February 2012 - The Outlier Model

Cutting back our hydro bill – UPDATE!

cutting back, cutting back on bills, cutting back on expenses, hydro bill

CF / February 28th, 2012 / No Comments

A few months ago, Brian and I reported our shock at receiving a hydro bill for over $160. Until that time, my typical hydro bill was always between $25 and $45 every two months. Needless to say, we were not happy. We made some attempts at cutting back energy costs and tried out some tips for cutting back our electrical bill, as suggested by others. Unfortunately, being in an apartment, our...

Update: February 18 – 25

Brian / February 25th, 2012 / No Comments

Seattle is a great place. It’s absurd to me that ‘Happy Hour’ is illegal in BC, although there does seem to be weekly news on liquor reform in this province. Let’s hope! I enjoyed $3 happy hour specials of many west coast craft breweries including Deschutes Black Butte Porter and Elysian “Immortal” IPA. Good stuff. There was also habanero infused tabiko spicy tuna...

Posted in: General Tagged with: after graduating, art of manliness, James Altucher, letting go of anger, retiring from military, Young and thrifty

So you want to get a job in science? Part 2

get a job in science, field of science, science job, scientist

CF / February 23rd, 2012 / 2 Comments

Last time, I talked about some of the pitfalls of going into science, including a lack of entry level jobs and the dangers of endless grad school. It’s tough navigating a job market that wants experience when there is such an emphasis on theory and grades during post-secondary. It’s also unfortunate that so many bright and engaged young minds get roped into a thankless field like science....

Posted in: Career and Work Tagged with: finding a science job, how to get a job in science, job tips, science careers, work experience

Recipe idea: Pork chops and gravy

Pork chops and gravy, weekday dinner, easy dinner meal

Brian / February 21st, 2012 / No Comments

Having the most frugal grocery budget in the world isn’t going to help you and if you can’t put together at least a few healthy, tasty, and cheap eats! Every month, The Outlier Model features a cheap recipe idea, along with the cost breakdown. This is an easy weekday dinner that you can easily pair with whatever seasonal vegetables are available. No marinade or meat prep is required! Photo credit:...

Posted in: Recipes Tagged with: easy pork chops, gravy recipe, pork chop recipe, pork recipe