"The Car" ~no worries if you add another scrape~

I
The other side is the fancy side- it has hubcabs. Yah, it's me driving, I have something to tell you all. I've changed my name to Saraesh.

Can't sign off without an inspirational thought for you:

"Has your ability to envision

the astounding intricacy and richness of the web of life

gotten hijacked and hooked

on decadent fantasies about new possessions

that would allegedly make you happier?"

- Rob Brezsny

Welcoming immigrants, enjoying life.

I found a lovely editorial in the Herald this morning on accepting immigrants into New Zealand:
Brian Rudman: Message to the race bigots - we're all New Zealanders
I think we all could take something positive from this article.

In other news:
It's still summer here. I've heard we're having the best weather in years! No complaints from me. The easy, peaceful life of New Zealand is starting to settle into my bones. I've heard the longer you are in Auckland, the more you like it. I suppose that's true of most places, but I am really enjoying life right now.

I'm still reading piles of books, working on my world understanding and figuring out the meaning of life. I'll let you all know when I discover it. I've been trying to remain calm even when things are not on the outside. It's not always easy.

Students are quite fun (and improving every day). I can't complain, except when I am trying to get them to finish an exam up before the clinic closes. With the front desk staff breathing down their necks, they seem to be on freeze-frame. I wonder if there is a slow-motion button that needs to be un-depressed.

"Joy does not come from what you do,

it flows into what you do,

and thus into this world from deep within you."

p.298 "A New Earth"

Back up to the Cooks; meet Ken & Lorraine!

Rarotonga hike photos courtesy of Ken and Lorraine. I didn't haul my camera on that hike- no room after I got my snorkeling gear in my backpack!

I had the honor of their company this weekend in Auckland. They christened my futon/couch for you all who are on your way. It was like a three day slumber party, as we stayed up talking late into the night in the studio apartment. I played tour guide, which was totally fun. Beware, psycho tour guide Sara is alive and thriving! I also bought their car off them as they flew out to Western Australia this morning, before heading off to Africa. I'm now the proud owner of a 1994 red Mazda station wagon. Pictures of my new baby to follow.

The Needle- our destination on the cross the island trek

Ken and Lorraine (Irish). We were all staying in the Rarotonga Backpackers.
Look down and you'll see what I meant by, "Steps made of tree roots provided by the forest."
A little tired at the top

Heading down again


Afterward, Lorraine napping on the beach in her new pants. Ken's shoe, a little worse for the wear. It was the only hike he didn't wear hiking shoes. Maybe that's what jinxed us! :)

Something to contemplate

Last night I came across the UN Food and Agricultural Organization report and it seemed worthy to share here.



Regarding the production of greenhouse gases:
18% are a result of animal-based agriculture
13.5% are a result of ALL forms of transportation combined

(It was noted that going vegetarian has more of an environmental impact than switching to a Pruis or simiar car.)

We might consider reduced dependence on animal products to help stop global warming. Even just reducing meat consumption a few times a week will make a difference.

Other reasons for adopting a vegetarian lifestyle include compassion for animals and improved health.

In case you miss me

Adventures in bathroom self-portraiture

I figured you might miss all the faces I used to make so I've been practicing my facial expressions. (Having laryngitis helps. ) Periodically I feel like I should post a photo of me, so after this post, I think I'm off the hook for several months. Next time I post my pic, I will have hair long like hippie!



Ooh-that's-bitter-beer!
How-come-I-can't-have-chocolate-for-breakfast
Holy-cow-I'm-about-to-say-"Uff-da!"
Jay-Leno-chin-smile



Just me.