went out to dinner with my dad's family tonight. my grandparents were there, one of the cousins i went to disneyland with, twiddle thumbs was there, and even my brother made it. i saw an uncle and wife and child that i haven't seen in 10 years. right now he's working in russia, in siberia no less (previously moscow). it was interesting to compare notes of their experiences in russia and our experiences in new zealand. i've always wanted to go to russia but once you go vegan, it makes you think harder about the realities of visiting certain places. they mentioned some things that i will really have to keep in mind. not that i wasn't aware of such things in certain countries, but it's good to always be reminded. of having your papers in order, of not getting involved with anything that has to do with the police, of watching your dress and behavior, of food habits, of cultural nuances, of the criminal element, etc.