Last night as we were getting ready to head to bed, our power went out. We learned a few things. We were pretty well prepared to provide light. We have numerous boxes of candles stored in our kitchen cupboard. They’re cheap, at less than $1.00 for a taper candle and around $0.60 for a votive. I try to grab a box of votives or tapers every few trips to the grocery store. This has given us a nice supply of candles. Likewise with matches and lighters. Every several trips, I’ll grab a package of matchbooks or a package of Bic lighters.
Within 3 minutes of the lights going out, we had candles lit and placed near key features of the house (doorways, countertops, sinks, etc.). Within about 20 minutes of losing internet connectivity and with both of our cell phones about to die, we were bored, tired and ready to hit the rack. When there’s no electricity, it doesn’t make much sense to stay up until all hours of the night.
I also started adding up the cost of candles vs. our electrical consumption. I’d have to really sit down and crunch the numbers, but I think we would save money and get more sleep if we transitioned to candlelight. DW and Dear Children aren’t the most enthusiastic about the idea, but I’ll work on ‘em.
And I almost forgot to mention, going to bed by candlelight is much more conducive to romance. How’s THAT for sustainable living?
Living Free,
-SB
Hey, I’m down with it, just as long as there is wiggle room!
Candles certainly create a much nicer light than the usual harsh overhead light, that’s for sure!
I wonder if that sort of system might help people with chronic headaches. As Angie said, overhead lighting can be rather harsh.