tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-76529702024-03-13T11:48:49.797-05:00Mark's MindA place for me to ponder out loud....and occasionally gripe about something.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.comBlogger280125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-60017348320060630292014-08-24T16:18:00.002-05:002014-08-24T16:18:35.132-05:00Back to Brewing: Oatmeal Stout Kit from Northern Brewer!I love to brew beer, but I got to the point where I was going all-grain, all-time consuming brews.<br />
<br />
With two little kids, and other things to occupy my summer time, it made it hard to dedicate the time to do the all-grains.<br />
<br />
So, bring in the partial mash kits from <a href="http://www.northernbrewer.com/" target="_blank">Northern Brewer</a>!<br />
<br />
I have purchased supplies and kits from them before, so I figured they were a good place to start to reintroduce myself to brewing! I went for a kit that I haven't tried before, but had great reviews, and was a style I am known to like: <a href="http://www.northernbrewer.com/shop/oatmeal-stout-partial-mash-kit.html" target="_blank">Oatmeal Stout</a>!<br />
<br />
I love the kits, as NB does a great job of packaging them:<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--QaX4hjjoUc/U_pNXLAK4hI/AAAAAAABXas/X5KdzNuqPcM/s1600/20140809_144037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/--QaX4hjjoUc/U_pNXLAK4hI/AAAAAAABXas/X5KdzNuqPcM/s1600/20140809_144037.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yq0cSyzUwq4/U_pNk8T_FSI/AAAAAAABXbE/qFQ842-wuLw/s1600/20140809_145442.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-yq0cSyzUwq4/U_pNk8T_FSI/AAAAAAABXbE/qFQ842-wuLw/s1600/20140809_145442.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
The first thing to do: setup the brewkettle9000©!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b3v8jrl9iF4/U_pNaAGU8NI/AAAAAAABXa4/yTemqvMnE2c/s1600/20140809_145427.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-b3v8jrl9iF4/U_pNaAGU8NI/AAAAAAABXa4/yTemqvMnE2c/s1600/20140809_145427.JPG" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Add 5 quarts of water to the brew pot, and bring it to a temperature of 165°F in the brewkettle9000©.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Once it reaches the desired temperature, add the bag of grains in the kit.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>NOTE: If you put this in a nylon bag, make sure to keep it off the bottom of the kettle, unless you want the bag to melt!!!!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At this point, the temperature should be within a couple of degrees of 154°F. If it isn't there, add cold/hot water accordingly. While you are working on getting the temp to 154°, get another kettle with 5 quarts going with water heated to 170°F for <a href="http://brewwiki.com/index.php/Sparging" target="_blank">sparging</a>!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1j4R3aoesOI/U_pNmIGz0EI/AAAAAAABXbQ/5UFmuBjQ-o8/s1600/20140809_150058.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-1j4R3aoesOI/U_pNmIGz0EI/AAAAAAABXbQ/5UFmuBjQ-o8/s1600/20140809_150058.JPG" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We'll want the kettle to stay at this temperature for an hour. The best way to do this is either wrap it in towels, put it in the oven, or keep it on low heat and monitor the temperature, or some combination of those :)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After one hour, put the mash kettle back on the burner and apply heat to get it up to 170°F. Separate the grains from the liquid by removing the bag, or scooping them out with a slotted spoon. </div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b>Congratulations! You just made wort!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Now, we want to take that hot water, and pour it over the grains to get all the sugary, grainy goodness to add it to our wort (don't waste it!)</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sN2qO4rRsT4/U_pN1tVNMoI/AAAAAAABXbs/5xbfnooPMyI/s1600/20140809_155037.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-sN2qO4rRsT4/U_pN1tVNMoI/AAAAAAABXbs/5xbfnooPMyI/s1600/20140809_155037.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FH4aFw-i-G4/U_pNzN5avFI/AAAAAAABXbk/XmWUIg5XBmY/s1600/20140809_155045.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-FH4aFw-i-G4/U_pNzN5avFI/AAAAAAABXbk/XmWUIg5XBmY/s1600/20140809_155045.JPG" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A2UrQirlMjw/U_pN8qnYOGI/AAAAAAABXb0/C6-ZsysTK0w/s1600/20140809_155052.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-A2UrQirlMjw/U_pN8qnYOGI/AAAAAAABXb0/C6-ZsysTK0w/s1600/20140809_155052.JPG" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Anya helping me sparge, or ride her scooter, you decide :)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Slowly pour the water over the grains to make sure the grains don't spill back into the wort, and get the all the potential yummies out of the grains. Make sure to use all 5 quarts of sparge water!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Bring the water to a boil. Once there, turn off the flame, and add the malt syrup and malt power. Turning off the flame will make sure the malts don't get burned. <b>Burned malts = not delicious beer!</b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LsbbCTmUNy8/U_pOEASzjkI/AAAAAAABXcA/4ER4fJfiQpE/s1600/20140809_160541.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-LsbbCTmUNy8/U_pOEASzjkI/AAAAAAABXcA/4ER4fJfiQpE/s1600/20140809_160541.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QyuXKib4xB4/U_pOEiiu3-I/AAAAAAABXcE/jitaa25shjY/s1600/20140809_160546.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-QyuXKib4xB4/U_pOEiiu3-I/AAAAAAABXcE/jitaa25shjY/s1600/20140809_160546.JPG" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<b><br /></b></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After adding the malts, bring it back to a boil and add the hops! Let it boil for 60 minutes.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After 60 minutes, turn off the flame, and cool the wort with a <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Homebrew-Immersion-Wort-Chiller-Copper/dp/B003UCCLG6" target="_blank">wort chiller</a>, or by putting it in the frigde/freezer. We are looking to get the wort down to 100°F.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Pour the wort into your <a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carboy" target="_blank">carboy</a>, and add cold water to bring it to five gallons. Shake the carboy to aerate the wort. </div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-83tbCchDYrE/U_pOSpf033I/AAAAAAABXcs/XgBnSImbZqY/s1600/20140809_192030.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-83tbCchDYrE/U_pOSpf033I/AAAAAAABXcs/XgBnSImbZqY/s1600/20140809_192030.JPG" height="320" width="180" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Carboy, without Wort (I somehow missed getting a picture of it with wort!)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
At this point, the wort should be around 78°F. If not, let it sit until it reaches this temperature, then add the yeast. Shake it again, and add your <a href="http://www.amazon.com/Piece-Plastic-Airlock-Sold-sets/dp/B000E60G2W" target="_blank">airlock</a>. Let it sit for 2-3 weeks in a warm, dark place.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
After the brew has settled down, about a month, it is time to bottle!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Transfer the wort to your bottling bucket, or get a piece of tubing with a cutoff switch, and clean bottles of course!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GQQGM01OxPc/U_pOuQ87-eI/AAAAAAABXdM/gSXUUq4Vqec/s1600/IMG_20140824_132648824_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GQQGM01OxPc/U_pOuQ87-eI/AAAAAAABXdM/gSXUUq4Vqec/s1600/IMG_20140824_132648824_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6qTaWZKuNkY/U_pBq5aVAWI/AAAAAAABXaI/omWxHOUttLs/s1600/IMG_20140824_132155749_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-6qTaWZKuNkY/U_pBq5aVAWI/AAAAAAABXaI/omWxHOUttLs/s1600/IMG_20140824_132155749_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Add two cups of water, and 2/3 cup sugar to a pot, and bring it to a boil.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MD6-eEab9DY/U_pBq3-RNRI/AAAAAAABXaI/T0Ty4sLraAY/s1600/IMG_20140824_132200571.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-MD6-eEab9DY/U_pBq3-RNRI/AAAAAAABXaI/T0Ty4sLraAY/s1600/IMG_20140824_132200571.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Slowly pour the sugar water into the wort, making sure not to splash!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GBpsth9-eiE/U_pBqy2rUTI/AAAAAAABXaI/brPjHeQPt4Q/s1600/IMG_20140824_132207830.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em; text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GBpsth9-eiE/U_pBqy2rUTI/AAAAAAABXaI/brPjHeQPt4Q/s1600/IMG_20140824_132207830.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
</div>
<div class="" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
Once in there, bottle it up!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vRUzpXl0vdc/U_pBq1DzNxI/AAAAAAABXaI/8rZHvyF7Nm0/s1600/IMG_20140824_134940661_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-vRUzpXl0vdc/U_pBq1DzNxI/AAAAAAABXaI/8rZHvyF7Nm0/s1600/IMG_20140824_134940661_HDR.jpg" height="180" width="320" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NInw8r9HzQ0/U_pBq6ErmzI/AAAAAAABXdY/87QCQaEJB-w/s1600/IMG_20140824_134955492.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-NInw8r9HzQ0/U_pBq6ErmzI/AAAAAAABXdY/87QCQaEJB-w/s1600/IMG_20140824_134955492.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PJ3zFtgsSzs/U_pBq0JlJkI/AAAAAAABXaI/qkYzpGQ2Rcw/s1600/IMG_20140824_134953343.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-PJ3zFtgsSzs/U_pBq0JlJkI/AAAAAAABXaI/qkYzpGQ2Rcw/s1600/IMG_20140824_134953343.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
Add bottle caps, and place in a warm, dark place for a month.<br />
<br />
Then, enjoy!<br />
<br />
A follow up entry will be added in a month with taste results!!!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-36303109567354679722014-08-22T18:31:00.000-05:002014-08-22T18:31:36.290-05:00The One Car, Electric only challenge!The other day, I had to take the minivan ("<a href="http://www.amazon.com/Mister-Seahorse-board-World-Philomel/dp/0399254900" target="_blank">Mr. Seahorse</a>") into the dealer since it was emitting a fairly noxious burning smell.<br />
<br />
Several hundred dollars later, I have new brakes on my sub 22k miles van.<br />
<br />
Robyn and I were less than pleased having to get brakes done on a barely two year old vehicle.<br />
<br />
That got us thinking: Do we need two cars? Since I work from home 90-95% of the time, could we get by with only one?<br />
<br />
What makes this more interesting, is our second car is...a Nissan Leaf!<br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9ex98RmYOh8/UzNBOtIxqCI/AAAAAAABTnI/VURyDR-X3Ro/s1600/IMG_20140326_170404544_HDR.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-9ex98RmYOh8/UzNBOtIxqCI/AAAAAAABTnI/VURyDR-X3Ro/s1600/IMG_20140326_170404544_HDR.jpg" height="320" width="180" /></a></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
Can our family of four make it with only one, electric-only, car?</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We decided to set out and test this theory!</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
We began the test this week on Wednesday, and so far (three days in) it has been good.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
IT will require good communication between myself and Robyn, as well as a bit of finagling of the times I do have to go into the office, but I think it will be doable.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
The nice thing is we still have the van if this totally falls flat.</div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
<br /></div>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;">
I plan to try to update this at least weekly with the latest happenings, but if you think I am late, feel free to drop me a line to update this blog-o thing!</div>
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-30228419073885105092014-08-20T07:13:00.002-05:002014-08-20T07:13:05.621-05:00Goodbye Picture thingyWell,<br />
<br />
That didn't last long.<br />
<br />
I tried changing the theme, and the picture thing went away.<br />
<br />
Maybe it will come back, maybe not.<br />
<br />
But!<br />
<br />
Look for a post later today about my family's latest experiment: 100% electric driving!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-46068585953646478382014-08-15T13:37:00.000-05:002014-08-15T13:37:00.315-05:00Never good...When you are deleting something that is version <span style="color: red;"><b>666</b></span><br />
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aQEa-ZrsMVI/U-5TNw2e5fI/AAAAAAABXEU/NGIApDJhjJ0/s1600/EVILPOLICY.png" imageanchor="1" style="clear: left; float: left; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-aQEa-ZrsMVI/U-5TNw2e5fI/AAAAAAABXEU/NGIApDJhjJ0/s1600/EVILPOLICY.png" height="19" width="640" /></a></div>
<span style="color: red;"><b><br /></b></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-68345798437068443332014-08-12T17:00:00.000-05:002014-08-12T17:00:08.290-05:00Flashy Picture thing!So, one of the things I wanted to do for awhile was add a slideshow of pictures.<br />
<br />
I played around with Picasa slideshows for a bit, but didn't like the limitation.<br />
<br />
Finally found one I like!<br />
<br />
So, visit the site, and let me know what you think!<br />
<br />
I'll keep adding more pictures to it as well.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-35414720927003977762014-08-11T13:32:00.001-05:002014-08-11T13:32:51.891-05:00Another attempt<p dir="ltr">Man,</p>
<p dir="ltr">How many times am I going to recreate this thing?</p>
<p dir="ltr">Also, Selfie!</p>
<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1YhEInGk01g/U-kMUEK8YzI/AAAAAAABXCc/NpifFdVWBdM/s1600/1407781911360.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"> <img border="0" src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-1YhEInGk01g/U-kMUEK8YzI/AAAAAAABXCc/NpifFdVWBdM/s640/1407781911360.jpg"> </a> </div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-7489554397570591322014-08-10T16:40:00.001-05:002014-08-10T16:40:22.609-05:00New Home, same meI have neglected my Wordpress blog for awhile.<br />
<br />
Mostly, because every time I think to post, I go to login, and realize there are plug updates, or other things that need to be taken care of first.<br />
<br />
So, Goodbye Wordpress!<br />
<br />
Hello Blogger!<br />
<br />
I was a blogger many moons ago, but left when I thought I needed to have my own server(s), and control my own updates.<br />
<br />
I've come to realize that between working, two kids, a wife, a dog, two cats, baking/brewing habits, and wanting to spend time on ALL OF THE THINGS, that sometimes, the simple things are the best.<br />
<br />
I've got some more housekeeping to do to clean this up...and I'm not sure if the pictures from the other posts will come back. They are in my photo stream...but that would be a lot of work to go back through.<br />
<br />
So I may (but most likely will not) go back and fix them, but it will take some time.<br />
<br />
So pardon the dust, and welcome (back!) to my blog!<br />
<br />
<br />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-80124199209962349442013-07-05T17:12:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.786-05:00Home Improvements: Built-in removal and painting!Back in May, Robyn and I got the bright idea to remove some of the built-in shelving/cupboards in our TV/Computer room. The shelves appeared to be made of scrap wood and were somewhat flimsy; if you pulled on the bottom left corner, the unit pulled away from the wall.<br/><br/>Let's start with what they looked like originally:<br/><br/>[pe2-image src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-Lr3n-_aTMO8/Udd1ZYbW0XI/AAAAAAABNl4/qL3oUUZzwN0/s144-c-o/1290694135650.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897311315979325810" caption="" type="image" alt="1290694135650.jpg" ]<br/><br/>Not the best picture, but you get the idea.<br/><br/> <br/><br/>I thought that this would mean the shelves were sitting on top of the floor, and would be easy to remove...<br/><br/>Oh, how wrong I was...<br/><br/>The first thing I noticed, is that taking them apart was not easy; each piece was connected to the next piece by about 6-10 nails that did not exactly line up. I also made note that pieces that would have made sense as one piece were in fact several, and some pieces that would have made sense as multiple were one, oddly shaped piece.<br/><br/>I went about demolishing the shelves for the better part of an afternoon, when I made the discovery that changed my mood from optimistic to, "well, that is unexpected."<br/><br/>[pe2-image src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-btAq1FUJZg8/UddzCg7zMHI/AAAAAAABNlU/flTVpuX7Kko/s144-c-o/20130527_132219.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308724102639730" caption="" type="image" alt="20130527_132219.jpg" ]<br/><p class="clear"> I had just pulled the bottom of the lowest shelf, and was greeted by this. In case you can't tell, it is sub flooring, not the nice, hardwood floor I was expecting.</p><br/><p class="clear">I had already removed 70% of the unit, there was no turning back. [pe2-image src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-bhrEVdhnPg0/UddzCm9uFvI/AAAAAAABNlU/wAzbojwVssM/s144-c-o/20130527_132203.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308725721306866" caption="" type="image" alt="20130527_132203.jpg" ]</p><br/><p class="clear">A slightly better picture of the shelves. This side, was not connected to the wall...</p><br/><p class="clear">[pe2-image src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-tkQi1gtapbY/UddzCq_3hiI/AAAAAAABNlU/y09A7Kl1AjI/s144-c-o/20130527_132211%2525280%252529.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308726804055586" caption="" type="image" alt="20130527_132211(0).jpg" ]</p><br/><p class="clear">The corner where the floor to ceiling cupboards used to live. I dig the avocado green!</p><br/><p class="clear">[pe2-image src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-7KiWS1xXlaY/UddzCiP_TqI/AAAAAAABNlU/ne_gSnyOqsU/s144-c-o/20130527_132242.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308724455755426" caption="" type="image" alt="20130527_132242.jpg" ]</p><br/><p class="clear">Again, the floor was not where I wanted it.</p><br/><p class="clear">Robyn and I racked our brains on what to do. We decided to not worry about that, and continue the removal, and think about it, since we weren't going to clean up as nicely as we thought.</p><br/><p class="clear">Then, some time later, Robyn came up with a brilliant idea; Turn the 12' by 19" non-wood floor into an accent piece. Our current plan is to put down some white tile with a border of Robin's Egg blue tile, running up the sides and along the front. Then, we will take our two handmade bookcases, and use them to flank our Wall mounted TV. We will have to get some sort of cabinet for the wireless router/Media equipment, but we had a plan!</p><br/><p class="clear">Along with the floor, we obviously needed to do something about the paint.</p><br/><p class="clear">We decided to take a trip to Lowes on Independence Day and pick out our new wall color. We couldn't find an exact Robin's Egg blue, but we found one that was close.</p><br/><p class="clear">A few dozen spackle patches later, and we were ready to prime the walls where the cabinets had been.</p><br/><p class="clear">Before...</p><br/>[pe2-image src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-dALaW6VJB8k/UddzCgFmntI/AAAAAAABNlU/N41NqsztAmc/s144-c-o/20130704_125522.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308723875323602" caption="" type="image" alt="20130704_125522.jpg" ] [pe2-image src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-C52F4osXoME/UddzCkNrQhI/AAAAAAABNlU/3_p1l7t16UM/s144-c-o/20130704_125528.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308724982923794" caption="" type="image" alt="20130704_125528.jpg" ] [pe2-image src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-4-F4N_HegA4/UddzClLrW-I/AAAAAAABNlU/cWImm7hBqYY/s144-c-o/IMG_20130704_125542.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308725242977250" caption="" type="image" alt="IMG_20130704_125542.jpg" ]<br/><p class="clear">I even had a helper!</p><br/>[pe2-image src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-nXLOkEik36U/UddzCm-YWJI/AAAAAAABNlU/LMUjxT7dad0/s144-c-o/IMG_20130704_134722.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308725724076178" caption="" type="image" alt="IMG_20130704_134722.jpg" ]<br/>[pe2-image src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-kSlr11QuYRs/UddzCinEv_I/AAAAAAABNlU/6ehpnWeduKI/s144-c-o/20130704_134824.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308724552581106" caption="" type="image" alt="20130704_134824.jpg" ]<br/><p class="clear">..or two!</p><br/>[pe2-image src="http://lh5.ggpht.com/-F7LQp9SMBC4/UddzCkFjVBI/AAAAAAABNlU/R1BSD_bfp-0/s144-c-o/20130704_134834.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308724948849682" caption="" type="image" alt="20130704_134834.jpg" ]<br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><p class="clear">While we couldn't paint over the primer that day, we did manage to paint about 50% of the room. I wasn't sure about the color before, but after it was on the walls, I really liked how it looked!</p><br/> <br/><br/>[pe2-image src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-sZWoxwpKlro/UddzCsmZsdI/AAAAAAABNlU/nIwX-2vrL1U/s144-c-o/20130704_153503.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308727234114002" caption="" type="image" alt="20130704_153503.jpg" ] [pe2-image src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-lQkKVzerZ_k/UddzCh3uUgI/AAAAAAABNlU/ZKZbiil7B8o/s144-c-o/IMG_20130704_153519.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308724353978882" caption="" type="image" alt="IMG_20130704_153519.jpg" ]<br/><p class="clear"> Those two pictures don't really do the color the justice, but you can start to see it.</p><br/><p class="clear">Today, we went full steam ahead after I got home from work, and got the other walls painted. Two hours later, we had the walls done, and even were able to go back and touch up some of the painting from yesterday.</p><br/><p class="clear">[pe2-image src="http://lh6.ggpht.com/-dvXvO49TrCM/UddzClf8LQI/AAAAAAABNlU/cBnWshOa2mw/s144-c-o/20130705_155211.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308725327965442" caption="" type="image" alt="20130705_155211.jpg" ] [pe2-image src="http://lh4.ggpht.com/-e_3xkfj0K4A/UddzCkx-3EI/AAAAAAABNlU/jZm8B3K6arU/s144-c-o/20130705_155229.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308725135203394" caption="" type="image" alt="20130705_155229.jpg" ] [pe2-image src="http://lh3.ggpht.com/-UNzf4Jj4RkA/UddzCuWdwnI/AAAAAAABNlU/eWQAFtSGPz0/s144-c-o/20130705_155229_HDR.jpg" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/105981302809309990752/HomeImprovements#5897308727704142450" caption="" type="image" alt="20130705_155229_HDR.jpg" ]</p><br/><p class="clear">Now, all that's left to do is pick out the tiles, order the tiles, remount the TV, find a cabinet, and put the room back together!</p><br/><p class="clear">We're practically done! :)</p>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-2258175820939960462013-02-22T01:46:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.766-05:00Hooray!I just upgraded to the GS 3 due to my DroidX finally biting the dust.<br/><br/>Wish it could have waited for a little while longer, but so far I am loving the GS3.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-7235330156047566402012-04-07T15:13:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.754-05:00Anya and Quinn<img title="IMG_20120405_181344.jpg" class="alignnone" alt="image" src="http://markpeterson.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/04/wpid-IMG_20120405_181344.jpg" /><br/><br/><br/><br/>What a great big sister!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-70581861295440186912012-02-25T11:23:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.730-05:00Golden raisin soda bread<img title="1330201349665.jpg" class="alignnone" alt="image" src="http://markpeterson.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/wpid-1330201349665.jpg" /><br/><br/><br/><br/>So good! <br/><br/>More like a confectionery treat than bread, but very tasty!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-58397813608929374532012-02-22T07:06:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.714-05:00Mountain Lion:I decided to do a dumb thing: I'm going to run OS X 10.8 Mountain Lion on my main machine to see how well it holds up.<br/><br/>I was having a few issues with Lion, and figured it was time to wipe anyway and reinstall. Since we have access to the Developer's preview, I thought "What the heck?" and loaded it up.<br/><br/>Install went smoothly, and most applications are working as expected. The only one that isn't working right is Apple Remote Desktop, but that doesn't really surprise me: Lion didn't work right with ARD for some time.<br/><br/>It's three days in, and so far, not too bad. We'll see as time goes on.<br/><br/> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-32814247933109494522012-02-20T16:13:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.694-05:00WordPress mobile appWow...the new WordPress mobile application is pretty nice.<br/><br/>Anyway, here is a cute picture of Anya in a crown!<br/><br/><br/><br/><a name='more'></a><br/><br/><br/><br/><img title="IMG_20120219_113119.jpg" class="alignnone" alt="image" src="http://markpeterson.net/wp-content/uploads/2012/02/wpid-IMG_20120219_113119.jpg" />Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-80080916464325286382012-01-15T08:55:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.670-05:00Resolutions for 2012So, it has definitely been awhile since I last blogged. I wish there was an epically awesome reason, but there hasn't been. Work has been steady busy, and we've been prepping the house for baby #2. I guess that would fall under epically awesome.<br/><br/>Anyway, here is my list of personal goals for the coming year:<br/><ol><br/> <li>double the number of races to four. </li><br/> <li>read a book a month. </li><br/> <li>decide on, and apply for masters program</li><br/> <li>hit stable weight of 160, currently 162-163</li><br/> <li>finish painting the two rooms upstairs....lame but doable :)</li><br/> <li>travel to visit old friends. </li><br/> <li>get out and be more social</li><br/> <li>organize more stuff at home and let go of some of the old things. </li><br/></ol><br/>There, I think that should do it.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-74527640780947204032012-01-02T11:13:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.650-05:00Holiday Newsletter!Robyn and I just wrote up our year in review.<br/><br/><a title="Holiday Newsletter" href="http://markpeterson.net/christmas/holiday-newsletters/holiday-newsletter-2011/">http://markpeterson.net/christmas/holiday-newsletters/holiday-newsletter-2011/</a><br/><br/>Happy New Year!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-6490442518708767422011-12-26T15:54:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.634-05:00TURDUCKEN!Since we were going to host Christmas Dinner this year, I decided to go "all in" on dinner and make the ultimate over indulgent Main course: TURDUCKEN!<br/><br/>We stopped by the Butcher the week before to order the birds. There was a small piece of me that hoped they could bone the birds for me. Unfortunately, they told me I was out of luck.<br/><br/>The birds were picked up the Friday before Christmas (Christmas Eve Eve) and left in the fridge overnight. Saturday Morning (Christmas Eve) would become "boning day."<br/><br/>First up was the Turkey. This was the hardest task as it still needed to look nice for presentation. The saving grace was that it was also the biggest bird. about 30 minutes later, I had a Turkey with only drumsticks and wings still attached.<br/><br/>The Duck was next, and took slightly longer as it was also the first of the completely boned birds. The drumsticks went fairly smoothly, but I just cut off the wings: that would have been insanely hard and left me with not much meat to show for it.<br/><br/>Finally, I tackled the chicken. This took about 15 and was probably the best boned bird of the bunch. Again, I just cut off the wings and saved them for a dinner to be named later. Three birds boned in under two hours, not bad!<br/><br/>Next came the stuffing and sewing together. I made what I thought was a generous amount of stuffing...but apparently not! I placed the turkey breast down on the cutting board to stuff it. After laying the stuffing 1/4" thick, I realized I did not have enough. Who would have though 6 cups of bread crumbs would not make enough stuffing! I had to skimp on the next layers, but it probably worked out for the best as I'm not sure my family are huge stuffing fans.<br/><br/>Robyn helped me sew this monstrosity shut. I made the executive decision to NOT flip the bird back over so the breast was on the top, which I am slightly still kicking myself for.<br/><table style="width: auto;"><br/><tbody><br/><tr><br/><td><br/><br/>[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="300" caption="Pre-sewed Turducken"]<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/8vBtjamD47L3TDJVPp6oGdMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img title="Getting ready to close it up." src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-AEF3P7fpEgo/TvfIj8Hc2hI/AAAAAAAA1VE/AU-QdYPdTUk/s400/PICT1745.JPG" alt="" width="300" height="400" /></a>[/caption]</td><br/></tr><br/><tr><br/><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/mark.peterson/Dec2011?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite">Dec 2011</a></td><br/></tr><br/></tbody><br/></table><br/>I took the over 25 pounds of meat and put in the oven for 5 hours...NOT. LONG. ENOUGH. The recipe said that it should take only 3...Paula Deen, why did you lie to me!?<br/><br/>We ended up Cutting the bird into Thirds to encourage the final 10 degrees to show up, which they did.<br/><table style="width: auto;"><br/><tbody><br/><tr><br/><td><br/><br/>[caption id="" align="alignnone" width="400" caption="Upside down Finished Turducken."]<a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/Qd5XDabBGmhZ9nkp5W30ENMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=embedwebsite"><img title="Turducken upside down." src="https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/--ND6zQ0Ejvs/TvfIzvX17pI/AAAAAAAA1UU/nJc-GHRYjGU/s400/PICT1748.JPG" alt="" width="400" height="300" /></a>[/caption]</td><br/></tr><br/><tr><br/><td style="font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px; text-align: right;">From <a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/mark.peterson/Dec2011?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite">Dec 2011</a></td><br/></tr><br/></tbody><br/></table><br/> <br/><br/>Final Verdict: DELICIOUS.<br/><br/>It was quite a bit of work, but given the right circumstances (like a holiday : ) ) I would do this again.<br/><br/>I would definitely allot for more cooking time and try to bring them together the day before.<br/><br/> <br/><br/> <br/><br/> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-5188543066358911582011-12-05T11:50:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.615-05:00I love my daughter..<a href="http://markpeterson.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/20111205-155002.jpg"><img src="http://markpeterson.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/12/20111205-155002.jpg" alt="20111205-155002.jpg" class="alignnone size-full" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-7227194209107721712011-11-25T09:46:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.597-05:00Turkey Trot: AWESOMEThe Turkey Trot was great this year.<br/><br/>I started out the day by participating in the 40th Annual Turkey Trot. I chose to run the 2.5 mile "fun run" instead of the "serious" 4.4 miler.<br/><br/>Considering I run 3 miles every day, I was more worked up than I anticipated. It probably had something to do with the OVER 4800 RUNNERS that were there!<br/><br/>I rode my bike over to the race since it was less than 2 miles away and since it was a beautiful day, I had a hard time convincing myself NOT to bike. I arrived just about an hour before my race.<br/><br/>I couldn't believe the number of people and the energy of the event! Several speakers setup for music and race announcements, tents for check in, dozens of port-a-potties, Race bag drop off, and crates of apples from the local orchard. Amazing. The MC was welcoming the runners and their families, and directing people to the correct starting lines. She also made sure to alert the runners that the finish line in the park was "a little muddy" and to be careful.<br/><br/>The 4.4 mile race began down the road from the 2.5 start line. Looking down at runners made me feel like I was staring down a charging army of Mordor...<br/><br/>I ran into a few people I know from work and from my past who were also running in the 2.5. It was exciting to see them, but I was slightly paralyzed and didn't converse as much as I wanted to: Partly because I assumed their body language was that of Cordiality. So it goes.<br/><br/>After the 4.4 participants ran by the 2.5 start line, the rest of the fun runners began to line up. There were several Pilgrims, indians, and Turkeys lined up: I even saw two Thanksgiving Dinner tables lined up! The announcer pumped up the crowd with primal grunts interspersed with directions on where to go: If you are running get in the road, otherwise get out of the road.<br/><br/>He screamed go, and everyone took off. Families hugged the right side to allow the "serious" (read 10-year-old kids) runners by. I started out fairly conservatively in the middle of the pack. shortly after the first turn, I realized I needed to pick up the pace just to get into stride with my daily rhythm.<br/><br/>Soon after that, I caught up with the serious squads who were all walking and breathing heavy. I smiled and gave a little chuckle towards their excitement and enthusiasm.<br/><br/>After another turn or two, the 2.5 milers merged with the 4.4 milers. As we approached the park, I recalled the earlier warning of a slightly muddy finish line. As we ran up past the tennis courts, I saw the wooded trail that led down to the finish line. As I started my decent, I noticed the lack of mud. "Well, this isn't too bad." I thought. The more interesting part of the hill was avoiding the roots and damp leaves.<br/><br/>Reaching the bridge I turned right towards the home stretch and glanced at the finish line: The ground before it was reflecting a bit of light...<br/><br/>.."slightly muddy" apparently means "One giant puddle that stretches about 200 feet out from the finish line." I initially tried to avoid the puddle, but soon realized there was no denying I was going to get wet...and muddy...very wet and muddy. I picked up the pace and began to sprint to the finish. I looked at the clock as I crossed the line. It read over 28 minutes, which seemed really wrong. Turns out, that was the 4.4 clock.<br/><br/>I paced around, drinking several glasses of water before starting the climb back up the hill to grab my bike. I got home, showered and got ready to spend the rest of the day with great family.<br/><br/>I checked the race site after getting home from dinner to see how I did: 19:03 and second in my Age Class! The first place in my age was about 16 minutes...so I've got some training to do for next year! And I do plan on running next year...maybe as a bowl of Mashed Potatoes...<br/><br/> Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-58419925517629030342011-11-22T08:00:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.552-05:00Getting ready.Thanksgiving is one of my favorite holidays. It is one of the holidays where families get together to enjoy a good meal and each other's company without the obligation of purchasing a gift.<br/><br/>I want Christmas to be like that. I think I say that now because I can't afford to buy expensive gifts for everyone in my family.<br/><br/>There has always been this part of me that wants to have a homemade Christmas. The kind where you get together early in the morning to prepare to Christmas dinner, hang out for the day drinking coffee, and eventually wine...just soaking in the time together. Then, once we've had a little time to digest, open homemade presents that have real feeling behind them. I'm not saying you can't have an emotional response to a new drill, but I just have a feeling opening a box of homemade cookies, bread, or handmade candle might give a slightly more personal, moving response...<br/><br/>I think that's what I want, but if given the opportunity, would I do it? it's hard when you have kids to get out the door for an entire day. I know Anya doesn't really sleep/nap well anywhere but in her bed. Couple that with even if she did sleep, there might be too much noise to stay asleep.<br/><br/>Homemade gifts are harder not only because you essentially have an "amateur" making the gift, it then has to be something the person wants. It isn't hard to do, but requires to actually <em>KNOW</em> the person.<br/><br/>Do they like chocolate chip cookies, but LOVE chocolate Chip with walnut cookies?<br/><br/>What if they don't bake properly? What if the Candle turns an undesirable color? What if? What if?<br/><br/>That's the issue I'm facing, the "what if" dilemma. I want to make and give gifts people will LOVE, not just like. I WANT to know them well enough to make something they will fondly remember, and (not so secretly) hope they receive again next year, or something very similar.<br/><br/> <br/><br/>Maybe some year, we'll do that...maybe.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-13101466861102381662011-11-20T14:24:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.534-05:00Almost forgot!I haven't posted a link to the Baby Peterson 2.0 album on Picasa yet. So, here is the link!<br/><table style="width: 194px;"><br/><tbody><br/><tr><br/><td style="height: 194px; background: url('https://picasaweb.google.com/s/c/transparent_album_background.gif') no-repeat left;" align="center"><a href="https://picasaweb.google.com/mark.peterson/BabyPeterson20?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite"><img style="margin: 1px 0 0 4px;" src="https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-obPd3dyxW0I/Tm5suCfQXyE/AAAAAAAA09Y/gatZ0qADIf8/s160-c/BabyPeterson20.jpg" alt="" width="160" height="160" /></a></td><br/></tr><br/><tr><br/><td style="text-align: center; font-family: arial,sans-serif; font-size: 11px;"><a style="color: #4d4d4d; font-weight: bold; text-decoration: none;" href="https://picasaweb.google.com/mark.peterson/BabyPeterson20?authuser=0&feat=embedwebsite">Baby Peterson 2.0</a></td><br/></tr><br/></tbody><br/></table>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-20447006902257919832011-11-20T14:20:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.515-05:00And then there was three...Tons to move that is!<br/><br/>Since both the Bills and Vikings games were depressing, I made two quick back-to-back trips to TSC and managed to get one ton of pellets in my garage in under an hour.<br/><br/>Stacking said ton took about as long.<br/><br/>I am now tired. I also realized that I don't have the room to store too many more bags there.<br/><br/>Maybe I can make a run once a month to get the remainder, or get another pallet to put another Ton in the basement.<br/><br/>At least for now, we have over 50 bags in the basement. That should get us through the holidays...I hope!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-13396576463042478132011-11-20T02:41:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.471-05:00A good way to move 4 tons by yourself...That is my current dilemma.<br/><br/>I have 4 tons of pellets on four pallets waiting for me to pickup at the local TSC.<br/><br/>The manager there has been kind enough to let me keep them there, but that might not always be the case.<br/><br/>I need to come up with a way to move those four tons from TSC to our house, about a 7 mile trip.<br/><br/>Here is how it works now:<br/><ol><br/> <li>Open pallet, and take half of the pallet (25 bags) and load them into the back of my Sonoma.</li><br/> <li>Drive 7 miles home.</li><br/> <li>Take 25 bags and stack them on pallet in the basement/outside.</li><br/> <li>Repeat.</li><br/></ol><br/><div>This way is the easiest from a logistical point of view: I only need to have the time move 1000 pounds around.</div><br/><div>Grabbing the pellets this way would mean another EIGHT trips to TSC to bring the pellets home.</div><br/><div>That is a lot of trips, and a lot of man power (from me). The other thing with this plan means the pallets need to be opened, which means they are no longer sealed from the elements. If I continue this way, I would need to store all the pellets in the basement and/or garage. I like the idea of having the pellets still sealed during the winter. If I don't pick up the pellets until January, they are just sitting outside in the elements anyway...</div><br/>Here's my ideal situation:<br/><ol><br/> <li>Fork lift the 4 tons into a truck.</li><br/> <li>Drive truck 7 miles.</li><br/> <li>Use another fork lift to get them off the truck.</li><br/> <li>Store pellet pallets on the backside of my house.</li><br/> <li>Move pallets inside one at time.</li><br/></ol><br/><div>The only issue with this plan is I do not have a Fork lift..</div><br/><div>I could rent a pallet jack, but the wheel width would be too wide for a normal rental truck loading ramp.</div><br/><div>I guess a makeshift ramp could be constructed...</div><br/><div>This now adds ~$100 to the price. Not a deal breaker by any stretch, but I'm not a big fan of spending MORE money if it can be avoided.</div><br/><div>I want to find a solution that is easy for me to do without having to rely on several friends to come help move my solid fuel source. I'd also like to find a solution that isn't dependent on my truck, as it is now approaching 12 years old...I'm not sure how long Vera will be with us (hopefully 2-3 years).</div><br/><div>I'm thinking about delivery services for next year. I would need a pellet chute and a place to store them.</div><br/><div>I smell a new spring project!</div><br/><div>As far as my remaining 4 tons, anyone have an idea?</div>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-80398488133807202332011-11-18T18:50:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.451-05:00Stove Update: still rocking!Ever since the last time I "fixed" the seal, the stove has been running great: The temperature in the house has hovered above 75 even when outside it is below freezing!<br/><br/>The only issue I have is I need to remember to fill the stove before bed! Two mornings I've woken up without heat on...<br/><br/> <br/><br/>I smell a calendar entry coming!Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-70556849949695485442011-11-17T18:44:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.434-05:00Should I be scared?Anya watching Dora<br/><br/><a href="http://markpeterson.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/wpid-IMG_20111116_163957.jpg"><img class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-626" title="Anya Watching "Do Doo"" src="http://markpeterson.net/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/wpid-IMG_20111116_163957-225x300.jpg" alt="" width="225" height="300" /></a>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-7652970.post-36918279528728500272011-11-17T04:23:00.000-05:002014-08-10T16:03:10.405-05:00You know it is going to be a good dayWhen you walk into work and have voicemail from half of your staff saying they will be out...<br/><br/>Whatever is going around is kicking my team's butt. Not good!<br/><br/> <br/><br/>Another day of one tech, and one manager trying to do the work of 5...Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/05678854477129319587noreply@blogger.com0