Saturday, 07 June 2008 @ 12:29pm.
The recent FPI attacks during a peaceful protest in Jakarta at the National Monument (Monas) park saddened me. President SBY appeared to take a firm stance during a press conference, but only time will tell if anyone will actually be taken to jail or court. I hope that those in the hospital recover as soon as possible. I also hope that all those affected in other ways don’t lose hope, continue to do good works, and support one another in their own communities and the communities of others.
An Oprah question from yesterday: Are you using things to define who you are?
It is amazing and frustrating how wasteful we all can be. It is so easy to get caught up in a particular lifestyle mode that we forget some of the “basics.” Simple ways to make a difference include:
1) Avoid buying one-off water bottles and use a durable alternative instead.
2) Bring a mug to work (and coffee shops) instead of using a paper or plastic cup.
3) Recycle whenever possible at home and work.
4) Turn off lights and all electronics if they are not in use.
5) Watch less television.
6) Try reducing purchases of clothes and shoes, buy second-hand, and/or donate unwanted items to charity.
7) Keep your thermostats, heaters, air conditioners, etc. at lower temperatures than usual.
Imagine what we could do if everyone just did a little bit…
A special shout-out to my cousin who just got married. I was so sorry to miss the grand event, but I was there in spirit. 
And, um, just when did you get all grown up? I still remember you running around as a little one at family reunions!
A big congrats to Kurt for finishing medical school. What an achievement!!!
Nervous about my pup Pluto traveling to the U.S. later this summer/winter, but the travel agent who met with me today was very helpful. My eyes did bug out of my head, though, upon hearing about all of the costs involved.
