As I returned back from Thailand, I stayed with a family to help nanny while the mom was away. Each day I woke up at 7am, sent the kids off to school, went back to bed and then would go into the city for the gym, be back at 3pm for the kids, and hang out. It was pretty easy and just hung out. Then I went off to Brisbane to visit Helen, my bestest friend I met last summer in Greece.
She worked during the days so I would wake up, work out, walk around town and then watched some English sitcoms which were great. We had so much together hanging out, going out, and mucking around. SHOUT OUT to my bffaeae and her friends that all read this!! On Sunday, we went to a Greek Festival where we indulged in Haluomi (grilled cheese), salads, and yummy-ness. ALI, they even had Mythos!
To break up the week, I went to Byron Bay. A small beach town that reminded me of Bethany. Ali had stayed there so she put me in touch with some mates. However, I also had plans to meet up with Katies Babus and Sam Levy. Two girls from growing up that I had been acquaintances to but felt instantly close to when I saw. Katie has been living in Cairns and we have stayed in touch for the past few months through skype and facebook and planned to try and see one another. I had such a great time with them and felt like we had stayed in touch forever. It was SO great seeing familiar faces and Sam was preparing me for home and trying to make me feel a little better. (she took a month off to visit Katie and travel). The next day they left after we walked to the Light House. I hung out with Ali’s friends after drinking a half a box of Goon…
I got back to Brisbane and then left the following day for Sydney. I got back and could not believe the end was in sight. I had a breakdown while packing and listening to Kings Of Leon. I really can not fathom home life…
The past 2 days and the rest of the weekend, I am just catching up with friends, having coffees, drinks, dinners and brunches to say my goodbyes.
On a side note, I read Eat Pray Love and am now reading a book by Bill Bryson. Both authors writing about their adventures in other countries… ive been inspired and REALLY think I could write a book.
K so on that note… this is the end… but it is just the beginning. WHO KNOWS what will happen over the next few days, weeks, and months. I am taking one day at a time (and I hope you all understand that… so I DO NOT have the answers to “what are you doing? Where are you living? Etc”) Thank you for your love and support and I will submit another post once I return safe and sound with about 60 kilos of crap!!!
CHEERS
25 June, 2009
THAILAND
PHUKET
Well, another adventure to hold in my memory box. On May 29th I headed to Phuket. I arrived at the airport and looked around..going in and out looking for Paul. Lindsey's boyfriend who was picking me up on his motorbike. Finally I caught eyes with the Farang (foreigner...non thai person) and he was holding a sign that read "Lindsey's friend Shebilicious":-) I could not WAIT to get to see linds. I got to their apt late in the evening and we were just jumping and hugging and couldn't believe I was there. We all hung out for a bit and I gave them 2 boxes of Tim Tams (which were gone in a day). Then, late at night we headed to Patong beach. It was my first look into Thai nightlife and the culture of old Farang men with young thai women (some were their prostitutes, others their wives...very interesting). All of the bars were trying to get you in and had girls on the bar top trying to sell themselves. For me, it was VERY late in Sydney so we headed back for the night.
Linds and I headed out the next morning on her motorbike. We went to Nar hin beach where we caught up on life and enjoyed a coconut. We headed to the Big Buddha which overlooked all of Phuket and was beautiful. We went to a Wat and then headed back for Paul. We all went out for lunch which was great because they introduced me to SO many dishes and the culture of real thai cuisine (SO delicious). We watched sunset and then linds and I went out that evening. Please refer to the afro pics on facebook;-)
The following day we went to Old Phuket town. Lindsey had never really been so it was an adventure for the both of us. We saw the Portuguese town village and then found our way to Rang Hill where we encountered a number of Asain tourists that we had a photo shoot with haha. That night we went to a hookah lounge and talked alot about life and what we are doing. I expressed my fears about going home and stepping back into a life where no one really understands what you had been through. It was SO nice to talk to two people who understood where I was coming from.
My last day in Phuket Lindsey had school. Paul and I roamed around and I got a 2 hour massage on the beach (for less than $15) We had an easy night in of making guacamole and hanging out. I said bye to lindsey the next morning and headed to the airport. It was sad to say goodbye but I feel SO lucky that I got to see her and catch up. They both were so good to me!
KO SAMUI
I flew into ko samui and walked around for over an hour to check out all of the guesthouses. Finally I found a place with AC, on the beach and a reasonable price. I hung out all day and laid out. Come 5pm the entire beach and the restaurants transform into this gala evening affair of lights, air blown trees and heaps of color. I walked up and down the beach and started talking to a girl from Melbourne. We hung out for a bit and chatted about our travels.
The next day I took a tour that my friend from UMD (that was studying abroad in OZ) recommended to me. As I was waiting, I picked up Twilight...lets just say I finished that in 4 days!! haha ANYWAYS, this tour was GREAT. They took us ALL over! We saw the grandmother and grandfather rocks (very phallic rocks...). Then we headed to a monkey area where they demonstrated how they got the coconuts down. I then went on an elephant ride and saw an elephant show, monkey show, and croc show where men were sticking their hands and heads into the croc. Then they took us to see the mummified monk, secret garden (which was funny cause on our way, I was like "this is some thing they set up for tourists") well It was SO cool. All of these concrete, cement sculptures in the middles of the wilderness. Very neat! We ate lunch over looking the Island and I met some really cool people throughout the journey. After lunch, we went to a rubber forest where they carve the trees and they ooze rubber to make condoms haha. And finally, they took us to the Big Buddha over looking Ko Samui. All in all, it was a GREAT fun filled day that allowed me to see alot of the Island. I hung out with the people from my tour and the girl from Melbourne the remainder of the nights. The rest of the time on the Island, I read, hung out, and got a massage:-) I really enjoyed Ko Samui for its serene beach and relaxation but the fact that they DID have a night life was great too.
KO PHAN GNAN
In the morning I headed out of Ko Samui to Ko Phan Gnan. I wandered here again looking for accommodation. I went to the Pier to see if Josh and his mates were getting off the boat. They didnt, which is when I met Sam, Lindsay and Nick. Two American girls and a Welsh guy (that came for one of the girls). We decided to look for a place together and ended up all staying together. We headed to Leela beach which is at a resort and got some drinks and hung out for the sunset. That night we went to the pre fullmoon festivities. When Lindsey said "I cant really describe it", NOW I know what she means. Its like preakness times 100. Insane and Amazing!!
The next day Josh and his friends came and we moved into another place together (after much drama at one place haha). We all went to cocohuts (leela beach) again and hung out before another pre night. THEN, FINALLY the day of the full moon. We hung out all day and napped. Got headbands and body paint and got ready for the festivities. It was similar to the nights before except HEAPS more people. Those staying on Ko samui took boats over so it was PACKED. We always hung out near one bar that played great music so it was a ton of fun.
I knew I would want to GET OUT of Ko Phan Gan so we all booked a ticket for Ko Tao the following morning for an 8am ferry.
KO TAO
Known for its diving, we checked into Big Blue. A place where if you dive, that night you stay for free. We hung out and got acquainted with the town. I got a massage at exactly sunset and it was the most amazing thing. Just laying there, seeing the colors, and getting massaged (my favorite!), it was just amazing.
The next day we woke up for our Scuba diving. I have been before but one thing that stands out in my mind was the hundreds and thousands of fish that were swimming together. They were the kind with the eyes on the sides of their faces so anytime one would move, they all would. I just kept swimming up in them, being like "remember this moment"... That night we all got massages and hung out around town.
In the morning we said our goodbyes as the group headed to Ko Samui, I was about to embark in a 36 hour journey to Chang Mai.
CHANG MAI
I took a taxi, a ferry, a bus to Bangkok and then hopped right on an overnight train to Chang Mai. Here, the North, is know for more of the cultural experiences so I was looking forward to engaging myself. I checked in to a room at this place that was planning a trek. But after looking around, they were WAY overpriced and I was not really into it. I walked to John's Gallery. An artist that Lindsey had alot of her stuff from and I fell in love with one of her things. I went and checked him out and it was GREAT. He said he used to sell in Sydney and now in Japan. Met some people and hung out that evening and got insight on things.
The next days was a full on day. Beginning with a thai cooking class. We went to the market and learned about the herbs and spices. When we arrived, it was at someone's home but was all prepared with stoves, and even things cut up and ready for us. I made four delicious dishes and got the recipe for them too. Then I went up to Doi Sutep. A temple over looking Chang Mai that houses a monastery. My driver said he would wait for me and to be back in an hour. I was thinking "I probably wont need an hour" haha BUT I DID!!! it was beautiful and so surreal. No matter how long I am in a place, I still remind myself how amazing of an experience it is. After that, I went to a Wat where I thought they were having a monk chat (a way for them to practice english). There was not anything set up but I took it upon myself to have one. I met two from Cambodia and one from Laos. They came as a way to study. We chatted for a half an hour with all of asking asking each other questions. It was very fascinating and I am so happy I did that. That night I went to a Thai Boxing match with people I had met. Some of these boys are so young and small but the "real" fight happened to be with an Irish guy that trained in Canada against a Thai. He won. I had booked a trek so I knew I has to be in early that night.
My trek was great and I got SO lucky! There were 10 of us with a crazy fun tour guy "Johnny"(because he drinks too much Johnny Walker). The first day we went for an elephant trek in the jungle, and walked alot!! We took a break at a waterfall where the guys jumped in and then we continued for another hour. Finally, we arrived to our destination. It was a small hill tribe village and we were staying in a bamboo hut overlooking the land. We hung out and had a "home cooked" meal. When night fell, I looked up at the stars and realized I had probably never seen to many. THOUSANDS of stars and so many that made up clusters... I could have starred for hours! We began playing card games and then a guy from the tribe came in with a guitar. We were jamming out and having a grand time. I got really lucky for being on my own but having such an amazing group.
The next morning we woke up and had breakie before having a 2 hour hike to a waterfall. We hung out there for a bit and then the others went White Water Rafting (after having 2 near death experiences in the past years, and vowing never to do it again, I opted not to go) however, I did meet them for the bamboo ride (which is basically in the water). We had lunch and then made our way back to Chang Mai. I met so many cool people that I ended up staying at the same place as a couple from Canada. Ron and Christy were so fun! We went to the night bazar that evening and walked and ate and drank and ate. Haha The next morning I woke up and had my first bagel in about a year haha Then I hopped on a bus and headed to Pai.
PAI
Pai is a small hippie town just north of Chang Mai. No tuk tuks, no taxi's, just motor bikes and reggae bars. I met a guy on the bus who was traveling solo so we walked around looking for accommodation. I then ran into two guys from my trek and they were with this girl Lisa. So, the 5 of us wandered around and Lisa and I decided to stay together. I hung out that afternoon in a hammock and around town. We went to a "bar" that night (families owning places...small town style) and the guy was giving me a massage as guitars were getting passed around and we were rocking out. BEST bar ever... you know me and massages.... haha
The next morning, lisa and I woke up and took a Yoga class. I was in need of that! I hung out the rest of the morning and then got Acupuncture. Very interesting... a different experience and something that was worth trying out in Thailand (so cheap) Something I definitely want to enquire about when I get home. Went back to the same bar and just took it easy. Was exhausted that night so called it an early one.
The following day, I woke up and did some pilates and then lisa and I boarded a bus back to Chang Mai to head to Bangkok.
BANGKOK
WOW, what a city!!! We got in at 530am and I went one direction and lisa another. It was sad that we didnt exchange details or anything but it was WAY too early. Again, I wandered around looking for a place for a while. I used someone's phone and called my friend Ravi that I met in Sydney and was now living in Bangkok. I needed a familiar voice and some guidance. I booked myself into a place and walked around the streets. A tuk tuk driver offered to take me around for 5THB (thats like not even .15 cents). I went to see the Lucky Buddha, Golden Mount, some Wats and of course, some Tailor shops for free petrol haha. Went into town and met two canadian guys, we were chatting about our travels when suddenly, I saw Lisa! I was SO happy!! That evening, Andrew, Larry and I headed to an area where I met up with Ravi and another girl from Sydney he had met here. It was SO great to see a familiar face and hear what he was up to! We also headed to a bar called Australia which was fun hehe
The next day Andrew and I went to The Grand Palace (lisa had been and larry was waiting for his girlfriend to come). On our way, all of these people were saying it was closed. But I convinced Andrew to go and we would at least take some pictures. Well low and behold, it WAS open and those people just wanted to take us around for our money. Andrew didnt have on the proper attired so I said I would go in the gates and take photos, then we were like "screw it!". He bought pants and we paid to actually GO IN. It was WELL WORTH IT!!! Everything was made from these small little tiles of gold or red or blue and just captured me in. I could have just looked all day. Some things mosaic, others, painted murals, it really was "grand". From there, we picked up the others and headed to Cabbages and Condoms. A restaurant trying to express the importance of safe sex and preventing pregnancy. Eveything was decorated with condoms (flower condoms, santa clause made of condoms, even "we dont have mints, take a condom") Very interesting place for a good cause. I then headed to a market where I saw a shirt that reminded me of something ive seen in syd for $50 so for not even $12, I got it:-) That night, lisa and I went to a Ping Pong show... basically a "strip club" but the girls are doing things with their "things". EVERYONE goes like alot of Farangs and I heard its just a sight to see. I wont get into too much detail on here but if youre interested, let me know.
The next day, Lisa and I got a bus to the JJ markets. A MASSIVE market with hundreds of stalls. SO many cool and amazing, cheap things. We spent the day there and then headed back cause Lisa was leaving that night.
Walked around on my last day, did my last minute shopping and got my last Thai massage. It was a GREAT trip but I was definitely ready to come back home...to sydney. I was tired of the "tuk tuk? taxi". Everyone says Thai's are so nice...but they have probably never been to Australia. I LOVE it here!!
I came back and have been staying with a family that I used to babysit for. The mom is away for the week and the dad needed some extra hands to get them ready in the morning and be here when they got home from school. Its GREAT! I wake them up and send them off. I have been going to the gym and then coming home for them. Its the first time in a Year I have had a full kitchen so the gym thing isnt doing much haha. I am already weirded out about me coming home, but we shall see when I get there. I am heading to Brisbane next week to visit Helen and then I will be back for my last weekend... CRAZY
Hope all is well CHEERS
Well, another adventure to hold in my memory box. On May 29th I headed to Phuket. I arrived at the airport and looked around..going in and out looking for Paul. Lindsey's boyfriend who was picking me up on his motorbike. Finally I caught eyes with the Farang (foreigner...non thai person) and he was holding a sign that read "Lindsey's friend Shebilicious":-) I could not WAIT to get to see linds. I got to their apt late in the evening and we were just jumping and hugging and couldn't believe I was there. We all hung out for a bit and I gave them 2 boxes of Tim Tams (which were gone in a day). Then, late at night we headed to Patong beach. It was my first look into Thai nightlife and the culture of old Farang men with young thai women (some were their prostitutes, others their wives...very interesting). All of the bars were trying to get you in and had girls on the bar top trying to sell themselves. For me, it was VERY late in Sydney so we headed back for the night.
Linds and I headed out the next morning on her motorbike. We went to Nar hin beach where we caught up on life and enjoyed a coconut. We headed to the Big Buddha which overlooked all of Phuket and was beautiful. We went to a Wat and then headed back for Paul. We all went out for lunch which was great because they introduced me to SO many dishes and the culture of real thai cuisine (SO delicious). We watched sunset and then linds and I went out that evening. Please refer to the afro pics on facebook;-)
The following day we went to Old Phuket town. Lindsey had never really been so it was an adventure for the both of us. We saw the Portuguese town village and then found our way to Rang Hill where we encountered a number of Asain tourists that we had a photo shoot with haha. That night we went to a hookah lounge and talked alot about life and what we are doing. I expressed my fears about going home and stepping back into a life where no one really understands what you had been through. It was SO nice to talk to two people who understood where I was coming from.
My last day in Phuket Lindsey had school. Paul and I roamed around and I got a 2 hour massage on the beach (for less than $15) We had an easy night in of making guacamole and hanging out. I said bye to lindsey the next morning and headed to the airport. It was sad to say goodbye but I feel SO lucky that I got to see her and catch up. They both were so good to me!
KO SAMUI
I flew into ko samui and walked around for over an hour to check out all of the guesthouses. Finally I found a place with AC, on the beach and a reasonable price. I hung out all day and laid out. Come 5pm the entire beach and the restaurants transform into this gala evening affair of lights, air blown trees and heaps of color. I walked up and down the beach and started talking to a girl from Melbourne. We hung out for a bit and chatted about our travels.
The next day I took a tour that my friend from UMD (that was studying abroad in OZ) recommended to me. As I was waiting, I picked up Twilight...lets just say I finished that in 4 days!! haha ANYWAYS, this tour was GREAT. They took us ALL over! We saw the grandmother and grandfather rocks (very phallic rocks...). Then we headed to a monkey area where they demonstrated how they got the coconuts down. I then went on an elephant ride and saw an elephant show, monkey show, and croc show where men were sticking their hands and heads into the croc. Then they took us to see the mummified monk, secret garden (which was funny cause on our way, I was like "this is some thing they set up for tourists") well It was SO cool. All of these concrete, cement sculptures in the middles of the wilderness. Very neat! We ate lunch over looking the Island and I met some really cool people throughout the journey. After lunch, we went to a rubber forest where they carve the trees and they ooze rubber to make condoms haha. And finally, they took us to the Big Buddha over looking Ko Samui. All in all, it was a GREAT fun filled day that allowed me to see alot of the Island. I hung out with the people from my tour and the girl from Melbourne the remainder of the nights. The rest of the time on the Island, I read, hung out, and got a massage:-) I really enjoyed Ko Samui for its serene beach and relaxation but the fact that they DID have a night life was great too.
KO PHAN GNAN
In the morning I headed out of Ko Samui to Ko Phan Gnan. I wandered here again looking for accommodation. I went to the Pier to see if Josh and his mates were getting off the boat. They didnt, which is when I met Sam, Lindsay and Nick. Two American girls and a Welsh guy (that came for one of the girls). We decided to look for a place together and ended up all staying together. We headed to Leela beach which is at a resort and got some drinks and hung out for the sunset. That night we went to the pre fullmoon festivities. When Lindsey said "I cant really describe it", NOW I know what she means. Its like preakness times 100. Insane and Amazing!!
The next day Josh and his friends came and we moved into another place together (after much drama at one place haha). We all went to cocohuts (leela beach) again and hung out before another pre night. THEN, FINALLY the day of the full moon. We hung out all day and napped. Got headbands and body paint and got ready for the festivities. It was similar to the nights before except HEAPS more people. Those staying on Ko samui took boats over so it was PACKED. We always hung out near one bar that played great music so it was a ton of fun.
I knew I would want to GET OUT of Ko Phan Gan so we all booked a ticket for Ko Tao the following morning for an 8am ferry.
KO TAO
Known for its diving, we checked into Big Blue. A place where if you dive, that night you stay for free. We hung out and got acquainted with the town. I got a massage at exactly sunset and it was the most amazing thing. Just laying there, seeing the colors, and getting massaged (my favorite!), it was just amazing.
The next day we woke up for our Scuba diving. I have been before but one thing that stands out in my mind was the hundreds and thousands of fish that were swimming together. They were the kind with the eyes on the sides of their faces so anytime one would move, they all would. I just kept swimming up in them, being like "remember this moment"... That night we all got massages and hung out around town.
In the morning we said our goodbyes as the group headed to Ko Samui, I was about to embark in a 36 hour journey to Chang Mai.
CHANG MAI
I took a taxi, a ferry, a bus to Bangkok and then hopped right on an overnight train to Chang Mai. Here, the North, is know for more of the cultural experiences so I was looking forward to engaging myself. I checked in to a room at this place that was planning a trek. But after looking around, they were WAY overpriced and I was not really into it. I walked to John's Gallery. An artist that Lindsey had alot of her stuff from and I fell in love with one of her things. I went and checked him out and it was GREAT. He said he used to sell in Sydney and now in Japan. Met some people and hung out that evening and got insight on things.
The next days was a full on day. Beginning with a thai cooking class. We went to the market and learned about the herbs and spices. When we arrived, it was at someone's home but was all prepared with stoves, and even things cut up and ready for us. I made four delicious dishes and got the recipe for them too. Then I went up to Doi Sutep. A temple over looking Chang Mai that houses a monastery. My driver said he would wait for me and to be back in an hour. I was thinking "I probably wont need an hour" haha BUT I DID!!! it was beautiful and so surreal. No matter how long I am in a place, I still remind myself how amazing of an experience it is. After that, I went to a Wat where I thought they were having a monk chat (a way for them to practice english). There was not anything set up but I took it upon myself to have one. I met two from Cambodia and one from Laos. They came as a way to study. We chatted for a half an hour with all of asking asking each other questions. It was very fascinating and I am so happy I did that. That night I went to a Thai Boxing match with people I had met. Some of these boys are so young and small but the "real" fight happened to be with an Irish guy that trained in Canada against a Thai. He won. I had booked a trek so I knew I has to be in early that night.
My trek was great and I got SO lucky! There were 10 of us with a crazy fun tour guy "Johnny"(because he drinks too much Johnny Walker). The first day we went for an elephant trek in the jungle, and walked alot!! We took a break at a waterfall where the guys jumped in and then we continued for another hour. Finally, we arrived to our destination. It was a small hill tribe village and we were staying in a bamboo hut overlooking the land. We hung out and had a "home cooked" meal. When night fell, I looked up at the stars and realized I had probably never seen to many. THOUSANDS of stars and so many that made up clusters... I could have starred for hours! We began playing card games and then a guy from the tribe came in with a guitar. We were jamming out and having a grand time. I got really lucky for being on my own but having such an amazing group.
The next morning we woke up and had breakie before having a 2 hour hike to a waterfall. We hung out there for a bit and then the others went White Water Rafting (after having 2 near death experiences in the past years, and vowing never to do it again, I opted not to go) however, I did meet them for the bamboo ride (which is basically in the water). We had lunch and then made our way back to Chang Mai. I met so many cool people that I ended up staying at the same place as a couple from Canada. Ron and Christy were so fun! We went to the night bazar that evening and walked and ate and drank and ate. Haha The next morning I woke up and had my first bagel in about a year haha Then I hopped on a bus and headed to Pai.
PAI
Pai is a small hippie town just north of Chang Mai. No tuk tuks, no taxi's, just motor bikes and reggae bars. I met a guy on the bus who was traveling solo so we walked around looking for accommodation. I then ran into two guys from my trek and they were with this girl Lisa. So, the 5 of us wandered around and Lisa and I decided to stay together. I hung out that afternoon in a hammock and around town. We went to a "bar" that night (families owning places...small town style) and the guy was giving me a massage as guitars were getting passed around and we were rocking out. BEST bar ever... you know me and massages.... haha
The next morning, lisa and I woke up and took a Yoga class. I was in need of that! I hung out the rest of the morning and then got Acupuncture. Very interesting... a different experience and something that was worth trying out in Thailand (so cheap) Something I definitely want to enquire about when I get home. Went back to the same bar and just took it easy. Was exhausted that night so called it an early one.
The following day, I woke up and did some pilates and then lisa and I boarded a bus back to Chang Mai to head to Bangkok.
BANGKOK
WOW, what a city!!! We got in at 530am and I went one direction and lisa another. It was sad that we didnt exchange details or anything but it was WAY too early. Again, I wandered around looking for a place for a while. I used someone's phone and called my friend Ravi that I met in Sydney and was now living in Bangkok. I needed a familiar voice and some guidance. I booked myself into a place and walked around the streets. A tuk tuk driver offered to take me around for 5THB (thats like not even .15 cents). I went to see the Lucky Buddha, Golden Mount, some Wats and of course, some Tailor shops for free petrol haha. Went into town and met two canadian guys, we were chatting about our travels when suddenly, I saw Lisa! I was SO happy!! That evening, Andrew, Larry and I headed to an area where I met up with Ravi and another girl from Sydney he had met here. It was SO great to see a familiar face and hear what he was up to! We also headed to a bar called Australia which was fun hehe
The next day Andrew and I went to The Grand Palace (lisa had been and larry was waiting for his girlfriend to come). On our way, all of these people were saying it was closed. But I convinced Andrew to go and we would at least take some pictures. Well low and behold, it WAS open and those people just wanted to take us around for our money. Andrew didnt have on the proper attired so I said I would go in the gates and take photos, then we were like "screw it!". He bought pants and we paid to actually GO IN. It was WELL WORTH IT!!! Everything was made from these small little tiles of gold or red or blue and just captured me in. I could have just looked all day. Some things mosaic, others, painted murals, it really was "grand". From there, we picked up the others and headed to Cabbages and Condoms. A restaurant trying to express the importance of safe sex and preventing pregnancy. Eveything was decorated with condoms (flower condoms, santa clause made of condoms, even "we dont have mints, take a condom") Very interesting place for a good cause. I then headed to a market where I saw a shirt that reminded me of something ive seen in syd for $50 so for not even $12, I got it:-) That night, lisa and I went to a Ping Pong show... basically a "strip club" but the girls are doing things with their "things". EVERYONE goes like alot of Farangs and I heard its just a sight to see. I wont get into too much detail on here but if youre interested, let me know.
The next day, Lisa and I got a bus to the JJ markets. A MASSIVE market with hundreds of stalls. SO many cool and amazing, cheap things. We spent the day there and then headed back cause Lisa was leaving that night.
Walked around on my last day, did my last minute shopping and got my last Thai massage. It was a GREAT trip but I was definitely ready to come back home...to sydney. I was tired of the "tuk tuk? taxi". Everyone says Thai's are so nice...but they have probably never been to Australia. I LOVE it here!!
I came back and have been staying with a family that I used to babysit for. The mom is away for the week and the dad needed some extra hands to get them ready in the morning and be here when they got home from school. Its GREAT! I wake them up and send them off. I have been going to the gym and then coming home for them. Its the first time in a Year I have had a full kitchen so the gym thing isnt doing much haha. I am already weirded out about me coming home, but we shall see when I get there. I am heading to Brisbane next week to visit Helen and then I will be back for my last weekend... CRAZY
Hope all is well CHEERS
25 May, 2009
May Madness-a month of visitors
This has been a great month full of visitors!!
Earlier this month my mate Jess from my study abroad trip came to visit. She spent the weekend here with me in Sydney. Saturday night Erica came over in the rain storm and we all hung out, watched TV and had a girls night in. Sunday we woke up and went to the markets. Then it was Darling Harbors 21st birthday celebration so we went there for fireworks and concerts. Wes Carr, Australian Idol winner, performed so that was really cool. Still a bit jetlagged, we headed back for an early night. We hung out Monday before Jess headed to the Central coast to stay with our TA rachel.
Wednesday of that week I caugh up with my old flatmate Dave. His sister works for MTV here and got us in to the filming of The LAIR. A show that films performances... We saw De La Soul and some other famour faces. I ran into Jay from "The City" and I was like "how was new york!!" haha a little starstruck to say the least.
Friday I got a call from Jess seeing if I wanted to go to the Central Coast for the weekend. I got very excited for a little weekend getaway. I met Rachael and Jess along with Nick, the head of our study abroad program, in the city. We had a great dinner by the water and then we drove back to Rachaels. I had a great weekend there and spending time with jess. We met up in Milan last summer and always joke about our reunion in other countries. Saturday we went to the beach town and walked around and went to another beach for sunset. Saturday night we cooked a great dinner in and watched a movie with Rachael and her fam.
It was sad to see jess go but we are looking forward to another amazing reunion.
I am no longer working for Tiaki but as soon as I returned from my travels, I have been freelancing and teaching a few classes for Vclub again. Thank goodness:-)
About a week and a half ago, Mike came to Sydney! We saw eachother 4 months ago in Fiji but this time, he came to Australia. The day he got in, we did the bondi tour and went to Watsons bay. We had lunch on the water and took a nap before heading out for my birthday celebration. It was so great having all of my friends together. I have made so many Australian mates and even had my American friends there that it was just so wonderful:-)
The next day we went down into the city and did the opera house and bridge area. I was able to show mike my favorite spot and I gave him a tour of the Ivy all after we got lunch in Darling Harbor. Later, while enjoying a drink at Opera bar, we met up with my friend that is visiting his girlfriend who is studying abroad and had a drink. We went home early and stayed in and watched a movie. Saturday we did the bondi to coogee coast walk and had a great Linner in Coogee. Came back to my place and we were both exhausted. Mike stayed asleep and I went to babysit. Kept it low key cause we had a 530am wake up call for our Wine Tour in the Hunter Valley. What a great, beautiful day of trying wine, tasting cheese, eating fudge, and being with one another. A really fun trip! Hung out that evening cause monday was another early wake up for Surfer's Paradise in the Gold Coast. Its just a small cool town that had great clubs! Miggy and his group were going to be there so Ali decided to come down as well. Despite a few mishaps, it was a great time. Ali came to our hotel and we all drank a bit and then went to a club where we got our dance on. Something us Streimer sisters love to do;-) The next day we just walked around town before Ali went back to Byron Bay. That night Mike and I ate habachi (Mmm) and went to a club called Bedroom. Basically like the club "Bed" in New York. Weather was pretty horrible but the next day we did a tour in the rainforest. Another amazing landscape of Australia. I was really happy that Mike got to see another part of Oz. From there, we headed to the airport for our trip back to sydney.
Thursday we had a late start and went into the city to check out the Star City Casino. We went up to the sky tower and had a drink in 360. The center point of Sydney that is a revolving restaurant. From there we had dinner at Pancakes on the Rocks because well.... its amazing! Then we met up with MIGGY!!!! It was soooo great seeing him! I could not believe he was in Sydney. A bunch of Study Abroad people came out and Mike knew some guys from home so it turned into a really fun night!!
Friday was another late start but a great one at that! We went to the Wildlife World where Mike got to see the Koala's, Kangaroo's and other native animals. For some reason, I get really excited for people when they see the animals hehe. From there we walked around the Harbor, got him some souvenirs and sat for a nice dinner on the water to watch the fireworks. That night we met up with Erica at Establishment, another Merivale bar. We ended up running in to two of my great friends Christine and Hayley and then my mate Ben too. Turned into a great evening despite miserable weather.
Saturday we just hung out and went to Erica's to BBQ. We needed a low key day... we headed out into The Cross at night and went to a place where I ended up seeing heaps of my guys friends. Mike got to meet some of my closest and I think it was nice to put the names to the faces. Sunday was an amazing last full day! We went to the Bondi Markets and then headed to the Sydney Cricket Ground for the SWANS AFL game. It was an unbelievably gorgeous day and the Swans won!!! I could follow the game and was actually really into it. Later that afternoon, we got our last order of wedges with sour cream and sweet chilli sauce (yes, ive had more in the past week and a half then my entire life!) and went up to one of my spots in Bondi where we watched the Sunset. It was perfect. Headed home to pack and caught up with Eli over a few drinks at the RSL. Our sunday night place. Then Mike and I went to Icebergs. A place that I thought was going to be overated but yet again, they have proven me wrong. UNREAL food!!! We took it slow and started off with a glass of wine over the water( the restaurant is on the opposite side of the beach and is all glass windows), then sat down and enjoyed our last evening with one another. A very pricey meal, (Thanks mom and steve!!!) but when Mike said it was the best meal he thinks he ever had, I knew it was worth it!!! Mmm
Today we woke up, hung out and headed to the airport. It was a sad goodbye but the first one where we knew when we would be seeing one another...It was a great trip and im so happy he got to see my life here.
This week is a busy one. Getting ready to move out, ali will be here and then friday, im going to THAILAND!!!! I am SO excited but even more so because I will be seeing one of my great friends from Uni! WARNE!!!!!! ahhh I can not believe I will be seeing her. She has been so great with keeping me posted on info and has opened her door to me. SO great!! I can not believe how fast time is going by. Its unreal...
ill be home before you know it... please shoot me an email update!!!
NO WORRIES CHEERS
Earlier this month my mate Jess from my study abroad trip came to visit. She spent the weekend here with me in Sydney. Saturday night Erica came over in the rain storm and we all hung out, watched TV and had a girls night in. Sunday we woke up and went to the markets. Then it was Darling Harbors 21st birthday celebration so we went there for fireworks and concerts. Wes Carr, Australian Idol winner, performed so that was really cool. Still a bit jetlagged, we headed back for an early night. We hung out Monday before Jess headed to the Central coast to stay with our TA rachel.
Wednesday of that week I caugh up with my old flatmate Dave. His sister works for MTV here and got us in to the filming of The LAIR. A show that films performances... We saw De La Soul and some other famour faces. I ran into Jay from "The City" and I was like "how was new york!!" haha a little starstruck to say the least.
Friday I got a call from Jess seeing if I wanted to go to the Central Coast for the weekend. I got very excited for a little weekend getaway. I met Rachael and Jess along with Nick, the head of our study abroad program, in the city. We had a great dinner by the water and then we drove back to Rachaels. I had a great weekend there and spending time with jess. We met up in Milan last summer and always joke about our reunion in other countries. Saturday we went to the beach town and walked around and went to another beach for sunset. Saturday night we cooked a great dinner in and watched a movie with Rachael and her fam.
It was sad to see jess go but we are looking forward to another amazing reunion.
I am no longer working for Tiaki but as soon as I returned from my travels, I have been freelancing and teaching a few classes for Vclub again. Thank goodness:-)
About a week and a half ago, Mike came to Sydney! We saw eachother 4 months ago in Fiji but this time, he came to Australia. The day he got in, we did the bondi tour and went to Watsons bay. We had lunch on the water and took a nap before heading out for my birthday celebration. It was so great having all of my friends together. I have made so many Australian mates and even had my American friends there that it was just so wonderful:-)
The next day we went down into the city and did the opera house and bridge area. I was able to show mike my favorite spot and I gave him a tour of the Ivy all after we got lunch in Darling Harbor. Later, while enjoying a drink at Opera bar, we met up with my friend that is visiting his girlfriend who is studying abroad and had a drink. We went home early and stayed in and watched a movie. Saturday we did the bondi to coogee coast walk and had a great Linner in Coogee. Came back to my place and we were both exhausted. Mike stayed asleep and I went to babysit. Kept it low key cause we had a 530am wake up call for our Wine Tour in the Hunter Valley. What a great, beautiful day of trying wine, tasting cheese, eating fudge, and being with one another. A really fun trip! Hung out that evening cause monday was another early wake up for Surfer's Paradise in the Gold Coast. Its just a small cool town that had great clubs! Miggy and his group were going to be there so Ali decided to come down as well. Despite a few mishaps, it was a great time. Ali came to our hotel and we all drank a bit and then went to a club where we got our dance on. Something us Streimer sisters love to do;-) The next day we just walked around town before Ali went back to Byron Bay. That night Mike and I ate habachi (Mmm) and went to a club called Bedroom. Basically like the club "Bed" in New York. Weather was pretty horrible but the next day we did a tour in the rainforest. Another amazing landscape of Australia. I was really happy that Mike got to see another part of Oz. From there, we headed to the airport for our trip back to sydney.
Thursday we had a late start and went into the city to check out the Star City Casino. We went up to the sky tower and had a drink in 360. The center point of Sydney that is a revolving restaurant. From there we had dinner at Pancakes on the Rocks because well.... its amazing! Then we met up with MIGGY!!!! It was soooo great seeing him! I could not believe he was in Sydney. A bunch of Study Abroad people came out and Mike knew some guys from home so it turned into a really fun night!!
Friday was another late start but a great one at that! We went to the Wildlife World where Mike got to see the Koala's, Kangaroo's and other native animals. For some reason, I get really excited for people when they see the animals hehe. From there we walked around the Harbor, got him some souvenirs and sat for a nice dinner on the water to watch the fireworks. That night we met up with Erica at Establishment, another Merivale bar. We ended up running in to two of my great friends Christine and Hayley and then my mate Ben too. Turned into a great evening despite miserable weather.
Saturday we just hung out and went to Erica's to BBQ. We needed a low key day... we headed out into The Cross at night and went to a place where I ended up seeing heaps of my guys friends. Mike got to meet some of my closest and I think it was nice to put the names to the faces. Sunday was an amazing last full day! We went to the Bondi Markets and then headed to the Sydney Cricket Ground for the SWANS AFL game. It was an unbelievably gorgeous day and the Swans won!!! I could follow the game and was actually really into it. Later that afternoon, we got our last order of wedges with sour cream and sweet chilli sauce (yes, ive had more in the past week and a half then my entire life!) and went up to one of my spots in Bondi where we watched the Sunset. It was perfect. Headed home to pack and caught up with Eli over a few drinks at the RSL. Our sunday night place. Then Mike and I went to Icebergs. A place that I thought was going to be overated but yet again, they have proven me wrong. UNREAL food!!! We took it slow and started off with a glass of wine over the water( the restaurant is on the opposite side of the beach and is all glass windows), then sat down and enjoyed our last evening with one another. A very pricey meal, (Thanks mom and steve!!!) but when Mike said it was the best meal he thinks he ever had, I knew it was worth it!!! Mmm
Today we woke up, hung out and headed to the airport. It was a sad goodbye but the first one where we knew when we would be seeing one another...It was a great trip and im so happy he got to see my life here.
This week is a busy one. Getting ready to move out, ali will be here and then friday, im going to THAILAND!!!! I am SO excited but even more so because I will be seeing one of my great friends from Uni! WARNE!!!!!! ahhh I can not believe I will be seeing her. She has been so great with keeping me posted on info and has opened her door to me. SO great!! I can not believe how fast time is going by. Its unreal...
ill be home before you know it... please shoot me an email update!!!
NO WORRIES CHEERS
05 May, 2009
Time flies... when youre living the life
Wow! I can not believe it is already May!!! Happy birthday Mum!
I remember this past year SO clearly and vividly. From my 22nd on the 22nd birthday, graduation, Europe, and my final weeks home, the year has flown by!
Dad and ali came and though we had our traveling trio tough times, it was an AMAZING trip! I did things I NEVER thought I would do! They arrived and we had afternoon tea at the Streimers. It was so amazing seeing Jeff and Dad talk and try and piece things together. Then Jeff took us around and gave us an Eastern Suburbs tour. We even went to places I had never seen. (Eastern Suburbs... picturing driving someone around and taking them to the fish pond on Stevenson, then going to greenspring to see the park and get a snowball, followed by a drive through power plant and fells point, back through hunt valley etc... ) haha We took a cocktail cruise in the rain and called it an early night. Had another day in Sydney where I took them to the Opera house and then we did the bride climb. The first time I did it I was like "what moron would do this more than once"...well im the moron;-) It was great though.
The next day we headed to Queenstown NZ. An AMAZING cute fun town!!! We did a tour on the outskirts, a gondola and luge ride AND ali and I did the Nevis bungy jump. 143 meters in the middle of mountains. I NEVER thought I would bungy jump but it was the most amazing thing ever!!! I can still see it in my mind.. Ali and I did a pub crawl where I actually ran into a mate from Pikesville that is studying in Sydney.. small world. I really enjoyed Queenstown and aside from the cold, the 3 of us agreed it was prob the best place.
From Queenstown we headed to Christchurch, NZ. More of a city... we did some tours and saw alot of the area. We went on a gondola and went punting on the Avon river. We left from there to head to Melbourne. We got in pretty late but it was ok because we had an early wake up for our tour of the Yarra Valley. That was so much fun and so beautiful. We went to the Chandon vineyard which was cool for me because Ivy serves that and I knew the label. Though I don't remember much of that point in the tour (wink wink), it was a great time. That night Ali met up with some mates and daddy and I did an evening of around the world eating. Went to Mexico for an entree (which is an appetizer here) and margaritas, then Greece for a salad and dips, then China for our main course. We were going to do Italian gelatos for dessert but our tummys didnt go that far lol.
We had an early wake up cause then we were heading to Hamilton Island. I LOVED Hamilton. It was an island with roads (unlike the fijian islands) but everyone drove golf carts. There was the marina with restaurants, stores, a chemist and pub but other than that, it was just the resort and bungalows. We spent my birthday on Whithaven Beach. Top 10 beaches in the world. The sand was so fine, when you walked, it made a noise hehe. We went out for a REALLY nice dinner and then ali and I had a grand time together celebrating. The next morning we woke up for our day out on the Great Barrier Reef. It was the coolest thing... we took a boat to this place called "reef world". Basically a floating resort on the reef. Well not really a resort but they had places to sleep, a glass bottom boat you could go in, a viewing room that was under water, changing rooms, etc. The three of us went scuba diving and it was beautiful! That was a great day!!!
I REALLY liked hamiliton... its actually where they are filming "The worlds best job" (if you have heard of it). I even looked into working there for winter but I think ill come home for OUR summer instead;-)
From Hamilton, we came back to Sydney where I took them to The Cross and to a Thai restaurant that was recommended by a mate and then I saw it in my Sydney Top 10 book. It was DELICIOUS!:-) I ate and drank VERY well all week... no complaints there. We woke up the next morning and spent the last few hours before daddy had to leave... it was so sad but i was SO happy he was able to come!!! Ali stayed with me for a few days before heading off to Byron.
I was not put back on my work sched (after I told them my last day would be May 13th after my 2 week vacation). A little unprofessional but I am SO happy!!!! It was a GREAT learning and growing experience and now I am enjoying my time!!!
I have been babysitting for a family I adore. Its my friends sister's kids (so, his nephews), and they are great!!! Ive never enjoyed babysitting this much. They are so fun and easy so its been fine!! Eli has been in NYC and is returning tomorrow. Its been lonely but Saturday, my friend Jessica from my study abroad came to visit!! We had a great weekend of movies, catching up, and celebrating Darling Harbor's 21st birthday. She's spending time with Rachel, our TA from the trip, but will be back with me friday.
My old flatty Dave and I have been trying to catch up so last night he mentioned some show Wednesday in the city. In my head im like (ehh dont wanna spend the money on a band i dunno) Well it turns out, MTV is filming an anniversary tour for De La Soul. A hip hop pioneer group. Well his sister, who works for MTV, has tickets to this show!!! MTV is filming a tv show with them and four bands. Free tickets, free alcohol... pretty sweet!!!
Mike arrives next week and I am super excited!! I am having a birthday bash next thursday when he arrives and I look forward to seeing all of my mates and catching up! Miggy comes the following thursday and has a free night in Sydney that shall be a grand time!!
I leave for Thailand at the end of the month where I hope to see Warne (my mate from uni....i mean my friend from college haha-yikes) I also am going to meet up with Josh Titlebaum and some of his mates for the Full moon party. Then Im going to come back for a week to Sydney, head up north and then return for a few final days before heading home to The States... Then who knows where my path will lead. But one thing I know is for sure... NO WORRIES, everything will unfold.
Hope all is well...
CHEERS
I remember this past year SO clearly and vividly. From my 22nd on the 22nd birthday, graduation, Europe, and my final weeks home, the year has flown by!
Dad and ali came and though we had our traveling trio tough times, it was an AMAZING trip! I did things I NEVER thought I would do! They arrived and we had afternoon tea at the Streimers. It was so amazing seeing Jeff and Dad talk and try and piece things together. Then Jeff took us around and gave us an Eastern Suburbs tour. We even went to places I had never seen. (Eastern Suburbs... picturing driving someone around and taking them to the fish pond on Stevenson, then going to greenspring to see the park and get a snowball, followed by a drive through power plant and fells point, back through hunt valley etc... ) haha We took a cocktail cruise in the rain and called it an early night. Had another day in Sydney where I took them to the Opera house and then we did the bride climb. The first time I did it I was like "what moron would do this more than once"...well im the moron;-) It was great though.
The next day we headed to Queenstown NZ. An AMAZING cute fun town!!! We did a tour on the outskirts, a gondola and luge ride AND ali and I did the Nevis bungy jump. 143 meters in the middle of mountains. I NEVER thought I would bungy jump but it was the most amazing thing ever!!! I can still see it in my mind.. Ali and I did a pub crawl where I actually ran into a mate from Pikesville that is studying in Sydney.. small world. I really enjoyed Queenstown and aside from the cold, the 3 of us agreed it was prob the best place.
From Queenstown we headed to Christchurch, NZ. More of a city... we did some tours and saw alot of the area. We went on a gondola and went punting on the Avon river. We left from there to head to Melbourne. We got in pretty late but it was ok because we had an early wake up for our tour of the Yarra Valley. That was so much fun and so beautiful. We went to the Chandon vineyard which was cool for me because Ivy serves that and I knew the label. Though I don't remember much of that point in the tour (wink wink), it was a great time. That night Ali met up with some mates and daddy and I did an evening of around the world eating. Went to Mexico for an entree (which is an appetizer here) and margaritas, then Greece for a salad and dips, then China for our main course. We were going to do Italian gelatos for dessert but our tummys didnt go that far lol.
We had an early wake up cause then we were heading to Hamilton Island. I LOVED Hamilton. It was an island with roads (unlike the fijian islands) but everyone drove golf carts. There was the marina with restaurants, stores, a chemist and pub but other than that, it was just the resort and bungalows. We spent my birthday on Whithaven Beach. Top 10 beaches in the world. The sand was so fine, when you walked, it made a noise hehe. We went out for a REALLY nice dinner and then ali and I had a grand time together celebrating. The next morning we woke up for our day out on the Great Barrier Reef. It was the coolest thing... we took a boat to this place called "reef world". Basically a floating resort on the reef. Well not really a resort but they had places to sleep, a glass bottom boat you could go in, a viewing room that was under water, changing rooms, etc. The three of us went scuba diving and it was beautiful! That was a great day!!!
I REALLY liked hamiliton... its actually where they are filming "The worlds best job" (if you have heard of it). I even looked into working there for winter but I think ill come home for OUR summer instead;-)
From Hamilton, we came back to Sydney where I took them to The Cross and to a Thai restaurant that was recommended by a mate and then I saw it in my Sydney Top 10 book. It was DELICIOUS!:-) I ate and drank VERY well all week... no complaints there. We woke up the next morning and spent the last few hours before daddy had to leave... it was so sad but i was SO happy he was able to come!!! Ali stayed with me for a few days before heading off to Byron.
I was not put back on my work sched (after I told them my last day would be May 13th after my 2 week vacation). A little unprofessional but I am SO happy!!!! It was a GREAT learning and growing experience and now I am enjoying my time!!!
I have been babysitting for a family I adore. Its my friends sister's kids (so, his nephews), and they are great!!! Ive never enjoyed babysitting this much. They are so fun and easy so its been fine!! Eli has been in NYC and is returning tomorrow. Its been lonely but Saturday, my friend Jessica from my study abroad came to visit!! We had a great weekend of movies, catching up, and celebrating Darling Harbor's 21st birthday. She's spending time with Rachel, our TA from the trip, but will be back with me friday.
My old flatty Dave and I have been trying to catch up so last night he mentioned some show Wednesday in the city. In my head im like (ehh dont wanna spend the money on a band i dunno) Well it turns out, MTV is filming an anniversary tour for De La Soul. A hip hop pioneer group. Well his sister, who works for MTV, has tickets to this show!!! MTV is filming a tv show with them and four bands. Free tickets, free alcohol... pretty sweet!!!
Mike arrives next week and I am super excited!! I am having a birthday bash next thursday when he arrives and I look forward to seeing all of my mates and catching up! Miggy comes the following thursday and has a free night in Sydney that shall be a grand time!!
I leave for Thailand at the end of the month where I hope to see Warne (my mate from uni....i mean my friend from college haha-yikes) I also am going to meet up with Josh Titlebaum and some of his mates for the Full moon party. Then Im going to come back for a week to Sydney, head up north and then return for a few final days before heading home to The States... Then who knows where my path will lead. But one thing I know is for sure... NO WORRIES, everything will unfold.
Hope all is well...
CHEERS
30 March, 2009
Video Scrapbook
Jen made a video scrapbook from her trip...
check it out
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZsUJ3FTYReA&feature=channel_page
check it out
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZsUJ3FTYReA&feature=channel_page
SO good SO good!
I just had an AMAZING week with my best friend!!!
Jen, My "big" from DphiE booked a trip about 6 weeks ago and we had the most amazing time. Having someone that knows you so well, someone that doesnt care how you act, tell everything to, and have similar bubbly pepped personalities are one in a million. Jen arrived early morning on saturday and after dropping off her bags in our own little flat for the weekend, we hit the city. checking out Paddington markets, the Sydney Harbor Bridge, drinking a strongbow at the opera bar and tooling around the Sydney Opera House, it was a perfect Sydney Arvo. We took naps ( i worked the night before) and headed out to Kings Cross for a night out. Started with some bar hopping we knew we couldnt make it a BIG night because of exhaustion. However, Jen was able to meet some of my best mates which was fun!!!
Sunday we went to the Bondi Markets with two of my mates after hitting the beach. BEAUTIFUL day!!! Then got ready for a little social gathering that staff from the Ivy had on. We arrived and then realized there was a tab!!!! Well thats basically all we remember but 85 pictures the next morning helped piece it together. SO fun SO fun!
Monday, we woke up and grabbed brunch before jen headed off to the airport to head up to Cairns for 2 nights:-( When she left, I really missed her... but was excited to have her back:-) Wednesday we met up and got ready for complimentary martini night at The Ivy before our dinner reservations at Uccello. THANKS MOM! Dave, my old flat mate met us for a drink (or a bottle) and then we headed home before making the mistake of a late night.
Thursday I headed into work and Jen went on a Blue Mountains tour and got to play with roos and koalas. We met up at the train station later and headed to coogee, my favorite beach town and got a few drinks.
Friday we woke up and it was not much of a beach day so we headed into the junction to shmy around and get Big some fun souvenirs. Then we showered and got ready for an INSANE evening. Made our way to Darling harbor for the MTV Australian Music Awards. By the time we found the area, people were already getting ready for the red carpet so we stayed there. We were RIGHT in the front so everyone that walked by, we could touch, talk to... Vanilla Ice even took my camera and held it out for a picture with us.
Crazy story.... I saw the band that was in the music video with me. I started freaking out to Jen and said when they come pass, im going to call them over. So they came by and im like "hey guys, I was in the Cassie Davis video with you". One guy goes "O yea hey guys look who it is" (calling the other members over) and one of them looks at me and points and is like "SHELBY!!" It was INSANE. We started talking to them and exchanged numbers and it was CRAZY and Jen is my witness;-) Jen and I headed out into the city for a bit and then got to bed by 2am...waking up at 445am for her cab:-(
I was SO sad when she left! It really was amazing to have such a great friend here and have a girlfriend to hang out with. We talked alot about her life in New York and the next stage in my life. As of now, I am coming home for summer. I have not pursued alot of dance here and I really just want to get back into it. I have been really inspired with the Pilates experience and DEFINITELY want to pursue a course and even personal training. I have many opportunities to return back so there is always a chance that after the new year, I return.
Daddy and Ali are coming 2 weeks from today and im SUPER excited. Josh Waranch will be staying with me thursday night so thats going to be fun!!! Passover with the Streimers and Visitors ALL of May before I head to Thailand May 29th. LOTS to look forward to!!!!!
Hows everything home? Whats the weather like? Its beginning to get colder here... so weird...
Please fill me in
CHEERS
Jen, My "big" from DphiE booked a trip about 6 weeks ago and we had the most amazing time. Having someone that knows you so well, someone that doesnt care how you act, tell everything to, and have similar bubbly pepped personalities are one in a million. Jen arrived early morning on saturday and after dropping off her bags in our own little flat for the weekend, we hit the city. checking out Paddington markets, the Sydney Harbor Bridge, drinking a strongbow at the opera bar and tooling around the Sydney Opera House, it was a perfect Sydney Arvo. We took naps ( i worked the night before) and headed out to Kings Cross for a night out. Started with some bar hopping we knew we couldnt make it a BIG night because of exhaustion. However, Jen was able to meet some of my best mates which was fun!!!
Sunday we went to the Bondi Markets with two of my mates after hitting the beach. BEAUTIFUL day!!! Then got ready for a little social gathering that staff from the Ivy had on. We arrived and then realized there was a tab!!!! Well thats basically all we remember but 85 pictures the next morning helped piece it together. SO fun SO fun!
Monday, we woke up and grabbed brunch before jen headed off to the airport to head up to Cairns for 2 nights:-( When she left, I really missed her... but was excited to have her back:-) Wednesday we met up and got ready for complimentary martini night at The Ivy before our dinner reservations at Uccello. THANKS MOM! Dave, my old flat mate met us for a drink (or a bottle) and then we headed home before making the mistake of a late night.
Thursday I headed into work and Jen went on a Blue Mountains tour and got to play with roos and koalas. We met up at the train station later and headed to coogee, my favorite beach town and got a few drinks.
Friday we woke up and it was not much of a beach day so we headed into the junction to shmy around and get Big some fun souvenirs. Then we showered and got ready for an INSANE evening. Made our way to Darling harbor for the MTV Australian Music Awards. By the time we found the area, people were already getting ready for the red carpet so we stayed there. We were RIGHT in the front so everyone that walked by, we could touch, talk to... Vanilla Ice even took my camera and held it out for a picture with us.
Crazy story.... I saw the band that was in the music video with me. I started freaking out to Jen and said when they come pass, im going to call them over. So they came by and im like "hey guys, I was in the Cassie Davis video with you". One guy goes "O yea hey guys look who it is" (calling the other members over) and one of them looks at me and points and is like "SHELBY!!" It was INSANE. We started talking to them and exchanged numbers and it was CRAZY and Jen is my witness;-) Jen and I headed out into the city for a bit and then got to bed by 2am...waking up at 445am for her cab:-(
I was SO sad when she left! It really was amazing to have such a great friend here and have a girlfriend to hang out with. We talked alot about her life in New York and the next stage in my life. As of now, I am coming home for summer. I have not pursued alot of dance here and I really just want to get back into it. I have been really inspired with the Pilates experience and DEFINITELY want to pursue a course and even personal training. I have many opportunities to return back so there is always a chance that after the new year, I return.
Daddy and Ali are coming 2 weeks from today and im SUPER excited. Josh Waranch will be staying with me thursday night so thats going to be fun!!! Passover with the Streimers and Visitors ALL of May before I head to Thailand May 29th. LOTS to look forward to!!!!!
Hows everything home? Whats the weather like? Its beginning to get colder here... so weird...
Please fill me in
CHEERS
14 March, 2009
My Plans
Wow, Ive been here almost 6 months already! How time flies...
All is well here but ever since I had my first set of visitors leave, something has been missing. That piece of home left and it had me thinking ALOT.
Work is good but im working heaps. Its all I think about and worry about which makes it hard to enjoy myself as much. SO, I put my foot down(at work), mapped out some plans and have a lot to look forward to:-)
Jen is coming a week from today and I am SUPER excited. Having my best friend here will be amazing! Then 2 weeks after she leaves, dad and ali arrive and I am taking two weeks off to spend time with them:-) A week after that, jess, my friend I met studying abroad, is going to visit. She is great! We met up in Milan this past summer and I think its amazing she is going to come back to see me and our teachers she was close with.
Then I told work my last day would be May 13th. May 14th, mike is coming:-) I am SO excited to show him my life here. ANNNND drumroll... University of South carolina has a 2 week, 3 credit course around Australia and Miggy is taking it!!! Not only am I going to get to see him in Sydney, but he has the chance to see ALOT of Oz, which is amazing.
June I am planning a trip to Thailand. Though my parents are not thrilled... what can they do when their daughter has backpacked Europe alone AND moved to another country alone;-) (I love you guys)
Then I will come back to Oz for a bit-finish up taxes, paperwork etc and then I will be coming home for Summer:-) Dont know where the unfolding path will take me but, I will be in the states soon enough.
Hope all is well and I miss everyone ALOT!!! I cant wait to see my NEW family and all of the babies.
CHEERS
All is well here but ever since I had my first set of visitors leave, something has been missing. That piece of home left and it had me thinking ALOT.
Work is good but im working heaps. Its all I think about and worry about which makes it hard to enjoy myself as much. SO, I put my foot down(at work), mapped out some plans and have a lot to look forward to:-)
Jen is coming a week from today and I am SUPER excited. Having my best friend here will be amazing! Then 2 weeks after she leaves, dad and ali arrive and I am taking two weeks off to spend time with them:-) A week after that, jess, my friend I met studying abroad, is going to visit. She is great! We met up in Milan this past summer and I think its amazing she is going to come back to see me and our teachers she was close with.
Then I told work my last day would be May 13th. May 14th, mike is coming:-) I am SO excited to show him my life here. ANNNND drumroll... University of South carolina has a 2 week, 3 credit course around Australia and Miggy is taking it!!! Not only am I going to get to see him in Sydney, but he has the chance to see ALOT of Oz, which is amazing.
June I am planning a trip to Thailand. Though my parents are not thrilled... what can they do when their daughter has backpacked Europe alone AND moved to another country alone;-) (I love you guys)
Then I will come back to Oz for a bit-finish up taxes, paperwork etc and then I will be coming home for Summer:-) Dont know where the unfolding path will take me but, I will be in the states soon enough.
Hope all is well and I miss everyone ALOT!!! I cant wait to see my NEW family and all of the babies.
CHEERS
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