walking the walk

This weekend, I spent a good few hours walking - joining some workmates in a local "Relay for Life," a fundraiser for The Cancer Council.

At the end, we stretched, and celebrated our fundraising achievements... but as I drove home, I started feeling frustrated that we should have to hold fundraisers like this for crucial services that don't get the government funding they need.

This quote popped into my head... (we had this tea towel when I was growing up!)

Or, relating to some recent announcements:

"it will be a great day when our healthcare services get all the money they need, and the MCG has to hold a cake stall to refurbish the Great Southern Stand"

(OK, not so catchy, but hopefully you get my point...).

My guess is, most of you will already have heard about Cam's Call for Help, and maybe have already written to those in power to ask them to overturn The Alfred Hospital's decision to reduce lung transplants in coming weeks... but if you haven't, please do (you can click on the picture below to travel to her website).

Thank you, and I hope you're having a lovely weekend.

changes

I've been unsure about whether to post anything about today - because I know we cannot possibly all share the same political views, and I really don't want to offend or isolate any of you who read this - so if you don't like political content, look away now...

Today, my original plans were disrupted by rather big political news - instead of big creative space plans, I found myself in front of the television, watching history unfolding - unfolding in an awkward and uncomfortable way, but unfolding none the less.

Today for the first time we have a female prime minister. To me, that's important - just as the election of this man was important too.

(as decorated by the mini blogger on Obama's inauguration day...)

It's important because we live in a world where we are not all treated as equals. Women get paid less for the same work, and people who are not white often face discrimination and injustice.

The first female prime minister of Australia, and the first black president of the USA, don't suddenly make everything equal and perfect, but they help remind us (or me at least) of what is possible.

And so, despite all of today's imperfections (and I do feel genuinely sorry for Kevin), I think a modest celebration is in order. Gingerbread women anyone?

Political soapboxing completed - I'll be returning to regular programming now!