Back in Australia
The weirdest thing about being in Australia though is that it's not weird to be in Australia. I have traveled so much and my home base is now non existent really, so traveling feels a little less removed from reality and more of the permanent status quo.
I don't want to always be a world traveler, always moving on to that next place. The last few months however, I have really needed it. It's helped get my head and my heart back in the right place. To remember what is important, to leave behind what isn't and to see the world in a way that makes sense again. I am thankful to have the opportunity to do so. I am also thankful for the friends and family who are there when you need them and the people that include, rather than exclude. Life is too short, ya know?
So, that being said, looks like Sydney is in the cards for early next week and I will be happy to see the place I called home for a time again. It's been over six and a half years since I have been there. It will be good to go back for a quick visit. I plan on seeing a lot and taking a lot of new photos.
Melbourne Goodbyes
I had a great visit to Australia, and to Melbourne specifically. I have been here several times in the past but this was the first time we really got to know each other. I met some great people and caught up with ones I already knew. Nothing but friendly people everywhere I went. Melbourne has a unique feel to it different than Perth or Sydney. I kept thinking it had a bit of Chicago to it as well as some Christchurch. If you haven't been to Melbourne before then definitely make it a priority on your travel list. During the cup races is a particularly fun time to go. And try the semi dried tomatoes when your here.
So long Melbourne. See you again soon.
Melbourne Cup Day
In the state of Victoria, today is a public holiday so important and ingrained into the culture that even parliament is out of session during the half hour Melbourne cup race. The women have been dawning their large hats all week and the men have been dressed up as well. Of course, by the time I was out and about on Darby Day Saturday, a lot of those well-dressed people were a bit pissed (very drunk) and looking a little warmed over. You can catch many slouching over the steps at Flinders Street Station looking like a well dressed homeless person. Rough nights during race time.
Several of us headed down to the TAB to place a bet on the horses. My picts weren't that risky: Makybe Diva to win and Eye Popper to place. A whopping $4 placed on the line for the win. Makybe Diva came in first place for a remarkable and historical third year in a row. It was some big excitement in the state of Victoria today.
So, my first venture into horse racing and I came out a winner by about $10. I always have beginners luck in these things.
Missy Higgins
Missy Higgins is cleaning house tonight with five out of seven wins on the Arias (Australian Record Industry Association) with award after another and looking hot as hell doing so. Which makes me all that more excited since going to see her on Monday in concert here in Melbourne! There was also a tribute to the drummer of Crowded House who died this year with the song "Better be home Soon" and Jimmy Barnes (seen via Perth 2003) was inducted into the rock and roll hall of fame where he ended the night with "Working Class Man" .
Penguin Parade
Last night I got to see natural South Australian Penguins swim onto shore and make their way past the awaiting seaguls who were there only to mess with the flightless birds.
These were the smallest penguins in the world according to the park.
Bic Runga
I have fallen in love with a kiwi girl (New Zealand) and Bic Runga be thy name. Her music is fantastic to listen to. I have only heard of her for a short while but a favorite is off of her album "Beautiful Collision" called "Honest Goodbyes".
Things are going well in Melbourne, I have met some great people and having a lot of fun. In my honor, we even made home made Reese's Cups and they were terrific! Have been sight seeing and Melbourne has a bit more of a Europe feel to it. The weather isn't known for being the best here but has held out since I have been here. Going to see the 12 Apostles tomorrow.
Driving to Melbourne
Happy Easter holiday everyone. I am heading down to Melbourne for some fun for the next few days. Hopefully the rain will let up. Looking forward to the nine hours drive south down across some baron roads with few signs of civilization in between. That is if I can even manage to make it out of Sydney.
