Ma Vie en Vert

Sweet on Earth

2011-02-10T05:26:00.000-08:00

Lovely and delicious Valentine's Day idea! The set comes with tasting instructions and notes sheets, plus five bars from Fair Trade company Theo Chocolate in flavors like cherry and almond, 84% dark, and fig, fennel, and almond.

Industrial Artist Patrick Marold Aetheticizes Wind Power

2009-08-13T05:48:00.000-07:00

Patrick Marold developed his innovative "Windmill Project" while on a Fulbright scholarship in Iceland (where he lived in darkness most of the year!).

He's brought the project to Vermont: He and a team of volunteers set up 1,000 polycarbonate poles in Technology Park (in South Burlington). Each pole is "topped by three aluminum cups that, when moved by the wind, power a small built-in generator attached to an LED that sends light down into the shaft." (via Burlington Free Press story).

Marold's project is part of a greater art exhibit presented by Burlington City Arts titled "Human=Landscape: Aesthetics of a Carbon-Constrained World." BCA has partnered with ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center and the University of Vermont to present the show as part of "Energy Project Vermont."

Watch for my Artscope review about the show and project this September! In the meantime, enjoy this neat video shot by the Burlington Free Press.

The House That Tweets Its Energy Usage (And More)

2009-07-24T06:30:00.001-07:00

Here is a novel way to monitor your energy usage - tweet all about it. Residential energy use accounts for a little over 20% of US energy consumption and therefore represents a great opportunity for savings and efficiency.

To start monitoring your own home, there are some helpful first steps from the team over at Worldchanging.com. You can also investigate tools offered by Google, iPhone applications and a Kill-a-Watt monitor.

Here in Vermont, residents can loan one of Efficiency Vermont's "Watts Up Electric Meters," which can be used to measure how much electricity your appliances use. With this information, you'll be better able to identify the connection between your appliance use and your electric bills.

Efficiency Vermont offers the meters free of charge for a period of three weeks to Vermont electric utility ratepayers. Learn more here.

Take Me to the (Art) Fair!

2009-07-11T16:54:00.000-07:00

Burlington's celebration of the quadricentennial marking Samuel de Champlain's discovery of Lake Champlain has been in full gear for the past two weeks. Native American-themed feasts at local restos like Magnolia, traditional song and dance from Native American and French ensembles, even a parade today (in the rain).

Personally, I'm looking forward to the plein-air paint out hosted by the Vermont Watercolor Society (that's set for August 14-16).

The celebration of local art was one reason I was so excited to go to the first-ever Art Fair, hosted by Burlington City Arts. Down on the Burlington waterfront, inside a cavernous white tent was a series of gallery-like spaces - simple white walls adorned with some amazing, provocative and must-have local Vermont art. When I ran into Amanda Sanfilippo, assistant curator at the Firehouse Gallery, she called it Burlington's own Art Basel.

Here is a taste of what I'd love to have in my personal collection.

Dorothy Martinez's "Winter Blue" for above my bed...

Kat Clear's "Works in Metal" for a decidedly modern outdoor garden...

Lisa Lillibridge's paintings on carved wood, perfect for a child's room or play space...

A meditative painting by Helen Shulman for the office (calm-inducing art necessary for hectic days on the job!)...

I think Charlie Hunter's monochromatic oils on canvas would look gorgeous on a bare white wall above a white sofa...

A trio from Casey Blanchard's "Prayer" series for the place at home you go to get away from it all...

To Cook List: Raspberry Souffles

2009-07-09T14:49:00.000-07:00

These look too delicious to not make...I know from the movie Sabrina (and Top Chef) that a souffle is one of the cooking world's tests of culinary mettle, but I'm willing to take a try.

Raspberry Souffle

inspired by The Art and Soul of Baking

(via Eating Outloud)

1 teaspoon butter (for greasing ramekins)
6 oz fresh raspberries
1/4 cup, plus 2 teaspoons sugar
4 egg whites

Preheat oven to 400F (200C)
Butter the insides of six 1/2 cup ramekins
Puree raspberries in a blender or food processor, then strain through a fine mesh sieve to remove the seeds. I considered leaving the seeds in until I realized just how prolific they are — you really need to strain the puree. You should yield about 1/2 cup after straining.
Add 2 teaspoons sugar to the strained puree and set aside
In a mixer, beat four egg whites until they begin to thicken. Continue to beat the whites while you slowly add 1/4 cup sugar. Mix until egg whites form stiff peaks and are glossy.
Add 1/3 of the egg whites to the puree and slowly fold in. Continue by adding the remaining egg whites, folding in until no white streaks remain.
Spoon the souffle batter into the ramekins, filling to the top and leveling off with the back of a spatula.
Place filled ramekins on a baking sheet and bake on a rack positioned in the bottom 1/3 of the oven.
Bake for 8-10 minutes or until the souffle rises 1/2″ above the rim.
Serve immediately with a sprinkle of powdered sugar!

Strawberry Jammin'

2009-07-05T17:13:00.001-07:00

This past weekend, I made my very first batch of strawberry jam...and surprise: it wasn't as hard as I thought it would be. As a matter of fact, it was fun (and delicious) and I can't wait to do it again!

Here is my finished product. Scroll down for a step-by-step look at how the berries went from field to jar in one short weekend.

Picking berries with my little sis at the Charlotte Berry Farm. Doesn't she look thrilled? Actually, she was a force to be reckoned with in the strawberry patch. She out-picked me by three small bushels!

Hulling berries at home in the kitchen. It's actually a Zen-like experience. Don't forget to eat a few berries along the way!

Sugaring the pot. Three cups of sugar per six cups of freshly picked berries. Makes one large Mason jar of jam.

After the sugar has melted, toss in the berries and stir. Ensure that all the sugar is melted and absorbed by the berries and berry liquid.

Let the berries simmer for an hour (enjoy the aroma that will waft throughout your house!). Then, take a coffee break. I like iced mochaccinos with whipped cream, topped off with a sprinkle of Madagascar Vanilla Sugar. You can order it through the King Arthur Flour Bake Shop.

Ahh the berries are simmering nicely. You can see that a foam is starting the form and the berries are getting darker. We're almost done!

It's been an hour and the berries are very dark. Carefully ladle the hot jam into a jar. Once you've filled it up, flip the jar over to that it is sitting on its top. This creates a vacuum seal - no tricky paraffin wax necessary. Let it sit for the night. Go to bed very satisfied with yourself and enjoy dreams of next morning's breakfast!

The next morning, open the jar of jam and enjoy. I like to have it on an English Muffin! The ideal way to start the day!

How to Build a Eco-Smart Green Home

2009-06-30T14:16:00.000-07:00

Check out this neat Sprig video that showcases an interview and tour with London-based architect Luke Tozer, director of Pitman Tozer Architects. As Sprig reports, the house has a tiny carbon footprint and an even tinier actual footprint: it's only eight feet across on the street side!

Take a look:

Making Your Beauty Regime Earth-Friendly in Four Easy Steps

2009-04-20T11:21:00.000-07:00

Dear Ma Vie en Vert,

I'm ready to pitch out my old beauty products, and I'm wondering which new, more environmentally-friendly products I should add to my makeup bag. Where to start?

Best,
Lipgloss Princess

Dear Lipgloss Princess,

Navigating the natural and organic beauty products world is definitely tricky. There are no standard regulations yet, but, if you're a savvy shopper who does a little extra reading and digging, you can find nee plus ultra beauty tools that are less harmful for the planet. Here are some quick tips to get you started:

Know Your Definitions. "Natural" means the product is made from plant, mineral or animal by-product whereas "organic" refers to how an ingredient was cultivated -- for example, without pesticides, chemical fertilizers, growth hormones or antibiotics. Beware the term natural. Just because a product is labeled natural does not mean those ingredients were cultivated sustainably.

Read Those Labels. There are no over-arching certifications for natural or organic products at this point; however, there are some helpful labels out there, including USDA National Organic Program, Eco Cert, CosmeBio and Natural Products Association Certification.

Do More Research. It can be cumbersome, but before hitting the "click to buy" button at Sephora, look up your products of choice at the Coalition for Consumer Information on Cosmetics page or the Cosmetics Safety Database. Here, you will learn the contents of the products, particularly chemicals of concern like sodium lauryl sulfate (SLS) and sodium laureth sulfate (SLES), both potentially harmful ingredients found in shampoos and known to cause skin irritation.

Recycle! Origins (an amazing brand with wonderful products. Love their White Tea moisturizer) has a "Return to Origins" recycling program -- they will recycle any beauty brand's containers. Stop by the nearest Origins retail counter near you (in Vermont, there is one in the Macy's in Burlington).

OK, now enough with the lesson, how about some product recommendations? Here are my suggestions for you:

L'Oreal EverPure Moisture Shampoo

EverPure Color Care products are 100% vegan and contain naturally-derived cleansing ingredients with no harsh, color-stripping sulfates or salts. An exclusive Anti-Fade System protects and conditions for long-lasting color purity. More here.

Physician's Formula Organic Wear 100% Natural Origin Mascara

Revolutionary 100% Natural Origin formula contains the purest ingredients. The 100 percent recyclable eco-brush defines each lash with ultra-soft plastic bristles. 100 percent free of harsh chemicals, synthetic preservatives, parabens, clumping, smudging, flaking, fibers and dyes. More here. PF's foundations are nice too and not too expensive either!

Aveda Petal Essence Eye Definer

FSC logo on pencil indicates the wood came from well-managed forests certified in accordance with the rules of the Forest Stewardship Council. More here.

Burt's Bees Super Shiny Lip Gloss
100% natural. Doesn't get any better than that. Oh, and their CEO is president of the Natural Products Association. More here. Maybelline's new Mineral Power line has also been celebrated for its natural and organic lip colors, made from shea butter and jojoba oil with no heavy waxes or preservatives. More here. Lip glosses are a territory where a lot of brands are jumping in. I know that Lancome has a special organic line of its Juicy Tubes, too (which are fabulous!).

Tarte "A Perfect Whirled" Limited-Edition Natural Swirl Cheek Stain

Well, Tarte is very committed to being eco-friendly, so you should check out all of their offerings. I love cheek stain so this I think is perfect. It's loaded with naturally occurring, antioxidant rich nutrients and vitamins that have been known to deliver refining, anti-aging and skin-restorative benefits with each application. Plus, it comes in recyclable packaging. More here.

Origins "A Perfect World" Liquid Moisture with White Tea

A great look starts with great skin. History tells us that Chinese emperors of the Song Dynasty enjoyed white tea for its exquisite taste and fragrant, flowery aroma. The magic drink was prized for relieving fatigue, delighting the soul, strengthening the will and enhancing vision. Origins' moisturizer protects skin against the damaging effects of oxidative stress, creating a protective bubble around skin. More here.

I encourage you to check all of these brands out (including one of my favorites, Kiss My Face). You may also want to check into some newcomers too -- I know I'm excited to learn more about Josie Maran Cosmetics and Nature's Gate.

Readers, please chime in with more recommendations, tips and advice!

Earth Day Tip: Host a "Nostalgia Night"

2009-04-08T10:52:00.000-07:00

Don't you just love that scene in "Sex & the City: The Movie" in which our favorite gang of fashionistas get together at Carrie's apartment for an informal fashion show of Carrie's best-known ensembles throughout the years?

Well, if you want to create the fun for yourself, host your own "Nostalgia Night": Invite your friends over and ask them to bring at least 5 outfits they are looking to phase out of their closets, but this time, instead of boxing your things up to move them to a swanky apartment as Carrie does, give them to charity instead.

Here in Vermont, we have a very cool organization called the Clothing Exchange which was born in 2001, when a group of 15 fashion-conscious, community-minded women got together in Burlington, Vermont to swap the clothes they once loved, but rarely ever wore.

That first swap they recognized an opportunity to turn the gathering into a force for social change.

Now, they host an annual event in a large space in Burlington. In 2008, more than 450 women shopped The Burlington Clothes Exchange and helped raise a record $32,000. Now that's a reason to pop open a bottle of champagne!

22 Ways to Earth Day

2009-04-03T13:04:00.001-07:00

In the spirit of Earth Hour and in anticipation of Earth Day, I'm posting and "tweeting" each day about a sustainable habit or tip, or green activity in which I'm partaking.

The point is to show that living a sustainable life or building a sustainable community isn't about committing to one hour a year or one day, it's about changing and developing a sustainable lifestyle.

I hope you'll join me on Twitter and share your stories, tips, and activities with me and others. Simply post and use the hashtag #22ways!

The Institute for Sustainable Communities has already gotten in on the action. They are posting 22 actions communities around the world have taken to protect the planet. Here's what they have posted so far:

April 1 - Forging Partnerships: By assembling a task force of 20 community leaders, the city of Burlington, Vt. overcame years of rocky relations with the University of Vermont to pioneer affordable and green housing, including LEED-certified dormitories.

April 2 - Youth Power: In Pushchino, a windy city south of Moscow, teenagers weatherized 180 doorways in 45 buildings and 150 apartments of elderly residents and people with disabilities. Electricity use dropped by 130,000 kilowatt-hours, saving residents the equivalent of half their income each month.

April 3 - Saving Water: In Radom, Poland, a rapidly depleting aquifer propelled a community task force to install water conservation fixtures in 1,800 homes, reducing water use by 40% per household. This success—plus brochures, radio broadcasts, competitions, picnics, and bumper stickers—helped them gain support for a community-wide water conservation program.

And here are my tweet tips:

Earth Month Tip #3: Date Night. Visit Farmer’s Market. Let romance steam ovr local vegs. More tips here http://cli.gs/u6vL4E #22ways #green

Earth Month Tip #2: Have energy-efficient home? Host open house. This guy had 150 ppl visit http://cli.gs/3Ny12Y #22ways #green #earthtweet

Earth Month Tip #1: Get Eco-fashionable and support Healthy Child, Healthy World http://cli.gs/NH07GA #22ways #green #style #earthtweet

Ma Vie En Vert Video Podcast #1: Magnolia Bistro is Burlington's First Green-Certified Restaurant

2009-03-23T06:25:00.000-07:00

This is my first foray into integrating video into this blog (and my life). This video comes as a result of a videoblogging class I participated in at Vermont Community Access Media (VCAM) (an incredible resource for the inner Spielberg in all of us!).

This video is about one of my favorite Burlington restaurants -- Magnolia Bistro (I love the pumpkin bread French toast and le boyfriend loves the tofu scram). Hope you enjoy!

"Ma Vie en Vert" Video Podcast #1: Magnolia Bistro is Burlington's First Green-Certified Restaurant from Alexandra Tursi on Vimeo.

White House Gardening Present and Future

2009-03-22T08:36:00.000-07:00

Love this video from EatTheView.org.

The Garden of Eatin': A Short History of America's Garden from roger doiron on Vimeo.

Sex & the City Meets Sustainability

2009-03-15T08:10:00.001-07:00

Who said style and sustainability couldn't be synonymous?

For the gal looking to be chic and conscientious, but with no roadmap to get her there, Summer Rayne Oakes' new (and first) book Style, Naturally, looks to be an ideal set of directions. Oakes is a model/activist/Planet Green contributor/environmental expert (She got her masters in Environmental Science from Cornell!). Her book is geared to those new to the green scene and on the lookout for fabulous, eco-friendly fashion.

According to Treehugger (where Ms. Oakes is a regular contributor) "the approach is one of openly stylish seduction with 350 pages and 500+ images full of rich colours and beautiful images, showing how much fun we can all have with contemporary ethical fashion and beauty products."

What seems to take this book beyond being a glorifed, green InStyle is that its comprised not only of images of eco-chic picks, but an index of websites and places to check out to learn more about sustainable fashion, information about eco-friendly textiles and materials, governing fashion councils, eco-fashion business models and leaders, and a list of eco-chic retail stores all around the country.

Check out the video below for an interview with Summer, sneak peak at the book and some of her style tips and ideas.

Carbon Neutral on a Shoestring

2009-03-05T06:10:00.000-08:00

Did you catch the article "Carbon Neutral on a Shoestring" in the New York Times today? If not, you must read it and visit the blog of Ms. Petz Scholtus, a 28-year-old product designer from Luxembourg. Petz is the creative genius behind the ongoing restoration and decoration of a one-bedroom apartment in the 18th-century building in Barcelona, where she lives and works. As she writes on her blog, she's "adapting urban housing to a green lifestyle."

And check out the neat ways in which she's doing it! Photos follow with web links to the Times article and Petz's blog.

Petz' kitchen: furniture and appliances by Ikea, which audits its wood suppliers and sells energy-efficient appliances. Floor made from locally made ceramic tiles.

Decor: Magazine holders made from antique drawers found on the street. Very cool! My boyfriend would love this idea!

Lighting: Bidon lamp (bidón means container in Spanish) fitted with a compact fluorescent bulb (instructions on how to make it here).

Furniture: Armchair rescued from the trash and decoupaged with newspapers. Cork tiles on the floor click into place without glue.

More decor: Stenciled shelf was made from fiberboard certified by the Forest Stewardship Council and painted with low-VOC paint.

Check out the entire article and slideshow at New York Times, or visit Petz's blog to learn how you can recreate her urban green lifestyle in your own home or apartment. You know I will be heading over to the salvage depot this weekend to see what treasures I can find (and look into re-creating that Bidon lamp!).

Spring in the Air, Let the Sun Shine In

2009-02-26T15:25:00.000-08:00

With the air getting warmer and the snowy sidewalks turning into puddle playgrounds, what better time to pull away the blinds and let the sun shine in? The perfect way to avoid using lights (and energy) and segue into spring.

*Image from Alkemie.

Tuesday Trends: Eco-Fashionista

2009-02-17T08:52:00.000-08:00

I'm making attempts to bring regularly featured content to this blog. Tuesday are all about being an eco-fashionista. Here are some finds I wouldn't mind adding to my closet. Browns, reds, and magentas inspired by the Hermes advertisment below.

Still on the lookout for the coat. Is the Hermes version eco-friendly?

Cri de Coeur Phillipa Boots by Nimli; Alpaca Clutch with Flower by Alejandra Dunphy; Asymmetrical necklace by Smartglass; Cassia Weekender by Canopy Verde; Beau Tribal dress by Beau Soleil; Vintage Owl Earrings by Kris Nations; Mothette Dress by Praire Underground; Fingerless Arm Warmers by Stewart + Brown.

Sweet Temptations: Two Weeks of Tasty Treats

2009-02-15T11:45:00.000-08:00

From the King Arthur Baker's Store in Norwich to Finale down in Boston back to Mirabelles in Burlington, it was two weeks of delicious delights for le boyfriend et moi.

We headed over to sleepy Hanover and bustling Boston for our anniversary weekend, meeting friends along the way (and rocking out to Rihanna during the hours spent circling Boston for a place to rest our heads. Yes, we're the spontaneous types who don't always book a hotel in advance!). Then, kept it local for Valentine's Day with treats from Mirabelle's and our own homemade confections.

Cupcake from Finale in Boston: vanilla cake with chocolate ganache frosting (lots of it!) and milk, white and dark chocolate shavings.

The kitchen at the King Arthur Flour Bake Shop. Don't you want to move in? I love the honeybee cake.

The array of tempting confections at Mirabelle's in Vermont. Can you choose just one dessert?

Cupcakes at Mirabelle's in Vermont: vanilla and chocolate cake with chocolate and strawberry buttercream frosting and marzipan hearts.

The chocolate-pecan-raspberry "Tiffany" cakes we chose for our Valentine's Day dessert; from Mirabelle's.

Oh Boyfriend...

2009-02-05T10:22:00.000-08:00

...hope you take a look at this little list from Henri Bendel.

Making Movies

2009-02-04T16:58:00.000-08:00

Check out the video my colleague and I put together for Efficiency Vermont's Northfield Home Energy Makeover Contest. It's my first foray into YouTube. Stay tuned for more!

Home Sweet LEED-Certified Home

2009-01-26T16:18:00.000-08:00

Check out this neat LEED-certified home in Charlotte, Vermont, the first of its kind in the Green Mountains. Gorgeous, isn't it.

It's also "designed to have a net zero energy use and emit zero carbon emissions. It uses electricity generated on site with its 10KW net-metered wind turbine for all heating, hot water, lighting and appliances...In addition to being 5+ star Energy Star rated and Vermont Builds Greener-certified, the house has also received the US Green Building Council’s highest LEED rating of platinum, the first one in Vermont."

Find out more from the architects who dreamed it up here.

Some Pretty Assistance for the Addled Lettergirl

2009-01-24T11:20:00.000-08:00

It's the time of year when I start gathering inspiration for Valentine's Day missives.

Though penning sweet nothings (and somethings) to the loveys in my life is pleasantly relaxing, addressing envelopes is oftentimes not.

Here's an easy and pretty solution I like - Lettergirl Handlettered Address Stamps.

*Love Note by Night Owl Paper Goods.

And the Day Came

2009-01-20T12:38:00.000-08:00

Tomorrow Can't Come Too Soon

2009-01-19T13:10:00.000-08:00

*Jewelry by Corine Grant

Subzero Daze

2009-01-16T12:11:00.000-08:00

It was something like -18 below this morning. This Hermes advert has become my reality (although I travel with a Kia, not an ox).

When I Grow Up

2009-01-15T11:42:00.000-08:00

As unemployment climbs and layoffs become more rampant, it's difficult not to be swept up in a wave of nervous anxiety (especially, when you're a 26-year-old gal and read something like this Wall Street Journal piece).

I suppose when Al Gore invented the Internet way back when, no one knew of the amazing plethora of jobs that would blossom in the wake of his fine creation. In 1992, did anyone in fourth grade say "hey, when I grow up I want to be a web designer!" Now, fourth graders are web designers.

Fast Company just released a nice piece on the "Ten Best Green Jobs for the Next Decade," a list of sustainability-focused career paths that will "help retrofit and solar-charge your work life." It proves that we can create radically new jobs that not only unveil new worlds and possibilities (as the Internet has), but effect positive change for the planet too.

I for one would be proud to one day have my own little fourth grader trotting home to tell me that she wants to be sustainability systems developer. She would probably have already bookmarked this website.

Baby, You Can Drive My Car

2009-01-13T06:45:00.000-08:00

I'm happy I waited on buying a car (I'm a walking and carpooling gal). This future Toyota electric car, which debuted at the Detroit auto show and is set to be marketed in 2012, is on my list!

“It’s more than a golf cart — it’s freeway capable,” said Bob Reinert, national manager of Toyota’s advanced technology group. Read more about it at the New York Times' Green Inc. blog.

smart also has a new electric car on display at the show. They say that "At the end of 2009, smart will begin producing the smart fortwo electric drive equipped with a lithium-ion battery." Treehugger's sources say the car won't come to market until 2010 or 2011.

I guess I have a lot of walking to do before I drive one of these things. This will give me the time to determine how best to fit my 5'11" frame into one.

More Resolutions

2009-01-09T14:36:00.001-08:00

So, learning to cook is resolution #1. Rounding out the list?

2. Get Decorating (can't let the lovely Domino Book of Decorating collect dust! I'd love to create the look and feel of the Hotel San Jose for le boyfriend's atelier. It is one of the most gorgeous places we've stayed in our travels. )

3. Get Out of Here (well, I mean, travel a bit more. Le boyfriend loves road trips, so perhaps with gasoline so low, it's time to put on my driving heels?)

4. Get Active (Obama's already calling for us to get active on 1/19. Why not make it a regular gig, not a once-a-year to-do?)

All images from ffffound.

Vermont Gals in the Media

2009-01-08T14:55:00.000-08:00

Check it out! My modeling debut: I'm in the January/February 2009 issue of Yankee magazine, on stands now (I'm the gal with the ponytail on the indoor rower).

Also, my lovely friend Brandi, who recently celebrated her marriage in gorgeous Lake Placid is on the Style Me Pretty blog!

New Year's Resolution #1: Learn to Cook...Well

2009-01-06T18:17:00.000-08:00

So, to write truthfully, this resolution officially launched back in September when I made my first-ever cake -- for le boyfriend's big thirtieth birthday, no less -- (all right, I admit it, Maman did guide my through the buttercream-making process) -- and was further solidified when Season 5 of Top Chef launched in November, but the holidays brought me a few things that will certainly make it more accomplishable and pleasurable.

The Wine Lover's Dessert Book by Jennie Schacht & Mary Cech

Anyone who knows me, knows I'm a lover of sweets and fine libations! Maman found this book for me and I can't wait to try out some of the recipes. It starts off with a wine primer and chart that cross-references types of wines against dessert flavors with pairing advice. I can't wait to try the Honey Ricotta Tart, Mango Lime Souffle and Peach Tart Tatin with their accompanying partners!

The Balthazar Cookbook by Keith McNally, Ried Nasr and Lee Hanson

Go to 80 Spring Street, New York, New York for the perfect evocation of a French brasserie (and the most amazing people watching!) -- Balthazar. I went to Balthazar for the first time this December while in NYC on business. It was heaven.

And now, I can recreate the charm and elegance of their spirited menu with this wonderful cookbook, complete with a foreward that details Balthazar history since its birth in 1997. With vibrant photos of Balthazar sprinkled throughout, the book works its way from "pour commencer" appetizers, soups and breakfast dishes to "pour finir" desserts.

Cookies by Martha Stewart

Need I say more? What I love about this collection is that the table of contents comes complete with a photo of each artfully created cookie so you can skim the TOC and pick what you're in the mood for immediately.

I will gain 50 pounds by 2010.

The Cake Bible by Rose Levy Beranbaum

Yes, a challenging one for sure, but you have to reach for the highest shelf, right? Plus, I need to use the Williams-Sonoma igloo and cupcake cake pans that I unwrapped on my birthday.

This is really going to put a major dent in New Year's Resolution #2: Shape Up.

Festival of Handmade Ornaments

2008-12-23T19:04:00.000-08:00

Every year, I make new ornaments to add to our ever-expanding collection (and, incidentally, each year our Christmas tree gets bigger and bigger -- this year, our tree is 14 feet high, reaching up into the cathedral ceilings of our home).

Here is a taste of what I created this year - hand-painted glass ornaments. Happy holidays and all the best to you and yours this season and in 2009!

Hosting a Holiday Party

2008-12-21T17:54:00.000-08:00

President of the Cornell Club of Vermont with my First Dude.

For the second year in a row, I hosted the Cornell Club of Vermont Holiday Party.

As president of the club going on three years now, I've played hostess at a number of events. The holiday party is certainly the most labor-intensive and most rewarding in the end (even though I'm always about to pull my hair out two hours before the event! Where are the salt and pepper shakers? Where are the membership forms? Did I pack the holiday music?).

President and Membership Chair greeting guests at our welcome table. Don't my new bangs look fetch?

Daughter and Mother, Secretary and President of the Cornell Club.

With le maman by my side (in addition to master chef, she is also the accomplished event hostess), we hosted 40 people within the ECHO Lake Aquarium and Science Center in Burlington. The space is expansive with high, vaulted ceilings. We had the museum opened for the entirety of the evening for guests (and little guests) to enjoy.

Cornell alumni arrive and enjoy appetizers by Dale of Shelburne.

Dale of Shelburne catered the evening, starting with a lovely pair of appetizers (beef tenderloin with horseradish sauce on sliced baguette and roasted tomato, fresh mozzarella cheese and basil crostini), followed by a delicious dinner (Mediterranean salmon with fresh spinach, kalamata olives and feta cheese and Chicken Marbella with dried fruit, accompanied by a side dish of mashed butternut squash with Vermont maple syrup and cinnamon).

Drooling already? Dessert was a Death by Chocolate Trifle!

President and alumni from Classes of 2000 and 2005. My friend Jackie (lovely in blue) is a cooking instructor at The Kitchen at the Store.

Cornellians of the past and perhaps the future!

Joviality at the event was infectious!

Tasty Little Gingerbread Men

2008-12-21T17:43:00.000-08:00

This holiday season, I promised myself that I would finally learn how to cook properly. No more serving artfully placed cookie dough to friends (no matter how lovely the platter) and no more scrambled eggs as my go-to meal (although, I must say I'm a master of fluffy, delicious scrambled eggs!).

So, I decided to make my first foray into cooking by making a different holiday cookie each weekend...then having le boyfriend and le maman (a cook extraordinaire herself) taste test.

My first project was gingerbread men, a favorite I've already mentioned here. I didn't realize that you had to let the dough chill for two hours, so I ended up baking these in the wee hours of the morning (I started the batter at 11PM). Nevertheless, the recipe from Baking Bites yielded some tasty little men. Instead of piping the frosting, I used a small spatula to spread it, then carefully added sugar sprinkles in the holiday pallette. Yum!

Here is the recipe a la Baking Bites:

Gingerbread Men
2 1/2 cups all purpose flour
1/2 tsp baking soda
3/4 tsp salt
1 tsp ground ginger
1/2 tsp ground cinnamon
1/4 tsp ground cloves
1/4 tsp (freshly) ground nutmeg
pinch ground black pepper (optional)
1/2 cup butter, room temperature
1/2 cup sugar
1/2 cup molasses
1/4 cup coffee or water
1 tsp vanilla extract

Lemon Icing
2 cups confectioners’ sugar
2-3 tbsp tsp lemon juice

In a medium bowl, sift together flour, salt, baking soda, nutmeg, ginger, cloves and cinnamon.

In a large bowl, cream together butter and sugar until smooth. Beat in molasses, water and vanilla, then gradually add in flour mixture until a smooth dough forms. Divide dough into two or three pieces (dough will be quite soft), cover with plastic wrap and refrigerate for at least 2 hours, until firm.

Preheat oven to 375F.

When cool, decorate with lemon icing (recipe below).

Makes about 30-40 gingerbread men, depending on size of cookie cutters used and whether you make them thick or thin.

For icing, in a small bowl combine powdered sugar and lemon juice. Substitute milk or cream plus 1 tsp lemon extract, if no fresh lemon juice is available. Add enough lemon juice to make the icing thick and pourable, but not runny (start with 1-2 tbsp and add more if necessary. You can always add a bit of extra sugar to thicken it if you add too much) and stir until very smooth. Scrape into piping bag with a fine tip or a ziploc bag with a corner cut off and pipe onto cooled cookies. Allow to set for at least 30 minutes, until firm, before storing cookies in an airtight container.

Sealing Drafty Windows!

2008-12-18T08:00:00.000-08:00

Check out this cool WCAX-TV story I helped work on for Efficiency Vermont. It debunks the myth that you have to sink money into buying new windows when there are inexpensive and effective ways to make your windows more efficient.

Baking Holiday Masterpieces

2008-12-10T14:44:00.000-08:00

I just made my first batch of gingerbread men last week (to be posted in all their glory soon enough) using this tasty recipe.

Then, today I came across this fun new gingerbread house design book. Gingerbread houses have always been a holiday staple in my little home. My mother is a genius chef, baker and artist so she always created beautiful little homes with candy-colored windows made out of melted life savers.

Then, I came across this...OK, so yes, you would only use it, what, once a year, but isn't it charming? I envision it as a centerpiece for a winter adventure-themed party, complete with icicle candies and creme de menthe tinged chocolate martinis.

Just don't let any of your guest come dressed as Ms. Palin...

New Spin on Modular Homes

2008-12-01T14:40:00.000-08:00

"The goal here was ... to create a green home that appealed to the masses, to the everyday middle-tier crowd that can't afford a million-and-a-half-dollar house of green products."

Project Frog' temporary classroom at the Boston Convention & Exhibition Center, with 40 windows of direct sunlight inside at angles that keep the building cool in the summer and the heating system uses natural convection to keep people comfortable in winter -- a demonstration of how modular construction can be used to construct green buildings cheaper, faster and better.

Cool...Read more here and here on this growing trend toward building small and smart.

Keepsake Ornaments

2008-11-30T12:17:00.001-08:00

Thanksgiving is over...time to find the perfect tree, make a picturesque fire, bake up some gingerbread men, and create ornaments and decorations as keepsakes for the years to come.

Here are some of the ornaments I created last year. This holiday season, I'm giving them as gifts to family and good friends. Will post my new designs soon!

Happy Holidays!

Yes Sir, That's My Trifle

2008-11-24T14:12:00.000-08:00

Every year, my company has a splendid Thanksgiving lunch to wrap up a week of fund-raising we do for the United Way.

What makes it so fun is that everyone brings in a dish to share -- butternut squash, mashed potatoes, Asian salads, stuffing (my favorite) and a plethora of tempting desserts.

A certifiable sweet tooth myself, I decided to make my first-ever trifle (under the tutelage of my very talented mother).

And here it is....My Pecan Pumpkin Trifle:

And it's sooooo simple to make:

Ingredients:

1 package spiced pumpkin bread quick bread mix (or use your own recipe)
2 cups heavy cream
1 tsp vanilla extract
1/4 cup sugar
1 can pumpkin pie filling
1/2 cup brown sugar
1 tsp cinnamon
2 tablespoons maple syrup
1 cup pecan halves, toasted

Directions:

Prepare the quick bread batter and bake according to the package instructions. Let cool completely. Cut the bread into 15 slices, each 1/2 inch thick. Set aside.

In the bowl of an electric mixer fitted with the whisk attachment, beat together the cream, vanilla and sugar on medium-high speed until stiff peaks form, 2 to 3 minutes. Remove the bowl from the mixer and, using a rubber spatula, fold in the pumpkin mixture (pumpkin pie filling, 1/2 cup brown sugar, tsp cinnamon, 2 tbls maple syrup). Refrigerate until ready to use.

To assemble the trifle, place 3 slices of the quick bread in the bottom of a trifle bowl or deep soufflé dish, cutting the slices in half or into quarters as needed to form a single layer of bread. Using a spatula spread a layer of the pumpkin mixture over the breads.

Using an offset spatula, spread 3/4 to 1 cup of the whipped cream mixture evenly over the bread. Repeat the layering process 3 to 4 times. Garnish the trifle with the pecan halves. Serves 12 to 14.

Enjoy!

Gifts for the Girlfriends

2008-11-23T11:04:00.000-08:00

I'm sure my BFFs (ok, I have four -- a girl really can never have too many!) would love to have these lovely candles dispense the scents of lime, pineapple, peach, rose, jasmine, geranium, vanilla, amber and exotic musk in their apartments.

And purchase of the Trellis candle (second one shown) supports Arzu, a non-profit organization which helps Afghani women find the means to develop sustainable income through their craft. Clean-burning and made from 100% soy wax.

Check them out here.

Soak Up The Sun

2008-11-20T10:53:00.000-08:00

Four hundred-and-eighteen solar panels will help generate power at National Life at a cost of $500,000, $200,000 of which was covered by a grant through Vermont's Clean Energy Development Fund, set up to encourage development of renewable energy technologies.

Very cool (or hot!).

Holiday Must-Have: Nature-Themed Plates

2008-11-19T06:58:00.000-08:00

How beautiful are this plates from West Elm? As ideal for the table as for wall decor.

Christmas Tree Arrives at Rockefeller Center!

2008-11-14T13:07:00.000-08:00

It will be garlanded in LED lights again this year!

Greening Your Cafe Habit

2008-11-12T14:14:00.001-08:00

As I was perusing through the latest issue of Domino this past weekend at Barnes & Noble with le boyfriend, I nearly choked on my toasted marshmallow mocha (with surprised delight of course) when I came across a lovely spread of greenhouses, florists and other horticultural businesses that had created cafes to enhance their businesses.

A florist had created a flower bar, where visitors could ante up to order up a customized creation. My favorite, though, was Philadelphia's Terrain at Styers, created through a partnership with Anthropologie.

It's a store that offers all types of beautiful things for the garden and home (pix below for your enjoyment)...and now it has a greenhouse cafe (at which they serve a pumpkin bread pudding I would love to try!).

My Holiday Wish List: Pretty Paper

2008-11-08T09:11:00.000-08:00

I don't know about you, but I'm one of those people who collects holiday inspirations and ideas year-round. It's my favorite time of year (made more so by the fact that Vermont is absolutely idyllic in winter - unless you have to drive anywhere)...and I'm always delighted to find something unexpected and pretty, whether it's a gift idea or the perfect accoutrement for a party.

Here are a few things I found today that will be indispensable year-round and during the holidays alike!

This handy little gift list book by Russell + Hazel slips perfectly into a handbag, making it the ideal place to record inspirations and finds. Love that it also comes with removable page markers. Now you don't have to rip pages out of magazines! PS All of R+H's products start with 100% post-consumer recycled content.

Pink can often be a challenge to incorporate into the holiday pallette. These coasters by kate spade solve the problem stylishly. Part of kate spade's line for Crane & Co., this paper is tree-free, made from 100 percent cotton.

Wrapping paper...so beautiful, yet ruined in moments! I'll be trying to salvage bits and pieces of this pretty eco-friendly paper from Riffraff and Black Pearl Press (made using waterbased inks and 100% recycled paper from French Paper, a hydroelectric powered, family-owned paper mill in Michigan).

Expect to see many more additions to my wish list soon...

Presidential Cocktail Hour

2008-11-07T09:22:00.000-08:00

So tonight I'm celebrating our new President Obama and intend to toast him with one of these.

Check out Design Crush for the recipes!

Also, before toasting Obama, read up on how he might be greening up our country:

At Grist.org, writer David Roberts reports on what greens can expect from an Obama administration (a declining cap on carbon, investments in green R&D and infrastructure and regulatory and tax support for clean electricity and alternative fuels).
Big Green Purse explores how the Preventative Agenda hopes to make Prez Obama focus on threats to the environment and human health.
One of my fave green blogs, the New York Times' Green Inc., talks to five energy experts from the White House Climate Change Task Force, Center for American Progress and Sierra Club among others to determine where they weigh in. Green Inc. also has a good round-up of energy initiatives passed at the state level.

Yes We Can!

2008-11-05T06:15:00.001-08:00

We made history...and now we're going to make more! Read Barack's entire acceptance speech here. It will give you chills all over again!

If You Only Do One Thing Today...

2008-11-04T05:52:00.000-08:00

Rust-Belt's Green Revitalization

2008-11-02T08:46:00.000-08:00

The time is ripe for growing the green economy. The New York Times reports from rust belt states where forays into renewable energy are starting to revitalize once vital manufacturing communities. The point of departure in the article is Newton, Iowa, where a wind turbine plant (TPI Composites) has replaced former employer Maytag.

Some things that stuck out to me:

"In a report last year, the Energy Department concluded that the United States could make wind energy the source of one-fifth of its electricity by 2030, up from about 2 percent today. That would require nearly $500 billion in new construction and add more than three million jobs, the report said. Much of the growth would be around the Great Lakes, the hardest-hit region in a country that has lost four million manufacturing jobs over the last decade."
"Newton won. In exchange for $6 million in tax sweeteners, TPI promised to hire 500 people by 2010. It has already hire about 225 and is on track to have a work force of 290 by mid-November. 'Getting 500 jobs in one swoop is like winning the lottery,' says Newton’s mayor, Chaz Allen."
"More than $5 billion in venture capital poured into so-called clean energy technology industries last year in North America and Europe, according to Cleantech, a trade group. In North America, that represented nearly a fifth of all venture capital, up from less than 2 percent in 2000."
"Steve Jennings, 50, once made $14 an hour at the hydraulic pump factory. When he heard that a wind turbine plant was coming in a mere five miles from his house, he was among the first to apply for a job. Now he's a team leader, earning nearly $20 an hour — more than he's ever made. Ordinary line workers make $16 an hour and up."

Read the entire article here.

Magnolia Love

2008-11-01T09:41:00.000-07:00

If you know me well, you know that my favorite place to have brunch in Burlington is Magnolia. The New York Times put it on the map today!

It's highlighted in "36 Hours in Burlington, Vt.":

Prefer tofu in your scramble? Try the Magnolia Bistro (1 Lawson Lane; 802-846-7446; www.magnoliabistro.com), where eggs are always interchangeable for tofu, and homemade granola is on the menu. For meat eaters, there are the open-faced steak sandwich with Cheddar ($9) and the tarragon chicken sandwich ($8.50). Magnolia also claims to be one of Burlington’s most environmentally friendly restaurants, which means it must be really, really green. Indeed, everything is recycled, and it’s the only spot in town certified by the Green Restaurant Association.

Yummy (and green). You must also try Mag's oatmeal pancakes which I'm addicted to. Likewise, they always have a seasonal french toast - once you've tried the pumpkin bread incarnation, you won't want to eat anything else!

Also highlighted is Crow Bookshop on Church Street, which has a great selection. It's also a fab place to "recycle" your books. They both buy books or provide you with store credit.

Happy Halloween!

2008-10-31T08:10:00.000-07:00

Here's a jack o' lantern the team at Project Porchlight would approve of...

How to Avoid a Haunted House

2008-10-30T12:08:00.000-07:00

This Halloween, while you’re out trick or treating, don’t let your home become haunted by any energy phantoms. You may not realize it, but you may be using energy for your electronics, like TVs and DVD players, even when they're turned off. The phenomenon is called "phantom load," and it's a cause of U.S. household energy waste that adds up to higher costs.

Efficiency Vermont has identified simple ways to empty your home of phantom load and other energy monsters.

Say Goodbye to Phantoms. Lower your electric costs by plugging your electronics into a power strip and flipping the switch when the electronics aren’t in use. Also, when you've finished recharging portables, like phones and MP3s, unplug them and save.

Is That the Wind Whistling? Caulk around window frames and door frames and use door sweeps and weather stripping to reduce drafts and keep your rooms warmer. Replace any broken panes and cracked glazing, and use inexpensive window-plastic kits, available at hardware stores. If you've got storm windows, use them.

Oh the Chills! An open fireplace damper pulls warm air (air you’ve paid to heat) from the house, even when there is no fire in the hearth. Close dampers after the ashes have gone cold and you'll save money while reducing drafts.

What's That in the Attic? Plug up any air leaks in the attic, where warm air escapes, and in the basement, where cold air enters the home. If you’re handy, use expanding foam to seal larger holes and caulk to seal small gaps. You can save more by adding insulation in the attic.

Who You Gonna Call? Efficiency Vermont-approved Home Performance with ENERGY STAR® contractors can perform an energy audit on your home and install recommended improvements, such as air sealing and insulation.

Karl Lagerfeld Now Calls VT Home

2008-10-30T08:43:00.000-07:00

Now, even Chanel's Lagerfeld has noted the beauty of the Green Mountain life!

Don't Skirt the Issue, VOTE!

2008-10-29T14:48:00.001-07:00

I love this visual....and if you need any convincing on getting out to vote, read this.

Perfect Pumpkin Parfaits

2008-10-28T12:22:00.000-07:00

These look so delicious!

Pumpkin Parfaits
Makes 8 desserts

Active time: 30 min
Start to finish: 2 1/2 hr

Imagine the wonderful flavors of pumpkin pie rejiggered into a dreamy mousse layered with cool whipped cream and crumbles of spicy gingersnaps. Best of all, this delicious dessert is a breeze to make—you may never go back to pie again.

1 envelope unflavored gelatin (2 1/4 tsp)
1/4 cup cold water
1 (15-oz) can pure pumpkin
1/2 cup packed light brown sugar
1/2 teaspoon cinnamon
1/2 teaspoon nutmeg
1/4 teaspoon ground ginger
1/8 teaspoon salt
2 1/4 cups chilled heavy cream, divided
1 1/2 teaspoons pure vanilla extract, divided
20 gingersnap cookies, coarsely crushed

Instructions

Sprinkle gelatin over water in a small saucepan and let soften 1 minute. Bring to a bare simmer, stirring until gelatin has dissolved. Whisk together gelatin mixture, pumpkin, brown sugar, spices, and salt in a large bowl.
Beat 1 cup cream with 1/2 tsp vanilla until it holds soft peaks, then fold into pumpkin mixture gently but thoroughly.
Beat remaining 1 1/4 cups cream with remaining 1 tsp vanilla until it holds soft peaks.
Spoon about 1/4 cup pumpkin mixture into bottom of each glass, then sprinkle with some of cookies and top with about 2 Tbsp whipped cream. Repeat layers once, ending with cream.
Chill until set, at least 2 hours.

Cooks’ notes: Parfaits can be made 1 day ahead and chilled.

*From Gourmet*

First Green Home Certified in Vermont

2008-10-28T06:37:00.000-07:00

Check out the first green home designated by the National Home Builders Association in Vermont, part of the Meadow Creek housing development in Middlebury of which a dozen homes have been built so far, all five-star energy-rated.

Anya Huneke of New England Cable Network reports from Middlebury and interviews Efficiency Vermont new construction expert Peter Schneider.

An Ecotourism Hub...in Vermont

2008-10-26T11:19:00.000-07:00

Check out this week's Seven Days, which features a short interview with Megan Epler Wood, a trail blazer in the field of ecotourism (Conde Nast Traveler named her that and a "world-saver" in its latest issue).

Epler Wood is a founder of The International Ecotourism Society (TIES) and her own consultancy, EplerWood International. She also founded NativeEnergy Travel Offsets as a subsidiary of NativeEnergy, a firm that provides carbon offsets using wind and other renewable energy sources.

Here's what she had to say about tourism: "It is an industry without smokestacks. Time and again, governmental leaders in developing countries allow tourism to develop without the land-use regulations necessary to protect local landscapes. Generally, even the most sophisticated countries in the tropics have simplistic development regulations."

Over the past 18 years, her field has grown to stem the many negative aspects of travel and tourism: "We brought in dozens of universities from all around the world. Also big NGOs like the Nature Conservancy and Conservation International. George Washington University had a big tourism program . . . they jumped on board right away, too. We began to build outreach to all of the private businesses that were working in adventure travel. They’d be getting to these places, from wild rivers to jungles to deserts to the savanna, and thinking, 'We can’t just be here without helping to save this place.'"

So if you're wondering what the best places are to get away to, go south to Central America advises Epler Wood -- Belize, Honduras and Nicaragua have wonderful programs in place...or try a few miles north to the Northeast Kingdom, Vermont itself is a bastion for eco-friendly destinations (suprise!).

Read the entire interview here.

Orange You Wonderful

2008-10-24T14:07:00.000-07:00

Excited to learn that our office Halloween party will boast a pumpkin design contest! My little sisters and I have been carving pumpkins (and eating toasted pumpkin seeds) for going on twenty years now so my competitive spirit it primed for it.

Though I missed the much-vaunted Giant Pumpkin Weigh-In, I'll likely be heading over to Mazza's this weekend to find my very own little pumpkin, then devoting much time into bringing him to life.

And for those skeptics out there scratching your heads and saying, why buy a pumpkin when all you're going to do is carve it up, here's a little Pumpkin 101:

The name pumpkin orginated from "pepon" – the Greek word for "large melon."
Roast pumpkin seeds -- yummy and a good source of protein, potassium and Vitamin A.
Pumpkin + cheese = savory stuffing for ravioli. Pumpkin innards are also ideal for soups, pies and curries.
Small pumpkins are perfect vessels for dishes like risotto.
The largest pumpkin ever grown weighed 1,140 pounds. Must have made one big pie.
When placed with other gourds, make an ideal table setting.
Pumpkins are fruit. I know. Strange.
Colonists sliced off pumpkin tops; removed seeds and filled the insides with milk, spices and honey. This was baked in hot ashes and is the origin of pumpkin pie.
You can compost your pumpkin leftovers to make the earth ready for more.

Point being, your little pumpkin can serve many purposes.

Greening the Company Line

2008-10-23T13:54:00.000-07:00

Today, my company welcomed the carbon footprint experts over at Burlington's Springhill Solutions for an informative luncheon on the "hows" and "whys" behind measuring one's carbon footprint, then taking steps to lessen it.

A lot of people say it's easy being green. Certainly for individuals, there are some simple steps to take. Changing out CFLs, for example. For a company, though, we learned that challenges abound:

Measurement. With so many tools out there to use to measure your footprint, how do you know which ones to trust and use to benchmark?
Leadership. How can you convince the C-suite to sign-on to these initiatives?
Energy. Prices are jumping up in July, then looking low in October. In an atmosphere of volubility, how can you plan to strategically take on energy costs?
Focus. Your employees want to alternacommute, you want to switch out all office incandescents to CFLs, and your team wants to tackle heating. Where do you focus first? Where is the most payback?

A lot of questions, but perhaps the greatest one is when will a company start trying to answer the tough questions?

Springhill offers a good springboard for thinking greener.

Choose one way of measuring, be consistent and keep records on everything. That way, even if you switch your mode of measure, you've got history to work off of.
Show your leaders and managers a great ROI for energy-saving and eco-friendly measures. Chances are monetary savings mixed with corporate responsibility can get you off the ground.
Though the economy is weakened and the pendulum has swung back and forth on oil costs, it's like energy costs are on the rise. More so, consumers and companies continue to see value in green initiatives.
In terms of focus, there is a three-tier breakdown: Scope 1 (heating fuel, transportation fuel, cooling system leaks, chemicals), Scope 2 (electricity) and Scope 3 (solid waste, commuting, supply chain, products, etc.). Scope 1 and 2 is where you will likely want to focus first. Taking on the big costs, like heating buildings or fueling a distribution fleet, makes sense. If you're employees commute from far distances, though, perhaps you'll want to focus on Scope 3 as we did with the KSV commuter challenge.
Realize that the process itself symbolizes success. My colleague Cheryl summed it up best when she said "there are no green companies, only companies going greener," citing Patagonia and Timberland. As always, honesty is the best policy.

Raking Leaves

2008-10-22T14:11:00.000-07:00

A Vermonter since age 1, some of my fondest memories are of autumns spent playing in the crisp, crunchy leaves with my sisters (My mother was the one raking up colorful piles of red, orange, yellow and gold; though, once we reached a certain age, we were all handed mini-rakes. My mother taught us early to play hard and work hard!).

Maybe I should give raking another chance...

You can burn 250 calories in one hour
You will work your upper body
All of the turning, lifting and pulling helps you work your core
When done, you can replenish the calories burned with these cookies

...Or I could tell the boyfriend to get off the computer, get raking and burning calories before the winter season certainly fattens him up with holiday treats.

*Added bonus, no leaf blower keeps your footprint at zero*

Embracing a New (Food) Ethic

2008-10-19T07:43:00.000-07:00

So yesterday, after attending my first-ever birthday party ("pawty") for a dog (actually, my co-worker's beloved pet Roger), my boyfriend took me over to New Ethic Cafe, a fresh, new all-vegan cafe right around the block from where he lives.

It was delicious. I went for the BLT made with coconut bacon, because I was so curious as to what it was and how it tasted. It was savory and satisfying. For those not in the know as I was, cococut bacon is actually made with real coconut. According to the Royal Bacon Society, all you need is the following:

3 large handfuls of bulk coconut
1 tablespoon liquid smoke
2 tablespoons soy sauce/ tamari
1 tablespoon water
1 tablespoon maple syrup (optional)

I'll have to add it to the long list of recipes I've collected this past year in the hopes of becoming a domestic goddess.

Next time I'm at New Ethic, I'm trying the Apple Almond Salad and the Sweet Chili Burger, which features the cafe's homemade veggie burger. Suzanne Podhaizer, food critic over at the Seven Days, says it has a "pleasant texture and great flavor" in her review.

Hoofing It

2008-10-17T07:34:00.000-07:00

As a helpless shoe gal, I was delighted to see Eco-Chick's top picks for sustainable shoes!

This lovely choice, called the peacock (photo credit goes to Eco-Chick), inspired a shoe quest of my own. Here are some wonderful new friends to welcome to your home:

For an autumn walk down the aisle:

For a jaunt in an English garden:

For a stroll downtown in some designer jeans:

For the office paired with textured stockings:

For a night on the town:

What Would Michael Pollan Eat?

2008-10-16T05:24:00.001-07:00

If you're traveling cross-country anytime soon, make sure to mark your map with these culinary stops along the way from Michael Pollan, author of The Omnivore's Dilemma.

Hooray for GOOD!

2008-10-14T11:49:00.000-07:00

GOOD is my favorite magazine -- socially conscious, provoking, funny with some great investigative journalism and visuals.

The new issue is out (and now in my handbag for reading tonight). What's neat about this issue, besides being a special election issue, is that it includes a "beta" GOOD Business magazine. In their words, "GOOD Business is for businesspeople who give a damn. It's about the power of business to do good."

It's created in a partnership with the community of B Corporations, a network of 130 companies currently, who are committed to being socially responsible businesses.

You gotta pick it up.

Prepare Your Home for a Cozy Winter

2008-10-13T12:05:00.000-07:00

Yours truly helped bring this article to fruition! Making it happen was fun. I discovered that the reporter, Hannah Crowley, is actually the tenant of one of my illustrious colleagues (and incidentally, is living in the apartment I had gone to see myself).

Take stock of the top ten tips listed here...they could help you save big-time.

You can read the entire story at the Burlington Free Press.

Green Mountain Edition, 10/13

2008-10-13T08:29:00.001-07:00

Here's what's happening on this Monday morning...

An Espresso Shot of Energy Efficiency: The Green Mountain's eponymous coffee-maker is giving major moolah -- $30,000 to the Vermont Energy and Climate Action Network -- to help Vermonters reduce energy usage. The Times-Argus has more.

Everyone's Got an Opinion: One person is wondering where the policies meant to come out of the state's climate change report are. Another thinks Douglas is making inroads in energy policy. Yet another thinks Symington will make true change for the state's energy future.

On the Road: Here's a story for Kerouac lovers -- traveling cross-country in a vegetable-oil run steed.

Apple Fest!

2008-10-10T10:17:00.000-07:00

This weekend is South Hero's autumn tradition -- Apple Fest!

Here's my recipe for a perfect apple-themed day:

Breakfast
One cider donut (possibly two)
Mug of hot cider (no rum yet)

Lunch
Yogurt with Sliced Apples, Sprinkling of Granola, and Swizzle of Caramel
Glass of Apple Juice

Snack
Apple Slices and Cheese or Caramel Apple

Dinner
Green Apple and Celery Salad with Walnuts and Mustard Vinaigrette
Butternut Squash and Apple Soup

Dessert
Apple Pie or Baked Apples

Night Cap
Spiced Apple Cider Granita with Ginger Whipped Cream
Appletini*

*Note: If you swizzle some caramel artistically into a martini glass and let it harden in the fridge it makes a tasty vessel for your appletini.

*Photo of Apples Tumbling Out of Bag by Jenifer Altman of Nectar and Light.

Green Mountain Edition, 10/10

2008-10-10T06:43:00.000-07:00

Today's news is all about turning the heat up...

Celebrate: Vermont's three congressmen, Patrick Leahy, Bernie Sanders and Peter Welch, met with Vermonters to celebrate a victory on the LIHEAP front -- funding will rise proportionally, from $17 million to about $35 million. The Burlington Free Press, Times-Argus, and Bennington Banner have the story.

Light My Fire: One of the oldest forms of heat (reaching back to Prometheus, really), wood, is making a serious comeback amidst the push for renewable fuels. The Times-Argus has more.

Blowin' In The Wind: The town of Stratton considers a wind turbine. More in the Manchester Journal.

My Guy: For one ardent "letter to the editor" writers, Pollina is the top pick for the governor. More in the Rutland Herald.

Make Me Sustainable

2008-10-09T16:42:00.000-07:00

I just joined this neat new social networking site called Make Me Sustainable, upon the urging of a colleague on our company green team. It was a morning for measuring carbon footprints as a client had also charged me with finding the best online tools out there for it. Carbon Footprint, Terra Pass and Ten Percent Challenge are all good places to start.

Make Me Sustainable is fun because, like another ubiquitous social networking hub, it lets you create a profile, enter personal data (about your environmental footprint), add friends, join groups, write on a wall, check out a map of friends in your geographic area and grow a carbon tree.

As they say, "We bring you the tools to take action. Our Carbon and Energy Portfolio Manager enables you to visualize and contextualize your individual impact."

Fun! Take a tour and friend me when you join!

Green Mountain Edition, 10/9

2008-10-09T07:42:00.000-07:00

Here's the latest thus far today...

Three Congressmen Meet: Vermont's Leahy, Sanders and Welch met to discuss home heating assistance. Read a bit more in the Burlington Free Press.

Small Group Discusses Big Topic: A group that you could count on both hands met to discuss the state's energy future and energy plan in Rutland. The Times-Argus and Rutland Herald have the story.

Green Jobs Now: Pursuing solar energy could create much-needed jobs in our state. Video here.

Economic Prospects of a Forest: If you've ever driven through the Northeast Kingdom during foliage season, you know how beautiful it is. Read up on the Northern Forest Sustainable Economy Initiative.

"Within that economy, the northern forest is our asset. It's a world class asset. It has to be preserved. And we don't even know the revenue stream that the forest can produce and the kinds of products and services that it will be producing in the future economy," said Rachael Stuart of the New Hampshire Charitable Foundation.

Bad Day for Vermont Yankee: Though I know it's clean energy, I'm still reticent to endorse Vermont Yankee, one reason being radiation concerns, which the Bennington Banner covers. VY's decomissioning fund also dropped ten percent. That story here.

Reimagining

2008-10-08T15:00:00.000-07:00

As I walked back to my office today after my lunch break (yes, walk not drive!), I passed by a little boy, couldn't have been more than three or four, who was absolutely delighting in the gorgeous day by riding around on his shiny red bicycle. Smile inducing. He said hello to me repeatedly, and I returned the salutation by complimenting him on his bicycle.

He told me, "It's not a bike, it's a racecar!!!"

Kids have an uncanny ability to reimagine things, and it reminded me of an exhibit I saw this past weekend at the Museum of Arts and Design in NYC (one of my favorite places to stop). Titled, "Second Lives: Remixing the Ordinary," the show is comprised of works made of the most seemingly mundane, used objects -- combs, medical needles, rubber gloves, dog tags. The recycled lives of these objects bring to life social, political and economic commentaries of a truly powerful nature. One artist collected the tags from various clothiers to create a tapestry of a woman making clothing in a sweatshop.

Here are just a few of the "recycled works":

Susie MacMurray, A Mixture of Frailties, 2004
Latex washing up gloves, calico and a tailor's dummy
*A commentary on domestic bliss*

Tara Donovan
Bluffs, 2007
Buttons, glue
*Those are buttons!*

Do Ho Suh
Metal Jacket, 1992-2001
3,000 dog tags on U.S. military jacket fabric liner
*A commentary on collective US forces in the artist's home country*

Paul Villinski, My Back Pages, 2006-2008
Vintage vinyl records, record player, wire, record covers
*A lovely ode to free-flowing music!*

Green Mountain Edition, 10/8

2008-10-08T08:43:00.000-07:00

I wish there had been more discussion of energy policy during last night's presidential debate (the last half of which felt awfully similar to the first one). Although, I was pleased when Obama said this:

“Each and every one of us can start thinking about how can we save energy in our homes, in our buildings, making sure that you are able to weatherize your home or make your business more fuel efficient”.

As you can see from today's news, the U.S. Energy Department is telling us what we already know (that heating costs are skyrocketing). It's nice to see that some states, like Vermont, are showing the federal government what it should be doing to effectively alter the energy crisis...

Heating Costs Up! (Surprise): The U.S. Energy Department is reporting that heating oil will cost $450 more than last year. The Rutland Herald and Bennington Banner have more of what we already know.

Heating Costs Down! (What?): Vermonters who bought home heating fuels early are realizing that hindsight is 20/20. WPTZ-TV has the story of one such Vermonter.

Build Your Own Energy-Efficient Home: A workshop at the Home Depot in Bennington offers a workshop for newbies. More here.

The Green Mountain Way Part I: The New York Times' Kate Galbraith rightly points out the deliverables Vermont has offered up on the energy efficiency front. It's the only state "where gains in energy efficiency (1.7 percent) more than offset the state’s projected growth in demand for electricity (1.4 percent)." Efficiency Vermont's Blair Hamilton weighs in as well. More at the NYT's Green Inc. blog.

The Green Mountain Way Part II: The New York Times is all about Vermont today. They also ran a great story on how the local food economy is saving small Vermont towns, like Hardwick, where agricultural entrepreneurs are sprouting up more and more these days. Vermont Soy, Pete's Greens, Jasper Hill Farm, High Mowing Organic Seeds, Vermont Food Venture Center and the Vermont Institute for Artisan Cheese are some of the key players. Read the entire article here.

This makes me very hungry!

Beer Bottles Go Glam

2008-10-07T12:00:00.001-07:00

How gorgeous are these tumblers Re-Nest spotted? Made from salvaged beer bottles (one reason to bring back that old college tradition -- beer pong), you can find them at ReusefulObjects, an Etsy store.

The perfect vessel for this grapefruit mojito Martha Stewart offers up:

Ingredients:

1/3 cup granulated sugar
1/2 cup packed fresh mint leaves, plus sprigs for garnish
1 ruby red grapefruit
3/4 cup white rum
3 cups ice
1 cup seltzer

How-To:
Bring sugar and 1/2 cup water to a boil in a small saucepan. Remove from heat, and add mint leaves. Let steep 10 minutes. Strain through a fine sieve into a small bowl, and discard mint. Let cool.

Using a vegetable peeler, remove zest from grapefruit in long, wide strips. Place in a large glass, and add rum. Cover, and let stand for 30 minutes. Strain through a fine sieve into a large glass measure, and discard zest.

Cut away remaining pith from grapefruit. Cut between membranes to release segments. For each drink, place 2 to 3 segments in a glass. Top with 3/4 cup ice. Stir 3 tablespoons infused rum, 2 tablespoons mint syrup, and 1/4 cup seltzer in a glass measuring cup, and pour over ice. Garnish with mint sprigs.

Serves 4. From Martha Stewart Online Media.

Green Mountain Edition, 10/7

2008-10-07T09:38:00.001-07:00

Today's news scoop has some French-Canadian flair!

Gov. Douglas Meets With Quebec Premier: The two signed an agreement they hope will lead to the creation of green zones, part of Douglas' economic proposal for Vermont. Zones would exist in both jurisdictions to generate new renewable energy projects. The Burlington Free Press, Rutland Herald, Bennington Banner and Caledonian-Record all have the story.

Vermont's Number One, I Mean, Number Four: A report released by the American Council for an Energy-Efficient Economy ranks Vermont as fourth behind California, Connecticut and Oregon as a state that has successfully improved energy efficiency options based on building codes, transportation and land-use policies, utilities’ efficiency programs, financial incentives and support for research. Here's the AP story.

Local Green Discussions Continue: Stamford's Energy Focus Group hosted an Energy Fair, complete with local politicians. More here.

Douglas vs. Symington: Two opinions on the two candidates -- a supporter of Douglas' economic plan and a supporter of Symington's push for wind energy. One here, the other here.

Button-Up: Catch an energy workshop in Springfield.

Husky Leads the Pack

2008-10-06T14:54:00.000-07:00

It pays, in more ways than one, for a business to go green. Not only does it make an impression on shareholders, stakeholders and customers to commit to being environmentally-conscious, it pays off literally.

Consider Husky, the Milton, Vt.-based maker of plastic injection moulding (actually, they make the molds for just about any consumer product, from phones to soda bottles, as well as medical products).

Since committing to saving energy back in 1998 (they started working with Efficiency Vermont in 2001), Husky has seen a 15 percent reduction in electric energy use and annual costs savings of $190,400 per year.

This year, Husky engaged in three disparate projects:

1) Lighting upgrade in which they replaced all high bay metal halide lights with more energy-efficient fluorescent technology which will save an estimated 1 million kilowatt hours annually and $60,000.

2) Replaced old computer monitors with new flat screen LCD monitors, a cost savings of $600.

3) Server consolidation, a cost savings of $300.

Employees are also encourage to engage in energy-efficient behaviors in and out of the office, like carpooling, regularly turning off lights and switching their six most-used bulbs at home to CFLs.

Check out WPTZ-TV's segment on Husky to catch an inside look at this energy-efficiency leader.

Green Mountain Edition, 10/6

2008-10-06T09:39:00.001-07:00

Lots of news after being out and about on a long weekend...

Bonjour, Governor Douglas: The Vermont gov meets with Quebec premier Jean Charest today. They're expected to talk trade, environment and energy and sign an agreement to renew the contract between Vermont's power companies and Hydro-Quebec.

Reggie Spawns Green Initiatives: Since the successful carbon sale, green initiatives have been sprouting up across the state -- the governor and UVM president Dan Fogel signed the Vermont Climate Collaborative into action; national group 25 X 25 met to discuss energy, forests and farmland; and the Renewable Energy Vermont conference is set to take place this month. More in the Rutland Herald.

Heating Assistance Applications On the Rise: An increase of 25 percent as compared to last year, primarily from low-income Vermonters. More in the Burlington Free Press.

Report Card Time: Vermont lawmakers were scored by state environmentalists: Democrats in the House score 84 percent, Republicans 25 percent and Progressives 95 percent while Senate Democrats score 87 percent, and Senate Republicans received 45 percent. More in the Times-Argus.

Going Solar: Per my previous post about going solar, looks like Green Mountain Power is turning words into action. More in the Brattleboro Reformer.

Green Home Tour: Find out what you can do to make your home more green -- by visiting a green home! More here.

Pour Me Another Glass!

2008-10-04T22:11:00.001-07:00

Perhaps it's because at this very moment I'm enjoying another glass of Pinot Grigio with a good friend I haven't seen in ages, but how about this vino from Havens Wine?

The winery uses natural sunlight and installed a solar power system that provides 100 percent of the farm's energy. According to Portovert, "the new system will reduce the overall carbon footprint by 87,000 pounds of CO2 annually -- the equivalent of carbon captured by 12 acres of forest."

Break out another bottle.

Crazy CFLs

2008-10-02T12:11:00.000-07:00

Au revoir, readers. I'm off to NYC for the weekend and may not have access to a computer (unless I stop by the Apple store on Fifth Avenue).

While I'm away, check out these cool, new CFLs that Inhabitat discovered.

Like you, I'll also be glued to the House's action on the Senate-approved bailout bill, which happens to include tax credits for renewables (and, unfortunately, non-renewables).

That's if we're also not too busy debating tonight's vice-presidential debate!

Green Mountain Edition, 10/2

2008-10-02T06:07:00.000-07:00

On this lovely Thursday morning, here's what people are talking about...

People Are (Still) Talking, Talking About: The Governor's economic plan and the state's comprehensive energy plan. "The urgency that Vermonters and Vermont businesses share about energy is not reflected in this supposedly comprehensive energy plan. It does not meet the challenge of these extraordinary times," said Will Patten, of Vt. Businesses for Social Responsibility. Check the plan for yourself here. WCAX-TV has the story.

One of the bloggers over at Vermont Tiger is wondering why Gov. Douglas is proposing new economic initiatives now. "Good idea...Actually, it was a good idea back before most people even knew who Henry Paulson is," writes Geoffrey Norman.

Vermont Climate Collaborative: "Governor Jim Douglas and UVM President Daniel Mark Fogel have formally adopted the Vermont Climate Collaborative framework, which will guide Vermont's effort to address climate change and further develop the green tech economy." More here.

Energy Assistance for Employees: Vermont Community Loan Fund is paying for energy audits, offering one percent loans and allowing employees to borrow up to $5,000 to help reduce home heating costs. WCAX-TV has more.

Grab My Passport, Pack My Bags

2008-10-01T16:57:00.000-07:00

Daily Candy must have read my mind. I've been excitedly following the trend of eco-tourism and travel and, lo and behold, in my email today I find a cleverly-written missive detailing a number of eco-paradises; places that promote conservation, sustainability and celebrate the beauty of local communities:

Ballum Na House of the Jaguar is Belize's first luxury adventure lodge, located in a 13,000-acre nature reserve -- and yes, there are two jaguars on the premises.

Playa Nicuesa offers "lush, green vegetation as far as the eye can see, with leaves as big as elephant ears. Jade colored water. Toucans, monkeys, iguanas, dolphins, majestic blue butterflies."

Inkaterra Reserva Amazonica is the place to rest after a journey to Machu Picchu, or a hike along the Madre de Dios river (a tributary of the Amazon).

Also check out Kapawi Eco Lodge & Reserve and Anavilhanas Jungle Lodge.

I think this is an awesome idea for group travel, a green honeymoon, or a solo journey. My grandmother, a trailblazer in many respects (and quite crazy in others), traveled to Peru and to Machu Picchu back in the 1970s after her husband died. She tells me today that she can still remember the way it felt to breathe the air there...

Green Drinks with GroSolar

2008-10-01T13:28:00.000-07:00

Did you know that Vermont gets 80 percent of the sunlight that Florida does? I didn't (particularly on a day like today). I learned that and so much more at Burlington's Green Drinks last night, hosted by the Skinny Pancake (Burlington's best - and only - creperie).

Green Drinks is the place to meet casually and network with people interested in all-things eco-friendly and environmental. Last night's event marked the first anniversary of the event in Burlington. The host was GroSolar, the VT-based solar firm that has grown leaps and bounds this year (more than 463.3 percent if you can believe it).

GroSolar is the brainchild of Dori and Jeff Wolfe (both Cornell grads like yours truly - Go Big Red!). With the rising cost of fuel, they're hoping more homeowners and businesses will see the benefits of solar and see beyond the hype and hyperbole.

A few things I picked up:

New Vocab Word to Throw Around: photovoltaics (PV), the field of technology and research related to the application of solar cells for energy by converting sunlight directly into electricity.

Built to Last: Solar panels have a 25-year power warranty from the manufacturer. This is longer than almost anything else you can buy.

Pinch Every Penny: You can engage in Net Metering to get credit for electricity you generate with solar energy and send backwards through your utility meter. Meaning you can make money off what you send back into the grid.

Get Extra (Tax) Credit: The Senate and House have approved bills that would extend tax credits for renewable energy sources such as wind and solar power. Read the New York Times Story at Solar Energy Industries Association's (SEIA) website.

What most impressed me about this organization was its growth nationwide, creating the green economy that is so necessary to the US' economic future...Go Solar!

Green Mountain Edition, 10/1

2008-10-01T06:35:00.001-07:00

Today's news is all about political strategy in one way or another...

Return to Sender: The Vermont Natural Resources Council, Conservation Law Foundation, Vermont Public Interest Research Group and Vermont Businesses for Social Responsibility are calling for Vermont's energy plan (developed by the state Public Service Board) to be scrapped.

Primary criticisms? The plan lacks new, bold ideas and a direction for moving forward. The plan is "lackluster" and "an inventory of existing trends and programs," said Elizabeth Courtney, executive director of VNRC.

On the other side, proponents of the plan are wondering why critics are coming to the fore now when the plan was introduced in May. Read more in the Rutland Herald or listen to VPR's coverage.

With high gas and heating prices, one thing's for sure -- Vermont needs bold leadership and now's the time for discussion with the gubernatorial election just weeks away.

Gov. Douglas' New Economic Plan: Vermont has the "highest unemployment rate in 14 years, no job growth, and falling family incomes," said Gaye Symington, Democratic contender for the governorship. Gov. Douglas's new "Economic Growth Initiative" intends to grow jobs through a multi-faceted strategy:

Resurrect the "smart grid," an enhanced electricity transmission network.
Create the Vermont Innovation Challenge to provide entrepreneurs meaningful financial incentives for being the first to market scientific advances that have a practical application.
Extend tax credits for research and development ventures.
Develop "Opportunity Zones" in areas devastated by the migration of manufacturing jobs.
Develop "Green Growth Zones," hubs of commerce concentrated around a renewable energy source, such as wind turbines, solar arrays or a biomass facility.

Symington's response? It's purely political to unveil an innovation challenge weeks before the election and contradictory to Douglas' actions as a governor who historically "stood in the way of innovation by erecting barriers to wind power and by rejecting smart-grid technology, among other short-sighted economic policies."

No word from Pollina yet. The entire story is the Times-Argus.

Clothesline Debate: Elsewhere in Vermont, debate rages on the clothesline front.

Pretty Paper

2008-09-30T13:28:00.000-07:00

How lovely is this eco-friendly paper from Two Trick Pony?

Their products are screenprinted by hand on recycled materials (100 percent post-consumer waste recycled paper) using earth-friendly inks. Spotted by Paper Crave, one of my favorite stationery blogs. Two Trick Pony also has a blog called The Pony Express.

It certainly helps to look at beautiful things in this very difficult economic and political environment...

PS Love that the company continually strives to lower its "carbon hoofprint."

Green Mountain Edition, 9/30

2008-09-30T10:51:00.001-07:00

The bulk of energy and environmental news in Vermont today focuses on the results of the carbon sale.

Carbon Shopping: The carbon auction brought in $620,000 to Vermont; in total this first-ever cap-and-trade auction raised nearly $40 million.

The next step is to put these proceeds toward making homes and businesses more fuel-efficient through renewable and energy-efficient technologies.

Check out the Burlington Free Press for the details. Reuters also covered the story.

Turn the Heat Down (Not Up!)

2008-09-29T15:02:00.000-07:00

I'm proud to work with Efficiency Vermont on communications. They've put together some great tips for preparing for what could be a difficult winter season.

Here's one great way to save big. Simply turn your thermostat down. You'd be surprised by the difference this small change can make. Each degree a thermostat is turned down in the winter equates to a cost savings of roughly three percent on your energy bill.

For example, turning a thermostat back from 72º to 65º for eight hours a day can save as much as 10 percent on annual heating and cooling costs. It's good practice to lower the thermostat when nobody is home, or before going to bed.

Programmable thermostats are an amazing investment. They can help to manage your home’s temperature by consistently changing the setting whenever you want. You can save nearly $180 per year by properly setting this handy little device. More tips to come soon.

*Painting by Martha Lintner Wendel*

Green Mountain Edition, 9/29

2008-09-29T09:19:00.000-07:00

I will try to have this news update daily (except for vacation days!):

Bringing Carbon to Market: Vermont joins nine other Northeastern states in the country's first attempt at a cap-and-trade program to curb CO2 emissions, called the Regional Greenhouse Gas Initiative (or "Reggie"). Under the Reggie program, 223 power plants in the Northeast will have to buy allowances for all their C02 emissions, starting in 2009. Power plants will have six years to stabilize emissions, after which they will be required to reduce emissions by 2.5 percent per year for the next four years. The Rutland Herald, Brattleboro Reformer and WCAX-TV covered the story. Grist also has a great write-up here.

Federal Government Doubles Home Heating Aid Funds: Finally! Last Wednesday, DC lawmakers boosted funding for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) up to $5.1 billion. Read more in the Burlington Free Press and Times-Argus. Vermonters would receive $35 million, an increase from $17 million last winter. Some Vermonters claim it's still not enough.

Green Jobs Now: 350VT held a climate change rally on Saturday and advocated building a green economy. Green For All, the California non-profit dedicated to creating a green economy, is the organization leading the charge on that front. 350 (parts per million) refers to the safe upper limit of CO2 in Earth's atmosphere.

Three Cheers for Mary Powell: The new Green Mountain Power CEO is being lauded for her company's commitment to developing renewable energy.

That's the scoop today!

I Heart Montreal!

2008-09-27T17:48:00.000-07:00

Yesterday, my boyfriend and I traveled to a European city...well as close as you can get to a European city here in North America. After tending to a few small, but tres important, errands including a caffeine stop, we were on the road to Montreal.

I hadn't visited the city for a number of years. The last time I was there, it was alongside my high school French Literature classmates (and my stylish French prof) to see Moliere's L'Ecole Des Femmes, one of my favorite French plays (and one that I've increasingly thought of as my friends and colleagues begin to walk down the aisle); we saw Beaumarchais' Le Mariage de Figaro the year prior.

That said, I'm the worse when it comes to directions, and Montreal isn't like New York where once you have the numbers and grid in mind, you're all set. Lots of French-named streets to figure out. Saint-Antoine, Saint-Laurent, Villeneuve. Memory reminded me that Rue St. Catherine was where all the great shopping was, so we toured up University, passed packs of McGill students heading to class, drove through a union rally outside of one of the many hotels lining Sherbrooke, and finally landed in a parking space, eager to walk after the drive.

Though the allure of the shopping on St. Catherine is seductive, we only made one stop at Betsey Johnson (so many cute dresses! I felt as though I was in the wardrobe room for Gossip Girl; le boyfriend was less enthusiatic), before stopping to grab some lunch and map out our route to Vieux Montreal.

Vieux Montreal, which we reached a pied (warning: do not wear kitten heels should you intend to hoof it!), was everything I was fantasizing it would be: cobblestone pathways, charming cafes, modern furniture and fixings in buildings that date back to the 1640s, a lovely view of the river. We had some yummy french fries and caipi-sakes at Boris Bistro, an adorable spot with outdoor seating in a vine-strewn courtyard. Next time, I'm hoping to make it to Cluny ArtBar (a hangout attached to a contemporary art gallery in a converted foundry) and Olive & Gourmando (a place that boasts some vegetarian fare).

Next time, I'll remember to throw the sneakers in the back of the car!

*PS Check out Gourmet's 2006 Guide to Affordable Montreal, a special issue, that highlights a plethora of places to visit. My mother made sure that I packed it.*

Moo, Moo, Moo, Moo

2008-09-26T07:26:00.000-07:00

Only in Vermont! Check out Katie Zezima's article in the New York Times -- "Electricity From What Cows Leave Behind."

Apparently, cow waste produces 250 to 300 kilowatts of electricity daily, enough to power 300 to 350 homes.

More about the CVPS' Cow Power program here.

Staycation, All I Ever Wanted

2008-09-25T08:45:00.000-07:00

So I have the pleasure of a few days off from the office for a nice 4-day weekend!

Though my boyfriend and I had originally planned on spending this time at Austin City Limits, after much debate (and a review of the somewhat uninspiring line-up for ACL; neither of us is a Foo Fighters fan), we decided to explore the outer regions of Chittenden County on our way to Montreal, a short, one-and-a-half hour trip.

So perhaps it doesn't exactly fit the strict definition of "staycation," but we're still pretty excited to save some money and discover some local gems.

*Cupcakes from Les Glaceurs in Old Montreal, a destination on our intinerary for sure as I'm a cupcake fiend!*

Green Mountain Edition, 9/24

2008-09-24T06:39:00.000-07:00

News and views in Vermont today...

State Launches Contest for Schools to Save Energy: Incentives will be given to Vermont schools to reduce their carbon footprint this winter. Schools reducing the most carbon emissions per student will receive $5,000 for energy-saving building renovations. Read more here.

Vermonters Helping Vermonters Stay Warm This Winter: Companies are pledging funds to CVPS' Shareheat program to help needy Vermonters pay their heating bills.

Vermont Yankee Debate Continues: A vote for Vermont Yankee, WCAX reports public confidence in VY waning, range of opinions at VY public hearing.

Let's Go to the Fair!: Learning more about saving energy in the towns of the Upper Winooski River.

That's the scoop this morning!

Hello there!

2008-09-24T05:43:00.000-07:00

Welcome to my new blog! Though I'm not "green" when it comes to blogging (see my first blog here, and the one I currently contribute to here), this is my first green-focused blog.

As a gal living in the Green Mountains, I'm exploring all things green, from local foods to energy efficiency to building a new green economy and beyond -- both here in Vermont and globally. I hope you'll join me on my explorations!