or sometimes white wine, but vegetable broth will do also if you want it to be vegan. I suggest not using water as you would dilute the sauce instead of adding flavor.

Bring the sauce to a rolling boil, then lower it to a high simmer (almost boiling). This does two things. First, it emulsifies the olive oil and juices (also adding to the creaminess) while at the same time it breaks down the tomatoes. But the other and almost more important thing that happens is the liquids evaporate (the liquid you added and the juice from the tomatoes). When this happens the flavors become concentrated. This will also give the sauce viscosity. Simmer/boil the sauce for at least 5 minutes, watching that it doesn’t reduce to quickly and burn. At this time also add a pinch of sea salt.


Transfer the sauce (carefully) to a blender. At this point I also usually add a handful of fresh basil. Blend the sauce to a smooth puree. And that is it! Eat it and freeze any leftovers.

>Fresh and Super-Delicious Tomato Sauce in 10 Minutes Using Four Easy Steps

>

This is a basic tomato sauce recipe that I make all summer long with fresh tomatoes and basil from the garden. At the end of the season I usually make a larger batch and freeze it in increments (click here to see a previous post regarding a large batch). This is so easy to make and also versetile. Because it’s made with fresh tomatoes and aerated in a blender it takes on an almost creamy texture, but there is no actual cream in it. I usually use it as a pasta sauce but it could just as easily be used as a braising sauce for chicken, fish, or pork…or as a base to a soup. Once you have the ingredients diced, the actual sauce takes minutes…about as long as it will take to bring a pot of water to a boil to cook your pasta. Anyhow, here it is in 4 easy steps.

Saute diced onion and minced garlic in olive oil; I also add a few crushed pepper flakes and fennel seeds.

Next add the diced tomatoes and a cup or so of liquid. I like to add chicken broth, or sometimes white wine, but vegetable broth will do also if you want it to be vegan. I suggest not using water as you would dilute the sauce instead of adding flavor.

Bring the sauce to a rolling boil, then lower it to a high simmer (almost boiling). This does two things. First, it emulsifies the olive oil and juices (also adding to the creaminess) while at the same time it breaks down the tomatoes. But the other and almost more important thing that happens is the liquids evaporate (the liquid you added and the juice from the tomatoes). When this happens the flavors become concentrated. This will also give the sauce viscosity. Simmer/boil the sauce for at least 5 minutes, watching that it doesn’t reduce to quickly and burn. At this time also add a pinch of sea salt.


Transfer the sauce (carefully) to a blender. At this point I also usually add a handful of fresh basil. Blend the sauce to a smooth puree. And that is it! Eat it and freeze any leftovers.

Things That Can Be Carried On A Bike (#198)

12 tongue-and-groove deck boards (4′ and 6′ lengths).
An antique small hand saw, which was originally my grandather’s (duct taped to the top deck).
A wooden box containing–among other things–14 small tools, a digital camera, a small hand pump, a spare inner tube, a 12′ retractable tape measure, a partial roll of duct tape, two pencils, spare bungee cords, an extra shirt, two pounds of finishing nails, and this book.

>Things That Can Be Carried On A Bike (#198)

>

12 tongue-and-groove deck boards (4′ and 6′ lengths).
An antique small hand saw, which was originally my grandather’s (duct taped to the top deck).
A wooden box containing–among other things–14 small tools, a digital camera, a small hand pump, a spare inner tube, a 12′ retractable tape measure, a partial roll of duct tape, two pencils, spare bungee cords, an extra shirt, two pounds of finishing nails, and this book.

Copenhagen: an example for North America

This is an incredibly inspirational 10 minute film about the bicycling infrastructure in Copenhagen viewd through the eyes (mostly) by North Americans. I love it. I wish it were there. In the States, especially smaller cities like the one in which I live, there are plenty of times when I am the only cyclist on the road (especially in foul weather), and when you reach a certain age (past, say…20 or 25) people start to question your mental and emotional state when you tell them you prefer a bike over a car. I can’t tell you how often people assume I cannot afford to own a vehicle, and are surprised that I actually do own one, because they see me on a bike all the time. If there are any Copenhageners (is that the correct term?) reading this blog I’ll just say this: I am profoundly jealous, but more importantly you should be proud to live in such a cycling-friendly city. Hopefully America will take a few tips from you before it’s too late. Lastly, whether your a cyclist or not (especially if your not) I encourage you to watch this film. It will make you remember what a joy it is to ride a bike…and hopefully make you ride one.

>Copenhagen: an example for North America

>This is an incredibly inspirational 10 minute film about the bicycling infrastructure in Copenhagen viewd through the eyes (mostly) by North Americans. I love it. I wish it were there. In the States, especially smaller cities like the one in which I live, there are plenty of times when I am the only cyclist on the road (especially in foul weather), and when you reach a certain age (past, say…20 or 25) people start to question your mental and emotional state when you tell them you prefer a bike over a car. I can’t tell you how often people assume I cannot afford to own a vehicle, and are surprised that I actually do own one, because they see me on a bike all the time. If there are any Copenhageners (is that the correct term?) reading this blog I’ll just say this: I am profoundly jealous, but more importantly you should be proud to live in such a cycling-friendly city. Hopefully America will take a few tips from you before it’s too late. Lastly, whether your a cyclist or not (especially if your not) I encourage you to watch this film. It will make you remember what a joy it is to ride a bike…and hopefully make you ride one.

After The Rain

After the rain tonight I went out to the garden to pick a few tomatoes because I saw that some were super-ripe and nearly ready to fall from the vines themselves. It was that magical time–almost mystical–right after a storm when it’s not-yet-night but not-quite-day. The sky had a glow to it and–because of the heavy downpour–the air smelled almost floral. It was peaceful…all evenings should be like this.