November 10th, 2009 by Justin
Hello, we are Justin and Kirsten O’Leary, the newest members of the Transition initiating group here in Newburyport. Four years ago, we moved here from Haverhill (Justin having always lived in the Merrimack Valley). A large part of that decision was Newburyport’s vibrant and walk-able downtown. We love being able to live and work within walking distance of our home. It connects us more fully to our city and with the people of Newburyport (our community). Our house ceases to be just a place to sleep in and microwave the occasional dinner in; it is our Home (which is now microwave free). We see our neighbors as we walk to work, they wonder how we are if we have not crossed paths in several days. Neighbors, artisan breads and cheeses, all within walking distance; this is good.
Who we work for is also of importance to us. Working for independent businesses and shopping locally is, for us, another important part of being a Newburyporter. Finding locally grown food was also important, and led us to Middle Earth Farm, in Amesbury, (where Kirsten now runs a CSA). The hunt for local food has also been aided by the existence of the Newburyport Farmer’s Market.
We continue to search for for things made locally. This list is also growing, from fiber found at local farms, to soap, shampoo, and coffee mugs. Seeking out and supporting these artisans is an ongoing enjoyment.
Considering all of this, when we saw The Transition Handbook in the library we were immediately interested. The whole idea is that, yes, we are running out of oil and the climate is changing, now lets do something positive and build strong communities.
Since then, we have read the handbook, talked to Transition members at the Farmer’s Market, attended movie showings, and are now reading about permaculture (and planning our edible garden for spring).
As new members of the initiating group we hope to be helpful in making Newburyport and the surrounding communities sustainable. If you have questions/stories please post them to us at the Transition Massachusetts site.
Monday November 9th Transition Newburyport and Long Way Home co-hosted the movie Garbage Warrior at the Newburyport Public Library. Mike Reynolds, the garbage warrior, builds self-sustaining homes, “earthships”, made of re-purposed tires, cans and bottles. One of Mike’s favorite techniques is to utilize passive solar energy by building walls of tires packed with earth. The free movie showing was very well attended and sparked a dialogue we hope to continue. For those of you who were not able to attend, the movie is available though the Merrimack Valley Library Consortium.
