It's the final day of our blogger's challenge for the month of February 2014. We are to take this opportunity to toast someone or something of our choice. I have much to be thankful for and I've decided to make a list.
~ Thank you, C. in Oz of In An Opal Hearted Country, for creating this challenge for us expat bloggers. I am sad to see it end, as I'm sure we all are. My blog was going all downhill over the past few months. I had no inspiration. You've turned that all around and I sincerely thank you. I'm excited that we will continue this in a small way...
~ Thank you, Mr. Smith, for making my life what it is today. Because of you, I've seen and experienced things that I know I never would have alone. Sure, there have been ups and downs, but the best times of my life are spent with you. In less than two weeks, we will celebrate our 20th wedding anniversary. Cheers to 50 more!
~ Thank you to my new community of friends... the expat bloggers of the 2014 challenge. I have to admit that in the beginning I concentrated way too much on how much better your writing was than mine. Eventually, I came to appreciate what each of us has to offer. I'm hoping to learn more from you in the future as I continue to follow all your adventures. If anyone would like to follow another awesome blogger, they are all listed down the right side of my blog.
~ Thank you to my family... especially to my mom, mum-in-law and little sister for reading every day and sending me emails encouraging me to continue. I cannot tell you how much your support from afar means to me. I know exactly what it means to all bloggers to have feedback. It inspires us.
And, finally, thank you for indulging me in this post. Pretty soon I'll have a brand spankin' new icon on my blog!
Friday, February 28, 2014
Thursday, February 27, 2014
Carrying on Traditions
Day 27: a tradition I maintain
It would have to be Christmas. Although if I were being honest, I would have to admit that Mr. Smith is the one who makes sure that all the decorations are put up every year in a timely manner. And, of course, this means directly after Thanksgiving. I'll admit that once all the decorations are up, I feel quite festive. My objection lies in the sheer amount of time it takes to complete the task. Also, the number of decorations we have to put on the tree is daunting! And it's also quite weird that it's summer during Christmas. It should never be hot at Christmastime.
But that said, I fully embraced sending Christmas cards with Santa in a bathing suit and surfing this past holiday season.
Another tradition during Christmas is making sure all our nieces and nephews remember who we are (since we never get to see them). What better way to do that than with gifts? So every year we have to start early to make sure that we can get it all done and shipped in adequate time. Here are some photos of Christmases past ...
It would have to be Christmas. Although if I were being honest, I would have to admit that Mr. Smith is the one who makes sure that all the decorations are put up every year in a timely manner. And, of course, this means directly after Thanksgiving. I'll admit that once all the decorations are up, I feel quite festive. My objection lies in the sheer amount of time it takes to complete the task. Also, the number of decorations we have to put on the tree is daunting! And it's also quite weird that it's summer during Christmas. It should never be hot at Christmastime.
But that said, I fully embraced sending Christmas cards with Santa in a bathing suit and surfing this past holiday season.
Another tradition during Christmas is making sure all our nieces and nephews remember who we are (since we never get to see them). What better way to do that than with gifts? So every year we have to start early to make sure that we can get it all done and shipped in adequate time. Here are some photos of Christmases past ...
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| Wollstonecraft Christmas circa 2013 |
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| Kirribilli Christmas circa 2012 |
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| Ansonia Christmas circa 2011 |
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| Tucson Christmas circa 1991 |
Wednesday, February 26, 2014
Hitting Too Close to Home
Day 26: Recognize someone who has made your expat experience better
We are getting close to the end of the blogger's challenge. All of us prolific writers are going to be continuing the challenge on a much smaller scale, like once a month. Hopefully this will start making it easier to blog on a more regular basis.
Okay, I just deleted everything I wrote about today's topic. I can't write on this subject tonight. It's just too private and I don't usually say that. I'm an open book. I don't have a problem sharing my feelings.
I'm really sorry, but I have to use the "get out of jail free" card. I don't know what else to write about. It's funny how life can throw you curveballs. Some days I'm dying to go back to the states. Others I'm perfectly content to stay in Sydney.
I have friends here. But I also really treasure my alone time. And sometimes I feel guilty about that.
We are getting close to the end of the blogger's challenge. All of us prolific writers are going to be continuing the challenge on a much smaller scale, like once a month. Hopefully this will start making it easier to blog on a more regular basis.
Okay, I just deleted everything I wrote about today's topic. I can't write on this subject tonight. It's just too private and I don't usually say that. I'm an open book. I don't have a problem sharing my feelings.
I'm really sorry, but I have to use the "get out of jail free" card. I don't know what else to write about. It's funny how life can throw you curveballs. Some days I'm dying to go back to the states. Others I'm perfectly content to stay in Sydney.
I have friends here. But I also really treasure my alone time. And sometimes I feel guilty about that.
Tuesday, February 25, 2014
Reflections
Day 25: Revisit an old post that you now have more to say about
I've spent hours since coming home from work today reading old posts. I'll be honest. There's no specific post that I need to revisit. I don't think anyone is going to threaten to kick me out of the challenge (LOL), but I'll take that chance.
Here's what I did notice ...
We arrived here 2 years ago today, so happy expativersary to us! I had the same problems then with finding a job that I have had recently. And it was the same time of year. Summer is my least favourite season because I hate sweating and I sweat enough for 10 people.
It was a few weeks of running around from interview to interview while trying to find an apartment at the same time. I don't think the trailing spouse gets enough credit sometimes. So much pressure to perform now! Of course, some can handle it easier than others. Me? I need positive feedback almost constantly. I'm willing to admit it.
But I'm ready to put these chapters behind me.
Mostly because I just finished watching My Kitchen Rules and I'm so happy that David & Corrine are out of the competition. It galls me that D&C think they still belong in the competition. And I don't like Chloe & Kelly either. The fact that they want David & Corrine to advance because they know D&C can't cook is weak and cowardly.
Enough of that. I'm ready for some shut eye. Bonne nuit, mes amis!
I've spent hours since coming home from work today reading old posts. I'll be honest. There's no specific post that I need to revisit. I don't think anyone is going to threaten to kick me out of the challenge (LOL), but I'll take that chance.
Here's what I did notice ...
We arrived here 2 years ago today, so happy expativersary to us! I had the same problems then with finding a job that I have had recently. And it was the same time of year. Summer is my least favourite season because I hate sweating and I sweat enough for 10 people.
It was a few weeks of running around from interview to interview while trying to find an apartment at the same time. I don't think the trailing spouse gets enough credit sometimes. So much pressure to perform now! Of course, some can handle it easier than others. Me? I need positive feedback almost constantly. I'm willing to admit it.
But I'm ready to put these chapters behind me.
Mostly because I just finished watching My Kitchen Rules and I'm so happy that David & Corrine are out of the competition. It galls me that D&C think they still belong in the competition. And I don't like Chloe & Kelly either. The fact that they want David & Corrine to advance because they know D&C can't cook is weak and cowardly.
Enough of that. I'm ready for some shut eye. Bonne nuit, mes amis!
Monday, February 24, 2014
Robertson Pie Shop
It's Day 24 of our blogger's challenge and it's our final PHOTO post of a hidden gem.
Today was my first day at my brand new job. It wasn't very stressful or anything, but I am adjusting to working again. On our way to the train station, I discussed with Mr. Smith the topic du jour. I wasn't sure what I wanted to talk about and said so.
Immediately he suggested Robertson Pie Shop.
The pie shop is always packed with patrons and is especially popular with motorcyclists. It's located in the Southern Highlands and is famous! I've been there once with Mr. Smith and I loved it.
I had the beef, bacon and cheese pie. Then I had the lemon tart. LOVED IT!
Also, it's not very far from the Illawarra Fly Tree Top Walk. That was nice, too.
Today was my first day at my brand new job. It wasn't very stressful or anything, but I am adjusting to working again. On our way to the train station, I discussed with Mr. Smith the topic du jour. I wasn't sure what I wanted to talk about and said so.
Immediately he suggested Robertson Pie Shop.
The pie shop is always packed with patrons and is especially popular with motorcyclists. It's located in the Southern Highlands and is famous! I've been there once with Mr. Smith and I loved it.
I had the beef, bacon and cheese pie. Then I had the lemon tart. LOVED IT!
Also, it's not very far from the Illawarra Fly Tree Top Walk. That was nice, too.
Sunday, February 23, 2014
Running Away or Running To?
Day 23 - Analyze this Quote:
"Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving." - Terry Pratchett
This quote was taken from Terry Pratchett's book, A Hat Full of Sky. According to Wikipedia, it is a comic fantasy novel written with young readers in mind. The main character of the book is a girl who is learning to be a witch. Reading the synopsis of the book reminds me somewhat of Harry Potter. That being said, I haven't read this book and I don't really know the context in which this quote was taken. I know that Tiffany (the main character) had to leave home for her apprenticeship, but that's not necessarily the same thing as being an expat. At least not in my mind.
In general, I agree with Terry Pratchett. Except for the part where he says that you leave so that you can come back. Especially if he is speaking of leaving any place. I left home at 17. Mr. Smith and I moved around the US a bit after we were married. We never went back to any place we lived previously, except to visit. Some places we know we would never go back and others we would definitely consider. This is the first move we've made that could potentially be temporary. It's also the first move we have made out of our native country.
We always made our move toward a new opportunity for Mr. Smith in his career. Even with this move to Sydney. Moving back to the states would be the same. So I'd say we are always running toward something tangible and meaningful.
If and when we go back to the states, how will we be received? Gosh, I have no idea. People can be pretty unpredictable. I think at first we would probably get all the comments you'd expect...
"Wow, you lived in Sydney? Did you see a lot of kangaroos and koalas?"
"Why did you come back?"
"Did you throw a shrimp on the barbie and toss back a Foster's?"
"Which way does the water go in the toilet?"
After a while, things would go back to "normal," but you'd forever be known as that girl. "This is my friend, Yvette. You know, the one I told you about who used to live in Australia."
It's already a bit weird going home for visits. My dad insists on introducing me to everyone as his daughter from Australia. "Dad, I sprung from your loins. Obviously, I'm not from Australia." For some reason, little things like this bug me. Say I live in Australia, but wait a bit. If you lead with that, I spend the rest of the time trying to answer odd questions. So I know that people are fascinated with what they don't know and that are completely foreign to them, but hopefully that fades fast.
"Why do you go away? So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you came from with new eyes and extra colors. And the people there see you differently, too. Coming back to where you started is not the same as never leaving." - Terry Pratchett
This quote was taken from Terry Pratchett's book, A Hat Full of Sky. According to Wikipedia, it is a comic fantasy novel written with young readers in mind. The main character of the book is a girl who is learning to be a witch. Reading the synopsis of the book reminds me somewhat of Harry Potter. That being said, I haven't read this book and I don't really know the context in which this quote was taken. I know that Tiffany (the main character) had to leave home for her apprenticeship, but that's not necessarily the same thing as being an expat. At least not in my mind.
In general, I agree with Terry Pratchett. Except for the part where he says that you leave so that you can come back. Especially if he is speaking of leaving any place. I left home at 17. Mr. Smith and I moved around the US a bit after we were married. We never went back to any place we lived previously, except to visit. Some places we know we would never go back and others we would definitely consider. This is the first move we've made that could potentially be temporary. It's also the first move we have made out of our native country.
We always made our move toward a new opportunity for Mr. Smith in his career. Even with this move to Sydney. Moving back to the states would be the same. So I'd say we are always running toward something tangible and meaningful.
If and when we go back to the states, how will we be received? Gosh, I have no idea. People can be pretty unpredictable. I think at first we would probably get all the comments you'd expect...
"Wow, you lived in Sydney? Did you see a lot of kangaroos and koalas?"
"Why did you come back?"
"Did you throw a shrimp on the barbie and toss back a Foster's?"
"Which way does the water go in the toilet?"
After a while, things would go back to "normal," but you'd forever be known as that girl. "This is my friend, Yvette. You know, the one I told you about who used to live in Australia."
It's already a bit weird going home for visits. My dad insists on introducing me to everyone as his daughter from Australia. "Dad, I sprung from your loins. Obviously, I'm not from Australia." For some reason, little things like this bug me. Say I live in Australia, but wait a bit. If you lead with that, I spend the rest of the time trying to answer odd questions. So I know that people are fascinated with what they don't know and that are completely foreign to them, but hopefully that fades fast.
Saturday, February 22, 2014
Day 22: There Is Still a Lot to See
The blogger's challenge prompt today:
Something I still haven't seen in my expat country
Australia is a very large place. There are a lot of things that I still haven't seen and I'm sure I won't get to all of them. But here's a bit of our Australia bucket list.
Uluru - It's a giant red rock in the middle of Australia. Apparently it's really famous and I've only just heard of it. The Aboriginals own it, but the Australian government holds a 99-year lease on it.
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| Photo Credit: www.dooyoo.co.uk |
Coober Pedy - It's known as the opal capital of the world. Mr. Smith was really excited about visiting Coober Pedy until we saw the episode of Dirty Jobs that featured Coober Pedy's opal mining.
So we were excited until we watched Mike experience the abundance of flies. Now we are not so sure. But what we thought would be cool is all the stuff that's underground. They have accommodation, shops, museums and churches... all underground!
Tasmania - Mr. Smith has been to Hobart a few times for business trips, but I've never been. I sure hope that I can make a trip to Tasmania before we leave Australia. I don't have a specific plan in mind, but I'd like to see the wildlife and parks. I still haven't seen a wombat and that would be nice! They also have the best caves in Australia and I love caves!
Phillip Island - Mr. Smith wants to go to Phillip Island for the Superbike World Championships. I want to go to see the Little Penguins.
Adelaide - We haven't been to Adelaide yet. I'd really like to go. Neither of us drink wine, but there are plenty of other things to do. There's the beach and the Central Market... And I cannot talk about going to Adelaide without mentioning Kangaroo Island. This is probably where I'd want to spend most of my time.
I know that there is a distinct possibility that we won't be able to do all these things. Any suggestions on what we should do first?
Tastes Like Home
It's day 21 of the blogger's challenge and today we have another food prompt:
Tastes Like Home
Okay. Well, I've gone on and on and on about how you simply cannot get American food in Australia. That being said, I'm going to concentrate today on the food I like in our current "home."
My best friend here in Australia is Bee. You guys all know her because I talk about her all the time. Bee is Chinese. But she totally gets me. I know that I can let her take me to any restaurant and she will know whether or not I will like something even better than I do. She knows that I don't like veggies and there is no judgement. Here is some of the food that Bee has introduced to me.
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| Dumplings - my fave are pork and prawn |
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| Okay, so Bee didn't teach me about cappuccinos. But she's always up for coffee and I love that about her. |
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| I like mochas. I still drool over this raspberry and white chocolate muffin we got at Oliver Brown's once. |
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| Chinese Hot Pot Each person gets their own individual soup base. Then you all order stuff to share. It's all stuff that cooks up relatively quickly in your pot. LOVE THIS! |
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| For some reason Bee ordered lettuce to cook in her hot pot. Must be a Chinese thing. LOL |
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| LAKSA! |
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| Not really sure what this is. I can't remember. I can tell that it's beef and I do know that Bee is obsessed with ribs, so maybe a rib dish of some sort? We were at The Malaya. |
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| Okay. This was at Yum Cha. Yes, I tried the chicken feet. Never again. I told Bee it would probably be fine if they were fried, but she said it would no longer be Chinese. LOL |
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| The lovely milk tea. Totes love milk tea. Usually served at Thai restaurants. |
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| More laksa. I love chicken laksa. |
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| This was at Miga Korean BBQ before they closed down. It was spicy pork ribs with chunky rice sticks. VERY spicy. |
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| Chinese Moon Cake I wouldn't even try this. Sorry... |
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| Satay chicken with peanut sauce on the side |
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| Vietnamese mince pork with rice. Of course I gave Bee all the green stuff (including the pickle relish) |
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| I'm including alcoholic beverages because Bee is obsessed with trying to get me drunk. |
So these are just some of the things that Bee has introduced me to. She took me to a Chinese restaurant for my birthday in 2012, but I can't find the pics. She had me try glutinous rice balls with black sesame. They were quite yummy once I convinced myself to eat them.
Thursday, February 20, 2014
What is it about me?
Day 20: The trait I possess that most equipped me for life
abroad and the trait I possess that held me back the most.
This is an interesting question. One that had me thinking most of the day about what I would want to say. Instead of delving into that now, I'll just begin.
The trait I possess that most equipped me for life abroad is a sense of adventure. I just knew that quality of life was going to be far superior here to anything else we had experienced so far. All you ever hear about was the work/life balance of Australians. Being a lifelong workaholic who just happens to be married to a lifelong workaholic, this sounded so nice! I could just imagine how different our life would be...
All you have to do is read back through past posts to realize that our life has, indeed, been very different.
The trait I possess that holds me back the most now is my lack of confidence in my life decisions. It can be debilitating.
There's a job offer. Do I take it? I didn't exactly make a great decision the first time around. I mean, I don't regret it in light of the awesome friends I made, but that's about it. Unfortunately, I had to learn the hard way that not all people are innately good.
More Cajun Dialect
Okay, I'll have you guys know that I'm now sitting in my living room past midnight watching videos of my nieces so that I can give you examples of Cajun accents and I can't stop crying!
LOL
I miss them too much ... and they are precious ... and I could just sop 'em up wit a biscuit!!
In this video, you can hear me behind the camera and the rest of my family in the background. Hope my sister doesn't mind this. Mwah, Tee !
And now you're just gonna have to watch whatever I wanna show you...
And here I am talking with a bird who wanted to eat me and my wallet...
Click here to go to YouTube video
LOL
I miss them too much ... and they are precious ... and I could just sop 'em up wit a biscuit!!
In this video, you can hear me behind the camera and the rest of my family in the background. Hope my sister doesn't mind this. Mwah, Tee !
And now you're just gonna have to watch whatever I wanna show you...
And here I am talking with a bird who wanted to eat me and my wallet...
Click here to go to YouTube video
Wednesday, February 19, 2014
Yet Another Post about Job Hunt (...sorry...)
Guess who got a job???
Yep. Moi.
I just got the contract and all I have to do is sign. I start Monday.
OMG
Thank goodness this is over. And I think it's gonna be good. Fingers crossed.
Toilet Paper
Okay.
I know that some people are going to think this is weird. I admit it. It's weird. But I've seen movies lately that show men on the toilet.
Stay with me.
In the latest one, the man is sitting on the toilet. I'm pretty sure we know what that means because men don't sit down to pee. Right?
So this man tears off 4 sheets of toilet paper and they cut away.
Here's my poll. How much toilet paper do you use? Personally, I must use AT LEAST 8 squares. Who only uses 4? Plus, I don't usually hear men using the sink after going to the bathroom. So are men really only using 4 squares and then coming right out?
I don't even want to think about this now.
My Cajun Tongue
Oh boy ...
Day 19 of the blogger's challenge is about my accent. You know, the most noticeable thing about me once I open my mouth. I can't escape it. I don't want to escape it. I think I love it.
I have not lived in Louisiana for the past 20+ years, but I have not lost my accent. It's worse (better?) after I've gone home for a visit. And please don't think that it's just Australians who notice that I don't sound like everyone else. I've been teased about my accent for as long as I can remember.
No matter where we've ended up, one of the first things anyone asks me is, "Where are you from?"
Cause they know I'm not local.
I found my first office job in California at a travel company. I took reservations over the phone. That was great because I love talking to people. My co-workers were fascinated with my accent. But I told them that my brother's accent was stronger than mine. I called up my brother and asked him to just have a conversation with me over the speakerphone. Yep, highlight of my life. Always willing to accept my role as a circus act. LOL
Now, please don't go turn on your TV to Swamp People or whatever (you know, the one with all the subtitles for people who have no teeth so all their words run together and no one has a clue what they are saying). No, I don't sound like that. I enunciate my words. And I'm fairly certain everyone can understand what I'm saying without a ticker tape under my face to translate.
Anyhoo, not sure what else to say about this.
Yes, my accent makes me stand out. I like standing out. And I'm proud to say I'm Cajun.
Day 19 of the blogger's challenge is about my accent. You know, the most noticeable thing about me once I open my mouth. I can't escape it. I don't want to escape it. I think I love it.
I have not lived in Louisiana for the past 20+ years, but I have not lost my accent. It's worse (better?) after I've gone home for a visit. And please don't think that it's just Australians who notice that I don't sound like everyone else. I've been teased about my accent for as long as I can remember.
No matter where we've ended up, one of the first things anyone asks me is, "Where are you from?"
Cause they know I'm not local.
I found my first office job in California at a travel company. I took reservations over the phone. That was great because I love talking to people. My co-workers were fascinated with my accent. But I told them that my brother's accent was stronger than mine. I called up my brother and asked him to just have a conversation with me over the speakerphone. Yep, highlight of my life. Always willing to accept my role as a circus act. LOL
Now, please don't go turn on your TV to Swamp People or whatever (you know, the one with all the subtitles for people who have no teeth so all their words run together and no one has a clue what they are saying). No, I don't sound like that. I enunciate my words. And I'm fairly certain everyone can understand what I'm saying without a ticker tape under my face to translate.
Anyhoo, not sure what else to say about this.
Yes, my accent makes me stand out. I like standing out. And I'm proud to say I'm Cajun.
Laissez les bons temps rouler, cher!
More on the Sydney Job Hunt
So I thought I would fill everyone in on my job hunt in Sydney as it continues on.
On Friday, 07 February 2014, I had my second interview at S. I was so excited. Everything went really well. The two ladies I met with were pretty easy to talk to and I felt motivated by the job. The company was small and the software they were thinking of implementing in finance was new and something I looked forward to learning and developing. On Tuesday, one of them called me and told me that they were not ready to move forward with the role after all. They wanted to take more time to develop it. I was devastated. I was really looking forward to that role. I was even willing to start part time to help develop it and see where it led. I sent them an email and mailed cards to them letting them know just how interested I was. Didn't matter.
So I persevered. I've seen more recruiters than I care to count. But the last one I met with is with an accounting only recruiting firm. He is awesome. He sat with me for an hour and went over answers to questions that I find silly, but that really can boost you to the head of the pack if you know how to answer them. I appreciate that he took the time with me. And he has called me quite often since I met with him. I told him that I was willing to accept part time work as well ... thinking that if I worked part time I would still have time for my studies and quilting and socializing. LOL
But then I received a call last Friday from a company (G) that I had applied to directly (not through an agency). They wanted to interview me this past Monday. I agreed to meet with them at 2pm. This is for a full-time Accounts Payable + Administrative position. The meeting went well. I swear I thought they offered me the job. I told them that I would contact them soon. I called Mr. Smith and told him about the offer. I suppose he has enough on his own plate without having to worry about my dilemma, so that was a short conversation. I called R (the awesome recruiter) and let him know that there was an offer on the table and asked his advice about some stuff. I called Bee and let her know that I had to make a decision.
I decided to call G back and let them know I was interested. We had still not discussed salary, which everyone thought was really weird. Well, thankfully, I barely had to speak before L told me that they still had a few people to interview and would get back to me.
HELLO!
Am I really so desperate for everyone to like me that I just imagined a job offer? Apparently so. How embarrassing! Now I had to backtrack and let everyone know that ... NO, I was not offered a job yet. Still looking.
And I'm still hung up on that first job. I was so into it. And there's nothing like it out there.
The funny thing is that Bee keeps telling me that I've only barely started looking. I feel like I've been looking forever. I'm getting too used to this. I like not going to work. This is so NOT good.
Tuesday, February 18, 2014
(Not So) Secret Admirer
Day 18 of our blogger's challenge asks us to share a blog we admire, expat or not.
Now that I'm a blogger myself, I know what goes into the process. It takes real commitment to not only sit down andwrite type out the post, but also to share a bit of yourself with others. So as cheesy as it sounds, I admire all bloggers.
That being said, there's a blogger that I have been following for quite some time. Her name is Monika Kinner-Whalen. She is a Canadian fibre artist and her studio is called My Sweet Prairie.
I discovered her one day as I was trolling blogs for anything quilt-related and I've been hooked ever since. I've even commissioned her to create a thread painting of a photo Mr. Smith took of jacaranda trees in Grafton. It's complete now and in the final stages of framing. I'm so excited to receive it.
Here are some of the posts of her work on my project:
Things I Love Thursdays
She Sews, She Scores!
And she doesn't only do thread painting. She's multi-talented. Check her out!
Now that I'm a blogger myself, I know what goes into the process. It takes real commitment to not only sit down and
That being said, there's a blogger that I have been following for quite some time. Her name is Monika Kinner-Whalen. She is a Canadian fibre artist and her studio is called My Sweet Prairie.
I discovered her one day as I was trolling blogs for anything quilt-related and I've been hooked ever since. I've even commissioned her to create a thread painting of a photo Mr. Smith took of jacaranda trees in Grafton. It's complete now and in the final stages of framing. I'm so excited to receive it.
Here are some of the posts of her work on my project:
Things I Love Thursdays
She Sews, She Scores!
And she doesn't only do thread painting. She's multi-talented. Check her out!
Monday, February 17, 2014
Setting My Sights on Sydney
Day 17: Photo Prompt - Something I never would have seen if I'd stayed home.
Holy cow! I moved to Sydney for goodness sake. What wouldn't I have missed? We were lucky enough to find a great apartment in Kirribilli with jobs in the CBD. We walked to work and back home every day (unless it was raining) across the Harbour Bridge.
Before finding said apartment, I did the required touristy things. Top of my list (and what I recommend everyone do) is the Bridge Climb. Yes, I know that it's pricey, but I completely loved it. I did it during Sydney's fall/winter and that's what I would recommend. But that's just me because I hate sweating. LOL
If I'd never left home, I would have missed Vivid Sydney, which is AWESOME! There are so many activities going on and it all has to do with lights. Everything gets lit up in differing ways. The Opera House is always involved in some way, too.
I also would have missed communing with a nature that you can only know Down Under. I've had my photo taken with a koala twice. I've fed the kangaroos twice. I'm more than ready for another go at it.
I sure hope the photo prompt wasn't for just ONE PHOTO. Especially because I have more that I want to show. Mr. Smith and I took a long weekend vacay to Grafton for the Jacaranda Festival. On our drive up and back, we passed the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour.
And most important to me, as always, are the people. If I had stayed home, I would never have met the wonderful people I now call friends. The people will always stand out as the best part of Sydney to me. Here are just a few:
Holy cow! I moved to Sydney for goodness sake. What wouldn't I have missed? We were lucky enough to find a great apartment in Kirribilli with jobs in the CBD. We walked to work and back home every day (unless it was raining) across the Harbour Bridge.
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| Walking to work one winter morn ... |
Before finding said apartment, I did the required touristy things. Top of my list (and what I recommend everyone do) is the Bridge Climb. Yes, I know that it's pricey, but I completely loved it. I did it during Sydney's fall/winter and that's what I would recommend. But that's just me because I hate sweating. LOL
If I'd never left home, I would have missed Vivid Sydney, which is AWESOME! There are so many activities going on and it all has to do with lights. Everything gets lit up in differing ways. The Opera House is always involved in some way, too.
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| Image Credit: Spinifex Group |
I also would have missed communing with a nature that you can only know Down Under. I've had my photo taken with a koala twice. I've fed the kangaroos twice. I'm more than ready for another go at it.
I sure hope the photo prompt wasn't for just ONE PHOTO. Especially because I have more that I want to show. Mr. Smith and I took a long weekend vacay to Grafton for the Jacaranda Festival. On our drive up and back, we passed the Big Banana in Coffs Harbour.
And most important to me, as always, are the people. If I had stayed home, I would never have met the wonderful people I now call friends. The people will always stand out as the best part of Sydney to me. Here are just a few:
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| Me and Bee, my closest and bestest |
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| Me and Frannie |
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| Shiplu |
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| Bee's mini me ... Benji |
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| Declan |
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| Sweet lil Feebs |
Sunday, February 16, 2014
Day 16: Interpretation of a Quote
It's Sunday. That means yet another interpretation of a quote selected by C. in Oz of In an Opal Hearted Country.
Sarah Turnbull is Australian, specifically a Sydneysider. She had a career as a TV journalist in Sydney before moving to Paris in 1994. After living in France for about 10 years, she moved to an island near Tahiti for a few years. And finally, she came back to Sydney. So I suppose you can say that she knows of what she speaks.
After finding only this short blurb about her on Google, I went to Amazon to find out more about what she's published. I could only find two books. Almost French: Love and a New Life in Paris and All Good Things: From Paris to Tahiti: Life and Longing. I actually bought Almost French. The reviews were good and I'm very interested in her experience. I'll let you know.
So anyhoo, the quote is from Almost French. Obviously, I haven't read the book yet so I'm not sure of the context, but I can relate to the basic premise of what she's speaking about.
Sydney's "culture" is really an amalgamation of so many vastly unique cultures. There are people here from China, Japan, Korea, Bangladesh, India, England, Ireland, Spain, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Canada, America and New Zealand, not to mention the indigenous Aboriginal natives of Australia. All I know is that there are so many cultures here, I'm bound to be leaving many out.
America calls itself a melting pot. Okay. I used to think that there were so many different nationalities represented in California. I know now what it really means to be a "melting pot." Sydney is so much more diverse than anything I've ever experienced in the States. And I think I'm a better person for having lived here. That part of my "education" I could never regret.
I've found that by living here I'm infinitely more curious about other people. I find myself wanting to know their stories instead of making one up in my head. I'm more cognizant of the fact that each person is unique. And the thing is ... Sydney (and perhaps Australia in general) seems to want to recognize each culture and embrace their differences. America seems more interested in making everyone American. And hey, nothing wrong with that. It's just a different feel.
And I'm not sure what it would be like if Mr. Smith and I ever went back. Would Americans feel like we were in some way superior because of our travels? I would hope not. And I don't want to be one of those people. But I am worried about trying to fit in. I don't really feel fully accepted in Australia and I'm afraid I would no longer be accepted in my native country either.
I do know that I see things that friends and family post on Facebook and it makes me cringe inside. I don't want to say anything because I don't want anyone to think I'm being "uppity." But am I really the only one who thinks about how it might be interpreted before posting it? You shouldn't have to be an expat to realize that something can be hurtful.
I suppose I should just focus on one day at a time and take the challenges as they come instead of borrowing trouble before it presents itself.
"It is a bitter-sweet thing, knowing two cultures.
Once you leave your birthplace nothing is ever the same."
- Sarah Turnbull
Sarah Turnbull is Australian, specifically a Sydneysider. She had a career as a TV journalist in Sydney before moving to Paris in 1994. After living in France for about 10 years, she moved to an island near Tahiti for a few years. And finally, she came back to Sydney. So I suppose you can say that she knows of what she speaks.
After finding only this short blurb about her on Google, I went to Amazon to find out more about what she's published. I could only find two books. Almost French: Love and a New Life in Paris and All Good Things: From Paris to Tahiti: Life and Longing. I actually bought Almost French. The reviews were good and I'm very interested in her experience. I'll let you know.
So anyhoo, the quote is from Almost French. Obviously, I haven't read the book yet so I'm not sure of the context, but I can relate to the basic premise of what she's speaking about.
Sydney's "culture" is really an amalgamation of so many vastly unique cultures. There are people here from China, Japan, Korea, Bangladesh, India, England, Ireland, Spain, Indonesia, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, Canada, America and New Zealand, not to mention the indigenous Aboriginal natives of Australia. All I know is that there are so many cultures here, I'm bound to be leaving many out.
America calls itself a melting pot. Okay. I used to think that there were so many different nationalities represented in California. I know now what it really means to be a "melting pot." Sydney is so much more diverse than anything I've ever experienced in the States. And I think I'm a better person for having lived here. That part of my "education" I could never regret.
I've found that by living here I'm infinitely more curious about other people. I find myself wanting to know their stories instead of making one up in my head. I'm more cognizant of the fact that each person is unique. And the thing is ... Sydney (and perhaps Australia in general) seems to want to recognize each culture and embrace their differences. America seems more interested in making everyone American. And hey, nothing wrong with that. It's just a different feel.
And I'm not sure what it would be like if Mr. Smith and I ever went back. Would Americans feel like we were in some way superior because of our travels? I would hope not. And I don't want to be one of those people. But I am worried about trying to fit in. I don't really feel fully accepted in Australia and I'm afraid I would no longer be accepted in my native country either.
I do know that I see things that friends and family post on Facebook and it makes me cringe inside. I don't want to say anything because I don't want anyone to think I'm being "uppity." But am I really the only one who thinks about how it might be interpreted before posting it? You shouldn't have to be an expat to realize that something can be hurtful.
I suppose I should just focus on one day at a time and take the challenges as they come instead of borrowing trouble before it presents itself.
Saturday, February 15, 2014
The Road Less Travelled
It's day 15 of our blogger's challenge and here is our topic du jour:
A few months ago, Mr. Smith and I were trying to show some friends around our neighbourhood so that they could decide if it was a suburb they might consider looking to rent in. We decided to walk around and take some photos.
We left our apartment and turned left. We walked past the train station and made a left again. You continue straight on for a little over five minutes and come to a steep downward slope. Suddenly you start to wonder if you really want to go down ... knowing you'll have to walk back up. Of course, you can see Berry Island Reserve slowly coming into view and know that you just have to keep going.
It's an open green field perfect for playing frisbee and other fun stuff. There is a playground for kids around to the right. It's not huge, but fun for a good half-hour or so. There's also a great walking trail called the Gadyan Track.
After spending about an hour looking around and walking the trail, we headed back home. As we start the hike up the hill, we notice a sign on the left side of the road that announces a hiking trail that goes all the way to Wollstonecraft station. So we decide to take it. And we loved it! The trail mostly follows the shore and you come to a beautiful section of streams with lichen and rocks and it's all green and shady. Lovely!
We also found a Triumph engine buried in the soil near the base of a tree ... go figure!
"What the tourists never see in my town that they are really missing out on."
A few months ago, Mr. Smith and I were trying to show some friends around our neighbourhood so that they could decide if it was a suburb they might consider looking to rent in. We decided to walk around and take some photos.
We left our apartment and turned left. We walked past the train station and made a left again. You continue straight on for a little over five minutes and come to a steep downward slope. Suddenly you start to wonder if you really want to go down ... knowing you'll have to walk back up. Of course, you can see Berry Island Reserve slowly coming into view and know that you just have to keep going.
It's an open green field perfect for playing frisbee and other fun stuff. There is a playground for kids around to the right. It's not huge, but fun for a good half-hour or so. There's also a great walking trail called the Gadyan Track.
After spending about an hour looking around and walking the trail, we headed back home. As we start the hike up the hill, we notice a sign on the left side of the road that announces a hiking trail that goes all the way to Wollstonecraft station. So we decide to take it. And we loved it! The trail mostly follows the shore and you come to a beautiful section of streams with lichen and rocks and it's all green and shady. Lovely!
We also found a Triumph engine buried in the soil near the base of a tree ... go figure!
Friday, February 14, 2014
The Stoned Crow: A Restaurant Review
DISCLAIMER: I am not a foodie. Here's a list of stuff I don't (won't) eat:
- Vegetables. I'm dead serious about this. I don't care if they are green, red, yellow, purple or blue.
- Cute stuff. If it's cuddly (in my mind), I won't eat it. I don't eat rabbits, lambs, deer or kangaroo.
- Melon. I don't think melon tastes like anything except maybe a sponge. Who wants to chew on that?
That said, I'm going to do a review of a restaurant that Mr. Smith and I really like. It's called The Stoned Crow and it's located at 39 Willoughby Road in Crows Nest. We go there almost exclusively for lunch on weekends.
We typically order the same thing every time ...
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| Mr. Smith likes these pizzas: Mexican Nacho on top; Mushroom on bottom |
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| This is my favourite - Chorizo It comes with pesto on it as well ... I've started getting it with the pesto and it's quite good. |
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| These are called slushies, I think... (alcoholic beverage) |
We've also had the Grilled Chilli Chicken Burger with Fries, the Potato Wedges with Sweet Chilli and Sour Cream and the Chicken Wings. The food is pretty typical pub food and we love that kind of restaurant. The reason we keep returning is simple. The food is always fresh and hot. The drinks are always cold and refreshing. There is seating inside and out. It's open air and cool. They also have daily specials on the board outside.
We would both highly recommend it if you are looking to just relax and enjoy good food, drink and company.
Thursday, February 13, 2014
Something I Left Behind ...
I'm not gonna be sappy today. That would be so predictable. Here's something I've had to leave behind ... Cajun food.
This is a dish that I can make here now that I have my Tony Chacherie cajun seasoning! Everyone seems to really enjoy it and that makes me very happy.
I'm talking gumbo, jambalaya, chicken sauce picante, shrimp étouffée, boiled crawfish, etc. The last time I was home I had plenty of gumbo.
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| Chicken + Sausage Gumbo |
Oh Em Gee! That looks so good. Sure wish I had a big ole bowl right now. Well, it's 10:40pm. Maybe not RIGHT NOW. LOL!
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| Rice Dressing a.k.a. Dirty Rice |
This is a dish that I can make here now that I have my Tony Chacherie cajun seasoning! Everyone seems to really enjoy it and that makes me very happy.
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| Me at Jorge's crawfish boil for the rehearsal dinner before his wedding! |
This crawfish boil was a lot of fun. When crawfish are in season, we get together in big groups of family and friends. You put together a bunch of tables and line them with newspaper and/or butcher paper. You boil crawfish, potatoes and corn on the cob in a very large pot with A LOT of spicy cajun seasoning. There's nothing like celebrating and eating in the deep south.
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