Who's the granny driver?? What? You mean me? No, I'm hypermiling.

I've been introduced to a term called "Hypermiling". I have come across various articles in the past describing how to drive more efficiently, and found surprisingly many of these things I already do. This came to light as I was recently test-driving a Nissan Sentra. (my last car died). As a drove off the on ramp onto the Freeway, the car dealer told me I could accelerate if I wanted to...thinking I might be nervous about really testing the car. I said "No, it's ok, this is how I drive." I then went into my little speech about how driving slower is more gas efficient, this brother looked at me as if I was crazy and said he was sure glad he wasn't my husband-we'd have to drive separately.

So now I have a word for it for my craziness--which sounds WAY cooler than granny driving. The tools on the website or much more organized then my rambling with fuzzy facts too. In summary, meaning things that we could all do:

1. Try driving 5-10 miles slower on the Freeway
2. Avoid sudden stopping and accelerating.
3. Drive slower in the morning when your car is cold to allow it time to heat up. Cars run more efficient warm.
4. Get regular tune-ups and keep your tires inflated properly.
5. Avoid excessive idling.

The last is my favorite actually. Just think, waiting in line for fast food, or at the bank, or for me, at the really really long red arrow light turning into my neighborhood. You could be saving gas, and doing something for the enviroment. Makes cents.

What does it mean to be brown and green?

Essentially, like a tree: with strong roots and arms that extend reaching to the sky with hope.
Or maybe like an avocado: with a solid core surrounded by mushy stuff
Or maybe like a kiwi: with a rough exterior, but a sweet inside

In my experience, it's been a bit complex.

Its interesting to see a city so green be so divided culturally. Portland is very innovative when it comes to Environmental Sustainability, but it has a lot of work to do in the realm of equity. The history of the city is one of exclusion, gentrification, and discrimination. However, in addition to that, there is positive movement towards making Portland become a leader in the triple bottom line approach to sustainability as well. It is important to recognize that we as people of color must also be ready to change and adapt to the new times that are coming. Climate change is real, and we must prepare ourselves to not be left behind once again.