Generation Y!

Although I have some gorgeous friends who are members of Generation Y (you know who you are), I am constantly confused and frustrated by the images young women (in particular) seem to be comfortable with (if you're not sure what I mean, watch 'Video Hits' next Saturday morning).  I will admit, at 20, I was an angry, young feminist - complete with hairy legs and Doc Marten (plus a massive crush on Billy Bragg) so it is not be appropriate to myself to the current 'young things' - I was never one of the fashionable crowd. 

I do struggle, however, with the seeming lack of political awareness, understanding of power and control in relationships, images of sexuality etc.  It seems, at times, that the struggles we had for equal pay and against sexual harassment and domestive violence in the 80s and 90s - plus the lessons we learned from those awful stilletos - have not been heard.  Worse still, we may be going backwards!

This evening, having been sent on a pilgrimage to Coles to buy organic carrots for the spagetti Himself is making, I decided to buy some gluten-free crackers so we could enjoy cheese and dip.  I couldn't make up my mind and was soon helped by two delightful young women - who were also shopping in the 'health section' (what does that say about the rest of the supermarket?).  They were both in their late teens - early 20s and soon we were discussing animal rights, vegetarianism and political activism.  They were clearly enlightened because they knew about The Cure...

What a delight these lovely young women are!  I am feeling so much more comfortable now... and inspired by those amongst us who still have the passion and fire to be political and personal.  We will be attending an art exhibition they are having in March - so more about that in due course.

So, Day 2 of the Restorative Year and I have struggled a little.  Crazy-lady hormones have kicked in so I'm craving sweet things, chilli and salt - preferably together.  I've eaten some passionfruit and yoghurt plus The Bear is making his famous 'spag bol' (with organic pasta).  After dinner, we're off for a walk and tomorrow we'll work in the garden... so we're getting in some exercise. 

While I have attempted to relax, I've worked out that I'm really bad at it.  The Bear finds my boredom amusing ... as I struggle to 'do nothing'.  I'm looking forward to getting back to work and (soon) back to university as I miss the challenges afforded by my career.  Meanwhile, I took out my 'skinny clothes' and hung them in the wardrobe - a constant reminder of the lovely things I have waiting for me... in 10kgs or so.

I hope the early stages of your 2011 are fabulous!