War is a mere continuation of politics with other means

In the toolbox of policymakers, war is one among many. When deemed appropriate by the powers that be, war can be chosen as a means of enacting policy – no more or less legitimate than any other – albeit, crucially, not to replace, but to complement other tools of policy. When the Prussian military GeneralContinue reading “War is a mere continuation of politics with other means”

Pawikan turtle conservation continues in Pag-asa, Bagac, Bataan

Remember those pawikan or sea turtles that you helped return to the ocean last season? They are at it again! On 30 August, the first pawikan nest was found by the community volunteers. There are a total of 27 nests now and counting. All of these first eggs were adopted by Audrey and Bubbles. Bubbles,Continue reading “Pawikan turtle conservation continues in Pag-asa, Bagac, Bataan”

I want to relax but plastic gives me anxiety

I watch a couple of cafe vlogs on YouTube for relaxation. One is focused on making hot and cold coffee drinks while the other features gorgeous bread and sandwiches. The preparation of all these nice food entertain me – the sounds, colors, ingredients, and attention to detail are inspiring – but there is one aspectContinue reading “I want to relax but plastic gives me anxiety”

Last sunset for our turtle friends

Did you know that turtles lift each other up? In a nest, the strongest hatchlings are on the bottom. With their eyes still closed, with no idea what sunshine is, they will push their brothers and sisters above so they can break through the sand and start their journey in life. They will then makeContinue reading “Last sunset for our turtle friends”

The worst has happened

I have been delaying this post for two weeks now, in false hope and denial, but the truth is, we have COVID-19 community transmission here in our town for the first time, a year after the pandemic began. We are okay, of course, but the poorer communities are not. It is more heartbreaking that thereContinue reading “The worst has happened”

A quick thought on fear

I know this is the second “thought” post in quick succession, but while falling asleep last night I remembered something from my childhood: I could never sleep in the dark. My mind would fill it with all manner of things. The light in the hallway in front of my room would need to stay on.Continue reading “A quick thought on fear”

A quick thought on our pandemic response

Here is something I’ve been wondering about since the start of this pandemic: Why aren’t we testing more? Vaccines are definitely a crucial component of overcoming the pandemic. The problem with vaccines, however, is that they are complicated.

2021: The year of engagement?

This year is drawing to a close, and so it is time to think about the next. Let’s not fool ourselves: the challenges of 2020 are not just going to disappear as we turn to 2021. But a new year always comes with an opportunity to set an intention, and I would like to suggestContinue reading “2021: The year of engagement?”

A quick thought on where we are right now

You’d be forgiven for thinking we’ve hit rock bottom only to break out the shovels. After 9/11, the world lost its mind. Rights curtailed, industries overhauled, countries invaded. Now, Covid-19 causes one 9/11 a day in deaths, in the US alone, yet here we are. On top of that, there is societal division, mounting US-ChinaContinue reading “A quick thought on where we are right now”

5 Essentialist tips to stress less leading up to the holidays

Markus and I enjoy Christmas. It is probably our favorite holiday. However, as fun as it is, the season tends to get crazy busy with preparations, projects, and socializing that it can also be draining. Do you agree? So before things peak this year, here are five simple tips on how to approach Christmas inContinue reading “5 Essentialist tips to stress less leading up to the holidays”