Despite the smoke and heat we got (again) this August, I was able to see and do a few things - more towards the end of the month and in September, but it still counts. Here are the photos from those hikes, gatherings, and adventures.
Friday, September 22, 2023
Sunday, November 6, 2022
Autumn Adventures
Friday, June 18, 2021
Westmoreland Nature Park & The Oregon Garden
More outdoor places that somehow I've never been to... Both were smaller than I expected, but nice little adventures. The Oregon Garden pics start with the "Art in the Garden" sign. I actually didn't get to see all of the Oregon Garden because their oak grove area is closed for repairs, and somehow I didn't get to their northern forest (because I thought it was also closed haha). But those 2 areas combined happen to be 1/3 of the entire 80-acre area so I figure a 2nd visit early fall to see those spots (& the Frank Llyod Wright Gorden House which I also didn't know was open today) will be worth the admission price. The rest of the garden is a combination of 22 mini-gardens, & that took me an hour and 20 minutes to see so yeah. Neither of the two central-garden fountains were running since we're in a drought, but many areas had running water incorporated in that space even if you couldn't see it.
Thursday, June 1, 2017
For Our Children's Future
First we need to stand up to this RIGHT NOW! The proceedings are not final, it will take months to actually set this in motion. Therefore we need to rise up NOW. This Monday is World Environment Day, we need to peacefully hit the streets and march. Not just for oceans and tigers and polar bears, but for clean food, healthy air, and a safe future for everyone!! March!! And contact your state representatives, they want our input! Calling them is the most effective (call 1-202-730-9008 to be directed to your Senator's office), but we can email them, write them letters, and message them on social media! I urge you all to do so right now!
But when the protesting has left the media, what can we do in the long run?
*ONLY supporting business that strive to be greener, whether that be greener production, manufacturing, products, or all of the above. is key! By only buying products which have government approved seals of environmental regulation sends a clear message to those watching the numbers. And it's not just things you buy at the grocery store. Supporting sustainable companies like IKEA or H&M make just as much of a difference.
*Changing our energy practices can also make a big dent! Take public transit, or ride a bike. If you drive, drive a car with 0 emissions. Support gas alternatives, and switch to an electric car if you can. Ask every utility company you pay bills to about a green energy plan. In Oregon, you can get all your electricity from solar, wind, and geothermal through Portland General Electric. NW Natural has a cow pie program where methane is captured and recycled. And the costs are the same, if not cheaper as green energy has now surpassed fossil fuels in many places.
*Support those who for whatever reason cannot partake in the above practices due to lack of job skills or finances. Provide financial aid, pay for training, take it upon yourself to empower and educate! We cannot stand up as a community if we don't assist in our neighbor's obstacles.
And finally we simply cannot let our current motivations & passions die out. We cannot be silent in a month or two. The longer we press, the longer our so called leader will need to pay attention, and act.