We are trying to be self sufficient-ish (idealists with a touch of pragmatism?) in many ways however we recognise many of the limitations.
Interests are in Peak Oil, Transition-ing, reducing bills, reusing, recycling, local food, enduring toys, global warming, growing our own, wild food, energy efficiency, real nappies, reducing our (and our childrens) footprints (water, oil, carbon, methane....etc.) - and loads of other things but not in any particular order.
Started some beer making, also Chutney, Apple Leathers, Jam (we have wonderful plums) etc. Also gather some great wild fruit (rasps from the neighbouring field, chanterelles from the wood next door, birch bolitas from the garden amongst others).
We have a big house with an integrated water heating system (Solar panels, Wood burner, Oil and Electric) - would love to find a way to move over more oil independent heating (wood burner does much in our main kitchen living space). Also want to move to rainwater harvesting (we voluntarily have a meter - so we are officially VERY weird in Scotland).
We are learning loads about our electricity consumption with a live meter - and are contributing where we can to Transition Black Isle.
We have lots to learn - and hopefully can contribute some knowledge too
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(thanks)
and welcome 