We live in a world dependent on electricity and we forget that being dependent on something — however wonderful that thing is — makes you vulnerable. Even getting a back-up generator isn't a painless solution for household resilience. A medium-size generator can cost $50 or more per day in fuel to run. And just hope that your local gas stations don't lose power or sell out to panic buyers … [Read more...] about Ten low-tech responses to storms and emergencies
DIY
Getting my pilot's license
Ever since we first got together my husband and I have talked about how to respond to one of our key shared interests — peak oil. For us this means, first of all, a conservation-minded approach to life — using less energy, wasting less, and relying on reusable materials such as hankies and eco-cups, carrying our own grocery bags, and growing much of our own food and cooking it ourselves. But … [Read more...] about Getting my pilot's license
World made by hand
My friend Cate Fitt, an artist and fellow blogger, shared a video on Facebook (man, I love Facebook) that really blew my mind. It's from that inspiration that I wrote this piece. Thanks Cate! Ink it, don't think it I've had a long time love of old school printing presses. I love the quality and the raw nature of the medium. I also love that it's done by hand. As a writer and graphic designer, … [Read more...] about World made by hand
Recession sensitivity
The old days are gone and there's more than a few analysts who don't see the high life ever returning. They say that the peak of cheap oil production in 2006 means economic growth is over. Instead, we can expect a continual contraction of the economy that will ultimately affect us all. Whether its fate, or karma or just chance, we're the people alive today and we're the one's who have to deal … [Read more...] about Recession sensitivity
#OccupyWallStreet from home
I've received a number of queries from young moms and others who want to know what they can do to support the #OccupyWallStreet movement even though for logistical reasons — particularly having little kids —they can't get to New York, D.C. or even a local event. The rising tide of sympathy for good old fashioned, red, white and blue American protest is a refreshing addition to our national … [Read more...] about #OccupyWallStreet from home
Sharing the new economy love
For a couple of years now we've been hearing about social enterprises, social capital and social networking. With so many of us on social websites like Facebook and Twitter, sharing things in common with old friends and new, both in-the-flesh and virtual, is now the norm. It's as everyday as e-mail. The social network While there's definitely some valid criticisms floating around out there about … [Read more...] about Sharing the new economy love
