From the category archives:

Eco-Friendly Articles

OfficePOD - A Mobilehome Away from Home for Writers

by Robin on February 1, 2010

 

The folks at OfficePOD believe the ability to work from home is a trend that’s here to stay.  I think their product is ideal for writers with a backyard and who are in need of "space" to write.  You wouldn’t think twice about a shed for housing the lawn tools, a greenhouse, or playhouse for the kids, so why not an office pod?  So often writers find themselves carving out work space at the kitchen table or on the couch - only to be interrupted by the kids, the dog, the telephone or solicitors banging down the front door.

There’s lots of benefits for corporate too, such as reducing commute time, more focused employees, etc, however the OfficePOD would be absolutely ideal for writers seeking solitude and a special place designated solely for the depositing of their brain droppings. The OfficePOD is energy efficient and designed in great part with recycled or recyclable products. Each pod is delivered and constructed by a specialist team and measures approximately 7′ x 7′.  To date, this brilliant idea is only available in the UK for £14,950 ($24,273).

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That Writer’s Bungalow Retreat in the Woods - Totally Doable

by Robin on November 9, 2009

Lusby 117 sq feet

I love to skeet shoot.  The number one rule to remember is: Think small, aim small, miss small.  In other words, instead of aiming at the entire clay pigeon, aim for a piece of it.  It narrows your focus and heightens your chances of success.  How the hell does this equate to a tranquil writing bungalow in the woods?  Put a sock it in - I’m gettin’ there!

And back to my center of peace…

Have you always dreamed of purchasing a quiet bungalow where you’ll write the next greatest screenplay or novel?  And not just any bungalow, but one perched next to a lake or a cool running brook? It’s just you, the dog and your fingertips spinning gold as they tap away at the laptop. 
 

Me: Well, what’s stopping you? 
You: That thing we call “dinero” with lots of “muchos” on top. 
Me: How do you plan on obtaining this muchos dinero? 
You: After I sell my blockbuster screenplay and rake in the 15 points on the back-end of the contact.
Me: Sweet.  But isn’t it the calming affect of the bungalow by the brook that helped you create that blockbustin’ screenplay?
You: Uh…yes.  Listen, is this going to be a chicken and the egg thing?

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Bamboo Keyboard & Mouse Combo

by Michelle on October 8, 2009

 

For those of you who want a little green in your work environment, the Horchow bamboo-like keyboard and mouse offer an interesting eco-friendly approach to computer hardware.   It will  set you back a cool $78 but you’ll look good writing that next blockbuster.   PC compatible only.  BTW…check out Horchow for great writer gifts in general.  The holidays are fast approaching, ya know! 

 

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Look Mom No Chain!

by Robin on November 13, 2008

 

Aside from relaxing excursions along the San Diego downtown waterfront, I am by no means a bike enthusiast. However, technology just melts my butter.   Trek’s District bike does away with the infamous, greasy, old chain and replaces it with a belt drive made out of a carbon fiber composite. It requires no lubrication and doesn’t wear out. 

 

 

The District bike just has that IT factor - that minimalist, Apple-sleek appeal.  I love the old-world, brown leather seat and handlebar paired with an Alpha Black Aluminum frame.  I can see you now, my writer brethren - traipsing the urban jungle, conscious of your carbon footprint, laptop tucked away in a cool messenger bag and slung over your backside…Woosh! Heads turn as you skirt by atop the Trek District bound for your favorite writing spot.  Godspeed. And watch out for that pothole!

MSRP $929.99
 

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Mini Cooper Introduces the Mini E - All Electric Vehicle

by Robin on October 24, 2008

Our tag line is "Technology and writing and everything in between".  This is another ‘in between’ article.  But when I first read about the new Mini E, I knew I had to at least acknowledge its existence at the Founders’ Blog.   As if Mini Coopers weren’t already doing their part in creating low-impact, tiny carbon footprints, Mini Cooper introduces the all electric Mini E. That’s right, the Mini E prefers battery juice over Texas tea.

This baby jets the line from 0 - 60 in 8.5 seconds with a top speed of 95 miles per hour. (Ok, maybe Porsche enthusiasts aren’t salivating.)  It is a little sluggish, but after an 8-hour charge a full tank of electricity will fetch you a range of 150 miles.  Cost ($TBA).

What does the Mini E mean for writers?

Well I’m not sure I can spin the benefits as it relates to writers. However, it does mean you can fill up your tank for less than the price of a Grande Vanilla Soy Latte at your local writing pub.  Aside from the pen and pad, it means you’ve already exceeded Obama’s 10-year plan to be completely free of foreign oil.  Most importantly, it could jettison you to "coolest kid on the block" status within moments of occupying your driveway.

The downside?  There’s a limited release of just 500 available via a 1-year lease for SoCal, New Jersey, and New York residents only.  Why? Why! WHY!!! do they have to turn something so perfect into a vulture contest akin to a herd of  squirrels scurrying toward the last nut in the park.

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