An amusing look at the importance of math and what can happen when we get it wrong.
| Site | https://drownedchipmunk.com |
T. Woody Sobey
- 27 Followers
- 63 Following
- 143 Posts
Performance Scientist/Engineer, Robotics and STEM Facilitator with Renton Schools, Hacker/Maker, kayaker, biker, runner & occasional triathlete, coffee roaster, bread baker, beer brewer (he/him)
Life After Cars
Title: Life After Cars: Freeing Ourselves from the Tyranny of the Automobile Author: Sarah Goodyear, Doug Gordon and Aaron Naparstek Completed: Feb 2026 (Full list of books) Overview: For years, I've listened to their podcast and really enjoyed the content. Much of it I agree with, but even when I don't, it helps me refine my ideas about why I feel cars destroy communities.
I met the author years ago when helping break into her car and paddling the Inside Passage has been on my bucket list so it seemed like a book for me.
I've been picking locks for year. It's a fun hobby and a good way to pass time for anyone into puzzles. This book provides so much information about how to get started picking.
http://drownedchipmunk.com/2025/12/22/practical-lock-picking/
Reading through "Hell Yeah Or No" by Derek Sivers, there were many ideas that I completely agreed with and several that I disagreed with, but each idea was conveyed clearly and succinctly which encouraged me deeply think about my views and understand why I felt that way.
Rereading the 99% Invisible City for the fifth anniversary reminded me to keep examining the city around me for all the interesting aspects we tend to walk by without noticing
http://drownedchipmunk.com/2025/11/16/the-99-invisible-city/
Life is full of bad ideas. You will likely make many mistakes next year, let this race be (one of) your first. What could be better than a free race on Jan 1 in Seattle? Let’s check-off as many mistakes as possible. You know that outfit you haven’t worn since high school? Perfect! Maybe eat a big greasy breakfast 30 minutes before the start. Did you party hard on New Years Eve and go home with a stranger? Bring that mistake with you too. It’s gonna be “That Kind of Fun”. https://drownedchipmunk.com/2025/11/10/second-annual-first-mistake-5k/
I've been working metal since 8th grade and although I'd be very nervous about letting current 8th graders try welding, I recognize the benefits those lessons had on my life and would love for others to experience that now.
http://drownedchipmunk.com/2025/10/26/ring-and-other-metalwork/
"A Closed and Common Orbit" by Becky Chambers discusses how to treat AI. It was interesting to think about but also clearly demonstrates just how far we are from achieving real artificial intelligence.
http://drownedchipmunk.com/2025/10/17/a-closed-and-common-orbit/
"Potholes and Pavements" discusses the history and promise of creating Britain's National Cycle Network. After reading it, I want to ride it... and really want something similar in the States.
http://drownedchipmunk.com/2025/10/12/potholes-and-pavements/