Carrie Ella Farrar

I pledge to eat more fresh, local and organic produce, incorporating lots of delicious local fruits and veggies in my diet. I will avoid processed foods.

In addition, I will continue the Bike Commute Challenge by biking to and from work during these October days.

Won't you support me and the Northwest Earth Institute?

My EcoChallenge Blog

October 14th, 2011

WOW! I'm blown away by the generous support of my donors. Thank you so much to everyone who has contributed to my EcoChallenge, supporting the Northwest Earth Institute. October has been particularly wet and rainy, so I'll admit I haven't used my bicycle 100 percent of the time. But since I don't have a car (and don't really need one!), public transit is my back-up to get around town. I am a Zipcar user, but haven't used Zipcar at all in October so far! Saving money, saving tailpipe emissions, and keeping me active. But I have been biking more and more, learning what works and what doesn't in terms of wet-weather cycling. I'm much more prepared to keep biking come winter, minus a few more water-proof items. For the other half of my EcoChallenge -- reducing processed foods -- I created a tall order for myself! I rely on those 'quick fix' foods, and this challenge has raised my attention to that. I recently discovered the "OCTOBER UNPROCESSED" challenge, which I've also signed up for to coincide with this. It's on the Eating Rules blog, and there are many great recipes and food / menu ideas. http://www.eatingrules.com/2011/09/october-unprocessed-2011/ I learned about this in the recent edition of Grist.org. I know I haven't lived up to the Challenge each day for the past two weeks, but I'm inspired to incorporate these questions and ideas into more and more meals. My EcoChallenge will live on! Thanks again to all who have supported me with your encouraging words and through donations.

October 5th, 2011

Lunch today is a delicious green organic salad and vegan soup, delivered -- get this -- by bicycle! I'm especially happy today as it's a reminder that my EcoChallenge (sustainable food & bicycle transportation) is in perfect harmony with this great local business: SoupCycle! They deliver soup and salads (mostly organic and local ingredients) by bicycle within the Portland metropolitan area. I subscribe, getting my food on a weekly basis, and can count on a healthy (and yummy) addition to my meals. Check them out online: www.soupcycle.com

October 5th, 2011

Yesterday I rode my bicycle to the climbing gym despite the rainy weather. I haven't placed the fenders on my bike yet, and WOW did I get wet! I was recalling the advice from Stephanie Knoll at the Bicycle Transportation Alliance that when riding in the rain, about 50% of the water comes from the road. Yup, I can attest to that. I'll be getting the fenders on my bike ASAP. :-) The food challenge is a bit tricky. I've been working in lots of produce into my meals that I prepare at home, but the Fall is also event season for me at work, which means lots of prepared foods. Luckily, many of these events use local, sustainably-minded caterers, so I can count on their wise decisions. I'll be picking and choosing what I eat carefully.

Comments

From: Carrie Farrar

Kicking it off!

From: Kathy Stites

Carrie, you must share your experience with eating better with the rest of us! Go forth and be successful!

From: Alison Bailey

It's not much, but how could I not support YOU! Love, Al

From: Michael Tevlin

Well, Rich Bruer and Tami Boardman have already gotten to me with their pledges. So I'm afraid you're low woman on the totem pole. But it all adds up for the same cause! Keep up the good work.

From: Mike Mercer

Way to go Carrie! Fenders are a must - went it's wet, maybe 75% comes from the road - soggy socks for sure. There are some great fenders that are easy to put on and take off for the summer. Happy to help in the selection process. Way to get rolling on the challenge!

From: Hearne & Son Electrical Heating & Plumbing Service

I'm happy that you are being able to eat well, ride well, and make money for the cause! Good luck in your challenge. Gene

From: Lynn and Eduard Wiescholek

Way to go, Carrie Ella. We are sooo proud of you. You make these Ribley-Wiescholek Folks look good!!!!! Love you so, Eduard, Lynn, Toby, and the Precious Memory of our Benz

From: Amy Hillman

You rock-thanks for inspiring! amy

From: Jane Hearne

You go, girl! You make me proud, and I am NOT biased! Also, kudos to another Portland creative and green business, SoupCycle. Love, Jane

From: Mike Mercer

Nicely done in hitting your goal. How is the challenge continuing to play out for you?

From: Sarah Hall

Carrie, Thanks for the chance to support you in taking conscious action! And thanks to Northwest Earth Institute for inspiring so many!

(back to list of individuals)

My EcoChallenge(s)

Sustainable Food Options

Alternative Transportation

My Fundraising Goal

$500

My Pledge Tally

$710

My Pledgers

• Carrie Farrar
• Kathy Stites
• Alison Bailey
• Michael Tevlin
• Rick Reber & Kit Koenig
• Will Carter
• Will Carter 1
• Hearne & Son Electrical Heating & Plumbing Service
• Lynn and Eduard Wiescholek
• Amy Hillman
• Jane Hearne
• Kristen Sagan
• Sarah Hall