Shocked to see me in your RSS? I’ve been a very busy lady and horrible blog mother. My baby over here has been demanding content, meanwhile I went and birthed another: Convergence: A Multi-Media Portfolio

That was our first assignment in my Online Journalism class….create a blog. No worries, I have started learning more useful information. I post my class assignments on that blog, if you would like a look. It is great to be a student again and especially in a field that I truly love. I received several awards, an internship and a scholarship in high school for my journalism work, but stone cold walked away from it in 1992. P.E.A.C.E. SCOOTER revived my interest in finding stories, facts, writing and bringing to the public all the fascinating stories which are happening every single minute in our world.

One such story is that of the guy pictured next to me, above. Steve Elsaesser is a 76 yr. old man from Naples, Fla. Steve is currently 1,000 miles and 11 days into a scooter road trip on his Suzuki Bergman, a 650cc scooter that competes with most average motorcycles. Sure, he’s not doing it on a little 125cc scooter like moi, but his venture is heroic because of his age and passion.

I spent four days showing Steve the cities of Charlottesville and Richmond, Vir., two days in each city. I found myself caught up in the excitement of discovery that a traveler has; talking to strangers and pausing to learn about the history and culture of a new place. I only hope that my hosts on the road were treated to the same experience, living vicariously through me and rediscovering pride and appreciation for their home towns. That sensation is the next best thing to travel itself!

I enjoyed being able to reciprocate the generosity people extended to me; food, coffee, a bed, travel tips and tour guide services. When I first heard of Steve’s trip I was very nervous–the guy had never ridden long distance, nor did he have any gear–like a armored jacket, rainsuit, or saddlebags. I shipped him my saddlebags and refused to host him in my town unless he showed up in a riding jacket. Thankfully, he heeded my words. I was especially nervous because he told me that it was my ride which inspired him to go off on his own jaunt.

His enthusiasm is incredible, almost too much in excess. I can only hope to have his gusto at age 76. Some of it might be garned from the 140 oz. of coffee he guzzles daily. I filmed and interviewed him for a class assignment and will post it soon. Shiny Side Up, Rubber Side Down Steve.

I’ve missed being over here. Maybe I’ll be back soon. I still owe the world my Chicago post from last summer. Sigh.

My friend Jacob sent me a studio copy of his beautiful song, Backroads, to put on the DVD version of this video–it’s a submission for grad school.

In the future, I would like to rework some of my footage into a movie that features his song, and less voice overs.

The video covers most everything about the trip; the concept, interviews, scenery, scooter community, elements of nature, mishaps and the godawful process of packing/unpacking everyday. There is a big shout out to the scooter community near the end. Yes, you’ll have to watch it all, mwuah ha ha.

It started a project for my grad school application–Mass Communications–emphasis in Multi Media.

I went through about 15 hours of footage and worked on it for 3 days. I have no real experience making a movie this long but with software these days, it mainly takes patience. That, along with tech geek forums helped me produce an okay video detailing the trip. I learned a lot this round and hope that I can integrate that knowledge into some future projects. I used iMovie and had to shuffle clips between computer and external hard drive. Before compression it was 28 Gigs. Basically, it was really feckin annoying to do.

Feedback welcomed.

I often surprise myself with the things I can accomplish. Yet when I place my accomplishments against my day to day mundane routines, I feel pretty inferior. When I’m really passionate about something, immersed in an environment, facing a deadline, or have a manager, I work hard. I shapeshift into a superhero if I need to, or if YOU need me to. It’s challenging for me to set certain goals and then do the necessary incremental work. I can easily distract myself and produce a justification to avoid something that just 24 hours prior meant the world to m

We had an daily average of 168 runs on our UPS route. That is 168 stops where I climbed out of the truck to walk a package up your driveway. Let’s not forget about the other 168 times that I jumped back into the truck. Not counting bathroom stops, wrong addresses and lunch breaks, I traversed those three steps at least 336 times in ten hours. Since Maine is similar to the North Pole in late December, we rode with the doors closed. So, with my right arm, at least 336 times, I opened and closed those doors that just can’t take enough grease. The door wasn’t THAT heavy, nor the steps too many. But at the end of the second day, I was doing heavy yogic breathing to open it. The repetition hurt muscles I have never used, nor likely to use ever again. I wonder if UPS drivers arm wrestle with their left arms?? After a couple of days, the pain went away.

I strengthened the muscle responsible for completing the repetitive motion of opening and shutting the door. My buttocks felt great. Eventually, I had a little energy at the end of each shift.

What could be different in our lives, if we had the same discipline and gumption to apply towards ourselves as we do to meet the demands of others? Are we willing to accept the initial exhaustion in order to condition ourselves? In our personal lives are we willing to stumble and try again, over and over, until we integrate a new way to speak or a positive habit? Are we willing to identify what is unhealthy for us–physically, emotionally, spiritually and then start eliminating those things? Even if it seems like a small action, step, or movement, do it enough times, and you will see change. For better, for worse.

Quickly percolating in the news is the most recent Consumer Reports taste test. CR pitted 19 coffees against one another to determine the best tasting brew.
Surprisingly, 8 O’Clock Coffee triumphed.

Eight O’Clock Coffee 100% Colombian (at a wallet-friendly $6.28 a pound), was judged the hottest ground coffee of all, winning CR’s “Best Combination of Taste and Price.” Testers raved that the coffee possesses “a complex blend of earthy and fruity, with a bright, pleasing sourness.”

I have an axe to grind here.
Eons ago, I use to enthusiastically start my afternoon with a cup of Folgers or Maxwell House, along with enough cream and sugar to make a quart of ice cream. Then I became more sophisticated, requiring whole beans. So I switched to 8 O’Clock Coffee.

Then I was hired at a local coffee roasters. After two cups of the real high test stuff, I was having trouble sleeping. My horizons totally opened. I couldn’t go back to Folgers or 8 O’Clock beans anymore. Not after trying Guatemalan Antigua, Vienna, Kona, French Roast, Italian Roast, Sumatra. These days I drink my coffee black. When you drink it black, quality is imperative.

I find it hard to believe that 8 O’Clock beans (although it isn’t too bad) would win a taste test, or that McDonald’s coffee was CR’s choice last year. These aren’t blind taste tests, by the way. Sure, CR’s website is advertisement free, but am I really to believe this whole taste test process is full of integrity? Not when McDonald’s coffee triumphs.

So maybe no money is exchanging hands, but what are the credentials of these tasters? Another thing bothering me is that each year, CR demonstrates a bias towards Starbucks. They complain about Starbucks coffees in general, but only sample one of them. Starbucks offers around 20 coffee choices. My point here, is not a defense of Starbucks, but more a critique of CR.

2007

Hoping that consumers are fed up with asking Starbucks for “double-caramel skim half-caf macchiato” before they’ve even had their jolt of joe, Burger King, Dunkin’ Donuts, and McDonald’s have been boosting their coffee cachet.

2009

Java junkies looking for bargains on great tasting joe might want to put that Starbucks Venti Caffe Americano on the back burner for now.

By the way, Venti Caffe Americano is not coffee. It’s espresso.
I don’t think Starbuck’s is the best coffee around. Certainly not. But CR is stepping away from it’s neutral stance and poking hot rods at Starbucks.

There are a few things to consider here. First, what qualities determine when something has the best value? Is it merely a reference to the consumer’s wallet? One mistake we tend to make as consumers is to neglect the long term cost of something.

For instance, coffee and strawberries are among the most heavily sprayed crops. This begets the necessity for organics, as far as I’m concerned. Especially when it comes to something I put in my body daily.
The cheaper your coffee, likely the more pesticides have been used on it. Studies have conclusively shown all of these substances increase free radical production. Your long term health is a factor in the purchase price equation.

Now, as a conscious consumer I also take into consideration the origin of my product. I determine it’s worth not on price alone, but price in addition to the labor source used to manufacture my product.

Do I want to start my day off with coffee that was harvested from a farm where the production is mostly chemical free and less detrimental to the farms occupants? Yes. Do I want my coffee from a manufacturer that gives to the community which makes the manufacturer rich? You bet I do.

Quite simply, I don’t just happily slurp down a low grade, pesticide ridden coffee from a company that stomps all over farmers in less developed countries. While Starbuck’s might not be the best out there, they have great sustainable programs in place and give back to their farmers. They clean up water sources in the communities and sink money into education. If any pesticides are used, there is a 24 hour restriction before farmers are allowed back on site.

Another disadvantage to all those other coffees (Starbucks, Dunkin Donuts, McD’s) is that little of the sales money generated stays in your community. So if you have some dollars to spare, buy from the local shops. And if your budget is tight like mine, I recommend Nature’s Place Organic Dark Roast, at a low $3.35 for 11 0zs.
One of the best deals out there, for price, flavor, and ethos.

Salud!

My father passed away January 23, at 4:50pm. The chaplain asked my Aunt and me to share with him some memories of my Dad and then I wound up actually reading at the funeral.

Only 34 years into my life seems quite young to loose a father. We do not predict nor plan for these events; especially not in the carefree, self-absorbed times of youth. Like when I was shark fishing off the pier with my father or hunting shells while at the beach with him.

I feel mortal now. At the same time, I feel free.
The past year brought me closer to my father and for this I give thanks and feel the most peace I could possibly feel, about our relationship.

This past year, traveling cross country on my scooter, I stopped in Jackson to visit him. I met his friends and spent the day with them. I volunteered to serve food at the shelter where he lived. I was asked to lead grace before the meal. I try not to speak in terms of God, but I believe in blessings and community. I looked up from what felt like an awkward grace and saw my Dads face glowing. Perhaps he was not there at many moments in my life, but he was there at some important ones.

It was a gift to care briefly for my father in his illness. It was a relief to know he was at home with my Aunt. His beautiful heart held so much respect for others. He did not seem to have this for himself, sadly, but he genuinely offered it to others.

He always took a moment to express gratitude for his caretakers; myself, my Aunt, doctors and nurses. His eyes expressed love for me. He received my calls with rather surprising joy for a man suffering so much. This lightened my heart.
The last embrace we shared, bending over his hospital bed, he hugged my neck as tightly as possible and said, “You don’t know how much you mean to me.”

But I did. I do. Finally.

One day, caring for him, I noticed a scar on his lower abdomen. That scar resulted in my life. He had a surgical procedure in order to bring into this realm. My mother had told me about this when I was younger and the knowledge made me uncomfortable. I went through a slight nihilist phase, wondering if I should be here–in a sense–without technology–I would not be. As I stared at his scar, recognizing the fragility of his life and the many struggles he failed to overcome–I gave silent thanks.

He gave me a precious chance, a gift. I realized the effort that went into my creation and understood the gravity that I make the best effort I can in this world. It was liberating.

This past summer, after visiting my father, I attended several teaching that the Dalai Lama offered. He spoke of the significance of life, not just measured by the totality of a man’s actions, but measured by his intentions.

My father had an awareness that he must improve his life, that he must stop drinking. It is an irony that over the counter medicine ruined his liver and ultimately killed him. He was taking so much of it to deal with the pain that drinking usually solved.

He had a kindness, a moral character and often helped strangers. He had a deep well of love for his family. He had many shortcomings, many failures. Had I known prior what kind of father he would be, or if I even had a choice in the matter, I might not have chosen him.

But this is Life, right?
I believe, too, that life is a measure of your intentions, your ability to dream, synthesize and intuit. I also believe discipline is an important vehicle.
But without it, the weight of a mans heart is no less, perhaps just his legacy.

I am thankful that my Fathers pain has been taken. I know he is finally at Peace. As am I, with my life, even my mortality, and my opportunity to learn from all that he taught me.
He is released

But PLEASE stop with the emails soliciting money. I gave you a bunch during the election. I volunteered my time. I don’t want to buy a Shepard Fairey inauguration poster, tshirt, or sticker of Obama. Thanks.

Not even if he signs them. And I don’t want to buy TWO at a cheaper price to float one for my friend. I was done when I bought Obama/Biden placards for everyone in the family….and it’s a big family.

I suspect Obama gets to sit on a pretty chunk of that money–we don’t even know how much is raised–do we?

If anyone needs a reminder–our economy sucks. I can’t find a job in Maine. I’m eating beans almost everyday, it helps with the heating bills.  I CAN’T AFFORD TO KEEP GIVING YOU MONEY OBAMA. Give me some!

I did not know Robert, but I was blessed to share more life experiences with his parents, in just brief moments, than some people I’ve known my entire life. Their love of Robert helped to transmit his “being” to me, and I understood how incredible,  interesting, loving and dedicated this young man was. I even thought about him often and wondered if we would ever meet. I felt some connection to him, that surely had to do with the impression his parents made on me–but it was more than just that.

I hope you will join me in sending peace, strength and blessings to the Atkinsons.  I have learned enough in this life to know this Universe has its own mysterious balance, and many events within it do not seem kind, nor just. What helps us survive all the crazy in our world is our faith, and support from others.

Jan and Jon are the co-state coordinators for the Department of Peace. (DOP) Rob worked with the Student Peace Alliance (SPA)and hoped to work for the DOP. In lieu of flowers, please, consider a donation to the SPA in Rob’s name.

For more about Rob, please visit this memorial page his frat brothers have set up.

I’m dedicating “The Battle of Evermore,” to Rob, a Led Zeppelin song inspired by LOTR The Return of the King. Beautiful lyrics.

Familiarity is guaranteed. Off the Interstate’s spine clings all the big box stores, fast food joints and commercial hotels where Pakistani clerks name Joey hand you registration cards. Sometimes these consumerist landmarks are a blessing, when all you want is what you already know;  especially after a 400, 11 hour, scooter ride. On the other roads, people will wave to you from their front porch.

Today, tucked away in my road journal I found this (unused??) sheet of directions. I cringed. Note how I highlighted every other line, to make visibility easier. My poor Richards version of a GPS, secured by a donated map clip. Needless to say, I had a lot of patience with this system. Then Chad gave me his GPS in Seattle, but with only 3,000 miles of the trip left, out of 22,000.

However, in retrospect, the perpetual excitement to discover our country, with it’s many geographical and cultural surprises, far outweighed the irritation of always scribbling (or printing) 34+ lines of directions–just to complete a 150 mile drive.

I’ve already started a new grocery list that will just increase the spending limit by about $5 each, if that. News of worse times ahead is the primary motivation, but I’ve also realized in this week what I can do without. I would much rather cut back on my expensive high octane caffeine intake, get my energy through exercise and have money left over for travel, emergency funds and luxuries. We can also live without the amount of wine/beer/chocolate/nuts that we always seem to buy.

Rationing butter and cheese has also brought awareness that we can cut back on our intake of those expensive items and still have delicious foods.

I’m still boggled about rising food costs. In Maine food costs are up more than 6.3% because oil price jumped this year. Even though oil prices have dropped, I doubt food prices will follow.

Here is the equation.
My income is < My expenses.
Credit is not available and I haven’t found a good job. Take our current recession into consideration and you can understand my fear and frustration.
Economically, there are tough times all around.  Well, except for John Thain, (and the other merry men of Wall St.) who is asking for a $10 million bonus–indicating his annual income must be over double digits.
Although taking the FSC was a school project, it will become a lifestyle until things improve. I’m not really disappointed, either. What winds up on my table is plenty more than in other countries. Sometimes, less is more.
“The less you eat the longer you live, so the more you get to eat.”

Despite going to the gym I didn’t have much of an appetite all day.

Breakfast
Oatmeal, fried egg

Lunch
Didn’t really have one. Just snacked on a carrot and leftover oatmeal cookies and popcorn.

Dinner
Potatoes and left over kale. Really scrumptious.

The comments accurately reflect the debate on poverty and government assistance.

The article was published in Maine. Something to consider is that with the price of oil rising so high earlier this year, the price of food has gone up. Here in Maine, we are pretty far away from CA and FL where the citrus and fruits grow in abundance. While oil has fallen, food price is likely to stay up. Food costs have risen by a minimum of 6.3% this year.

Smells of food cooking a noon filled the mall but didn’t really phase me. I was craving a double shot of espresso, was making rationalizations why I should have it and have it with an apple fritter. I then recognized that my little espresso ritual makes me happy and I don’t want to associate happiness with consumer purchases! So we came home and SHOCKING, I made popcorn. Then we cooked up a leftover black bean soup (it was thick) and spinach quesadilla.

The kid came home with McDonalds that her grandmother bought her (bad purchase). Both of our mothers have been worried about us since finding out that we are eating on a $21 weekly budget. They have both offered us money. It’s nice to feel coddled, and it’s kinda of funny that our moms can’t imagine eating for so little money. We are doing fine. The challenge is almost over.

Tonight was kale, lentils and rice. An argument earlier in the week about the categorization of peanut butter was forgotten when we both realized we could use it to make peanut butter oatmeal cookies. We used 2 TBS of peanut butter to make the cookies.

It was another day of savory food on a teensy budget.

Kale is super nutritious. It is more bitter than spinach, so kids don’t really like it. I use 1/4-1/2 cup of finely minced garlic. I saute the garlic in a blend of olive oil and sesame oil. After about 5 minutes I throw in a whole bunch (literally, a bunch) of kale, stems removed. Next, take sesame seeds and sprinkle them in the pot. It takes a big stockpot to do this. The water remaining on the kale from cleaning it helps blanch the garlic. Quickly throw on the lid and let it pressure steam for a 90 seconds. Turn the kale frequently to fully incorporate the garlic and sesame seeds. When it turns a nice, darker green and wilts down, pull it out of the pot immediately.

Breakfast
oatmeal. reheated potatoes with one egg, shared.

Lunch
Black bean and spinach quesadilla. Remaining Black beans and rice.

Snack
Popcorn

Dinner
Kale, lentils, and rice

Desert
Peanut butter oatmeal cookies.

Breakfast was oatmeal, of course. We had no official lunch after the gym. We reheated some of the left over potatoes with a fried egg on top. Popcorn, our most excellent staple, was made.

I had forgotten to soak the beans overnight and had to rely on the quick soak method. See cook’s tip at the bottom of the blog.

Friday was a day of cheating and rationalization. I used a stalk of celery in the soup and a jalapeno. At the beginning of the challenge we hid everything that was off limits in the fridge crispers. My recipe for the soup was a hybrid of two different recipes I found online.

The soup absolutely seduced my taste buds. It probably would have been just fine without the celery and jalapeno, but I felt ornery and used them. Our take on this challenge is that no one actually lives on food stamps for just one week. Had we the full monthly budget, we would be able to purchase little things like celery for soup stock. Doing this challenge within the vacuum of seven days is unrealistic–but so far we have (mostly) managed $1 a meal.

For some very savory meals too, I might add.
The soup was served over top of rice and a jalapeno cornbread would have perfectly complimented it.

After dinner we went to J&A’s to play Carcassonne. They offered us chip and pineapple/cream cheese dip. We accepted and ate them with gusto. Had we been at home, we wouldn’t have had them. We honestly didn’t care and believe that low income people probably accept free food. It’s ridiculous to think they wouldn’t.

There was a lot of discussion about the FSC and welfare.  I’ve still thinking my position through. A has worked with people on welfare for years and feel as though the system is abused. She notices a lot of entitlement from people on welfare and doesn’t see the gov’t aid as a catalyst to help people stand on their own, but rather a crutch.
Day3 meals
Breakfast
Oatmeal

Lunch
Potatoes with fried egg

Dinner
Black bean soup over rice

Recipe for black bean soup:
Produce sauteed in this order:
One yellow onion, medium size
4 cloves of garlic
1 carrot
1 celery stalk
1 jalapeno
*All produce finely chopped
I started beans cooking while veggies sauteed, because I was short on time
Transferred veggies after 15 mins., into bean pot
Added 4 TBS. of veggie stock
A bay leave would have been nice, but I didn’t have any
After one hour of cooking I added 1.5 TBS of cumin and chili powder
1TSP. white pepper

The soup took about 3 hours to cook, with a lot of stirring.
I removed 2/3 of the mixture and pureed it in my food processor, then returned it to the pot.
I added 1/4 cup tabasco and a pinch of cardamon.
About 4 TBS of lime juice
Then it simmered until beans were completely soft.

**cooks note**
Quick soak on beans
Cover beans in 3 inches of H2O. Bring to a boil and cook over moderate heat for 3 minutes. Take off heat, cover, and let set for an hour before boiling.

Snacks and chocolate.
I went to the gym today and pushed myself a little harder than usual. I stopped off to buy some poster board for an art project and felt taunted by all the available chocolate;  so organized, so colorful. Dinner wasn’t ready when I arrived, but I snacked on a healthy carrot. The kid poked fun at us and our “weird” diet;  hers was the only plate with meat and steamed veggies.

I think the boost in energy has to do with the pride that we are doing this project. We are doing it fully, not just cheating behind your backs. I’m learning to let go of false desires. We do not need most of the food with which we stuff ourselves. Freeing myself from this behavior will allow me to be truly full. I don’t think that mindset is accomplished in one week, mind you. Food is both medicine and poison. Urges for it and over consumption of things with no value should be minded. Eating crappy food is the equivalent of bombarding yourself with too much TV.

We’re considering integrating this budget into our lives more permanently, just without all the other rules.
It feels great to put so much thought into what you put in your mouth and body.

D made rice pudding tonight. We were all frantic about having some chocolate, so we used our leftover dollar to buy the 88 cent chocolate bar we already had in our cabinet. Homemade rice pudding with a small piece of chocolate is one of the best desserts! WIthout the chocolate it cost under 1.00 to make about 6 big servings.

We had an arguement today over the status of butter. Is it a commodity or a condiment?
We spent $1.25 buying the half pound of butter.  But is it possible butter is a freebie? We tried to loosely define condiment as anything that you could find at the condiment station in a shop. Regardless, if we don’t refund our money for the butter, then we have reached our maximum expenditures.

We will be fine, though. Actually we will have a leftover surplus of oatmeal, rice, and black beans.

Day 3 meals
Breakfast
oatmeal

Lunch
Scrambled egg, cheese, and spinach burrito with sauteed onions, garlic and some hot sauce.

Snack
Popcorn. We finally got our Braggs Amino Acids back from J&A. If you’ve never tried it, you are missing out.
Carrot
Lentils and Rice

Dinner
Salad
Thinly sliced potatoes seasoned with cumin and dried red chilis. Delicious.

Dessert
Rice pudding with chocolate

**pics posted tomorrow

So, the coffee isn’t all that horrible, but for an expert barista and coffee snob, it’s bad.

The food, however, is pretty decent.

I think some of our challenges are psychological. Knowing we can’t have things makes us crave them even more. Apparently, we snack a lot in the day, something to be more intentional about in the future. We decided nuts would have been a good investment, but then again, nuts are expensive. We really could have used a grocery/health food store with good bulk. Then we could have purchased small amounts of many different grains, falafel, hummus mixes and created more variety in our meals.

For hunger pains today we made a batch of popcorn in the hot air popper. A good investment at $20–requires no oil and doesn’t spike the gas/electricity bill as high as the stove top method. I felt famished around 7:30.  We took the kid to the Christmas parade and tree lighting. The aromas from all the restaurants almost rendered our resolve useless. But we conquered our cravings to duck in the local brewery.

Something interesting here.  Our original plan for today, from last week, was to invite the family over for a big chili dinner and then attend the parade together. We canceled because chili for others wasn’t in our budget. Also, D’s friend wanted to buy us a meal, or donate food to our cause. It would have been a great night to go out, I’ve been waiting to meet this particular family since August, and we had all the kids with us. The rules of the FSC state that you can’t accept freebies. Not even enticing, free coffee at the office or an innocent potluck.

Aren’t poor people resourceful? And social? Don’t people supplement food stamps with food banks? If I actually had a $84 budget for the month–you can bet I would be attending art openings, potlucks, soupkitchens and cruising Whole Foods for samples. Perhaps the logistics of social events are harder for low income families to manage?

Maybe the rules were put in place to prevent Congressmen from relying on their fancy luncheons, brunches and catered dinners?

Today I spent more money on the dogs food than I did for my weekly budget. Chocolate would top the night off nicely, along with some wine, but it is good for the spirit to go without. Sacrifice for awareness.

Day 2 meals
Breakfast
Oatmeal. No fruit like usual. Just ginger, cinnamon and clove spices.

Lunch
Hefty salad with cucumber, lentils from last night, carrots, cheese, and onion

Snack
Popcorn with soy sauce sprayed on (pump bottle)

Dinner
Cheese and sauteed spinach, garlic, onion and olive (condiment) quesadillas
Side dish lentils and rice from last night

See, that’s still better eats than millions of people will have. Give thanks!

Thankfully, Maine has no food tax;  people on food stamps also don’t pay food tax.

December 2

Breakfast:
oatmeal with cinnamon and brown sugar

Lunch:
Heaping salad and cornbread

Dinner:
Heaping bowl of rice, with matching amount of lentils. On top: sauteed spinach, garlic, and onion.

I’m really quite full. If I get any cravings, I have popcorn and a hot air popper. Not having snacks around will make you fall off the rail faster. Living on this budget can only be done by actually cooking, which is time consuming AND one is prone to have cravings while cooking. Popcorn is a good, cheap solution.

Purchases made for $40.61:

1 lb. bag Black Beans 1.89
1 lb. bag of lentil beans 1.89
8 flour tortillas 1.69
12 eggs 1.59
2 lb bag rice 2.13
42 oz quick oats 2.75
32oz popcorn 1.59
110zOrganic Coffee 3.39
1lb carrots 1.29
5lb potatoes 3.49
2 bulbs garlic 1.58
Cucumber .59
1 bunch of Kale 2.49
1lb yellow onion .99
large container spring mix 6.00
1 lb cheese 3.84
half lb butter 1.25
one apple .49
cornbread 1.73
***this is overestimated. We already had it around the house from Tday and Daphne insisted we eat it. It accounts for milk, egg and cornbread mixture.

We will be video documenting our experience as well as blogging about it, here.

My impression, so far, Day 1, after a bowl of oatmeal, is that this won’t be horrible.  I don’t rely on meat, milk, and bread as part of my diet. I’ve been exposed to the world of bulk grains and beans. My concern is that I won’t get the amount of produce, fruits and veggies that are a big part of my diet.

We are putting together our menu today and getting ready to shop. So far my biggest compromise is coffee. I will be purchasing schwaggy, low grade octane–something like Chock Full O’Nuts I suppose. Since we are doing this for just one week, there is a vacuum.   If this was our lifestyle, we would likely have certain staples around in bulk.

However, as noted in a Sentinel article about the journalist who took the challenge, “the challenges of timing - and of the very adequacy of benefit - are quite real for actual food stamp recipients.”

Daphne and I live below poverty level, without a doubt. Food just happens to be one of the things a large portion of our income goes toward. We don’t eat out very often, because we are better cooks than most people. We don’t buy a lot of consumer crap, by choice.

Rules:

1. Can not attend any free luncheons, brunches, potlucks or take free food from your family. (does this imply that poor people are not social?)
2. Can not use any foods already in the house. The exceptions are spices and condiments.

Her daughter will be exempt from this, as we only have her 3 nights this week anyhow.

For other reading, please consult the blog which chronicles House Representatives taking the challenge. Wanna join us?
http://foodstampchallenge.typepad.com/my_weblog/2007/05/index.html

http://www.boston.com/news/nation/articles/2007/04/20/oregon_gov_joining_food_stamp_project/
Cheers!

Here is list of links to those articles, give them a click:
The Art of the Possible:  A website dedicated to “Liberals and libertarians on common ground… and otherwise.”
These are in descending order from last published. Unfortunately, the website has closed temporarily. (Now I have more time to write) I prefer my earliest writings for this site.
The archive of my writing is HERE.

The Second Road: Where life and recovery intersect. I am a project development assistant for this website. Back in April I was approached to help out with beta-testing and my responsibilities have grown threefold since then. I’m really hopeful this website will launch hard soon, as it is an amazing resource for people in recovery. I could not imagine if I needed, attending 12 step meetings. However, this website is great as a compliment/and/or alternative. The key thing to remember: people don’t have to recover alone.

My archive of writing there is HERE.

For a taste of my writing over there:
Are you all in?
The word addiction is hard to define. It is often used in casual situations, “I’m so addicted to chocolate,” or “I’m so hooked on that soap opera.”
As stated in the book I’m currently reading;

“the DSM_IV defines substance dependence as a pattern of continued use of any substance despite the fact that it has become harmful to the person using it. This means that even though a “drug” causes problems in a person’s health, daily function, or other important aspects of life, the addict is unable to stop using it.”

As in, there is no more control.

So, when a person loses sight of consequences due to risky behaviors there is an indication of addiction. The need for something overcomes rationality.

Does consumerism fall into this category? Aside from the economic travesties on U.S. shoulders, due in part to living outside of one’s means–what about this past Black Friday?

What about the 34 year old employee who lost his life this Friday during a stampede of people so obsessively driven to get material goods that they reverted into primitive animals? Or the pregnant woman who miscarried her baby due to the same stampede?

Doesn’t shopping also trigger the primitive brain-reward circuitry? Of course, consumerism is good for the country, at least it was until the credit bubble popped.

Compulsive shopping can create massive financial, marital, legal and family problems. These consequences are identical in nature to the consequences created from drug addiction or alcoholism.

However, the end product is beneficial not just for country, but also for the wealthy billionaires who influence (I daresay control) our political and economic systems. I don’t see much consumerism or financial education at the college preparatory or collegiate level. In fact, a majority of Americans, when polled, could make no sense of the mortgage loans they signed.

In short, we have a culture that glorifies consumerism; the latest popular acquisitions elevate ones status. Isn’t it too an addiction?

On compulsive shopping:

Behaviors that may indicate a compulsive shopping problem:

* Shopping or spending money as a result of feeling angry, depressed , anxious, or lonely
* Having arguments with others about your shopping habits
* Feeling lost without credit cards - actually going into withdrawal without them
* Buying items on credit, rather than with cash
* Describing a rush or a feeling of euphoria with spending
* Feeling guilty, ashamed, or embarrassed after a spending spree
* Lying about how much money was spent or owning up to buying something, but lying about how much it actually cost
* Thinking obsessively about money
* Spending a lot of time juggling accounts or bills to accommodate spending

While reading about the man who unfortunately passed away this Thanksgiving weekend, I stumbled upon other related material. Sadly, addicts fall under criticism for their pursuit of a buzz, from a drug that often holds them in a grip. But it seems as though a majority of people in our world seek entertainment, release, a quick thrill–at the expense of another, or without consideration of the ultimate cost.

Like this fellow who was arrested for peeing on a woman in her final moments; unconscious on the ground and dying from pancreatic failure. Anderson and onlookers laughed as they filmed the lewd actions, saying, “this will make a good youtube video.”

In short, drugs and drug users are easy to pinpoint and persecute. But aside from those witchtrials–what about the rest of the people in our so called developed societies–who are in constant pursuit of an escape or temporary consumer fix? Is not the need for power and status as dangerous, if not more so, as use of a substance? The widespread quantification of oppressive, cruel, unkind, megalomaniac, and excessive consumeristic actions worldwide would be greater than that of substance abusers.

I’m all in. I’m all in to make myself better, and the world within my reach. I’m all in to free myself from instant gratification and help those in need when I can.

I found a beautiful passage to share with you in closing, written about the above action by Anderson.

I make a difference in this world, for good or ill. There is no neutral. There is no Switzerland. There is only saying no to the indignities one human visits upon another—prejudice, hatred, humiliation and pain—or saying yes. And silence, the craven averting of one’s gaze so the offense may take place out of view, is not a no. It is not ambiguous. It is a yes. Yes, go ahead, just don’t do it to me. It is a permission, and a plea. I’ll sacrifice her if you’ll let me on my merry way. We routinely cede our expectations of goodness for guarantees of safety, but only our own, and we can no longer fool ourselves that men like Anthony Anderson are aberrations; they are, in the void of unyielding solidarity our self-interest has left, inevitabilities.

There is no neutral. You’re in or you’re fucking out.

I’m all in.

That is my dear friend of 10+years, Erika, from Portland, OR. In the background, I believe, is her sister.

Also randomly found on the internet, on Google Maps Streetview–my scooter. And a block away–ME. This was a big, although creepy, surprise. I stumbled across this because Mikie Taps, on Modern Buddy, posted that he showed up on Streetview. Well that reminded me that last year I met a Lady Google driver. They drive around in cars with an Orwellian camera mounted on top, recording all that they see. Including me in front of the liquor store, in my Corazzo jacket. I couldn’t be more proud!

Dear Friends and Family,

Here it is the eve of a historic election.  For so many people, 1.20.09 is a very important date–but not if we don’t vote wisely.
What is voting wisely?
The ability to see beyond propaganda, party lines, and America’s borders.
Voting wisely is to first sit quietly and ask yourself what you want our future to look like.

After lengthy deliberation, I decided to endorse Barack Obama–just about 6 weeks ago. I met thousands of wonderful Americans while traveling 22,000 miles on a historic Peace ride. I chose to steer our conversations away from politics, because they are often divisive; instead I emphasized how important it is for each individual to know exactly what they want for themselves, their community and their country. And what they are willing to give to see those beliefs take root.  Our visions our powerful.

A personal ideology and daily action within one’s community is imperative. I consider voting a very, very small part of my duty as a citizen in a democratic republic. What our government does during the next two or four or eight years is largely a function of what we do, not just of whom we elect.

What many of you told me was that you came out to support the Peace ride because I wasn’t angry. I wasn’t pointing fingers. I wasn’t criticizing you for your beliefs. One of the people who joined me at the end of the ride, in Washington D.C., was a son in a long lineage of soldiers–whose ancestors are buried at Arlington Cemetery.  He said he joined me that special day because of my  declaration that our fate depends on us, not just those in charge and that anger is not what fosters change.

Obama has this leadership quality. Many question if his campaign was run with more integrity than McCain. Politics is a dirty business, sure. However, McCain is not the man I would want to represent my nation. Not with the blatant lies made in relation to Obama’s friendship with terrorists, which generated hate.  We’ve had a 7 years of division and hunting terrorists. We don’t need to losely throw that word around.

At first, I feared Obama was full of empty rhetoric. I did my research. But more importantly, I used critical thinking. A person who tells you Obama is not experienced enough might have done their research, but they have not utilized critical thinking to weigh in all the factors. Just because someone might have more experience does not mean they have the character for such an esteemed position. Partisanship and fear will make people vote for the candidate who merely has years of experience, but whose personaliy does not make for an esteemed leader. Obama has proven that he has determination (climbing a ladder), dedication, intelligence (magna cum laude, law school), undersanding of the American people (ability to raise such a grassroot support)and level headed manner under pressure (see all three debates).

Think about how great it would be to have an eloquent, passionate, level headed President speak for our country. It is not just rhetoric, Obama inspires people, he gives us hope. Our country needs that now. Our world needs that now. How wonderful would it be to have a diplomat in the office? Someone who will use force if needed, but also understands a greater power–the dialogue it takes to reach common ground. It is not a sign of weakness to confront your alleged enemies. For all religious fans–it is what your God teaches. People think pacifism is easy and weak. Folks, that’s silly. It takes a lot of effort to develop and maintain relationships, especially with people who hold different beliefs. It is a skill McCain does not have. In this age of globalization, it will be required for us to co-exist with others.

Yes, McCain has experience. He is experienced in an old paradigm of thought which can not lead us into a better future. He has hundreds of lobbyists working for him. Obama’s campaign does not. I’m happy that Obama collected so much money online, setting a record. I would rather him do this than be indebted to lobbyists. I want a transparent governement. McCain was in the bottom 5th of his class. If you have been unhappy with President Bush’s leadership, remember that he too had experience, as well as bad grades in college. I’m not alluding that McCain is Bush, I’m saying that a high IQ isn’t a bad thing to have in office.

Beware the hysteria, friends.
Think about the facts. Think about the anger and lies that have come from McCain. Think about his age. Think about the severe lack of experience his VP has. She was chosen to attract female voters. The gamble that his campaign took when choosing Palin is indicative of the risky, impulsive behavior McCain will continue to make if elected President. She was chosen so that anytime someone says she has no experience, a conservative could say, “Well, then Obama has no experience.” It was a sharp, tactical move, sure. But weigh the facts. Palin didn’t even know what her duties as VP would be. She is a governor of the least populated state in America. Obama graduated magna cum laude from Harvard! He studied Constitutional law! There is no comparison.

The greater American public aren’t just ready for change, they are changing. In the past 8 years, we have just collectively witnessed an American decay.  Logically, at this point in our history, with our power, money and experience, this country should be better poised to better serve its citizens and lead the world. Instead, we have witnessed an erosion of the Constitution, our economic system, and our international standing.

I spoke with my mother the other day. Sadly, she lost half of her savings in the market crash. On top of that, she is paying her taxpayer money towards the very people who gambled with her money. On top of that, her health care expenses will be raised in 2009. She has worked hard her whole life. She now has cancer, and she is, point blank, screwed. She is the great all American statistic that candidates court.

With great sadness I find that most of my family are voting opposite of me. We go over the list of things that are wrong, and they agree. They agree about McCain’s character and policy flaws. But they can’t break free of their thinking.
I’m asking you to do so. And to tell others how important it is that the election be won by a Democratic landslide.

In years past, I voted, or considered a third party vote.
But this year, I want a landslide. I want Obama to win overwhelmingly.

I quote David Swanson here, as he says it best;

“… if the Democrats win the House and Senate seats that optimists predict, and if the presidential election is a popular and electoral landslide. I want that landslide understood as a landslide for peace and against Republican war mongering. It can be understood as such despite Obama’s own support for war, because most Americans are unaware of that. In the simplest terms, McCain has been labeled the war candidate and Obama the peace candidate.
We can better seize on that and compel Obama to actually be a peace president if he wins overwhelmingly. I understand that Bush claimed a mandate on the basis of the narrowest conceivable (and not even true) victory, but his supporters control the media. To claim a mandate, Obama needs a landslide. And if the Democrats take large majorities in both houses, including 60 or more senate seats (possibly including one or two independents caucusing with the Democrats), then Emanuel’s excuse strategy evaporates. If the majority of Americans demand something, the Democrats will have to either deliver or admit to not being democrats with a small d. If Obama does not win a landslide over McCain, I will be ashamed to show my face abroad; I want this as a message to the world.”

I’ve been volunteering for the Obama campaign, and I tell people on the other end of the phone; “thanks for listening for just three minutes. Our time is precious, yes, but think about how much of it we willingly waste each day. Think about the greater things we have to lose in this election and sacrifice just three minutes of your time to listen, think and teach others.”

I am not in any way glorifying Obama’s entire platform. I simply would rather see him in the White House than McCain–and I’m taking an hour of my time to write this to you. To beg and plead with you to put aside your fears, your stubborn allegiance to third parties that won’t win, and take off your Republican hats. People say there isn’t too much difference between the two parties anymore anyhow–so why not vote for the man who visibly handles himself with more integrity than McCain?
Please, get out there and vote, but remember how easy it is to do things that are fare more important on the other 729 days every two years.

Vote with your heart and your head. Seem impossible? Not really. If you really listened to your heart, not me, not the media, not your party, I think you would hear the truth: the times- they are a changing.

Sometimes that change comes from the people and sometimes it’s forced upon us. Together, let’s create the world we are prepared to handle.

With respect,
Alix B.

START:

Did you know that acetaminophen is used in an effort to control the brown snake population in Guam? All it takes is one mouse stuffed with 80mg of acetaminophen; a pretty desirable remedy in Guam where they spend upwards of 1 million to control the invasive species.

Me either.

Not until I wound up in a hospital on Friday, in Jackson, MS, caring for my father–who will soon meet his demise from acute liver failure. The source? Tylenol.

Don’t worry, that’s about as personal as this blog gets.
Now, to kill a human it takes a little bit more than 80g. In my father’s case, he was popping about 10 grams a day–or 20 pills. He was in a ton of pain from previous surgeries, on his knees and prostate.

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