Delmar, NY

Missed my morning walk today as I was cooking quinoa and it was dark 🥣

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Plus I figured I’m bicycling to and from work so that I ought to count for something. The mornings are so dark now, plus post 6:45 the roads around the high school are filled with smoldering cars as the kids sit in there early along the road to get parking. Also I was busy doing a lot of cooking, especially with the quinoa, which the first morning before their cooked take a fair amount of time, between washing them good and clean and then boiling them down ont he stone.

Good morning! Happy Tuesday. Partly sunny and 59 degrees in Delmar, NY. 🌅 There is a west breeze at 8 mph. 🍃. The dew point is 54 degrees.

Going to be a nice morning for a ride to work. 🚲 Then I’ll do the stairs. Hopping on the pumpkin 🎃 spice craze, I had the quinoa with pumpkin and no sugar but some added chia seeds. I did a much better job cleaning the quinoa this time, which kept them from being too bitter. Last night I made walnut butter in the food processor and that was delicious on home made wheat bread 🍞 that I cooked in the morning. It was good.

Today will have a slight chance of showers between 11am and noon. Mostly sunny 🌞, with a high of 66 degrees at 2pm. Seven degrees below normal, which is similar to a typical day around October 5th. Maximum dew point of 56 at 3pm. West wind 8 to 15 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. A year ago, we had mostly sunny skies in the morning, which became thunderstorm by afternoon. It was humid. The high last year was 81 degrees. The record high of 90 was set in 1946.

This evening I’ll probably walk 🚶 down to the library 📚 to return books and maybe get some new ones out plus do a least some steps. Maybe an evening walk but truth be told I’d rather just retire to bed early. 🛏 Got some salmon out of the freezer, going to have with baked apples, butternut squash, mashed sweet potato and spinach. Should he a good dinner but will be dark by the time I’m done with it. The days of going down to the park after work have come and gone.

Solar noon 🌞 is at 12:50 pm with sun having an altitude of 48.9° from the due south horizon (-21.9° vs. 6/21). A six foot person will cast a 5.2 foot shadow today compared to 2.2 feet on the first day of summer. The golden hour 🏅 starts at 6:23 pm with the sun in the west (267°). 📸 The sunset is in the west (273°) with the sun dropping below the horizon at 7:00 pm after setting for 2 minutes and 54 seconds with dusk around 7:27 pm, which is one minute and 47 seconds earlier than yesterday. 🌇 At dusk you’ll see the First Quarter 🌓 Moon in the southwest (225°) at an altitude of 13° from the horizon, 239,238 miles away. 🚀 The best time to look at the stars is after 8:02 pm. At sunset, look for mostly clear skies 🌄 and temperatures around 61 degrees. The dew point will be 52 degrees. There will be a west-northwest breeze at 13 mph. Today will have 12 hours and 22 minutes of daytime, a decrease of 2 minutes and 51 seconds over yesterday.

Yesterday I had to run to the store to get contact solution 👀 and ended up getting some sweet potatoes, avocados, frozen squash and melon, along with walnuts, the later which I used to make some walnut butter in the food processor. I thought about doing another try at the bread I made in the morning, which came out a bit flat but I might wait until tonight to knead up some more dough.

Tonight will be mostly clear 🌃, with a low of 48 degrees at 4am. Three degrees below normal, which is similar to a typical night around September 27th. Northwest wind 6 to 10 mph. In 2022, we had mostly clear skies in the evening, which became light rain by the early hours of the morning. It was somewhat humid. It got down to 59 degrees. The record low of 30 occurred back in 1979.

Weekend is looking pretty nice. 😎 Saturday, partly sunny, with a high near 70. Maximum dew point of 55 at 12pm. Sunday, a chance of showers. Partly sunny, with a high near 69. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Maximum dew point of 59 at 1pm. Typical average high for the weekend is 72 degrees.

I am not sure if I will head out of town, 🏕 🚲 as the models suggest different things, but if it’s nice, the Adirondacks are always a good option. That said, if I wait another week, it might be closer to peak color. That said, I told Mom and Dad, I’d take them on a trip to Speculator later this month, so maybe that will be the weekend to do it. It’s a day trip, so I could always just take a day off from work too do it. I need to use up some time, before it gets cold out, so I should plan some more trips. Thinking the week after Columbus Day Weekend for a trip out to the Finger Lakes, Pennsylvania, West Virginia and/or Allegheny National Forest. At least that’s the general direction I’m leaning towards. So many options, so little time. Otherwise, the fall back is the Nature Bus to Thacher Park. Always the most affordable option.

One month 📅 from now will be Average High is 60 🍂 when the sun will be setting at 6:08 pm with dusk at 6:36 pm. The average high temperature is 34 degrees, with a record high of 61 in 1895.

Flowers ?

I might have fifteenth weeks of trips planned between now and November with maybe three weekends I can get away ⛺

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That’s kind of just the nature of the beast got to pick and choose which adventures to take, noting that some trips in November wouldn’t be a bad thing – such as a Stoney Pond State Forest and Madison County trip before rifle season and the snow.

Good morning! Rain and 59 degrees in Delmar, NY. ☔ Calm wind. The dew point is 57 degrees. A half inch of rain is expected before it ends tomorrow around 6 am.

Another dark morning 🧑‍🍳 baking bread 🍞 and making up rice, lentils and black beans 🍲 for the upcoming week. Mom has butternut squash for dinner with chicken and now I’m thinking I got to get some of that from the farmers market or grocery store as it’s so good. The weekend is over but I’m dreaming of future trips. But maybe not next weekend, as it looks kind of rainy. Too bad it couldn’t rain on the weekdays next weekend like it is raining this Monday.

Back to work on the earlier local bus 🚍 as it’s rainy day ☔ and I’m going to walk laps in the Plaza before climbing the stairs and getting down to work. Still working downtown for the time being , to wet to ride to work. The rest of the week though looks good for riding to and from work though depending on the final weekend forecast I might take off Friday and maybe Monday to head out of town but where is to be decided. So many dreams of future trips, as soon as I got back from Rensselarville State Forest.

Today will have showers likely, mainly before 3pm. Cloudy 🌦, with a high of 64 degrees at 1pm. 10 degrees below normal, which is similar to a typical day around October 9th. Maximum dew point of 62 at 3pm. Calm wind becoming north around 6 mph in the afternoon. Chance of precipitation is 60%. New precipitation amounts between a quarter and half of an inch possible. A year ago, we had partly cloudy skies in the morning, which became light rain by afternoon. It became sticky as the day progressed. The high last year was 80 degrees. The record high of 91 was set in 1891.

Midday I will have to walk up to Market 32 🛒 to get contact solution as I’m out. And maybe a few other things for my pantry though I’m pretty much set. Hopefully it won’t be raining too hard midday. Worse comes to worse I can bike 🚲 over to Hannaford after work or I guess drive. But I’d rather avoid that if possible.

Solar noon 🌞 is at 12:51 pm with sun having an altitude of 49.3° from the due south horizon (-21.5° vs. 6/21). A six foot person will cast a 5.2 foot shadow today compared to 2.2 feet on the first day of summer. The golden hour 🏅 starts at 6:25 pm with the sun in the west (267°). 📸 The sunset is in the west (274°) with the sun dropping below the horizon at 7:02 pm after setting for 2 minutes and 54 seconds with dusk around 7:28 pm, which is one minute and 47 seconds earlier than yesterday. 🌇 At dusk you’ll see the Waxing Crescent 🌒 Moon in the west-southwest (237°) at an altitude of 10° from the horizon, 242,172 miles away. 🚀 The best time to look at the stars is after 8:04 pm. At sunset, look for rain 🌧 and temperatures around 62 degrees. The dew point will be 59 degrees. There will be a north-northwest breeze at 6 mph. Today will have 12 hours and 25 minutes of daytime, a decrease of 2 minutes and 51 seconds over yesterday.

Tonight will have a chance of showers, mainly before 2am. Mostly cloudy 🌧, with a low of 56 degrees at 5am. Five degrees above normal, which is similar to a typical night around September 8th. Maximum dew point of 60 at 6pm. Northwest wind 6 to 10 mph. Chance of precipitation is 40%. New precipitation amounts between a tenth and quarter of an inch possible. In 2022, we had light rain in the evening, which became mostly clear by the early hours of the morning. It was sticky. It got down to 63 degrees. The record low of 32 occurred back in 1959.

Waiting and watching the weekend forecast. 😕 I don’t think this early in the week it’s set in stone. Saturday, partly sunny, with a high near 72. Maximum dew point of 56 at 11am. Sunday, a chance of showers. Mostly cloudy, with a high near 70. Chance of precipitation is 30%. Maximum dew point of 60 at 11am. Typical average high for the weekend is 72 degrees.

Looking ahead, there are 8 weeks until Average Night is Below Freezing 🌌 when the sun will be setting at 4:36 pm with dusk at 5:05 pm (Standard Time). On that day in 2022, we had partly cloudy and temperatures between 49 and 36 degrees. Typically, the high temperature is 50 degrees. We hit a record high of 69 back in 1964. I’ll have to once again fix the air leaks around my door 🚪 and get out the little space heater and electric blanket. But hopefully not for a while.

Adams, MA

A risk I never considered 🚴

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Even commutes have gotten somewhat more difficult as it can be harder to spot cars in intersections with the lower sun angle, especially dark colored cars. I wish more cars had daytime running lights, or people turned their headlights on earlier in the evening. Just got to keep an open eye on traffic when crossing roads, especially as the sunset is earlier.

Salt – Is It Good or Bad ?

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Salt, also known as sodium chloride, is an essential mineral that plays a crucial role in various bodily functions. However, like many things, it’s important to consume salt in moderation, as both too little and too much salt can have negative health effects.

Here’s a breakdown of the potential effects of salt on your health:

Good for You:

  • Electrolyte Balance: Sodium is an electrolyte that helps regulate the balance of fluids in and around your cells. It’s essential for nerve function, muscle contraction, and maintaining proper hydration.

Bad for You (when consumed in excess):

  • High Blood Pressure: Consuming too much salt can lead to high blood pressure (hypertension) in some people. High blood pressure is a risk factor for heart disease, stroke, and kidney disease.
  • Cardiovascular Health: A high-sodium diet can contribute to atherosclerosis (narrowing and hardening of the arteries), which increases the risk of heart attacks and strokes.
  • Kidney Health: Excessive salt intake can strain the kidneys, potentially leading to kidney stones and reduced kidney function.
  • Fluid Retention: Too much salt can cause your body to retain excess water, leading to bloating and swelling.

The recommended daily intake of salt varies by age, sex, and individual health circumstances. In general, it’s recommended to limit your daily sodium intake to no more than 2,300 milligrams (about 1 teaspoon of salt) for most adults. However, many health experts suggest that an even lower intake of around 1,500 milligrams is more beneficial for blood pressure and overall health, especially for individuals at risk of hypertension.

It’s important to note that salt is not inherently “bad” or “good,” but rather it’s the amount you consume that matters. Most people consume far more salt than they need through processed foods, restaurant meals, and added salt during cooking and at the table. To make healthier choices:

  • Read Food Labels: Pay attention to the sodium content on food labels and choose lower-sodium options.
  • Cook at Home: Preparing meals at home allows you to control the amount of salt you add to your dishes.
  • Use Herbs and Spices: Experiment with herbs, spices, and other flavorings to reduce your reliance on salt for flavor.
  • Limit Processed Foods: Processed and fast foods are often high in salt, so try to minimize their consumption.
  • Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you have specific health concerns or conditions, consult a healthcare professional or dietitian for personalized dietary recommendations.

In summary, salt is essential for the body, but excessive salt intake can have negative health consequences, particularly for blood pressure and cardiovascular health. It’s crucial to strike a balance by consuming salt in moderation and making informed food choices.

Reducing your salt intake doesn’t mean sacrificing flavor in your meals.

There are several alternatives to salt that can add taste and depth to your dishes while still keeping them delicious and healthy. Here are some salt alternatives:

  1. Herbs and Spices: Herbs and spices are an excellent way to add flavor to your food without using salt. Experiment with a variety of herbs like basil, oregano, thyme, rosemary, and cilantro, as well as spices such as cumin, paprika, turmeric, and cinnamon. These can enhance the taste of your dishes while providing health benefits.
  2. Lemon and Lime Juice: Citrus juices, such as lemon and lime, can provide a zesty and tangy flavor to your dishes. The acidity can help brighten up the taste of vegetables, salads, and even proteins.
  3. Vinegar: Various types of vinegar, like balsamic vinegar, red wine vinegar, and apple cider vinegar, can add acidity and flavor to your recipes. They work well in salad dressings, marinades, and as a finishing touch to roasted vegetables.
  4. Garlic and Onions: Fresh garlic and onions are potent flavor enhancers. They can be sautéed or roasted to bring out their sweetness and complexity. Garlic and onion powder are also convenient alternatives when fresh isn’t available.
  5. Soy Sauce or Tamari: For an umami-rich flavor, consider using reduced-sodium soy sauce or tamari in your Asian-inspired dishes. These options are still salty but contain less sodium than regular soy sauce.
  6. Homemade Spice Blends: Create your spice blends by combining different herbs and spices to suit your taste preferences. You can customize blends for specific dishes or cuisines.
  7. Nutritional Yeast: Nutritional yeast has a savory, cheesy flavor and is a popular choice for adding umami to dishes. It’s often used as a topping for popcorn, pasta, and roasted vegetables.
  8. Herb-Infused Oils: Infuse olive oil or other cooking oils with herbs and spices to create flavorful oils for cooking and drizzling on dishes.
  9. Low-Sodium Broths and Stocks: Use low-sodium or sodium-free broths and stocks as a base for soups, stews, and sauces. You can then season with herbs and spices to enhance the flavor.
  10. Seeds and Nuts: Toasted seeds (like sesame, pumpkin, or sunflower seeds) and nuts can add crunch and depth to salads, stir-fries, and grain dishes.
  11. Homemade Sauces and Salsas: Make your own sauces and salsas using fresh ingredients like tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and onions. These can be customized to your preferred level of spiciness and flavor.
  12. Salt Substitutes: There are commercial salt substitutes available that are potassium-based rather than sodium-based. These are specifically designed for individuals who need to restrict sodium intake due to certain medical conditions. Consult a healthcare professional before using these substitutes, as they may not be suitable for everyone.

Remember that taste preferences vary, so it’s a good idea to experiment with different alternatives to salt to find what works best for your palate and specific recipes. Gradually reducing your reliance on salt can lead to a healthier, lower-sodium diet without compromising on flavor.

Notable things that happened in NY State on September 14th

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  1. 1814: The Battle of Plattsburgh took place during the War of 1812. This battle, sometimes referred to as the Battle of Lake Champlain, was fought near Plattsburgh, New York, and played a crucial role in defending the northern border of the United States against British forces.
  2. 1847: The New York and Erie Railroad completed its line from Piermont on the Hudson River to Dunkirk on Lake Erie. This significant transportation link helped connect the eastern and western parts of the state and facilitated trade and travel.
  3. 1901: President William McKinley died in Buffalo, New York, eight days after being shot by an assassin at the Pan-American Exposition. Vice President Theodore Roosevelt was inaugurated as the 26th President of the United States at the Wilcox Mansion in Buffalo, making it one of the most significant political transitions in U.S. history.
  4. 1960: The first official “Sit-In” of the civil rights movement took place at the Woolworth’s store in downtown Rochester, New York. This peaceful protest was a pivotal moment in the struggle for racial equality.
  5. 1974: The Franklin D. Roosevelt National Historic Site was officially dedicated in Hyde Park, New York. This site preserves the Springwood estate, the birthplace, lifelong home, and burial place of President Franklin D. Roosevelt.
  6. 2001: In the wake of the 9/11 terrorist attacks, Ground Zero in New York City continued to be a focal point for recovery and cleanup efforts. The rescue and recovery work at the World Trade Center site was ongoing, and it would become a symbol of resilience and unity.

Nutritional Yeast sounds interesting 🧀

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I like cheese and I’m not a vegan.

But cheese is so calorie dense and loaded with saturated fats that you really should consume it in moderation. And I don’t like moderation.

I’m interested in experimenting with nutrional yeast as part of my diet. It’s just yeast that’s been deactivated and apparently has a cheesy – umami flavor. Good source of protein and fiber too.

I’m always interested in trying new ideas and foods – not wedded to any one orthodoxy. If it’s vegan or if it’s meat I don’t care. South Mall or Mediterranean? Doesn’t matter to me. But how healthy is it? How does it taste? How does it fit into the picture of who I am and want to become?