Seems like I blog only when I've been tagged. Tsk. Dadeeyah tagged me with a meme that's inspired by the Malaysian politicians' (annoying) "Change your lifestyle" mantra.

This one's a bit of a toughie for me because there's no catalyst mentioned about why I'd want to consciously change my lifestyle, even if I were to assume the issue was from the rising cost of living. Nevertheless, my lifestyle has already changed since moving countries and cultures. So I'll make this a list about how my lifestyle has changed...

* I shop with a green bag
It's the Woolies "gay green bag", as Lee would call it. Instead of stocking up on plastic bags, I carry along a couple of green bags to do the grocery shopping. I also love how some fashion shops have their own calico bags that are a bit more fashionable to carry around, like Wittner's. Worst one I've got though, is 3's lolly pink calico bag! x_X Blegh.

* I take the bus to work
I love the fact that I don't have to worry about paying for petrol and the dreaded monthly car instalments anymore! Hehe... Since we live so close to the city and to work, I'm only a 20-15min bus ride away from the buzz. Convenience! I think one car for the both of us is more than enough.

* I don't eat out as much
I do miss those RM3 (AUD$1) bowl of noodles or plate of chap fan for my daily work lunch. I know those prices would've gone up by now, but at least its still better than paying AUD$7 for a sandwich. When I'm in the mood to cook, I actually do make my own lunch to take to work. Even for evening social occasions, we often end up entertaining at home or being entertained at someone's place who'll do the cooking.

* I walk more
"Too near to take a bus, too far to walk" was how my dad put it when he came to visit. Sydneysiders are just so fond of walking everywhere. It was a bit of a change to get used to (Malaysians don't walk places!!!), but I have found myself enjoying a nice walk on several occasions between Pyrmont to St Mary's cathedral, and Surry Hills to Pyrmont - about a 3-5km distance.

* I shop at factory outlets or vintage shops
I just love DFO, Birkenhead Point and the small vintage shops scattered around. Bargains for good quality goods! And places like the Salvos are great to keep wastage low. Oh, and gumtree is awesome for exchanges too! There are just so many opportunities in Australia to be frugal if you know where to look, despite a high cost of living.

* I recycle paper, plastic and glass
Most households (depending on local councils) are given two or three garbage bins - one for general household waste and one for recycling paper, plastic and glass. You're expected to separate your waste properly, or risk not getting your garbage picked up!

I can't think up anything else that's a significant change. But adjusting to the Australian lifestyle makes it so easy for me to be eco friendly!

So who else would make a lifestyle change? Sourrain? Mei? Lisa? eternity? Erna? Tag, you're it!