Monday, Monday, a fresh start anew,
Back to work with tasks to pursue.
Memories linger of the weekend’s grace,
As August departs with a gentle embrace.
Autumn whispers secrets of gold,
Labor Day Weekend, a story untold.
Soon, students gather with books and zeal,
Traffic and bustle, a familiar ordeal.
Days grow shorter, a cooler embrace,
Nature’s canvas adorned with grace.
Amidst the change that’s in the air,
This week’s beauty, let’s cherish and share.
As the countdown begins towards the conclusion of daylight saving time in ten weeks, a somber reality takes shape. The anticipation of more daylight in the early morning hours is contrasted by the grim prospect of darkened evenings, commutes in dark.
The shift signifies a trade-off: while mornings may offer a temporary reprieve from the encroaching darkness of winter, the trade-off comes in the form of darker evenings that hinder outdoor activities and makes for darker evenings.
I’ve been playing with Chat GPT to come up with a relatively healthy, simple recipe for whole wheat biscuits using baking powder, skim milk and olive oil that I could eat up at camp or whip up at home:
Ingredients:
– 2 cups whole wheat flour
– 1 tablespoon baking powder
– 1/2 teaspoon salt
– 1/3 cup olive oil
– 3/4 cup skim milk
Instructions:
1. Preheat your oven to 425°F (220°C).
2. In a mixing bowl, whisk together the whole wheat flour, baking powder, and salt.
3. Add the olive oil to the dry ingredients and use a fork or pastry cutter to combine until the mixture resembles coarse crumbs.
4. Gradually add the skim milk and stir until the dough comes together. Be careful not to overmix; just mix until the dough forms.
5. Turn the dough out onto a lightly floured surface and gently knead it a few times until it’s smooth.
6. Pat the dough to about 1/2 inch (1.25 cm) thickness.
7. Use a biscuit cutter to cut out rounds from the dough. Press straight down without twisting the cutter to ensure the biscuits rise evenly.
8. Place the biscuits on a baking sheet, leaving a little space between them.
9. Bake in the preheated oven for about 10-12 minutes, or until the biscuits are golden brown on top.
10. Remove from the oven and let the biscuits cool slightly before serving.
Here’s an approximate breakdown of the nutrition facts for one biscuit, along with the percent of the daily value (DV) based on a 2,000-calorie diet:
In recent times, an unexpected apprehension has taken hold of me—the unwarranted fear of placing my new mountain bike onto the CDTA bike rack and embracing the convenience of utilizing the bikable bus option. It’s noteworthy that all CDTA buses are equipped with bike racks; however, uncertainty loomed over whether my mountain bike, with its broader tires, would securely fit the rack. My doubts were quickly dispelled, and a delightful revelation unfolded when I embarked on the Nature Bus journey last Saturday.
Amid my concerns, a nagging worry persisted—that my prized bicycle might meet an untimely fate during transit, whether falling off the bus or succumbing to potential damage. Yet, upon closer examination, this fear seems rather irrational. While one can stumble upon online horror stories, employing common sense and ensuring a secure attachment of the bike to the rack renders such concerns negligible. Admittedly, the improbable could occur: the bike rack might fail, the bus might collide with another vehicle, or other unforeseen mishaps could transpire. Nevertheless, when evaluated against the backdrop of its benefits, the associated risks appear relatively minor. Despite my affection for my bicycle, its replaceability and the odds of misfortune seem to place my concerns in perspective.
The amalgamation of the bus and the bike, a seemingly simple concept, presents an extraordinary combination of advantages. This symbiotic relationship permits me to commute to work without apprehension, even on days plagued by impending rain or sweltering humidity later in the day. Furthermore, it empowers me to embark on a two-part journey—part cycling and part bus ride—crucial especially as my workplace relocates to a suburban setting, necessitating shuttle or bus transfers. The bicycle emerges as a rapid solution to such transfers, rendering the transition seamless. Moreover, as daylight diminishes come November, and evenings are cloaked in darkness, this dynamic duo continues to prove invaluable. Cycling to work in the morning remains an option, with the convenience of taking the bus during dark evenings, knowing my bicycle is safely ensconced upfront.
In conclusion, my unfounded anxieties surrounding the integration of my mountain bike and the CDTA bus system have been replaced with a newfound appreciation for their harmonious synergy. The initial fears were eclipsed by the realization of the system’s practicality, coupled with the insignificance of the associated risks. The bike-bus combination not only defies the elements and geographic constraints but also offers an optimal solution for various commuting scenarios. It encapsulates the idea that embracing innovation, even in mundane aspects of life, can lead to unforeseen conveniences and freedoms.
Returning to the art of breadmaking, my interest has been piqued by the idea of occasionally indulging in whole wheat bread without the additions of sugar or oil, and keeping salt to a minimum. It’s a delightful companion to both olive oil dipping and homemade soups. The monotony of constant brown rice and lentil dishes has left me a tad fatigued, making soup a comforting option to utilize a plethora of winter vegetables, while offering warmth.
My dietary choices have led me to abstain from added sugars, save for a couple of exceptions during special occasions such as indulging in ice cream on summer getaways or partaking in a rare slice of homemade pie during birthdays. I also steer clear of refined carbs, although I occasionally allow myself to savor cream of wheat coupled with zesty lemon, chia seeds, Greek yogurt, and fresh fruit. Similarly, a modest serving of couscous accompanied by edamame or chicken, and generously augmented with vegetables—predominantly spinach—makes its way into my repertoire.
The decision was made yesterday to refurbish my Dutch Oven. Swiftly biking to the store, I acquired King Arthur whole wheat flour and yeast. Employing a no-knead approach, I combined whole wheat flour, yeast, water, and a pinch of salt for flavor. The dough rested for approximately 20 hours on the countertop before being baked tonight. Although the resulting bread was commendable, the dough’s excessive moisture posed challenges in shaping it. While the crust turned out excellent, I do ponder the possibility of reducing water and slightly augmenting yeast for a fluffier consistency. One slice was enjoyed, dipped in olive oil and balsamic vinegar, while the remainder found its place in the freezer.
For the next attempt, I intend to employ slightly less water and a greater amount of yeast to conduct a further experiment. Contemplating back-to-back preparation of two loaves not only conserves energy by utilizing the high-temperature Dutch Oven but also ensures a month-long supply of superior bread for dipping and accompanying soups.
I mean I probably should have with the summer we’ve had expect rain. Going to clear out later but will be cool for the family clam bake.
Good morning! Happy Sunday. Rain showers and 65 degrees at the Five Rivers Environmental Education Center. ☔ There is a north-northwest breeze at 6 mph. 🍃. The dew point is 60 degrees. The skies will clear around noontime.
Woke up early 🌅 and to run to the bathroom 🚽 and decided not to go back to sleep. Milled oatmeal down to a fine powder in the food processor and then added one of the fresh apples 🍏 that I got at Yonder Farms and ultimately a banana 🍌 for sweetness and consistency and a bit of water for pancakes 🥞. Black coffee ☕ and frozen fruit with sugar free syrup made for a good breakfast.
Rode Blackie 🚵 out to Five Rivers Environmental Education Center 🐸 for some nature observation and to get away a bit this morning, though I wasn’t expecting the rain. ☔ Not super wet but unexpected in my mind, I’m hiding our under the pavilion for now. I’ll go for a short walk 🚶 and then head home. Then shower 🚿, get a few groceries at Walmart and clams 🦪 at Market 32 🛒 then head out to the folks house by later midday. 🕛
Today will have isolated showers before 9am. Partly sunny 🌞, with a high of 76 degrees at 3pm. Five degrees below normal, which is similar to a typical day around September 11th. Maximum dew point of 62 at 11am. North wind around 7 mph. Chance of precipitation is 20%. A year ago, we had cloudy skies in the morning with more sun in the afternoon. It was somewhat humid. The high last year was 81 degrees. The record high of 97 was set in 1948.
Yesterday afternoon at Thacher Park 🏞 was nice, though some of those trails were rougher on the bike 🚲 then expected but I try to be super gentle with Blackie not wanting to break shit but I’m also not afraid to now ride somewhat rougher trails with Blackie but I still prefer gravel. Super muddy after the summer that was. Still want to get to Charles Baker State Forest to ride before the snow 🌨 comes. Not that I probably have much of a worry this winter with El Niño and I’m not planning on doing much trail riding which closes October 31st, just road riding.
John Wolcott’s funeral is over ⛪ that chapter is closed. The whole wheat bread I made last night came out pretty good, most of it is now frozen. Last night’s dinner was commercial protein pasta you find in the supermarket with a bunch of spinach and the remaining kale I had plus mackerel for a good boost in the omega 3, healthy fats to help absorb the vitamins that make up the spinach and kale. The fats, protein and fiber fill you up quickly. 🍲
Solar noon 🌞 is at 12:58 pm with sun having an altitude of 57.5° from the due south horizon (-13.3° vs. 6/21). A six foot person will cast a 3.8 foot shadow today compared to 2.2 feet on the first day of summer. The golden hour 🏅 starts at 7:03 pm with the sun in the west (278°). 📸 The sunset is in the west-northwest (285°) with the sun dropping below the horizon at 7:41 pm after setting for 2 minutes and 59 seconds with dusk around 8:08 pm, which is one minute and 39 seconds earlier than yesterday. 🌇 At dusk you’ll see the Waxing Gibbous 🌔 Moon in the south-southeast (151°) at an altitude of 15° from the horizon, 228,020 miles away. 🚀 The best time to look at the stars is after 8:45 pm. At sunset, look for mostly clear skies 🌄 and temperatures around 71 degrees. The dew point will be 59 degrees. There will be a north breeze at 6 mph. Today will have 13 hours and 26 minutes of daytime, a decrease of 2 minutes and 44 seconds over yesterday.
Tonight will be partly cloudy 🌃 with a low of 56 degrees at 6am. Three degrees below normal, which is similar to a typical night around September 6th. Maximum dew point of 60 at 6pm. North wind around 5 mph becoming calm in the evening. In 2022, we had clear skies in the evening, which became cloudy by the early hours of the morning. It became humid as the night progressed. It got down to 59 degrees. The record low of 42 occurred back in 1982.
Now that I made bread with yeast 🍞, I’m interested in doing baking using baking powder or baking soda for those times I don’t want to mess with kneading or waiting 24 hours for the bread to rise. That’s more kind of for making biscuits but they can be a source of healthy carbs too if you limit the unhealthy fats by using olive oil or ghee and don’t use sugar. Also I was playing with my food processor this morning and will just dry oatmeal seems to do a decent job of milling whole grain oatmeal down to oat flour – and not just pancakes. 🍪
Today in 1859, Petroleum is discovered in Titusville, Pennsylvania leading to the world’s first commercially successful oil well. 🛢 To this day, that town still smells like petroleum, and it floats in the creeks, but they produce much less oil today then at the peak around the turn of the century. Exploring the Oil Creek State Park is fun as is Pithole abandoned oil town but do expect a strong petroleum smell. 👃 But then again, Western PA smells like petroleum like the Black River Valley smells like cattle and manure. Just part of the country.
Looking ahead but maybe not forward to dark mornings walked or risen, there are 2 weeks until 6:30 Sunrise 🌇 when the sun will be setting at 7:16 pm with dusk at 7:43 pm. On that day in 2022, we had mostly sunny, patches of fog and temperatures between 83 and 56 degrees. Typically, the high temperature is 77 degrees. We hit a record high of 96 back in 1931.
It’s kind of odd how a man’s final days come. You never think these days will come, it’s a long but steady decline and then it’s finally over with the funeral. I knew John from Save the Pine Bush, then helping him with computers and GIS, then sorting out through his files and interviews for a future documentary though between his house fire and failing memory after anaplasmosis brought him crashing down in the bathtub much was lost. I’ll never be the red headed radical who preserved so much history but it was good to know him over the years.
Good morning! Partly cloudy and 68 degrees at the Elm Avenue Town Park. ⛅ Calm wind. The dew point is 66 degrees. The skies will clear around 9 am.
Time is tight ⌛as I go for a walk 🚶 at the Elm Ave Town Park 🏞 after riding Blackie 🚵 down here for a few minutes of serenity 🧘♂️ before heading back home, ironing the pants and shirt, putting on the black tie for the funeral in Colonie at 10. I was up early and should have gotten an earlier start but I feel uneasy about the funeral ⛪ and a lot of other things in my life. In the coming weeks I’ll be moving to a new position with work, out of downtown 🏢 into a suburban office complex but if I take a shuttle bus or ride my bike 🚲 things don’t have to change much but still it’s a lot to chew over with today’s funeral. 💭 It’s good for my future and the company I work for.
Today will have isolated showers and thunderstorms after 3pm. Mostly sunny 🌞, with a high of 81 degrees at 2pm. Typical for today. Maximum dew point of 67 at 9am. Light northwest wind increasing to 5 to 9 mph in the morning. Chance of precipitation is 20%. A year ago, we had partly cloudy skies in the morning with some clearing in the afternoon. It was sticky. The high last year was 83 degrees. The record high of 98 was set in 1948.
The weekend has turned out better than expected especially today, ☺after putting off the clam bake 🦪 with my parents but it’s fine, I need time to process John Wolcott’s death. I ended up spending a lot of time with him in his final years though maybe not enough and I certainly didn’t ask the right questions in the time remaining or take him out to the Crossings one last time. 🏞 You never know when it’s over even while you watch the decline. He did so much good for the community while I’ve focused my life primarily around my future, saving and earning money though occasionally speaking up and doing a little activism but mostly remaining a private citizen outside of my quiet little blog on the internet.
Solar noon 🌞 is at 12:58 pm with sun having an altitude of 57.9° from the due south horizon (-13° vs. 6/21). A six foot person will cast a 3.8 foot shadow today compared to 2.2 feet on the first day of summer. The golden hour 🏅 starts at 7:04 pm with the sun in the west (279°). 📸 The sunset is in the west-northwest (285°) with the sun dropping below the horizon at 7:42 pm after setting for 3 minutes with dusk around 8:09 pm, which is one minute and 38 seconds earlier than yesterday. 🌇 At dusk you’ll see the Waxing Gibbous 🌔 Moon in the south-southeast (165°) at an altitude of 18° from the horizon, 229,775 miles away. 🚀 The best time to look at the stars is after 8:47 pm. At sunset, look for rain 🌧 and thunderstorms 🌩 and temperatures around 74 degrees. The dew point will be 63 degrees. There will be a northwest breeze at 8 mph. Today will have 13 hours and 29 minutes of daytime, a decrease of 2 minutes and 42 seconds over yesterday.
After the funeral I plan to go to Farmer’s Indian Market 🍚 to see what kind of rices, bulk spices, seasonings I can get there. Then Yonder Farms for apples, peaches 🍑 and anything else good I can get there. Then Stantons for sweet corn 🌽 and veggies. 🍆 If time allows I’m thinking 💭 of taking the Nature Bus 🚍 and Blackie 🚵 up to Thacher State Park for a ride. Then home this evening 🌃 bake the bread 🍞 and head to bed quite early.
Tonight will be scattered showers and thunderstorms before 9pm, then isolated showers between 9pm and midnight. Mostly cloudy 🌧, with a low of 60 degrees at 6am. One degree above normal, which is similar to a typical night around August 25th. Maximum dew point of 64 at 6pm. Northwest wind 5 to 8 mph. Chance of precipitation is 30%. New precipitation amounts of less than a tenth of an inch, except higher amounts possible in thunderstorms. In 2022, we had cloudy skies. It was somewhat humid. It got down to 64 degrees. The record low of 41 occurred back in 1969.
Today in 1920, the 19th amendment to United States Constitution takes effect, giving women the right to vote in federal elections.🧑 It’s unfortunate after all these years we still haven’t been able to elect a women president. It seems hard to believe that for many years only white, property owning men could vote. 🗳 Really kind of elitist when you think 🤔 about it.
Looking ahead, there are 10 weeks until Daylight Savings Time Ends 🕒 when the sun will be setting at 5:46 pm with dusk at 6:14 pm. That seems much too soon but winter will be back before you know it. On that day in 2022, we had sunny, warm and temperatures between 71 and 46 degrees. Typically, the high temperature is 54 degrees. We hit a record high of 76 back in 1994.
