It’s good to pick up rubbish - we do it
all the time…
But it’s even better to try not to produce any!
When Pacha recently turned 14 we did our best to
create an Eco-birthday rubbish free celebration, and her friends didn’t seem to mind!
There were no lollies – just fruit (and a
little bit of chocolate!) and nuts. There were no plastic balloons – just home made
fabric flags (bunting). There were
no throw-away plastic cups or bowls – we had wooden bowls and re-used the cups
we brought from home.
The handmade sushi was delicious and
healthy and easy to eat. The home made pumpkin-based cake was served on squares
of banana leaf and disappeared quickly as the hordes of ‘grom’ surfer boys and
girls descended like a flock of seagulls after singing the traditional birthday song.
 |
| Lei's lovely Lei's (and photos) |
The highlight of the day - I think Pacha would agree -
was everyone making beautiful flower crowns (Leis) from locally foraged
wildflower ‘weeds’. Leiona, my lovely Hawaiian friend, showed the girls how to choose
and weave and thread and the most beautiful combinations of grasses and
delicate flowers. It was amazing how it helped us to see the beauty all around us - even in insignificant flowers that most people just see as useless weeds.
The girls (and Yani with his best friend Cannon) sat
peacefully, helping each other, sharing stories, comparing and complimenting
each other on their efforts, taking photos of each other’s creations. They wore
their Lei’s with pride as they went to watch the world tour surfing even
happening just a few hundred metres away.
I have a feeling there will be more ‘Lei’ circles at parties to come!
This year Pacha seemed proud to be a little
different, a little unconventional. She was so appreciative of what we could do
– without lavish expense - in an ‘up-plugged’ birthday eco-celebration!  |
| Pacha's 'Unplugged' surfing life. |
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