I researched a solar water heater here in NS, Jesse and I think it cost around 4K for a small one. Less that 30K but still pretty expensive.

Happy birthday, Hec!

We researched the feasibility of solar water heating for our building, and even with every possible tax rebate & credit available to us it would have cost over $40k to install. We calculated that it would pay for itself in energy savings in about 47 years...

[eta: The problem we encountered is that commercial solar water heaters are designed for much bigger buildings, but the residential ones just aren't powerful enough for 12 units. We're exactly the wrong size to benefit from economies of scale.]

Allyson, how about printing out this story and leaving it on her desk anonymously?

I just came from the local solar shop and prices have come way way down from the last time I looked. Like, with the power company rebates and federal tax credits and everything I could get into a grid tie system for about $7,000. Admittedly my power usage is lower than the average household, but still.

And also, what you were seeing sounds like solar hot water, which is also cheaper than solar power, and is available here.

I don't think I've done full vacations by myself. I've done solo trips, but with social destinations, like going to a concert with internet people or whatnot. Even then, it's not so much that I'm lazy, but that I dither. Like it takes me two hours to figure out where I want to eat, and then a half hour to figure out how to get there, and then I go, and it's too late and the restaurant is closed or something.

there is a company in the bay area where you can rent solar panels/system . The upfront cost is $1000.

of course, I can't remember the name of the co

My trip to MI is semi-solo. I'll be hanging with my sister and her family for the first weekend, maybe running over to Grand Rapids to see an aunt later in the week, and seeing some localistas (Friday 7/16?). But the rest of the time will be me, the lake, and the dozen or so books I'm bringing. I'm looking forward to all of it--the social parts and the non.

I'm 44 years old, and have never taken a solo vacation, nor taken one with friends, just family, other than long weekends for F2Fs.

I really need to get out more.

Happy Birthday Hec!

Also, all people should make solo trips to Arizona and tool around, and therefore drive past me so I can see them!

LA type peoples: I have a former student (adult, female, gay) who is heading your direction for a skate competition today. I guess while I was sick she was looking for somebody with a floor to crash on while she was there. I'm texting her now to find out if she got it sorted, but if not, is anyone available to put her up for a few days? I know it's short notice and a stranger. But she is completely awesome. She writes music and fights fires and skates circles around the boys and loves Britney Spears and is generally just her own person.