I have found myself receiving really kind emails from friends and family with recommendations of people I should meet who either live here in Sydney or are traveling through. So now I jump at every chance to meet up with a friend of a friend or a cousin twice removed. I think it makes me feel closer to my friends and family given that I spend most days amongst a sea of strangers and new faces.
Yesterday, after a long night of delayed flights, a restless red eye, an almost missed connection in Brisbane and then a full day at the office, I was exhausted by the time evening rolled around. And normally, all I would do is head home to sleep. But a good friend of P's has been in town and last night was his final night here, so I happily made plans to meet for a drink or two. Christopher is a great guy - easygoing, fun and really interesting. He is a talented musician and lives in LA. He also happens to tour with Ben Harper, a very talented singer-songwriter in his own right. Much to my surprise, when Chris walked up to me at the Customs House, Ben was with him!
The three of us sat down at a lovely table at Cafe Sydney with a gorgeous view of the Sydney Harbour Bridge on a rainy and chilly night, dug into a beautiful bottle of red and just chatted about travel adventures, music, family and life on the road. Both Christopher and Ben were great, and I hope to see them both back here soon. Next time, I better be in town to catch one of Ben's shows. And I hope he plays even just a few chords of "Happy Everafter in Your Eyes" or "Waiting for You". And I hope we can enjoy more cocktails and exchange even more travel stories.
P asked me today what my plans are for this weekend. I said "nada!" His response? "what, you aren't headed to Bali and hanging with rockstars??" Well, not until next weekend when his friends Jimmy, Adam and Sean from Maroon5 are here! A gal needs some rest. What has my life become?? Thanks P....I appreciate the connections with your extended friend network. And not b/c some are celebrities, but because they are genuinely good people. And this adventure is all about getting to know myself and meeting really cool new friends.
Now, it's time for sleeps....xo
Friday, April 29, 2011
Tuesday, April 26, 2011
Bali in a Day
Christian and I planned well. Yesterday was all about relaxation, today was all about exhaustion and seeing as many of the sites as humanly possible, tomorrow is again about relaxation - and we will need it!
Today started early with another dragonfruit probiotic shake, bacon and a fresh croissant - fuel for our day! We hired a driver from the W...for 9 hours with all parking and other fees covered, it was only US$100. DONE. What follows is a brief play-by play....I could go into each and every detail but I am not sure they allow blog posts that long!
Stop 1: My absolute favorite of the day. PURA LUHUR ULU WATU temple built in the 11th century. After paying about US$2 entry fee, we were wrapped in sarongs in order to enter the temple (legs must be covered) and were guided by a wonderful if shrewd 80-year old woman with a stick. The stick's purpose? To fend off grey monkeys. There were so many, and man, were they aggressive. CC and I heeded all the warnings, and removed hats, sunglasses, earrings and the like. Others did not, and as a result their hats, flip flops and sunglasses were quickly snatched by those little troublemakers. Rescuers were in place (elderly men in brightly colored sarongs), and swapped fresh fruit for the goods with the monkeys and all was well in the world. The temple itself was breathtaking....perched high high high atop a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. (Photos to come once I can download them, but nothing will do it justice.) I definitely took a few moments to breathe in the beauty.
Oh, on the way to Ulu Watu we stopped at a local market in Denpasar. Fascinating! We certainly saw the requisite fish with flies on it -eek! - but also saw interesting wares like offering baskets, soda bags and the like. CC taught me that soda bags are when locals buy a drink at the market...the vendor will pour the drink into a plastic bag and tie the top around a straw, and then keep the bottle for himself. Everything is used here...for example, Absolute vodka bottles are used to store Petrol on the side of the road for motorbike drivers to buy and quickly refuel.
Stop 2: SEE FISH MARKET in Denpasar. This is a local joint, for sure. Our guide kept telling us that it wasn't fancy, and we responded each and every time "great! that's what we want". It was really cool. Fish of all shapes, colors and sizes in tiny stalls on ice. We saw shark, huge snappers, prawns, skates. And all local. We were the only Westerners anywhere close. We then stopped in Ganesha Puduk Cafe on the beach. We selected white snapper and prawns from the fresh catch displayed out front, and ate our handpicked delicious grilled seafood right on the beach, with our feet in the sand and a view of all the fishing boats.
Stops 3, 4 and 5: Various temples. Each has its own theme and selection of Gods to worship.
Stop 6: The RICE TERRACES in Ubud. We had quite a long drive to get there but WOW. We stopped outside some small shops, and peered over the side to the most amazing rice fields, manicured and tiered on the side of a volcano. Magnificent.
Stop 7: The WATER TEMPLE (Taman Ayun). A temple with 3 worship areas, each surrounded by its own moat with lily pads abound. It reminded me of the house in the movie Great Expectations with Gwyneth Paltrow and Ethan Hawke. It was once where the Royal Family worshipped, and after the family lost its royal hold, the temples were not kept up. It was also hit by an earthquake in 1917, and they are still slowly rebuilding it to its original state. Yep, you heard me.
Stop 8: PURAH TANAH LOT near Semanyak. A beautiful temple built atop rocks jutting out over the Indian Ocean. We made it here for sunset, and wow was it a treat. There were unfortunately tons of people, but we still made our way through it. We were blessed by holy water and luckily avoided the holy snake....a huge boa constrictor, I presume, since there were men with their boas hanging out around the temple. We jumped our way over rocks and sand to get good snaps of the temple, but decided we were tired and skipped the firedance.
After relaxing and showering for only an hour, CC and I dined at Luchiolla, a fabulous Italian restaurant right on the beach. The service was impeccable, as was the view. I had a lovely tuna carpaccio and a risotto for dinner, and great company and conversation. A beautiful nightcap to a beautiful and memorable day.
Until next time....xoxo
Today started early with another dragonfruit probiotic shake, bacon and a fresh croissant - fuel for our day! We hired a driver from the W...for 9 hours with all parking and other fees covered, it was only US$100. DONE. What follows is a brief play-by play....I could go into each and every detail but I am not sure they allow blog posts that long!
Stop 1: My absolute favorite of the day. PURA LUHUR ULU WATU temple built in the 11th century. After paying about US$2 entry fee, we were wrapped in sarongs in order to enter the temple (legs must be covered) and were guided by a wonderful if shrewd 80-year old woman with a stick. The stick's purpose? To fend off grey monkeys. There were so many, and man, were they aggressive. CC and I heeded all the warnings, and removed hats, sunglasses, earrings and the like. Others did not, and as a result their hats, flip flops and sunglasses were quickly snatched by those little troublemakers. Rescuers were in place (elderly men in brightly colored sarongs), and swapped fresh fruit for the goods with the monkeys and all was well in the world. The temple itself was breathtaking....perched high high high atop a cliff overlooking the Indian Ocean. (Photos to come once I can download them, but nothing will do it justice.) I definitely took a few moments to breathe in the beauty.
Oh, on the way to Ulu Watu we stopped at a local market in Denpasar. Fascinating! We certainly saw the requisite fish with flies on it -eek! - but also saw interesting wares like offering baskets, soda bags and the like. CC taught me that soda bags are when locals buy a drink at the market...the vendor will pour the drink into a plastic bag and tie the top around a straw, and then keep the bottle for himself. Everything is used here...for example, Absolute vodka bottles are used to store Petrol on the side of the road for motorbike drivers to buy and quickly refuel.
Stop 2: SEE FISH MARKET in Denpasar. This is a local joint, for sure. Our guide kept telling us that it wasn't fancy, and we responded each and every time "great! that's what we want". It was really cool. Fish of all shapes, colors and sizes in tiny stalls on ice. We saw shark, huge snappers, prawns, skates. And all local. We were the only Westerners anywhere close. We then stopped in Ganesha Puduk Cafe on the beach. We selected white snapper and prawns from the fresh catch displayed out front, and ate our handpicked delicious grilled seafood right on the beach, with our feet in the sand and a view of all the fishing boats.
Stops 3, 4 and 5: Various temples. Each has its own theme and selection of Gods to worship.
Stop 6: The RICE TERRACES in Ubud. We had quite a long drive to get there but WOW. We stopped outside some small shops, and peered over the side to the most amazing rice fields, manicured and tiered on the side of a volcano. Magnificent.
Stop 7: The WATER TEMPLE (Taman Ayun). A temple with 3 worship areas, each surrounded by its own moat with lily pads abound. It reminded me of the house in the movie Great Expectations with Gwyneth Paltrow and Ethan Hawke. It was once where the Royal Family worshipped, and after the family lost its royal hold, the temples were not kept up. It was also hit by an earthquake in 1917, and they are still slowly rebuilding it to its original state. Yep, you heard me.
Stop 8: PURAH TANAH LOT near Semanyak. A beautiful temple built atop rocks jutting out over the Indian Ocean. We made it here for sunset, and wow was it a treat. There were unfortunately tons of people, but we still made our way through it. We were blessed by holy water and luckily avoided the holy snake....a huge boa constrictor, I presume, since there were men with their boas hanging out around the temple. We jumped our way over rocks and sand to get good snaps of the temple, but decided we were tired and skipped the firedance.
After relaxing and showering for only an hour, CC and I dined at Luchiolla, a fabulous Italian restaurant right on the beach. The service was impeccable, as was the view. I had a lovely tuna carpaccio and a risotto for dinner, and great company and conversation. A beautiful nightcap to a beautiful and memorable day.
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| Christian and me at Ulu Watu |
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| One of the grey monkeys at Ulu Watu. He had just stolen this flip flop off an unsuspecting boy's foot! |
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| A typical statue at a temple, adorned with flowers as a daily offering to the Gods |
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| The Ulu Watu Temple, high atop a cliff. Magnificent. |
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| The fishing boats, and our view at lunch. |
Monday, April 25, 2011
Baliwood, Beatles Style
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Our sunset view at the hotel
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| Me at the W Bali |
Then I woke Christian up, and quiet and peaceful was a thing of the past. (Just kidding.....it was still quiet through lunch). We had a great morning at the pool, overlooking the huge waves in the Indian Ocean and saved up our alcohol consumption for the evening by opening our day with dragonfruit probiotic shakes. Yum. The purple color of the fruit is so vibrant that I can't even describe it and give it justice.
Quiet and peaceful went to the wayside when we ventured out to the windy and narrow street for lunch. There are no sidewalks, cars honk constantly and there are no fewer than 1,653,908 motorbikes. We wandered around and found a sweet cafe called Gourmet Cafe. We ordered half the menu, and had the most delicious mint iced tea that I am still craving 1 day later. More relaxing at the pool and then we switched rooms to a top floor oceanview room that is wonderful!
We had made plans with Christy (my boss and friend) and her hubby Todd for dinner in Semanyak. Being Easter Sunday and all, the good restaurants were pretty booked up but the hotel suggested Bale-Bali. So off we went! What an experience! It was pretty authentic in that most other guests were Indonesian, it wasn't fancy, there was a cute dog running around and there was....live music!! But first things first - drinks. You had a choice of fresh fruit juice or beer. The beer is Bintang, a local light beer that is quite refreshing. Oh, but that isn't the end of the choices! Oh no....you could get Bintang in small or large size. The large was 2x as big as the small, and only 50c more. Large please!! So we settled in to catching up with the Forests, and then the music began! Much to our delight and surprise (read: irony), it was Facebeat, a Beatles cover band (natch)! So to the tunes of "Hey Jude" and "Love Me Do", in a steamy local Balinese joint, we sipped Bintang and laughed over old memories while making new ones.
Our taxi driver to the restaurant was called Kutuk. He was named so because he was the 4th child in his family. There are 3 or so names available for the first child, same for the 2nd and 3rd. The 4th gets Kutuk, and then if a 5th is born, they start back at child #1's names. Fascinating.
CC and I had one last drink at a place down the road from our hotel called The Living Room. It had tonsof little lights and plush plants - just lovely. After a harrowing stroll to the hotel and a stop at the local convenience store for a Coke, we were off to bed!
Today is sightseeing galore - temples and rice fields and such. I can't wait. Until next time....xoxo
p.s. Pictures coming soon!
Sunday, April 24, 2011
Bali....paradise....finally
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| Sydney to Bali |
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| Relaxation at the W |
I have been waiting for Bali for weeks. Well, even longer considering I haven't had a vacation in almost a year. Anyway, I missed my flight yesterday. It's a long, convoluted story that involves the trials and tribulations of international relocation. In short, I opened a bank account before leaving the US, then went to the bank the day I arrived in OZ to get it all in order. That was 5 weeks ago and I have yet to see a bank card. ARGH!!!!!! Because I don't yet have a bank card, I can't get a local credit card. Without a local credit card (and my 457 Visa), I can't get a local cell phone. Without the local cell phone, the cab company can't call me to collect me...so they decided to ignore my request and not pick me up for my 5 am call. Once I finally got a cab and made it to the airport, the flight was closed. NOOOOOO!
I quickly rebooked on a flight for the next day, and made the best of my day in Sydney. It was gorgeous - 80 degrees. I had my own photo safari, walking all along Woolloomooloo Wharf and across a trail that opened onto Sydney Harbour. Spectactular views. After being up at 4 am, I was tired. A quick nap and dinner at Sydney's secret best Vietnamese restaurant (which happens to be in my 'hood), and then I was back to sleep until my wake up call today at 7 am! (Thanks Mom for texting to ensure I was awake.)
After heading out of a Sydney that was raining sheets of rain, I had a 6-hour sleep on my flight to Bali. I wasn't feeling all too well, and the sleep did me good. After landing, I went through the legit taxi line only to then get assigned a pretty random dude. He kept stopping the car, getting out but leaving it running, saying he needed to check for the police. Ummmmm......sir, is there an issue? We kept going, but I was scared! Plus, driving here is more like the game of Frogger. No real sense for lines on the street, motorbikes and scooters EVERYWHERE. Anyway, we found the W Bali Resort & Spa, and everything was fine in the world again.
The room is really lovely, and I had a delicious dinner as I watched Indian Ocean waves crash on the shoreline. I had a delicious sashimi, and then miso glazed black cod. And a margarita! I was craving one and haven't found any in Sydney.
Christian arrived tonight - yay! We had a drink overlooking the ocean, as hotel workers quietly came out and set out new gifts for the Gods. Bali is the Island of the Gods, and everywhere you look there are both large and small offerings made - flowers, coffee, water, incense, you name it. And beautiful wood carvings draped in cloths and flowers, all made for the offerings to the Gods.
The people are so friendly and accommodating here. Just lovely. Tomorrow is beach time and then dinner with friends Christy & Todd. Next day, early wake up for the fish market and tours involving rice paddies and temples. I can't wait.
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| a gorgeous wall in the W's lobby....each square is filled with a glass bell or candles |
Wednesday, April 20, 2011
1.00 = 1.06
Indeed, folks, it does. Sigh.
The Australian $$ hit an exchange rate against the US dollar that's the best it's been since 1983. I was 8 years old in 1983, and back then, I didn't know what an exchange rate was and only cared about Barbie dolls, playing "school" and torturing my sisters. Fast forward a few (ahem) years, and now I really really love fashion - clothes, handbags, shoes and accessories to be exact. So, with that, one of the things I was excited about in returning to Australia was shopping! The last time I was here, we were closer to an exchange rate of 60 cents to the dollar, and I lapped it up. My friend Inna and I essentially cleared the shops out. Not so much now....
Now, in my new mantra of living with less, this is all quite in line. But tell that to my heart as I walk to and from work each day, and see adorable outfits and fashion trends. (Don't get me wrong....I see bad fashion too. It happens everywhere.) So, I suppose I am just going to have to be strategic about what I buy. FINE!
Anyway, I do love the fashion here. Things are similar to the fall/winter trends from the States but with cool spins - boots & wedges, fur vests, scarves, skinny jeans, studded accessories, ballet flats. So far I have bought a to-die-for vintage top. Ok, and 2 pairs of ballet flats from a local designer, SamBag. But the flats are absolute necessities...I walk EVERYWHERE. Stilettos only go on once I get to work, and sometimes not even then. The fact that the flats are SO ADORABLE are beside the point....
I also bought a cute potted plant, but that has nothing to do with fashion. Though it looks great in my kitchen window!
ever yours, xoxo
p.s. T-minus two days to Bali!
The Australian $$ hit an exchange rate against the US dollar that's the best it's been since 1983. I was 8 years old in 1983, and back then, I didn't know what an exchange rate was and only cared about Barbie dolls, playing "school" and torturing my sisters. Fast forward a few (ahem) years, and now I really really love fashion - clothes, handbags, shoes and accessories to be exact. So, with that, one of the things I was excited about in returning to Australia was shopping! The last time I was here, we were closer to an exchange rate of 60 cents to the dollar, and I lapped it up. My friend Inna and I essentially cleared the shops out. Not so much now....
Now, in my new mantra of living with less, this is all quite in line. But tell that to my heart as I walk to and from work each day, and see adorable outfits and fashion trends. (Don't get me wrong....I see bad fashion too. It happens everywhere.) So, I suppose I am just going to have to be strategic about what I buy. FINE!
Anyway, I do love the fashion here. Things are similar to the fall/winter trends from the States but with cool spins - boots & wedges, fur vests, scarves, skinny jeans, studded accessories, ballet flats. So far I have bought a to-die-for vintage top. Ok, and 2 pairs of ballet flats from a local designer, SamBag. But the flats are absolute necessities...I walk EVERYWHERE. Stilettos only go on once I get to work, and sometimes not even then. The fact that the flats are SO ADORABLE are beside the point....
I also bought a cute potted plant, but that has nothing to do with fashion. Though it looks great in my kitchen window!
ever yours, xoxo
p.s. T-minus two days to Bali!
Tuesday, April 19, 2011
Unraveling History
The area in which I live is called Potts Point. My Australia tour book describes it as a tree-lined, Victorian neighborhood where one can find the perfect coffee, wonderful cafes and charming boutiques. It's perfect for me! Just around the corner and down the street, where Macleay Street turns into Darlinghurst Road, there's Kings Cross - which once was the "red light" district and is still admittedly a 'bit' edgy but not dangerous at all.
Kings Cross has a history of at times being the seedy underground of Sydney. Each decade took on a different theme -- it's been filled over the years with everything from Bohemian shops to secret gambling spots, sex shops and brothels, and now hostiles and internet cafes.
My favorite spot in Potts Point to eat and hang and enjoy a glass of wine is called LL Wine & Dine. It's a tiny restaurant (or so I thought) on the small alleyway street called Llankelly Place behind my flat, and was probably more considered Kings Cross in the past. LL's is owned by 3 brothers who took over the spot when the sex book shop went out of business (natch). I learned tonight that as they gutted it for renovation, they discovered a hidden history.
Upstairs, on one side, they broke through a concrete wall and found 35 bags filled with vintage magazine prints that now line the wall downstairs. Behind the front bar in the tiny hall towards 2 back dining rooms (that I didn't know were there until tonight) tucked into the ceiling corner, there's the original light up sign - "Ecstasy" - for the book shop that was once there. Around the corner, you walk into a room where there are actually 2 tiny dining rooms (3-4 tables each), one raised up some stairs and one lowered into the floor down some steps. It was once a steel-enforced secret gambling spot with an emergency button to shut everyone in, or out, depending on who you were -- and a secret passageway led people in and out. Back out past the kitchen, there is a door that leads down a secret staircase, that itself leads to a small stream that chases its way all the way from Sydney Harbour through Potts Point and Kings Cross into other suburbs of Sydney. Imagine what these walls have seen over the years....
Oh, and tonight, I saw my new friends Jeff (the photoeditor) and Sam (the bartender who is is also a way cool chic). Sam made me an amazing dirty martini. She muddled the olives and used a vodka called 42 Below from New Zealand. (42 is the latitude in NZ for where the vodka is made.) It was yummy. My new friends are really nice and it's great to have a place to hang in the 'hood.
And to top it all off, I skyped with mom, dad, and Fletcher tonight!
xo
Kings Cross has a history of at times being the seedy underground of Sydney. Each decade took on a different theme -- it's been filled over the years with everything from Bohemian shops to secret gambling spots, sex shops and brothels, and now hostiles and internet cafes.
My favorite spot in Potts Point to eat and hang and enjoy a glass of wine is called LL Wine & Dine. It's a tiny restaurant (or so I thought) on the small alleyway street called Llankelly Place behind my flat, and was probably more considered Kings Cross in the past. LL's is owned by 3 brothers who took over the spot when the sex book shop went out of business (natch). I learned tonight that as they gutted it for renovation, they discovered a hidden history.
Upstairs, on one side, they broke through a concrete wall and found 35 bags filled with vintage magazine prints that now line the wall downstairs. Behind the front bar in the tiny hall towards 2 back dining rooms (that I didn't know were there until tonight) tucked into the ceiling corner, there's the original light up sign - "Ecstasy" - for the book shop that was once there. Around the corner, you walk into a room where there are actually 2 tiny dining rooms (3-4 tables each), one raised up some stairs and one lowered into the floor down some steps. It was once a steel-enforced secret gambling spot with an emergency button to shut everyone in, or out, depending on who you were -- and a secret passageway led people in and out. Back out past the kitchen, there is a door that leads down a secret staircase, that itself leads to a small stream that chases its way all the way from Sydney Harbour through Potts Point and Kings Cross into other suburbs of Sydney. Imagine what these walls have seen over the years....
Oh, and tonight, I saw my new friends Jeff (the photoeditor) and Sam (the bartender who is is also a way cool chic). Sam made me an amazing dirty martini. She muddled the olives and used a vodka called 42 Below from New Zealand. (42 is the latitude in NZ for where the vodka is made.) It was yummy. My new friends are really nice and it's great to have a place to hang in the 'hood.
And to top it all off, I skyped with mom, dad, and Fletcher tonight!
xo
Sunday, April 17, 2011
Shyness isn't a virtue?
Though people are often surprised to hear this, I am shy by nature. Really shy. My family knows this about me. Ask any of them about my fear of ordering a pizza! I am the ultimate oxymoron in this way - I live alone, have traveled the world by myself, am independent and successful, AND shy. I was reminded of my ultimate shyness today when my friend Catherine brought up a story whereby we were talking about my relo, and I wondered whether people would like me. I explained that I am naturally shy, and she was shocked!
I have to actively try to step outside of my personal shell. At times, perhaps I can seem aloof, distracted, deep in thought or even (gasp!) bitchy. But I'm usually (but not always) none of those things. I'm just really shy. Who knows why? Thank goodness I don't mind being alone....after all these years of traveling and living alone, I'm comfortable with it. But part of this adventure is to meet new people, so I am actively trying to strike up conversations & make plans, even with people I don't know well and (eek!) may not end up liking me.
The beauty of this whole thing is that I have been reminded that everyone is interesting in their own unique ways, and all it takes is breaking the ice and asking a few questions to find those things out. I realize other people are as hopeful for acceptance and finding common ground as I am. And that others are as interested as I am in getting to know other friendly, interesting people. I just need to get comfortable letting out the real me, and this adventure is making that easier & easier.
As comfortable as I am in finding a great restaurant, asking for a table of 1 ("it's just me....is there room?), getting out my Nook, ordering a glass of vino and settling in to a great meal, I'm REALLY looking forward to Bali and seeing one of my very very best friends, Christian. My closest friends and family make even the most remote location feel like home. Plus, Christian accepts my shyness but doesn't really let me get away with it, because he knows deep down it's not what I am really about. At least, not all the time. :) He also gives me a lot of shit, but that has nothing to do with my shyness!
Loving the adventure, even the quietest moments.
xoxo
p.s. And for the record, I miss Fletcher desperately. Still.
I have to actively try to step outside of my personal shell. At times, perhaps I can seem aloof, distracted, deep in thought or even (gasp!) bitchy. But I'm usually (but not always) none of those things. I'm just really shy. Who knows why? Thank goodness I don't mind being alone....after all these years of traveling and living alone, I'm comfortable with it. But part of this adventure is to meet new people, so I am actively trying to strike up conversations & make plans, even with people I don't know well and (eek!) may not end up liking me.
The beauty of this whole thing is that I have been reminded that everyone is interesting in their own unique ways, and all it takes is breaking the ice and asking a few questions to find those things out. I realize other people are as hopeful for acceptance and finding common ground as I am. And that others are as interested as I am in getting to know other friendly, interesting people. I just need to get comfortable letting out the real me, and this adventure is making that easier & easier.
As comfortable as I am in finding a great restaurant, asking for a table of 1 ("it's just me....is there room?), getting out my Nook, ordering a glass of vino and settling in to a great meal, I'm REALLY looking forward to Bali and seeing one of my very very best friends, Christian. My closest friends and family make even the most remote location feel like home. Plus, Christian accepts my shyness but doesn't really let me get away with it, because he knows deep down it's not what I am really about. At least, not all the time. :) He also gives me a lot of shit, but that has nothing to do with my shyness!
Loving the adventure, even the quietest moments.
xoxo
p.s. And for the record, I miss Fletcher desperately. Still.
Saturday, April 16, 2011
The great physics experiment of 2011....
...is about to commence. Let me provide some historical context.
I feel it is important to challenge oneself regularly. I have felt this way since December 31, 1999. It was New Years Eve and I was in NYC with my sister Hilary. All day was essentially spent with Hilary strategically planning our meals to ensure we could avoid a hangover on 1/1/2000, and me insisting we watch the celebrations happening around the world, much to her chagrin. As part of the meal planning, we had to assume even a slight hangover was possible for 1/1/2000. We weren't going out to drink plain OJ, mind you. So we ordered a perfect NY pizza, ate some for dinner and then had enough to save for the next morning. We ordered a medium so the pizza box could fit in Hilary's city fridge. I mean, we really thought this out thoroughly. Dad, this is what our UVa education prepared us for - real-life problem solving. Anyway, at this point, the PLAN IS IN PLACE AND IT'S PERFECT.
Buuuut, they delivered the pizza IN A LARGE BOX! Nooooooo! This was problematic for several reasons. That box would not fit in the fridge properly without serious tilting. What's the problem with tilting the box, you ask? Well, I will tell you. The cheese of the pizza would slide off the slices. Unacceptable.
We thus commenced the great Physics experiment of 1999/2000 - how to get that pizza in the fridge, tilted but not too much (the trick was to wait for the pizza to cool off a bit before fridge entry) all to have hangover food on the first day of the new century. And we did, with the strategic use of yogurt canisters, removal of the fridge's lightbulb (it got in the way) and pure tenacity & focus.
I thought to myself this morning - a solid 11 years later, why did we not consider taking the pizza out of the box and putting it on plates that would fit in the fridge?? We had other things on our mind....like outfits to wear and the welcoming in of a brand new century, for the love of God.
There will be another Physics experiment today. It will involve how to get 2 boxes, each weighing 40 pounds, packed tight with the worldly possessions I sent to Australia, from the office to my apartment. I have yet to find a dolly of any sorts, and I can't lift the boxes. I am off to the office with my large suitcase, via subway, which in and of itself will be highly amusing since all the entryways are as narrow as my hips and thighs were when I was 12. By golly, everything better fit in that suitcase. Oh, and it's raining, heavily.
For the energy to make this all go down, I will first seek out bacon and an espresso coffee of some sorts, Wish me luck, friends.
xo
I feel it is important to challenge oneself regularly. I have felt this way since December 31, 1999. It was New Years Eve and I was in NYC with my sister Hilary. All day was essentially spent with Hilary strategically planning our meals to ensure we could avoid a hangover on 1/1/2000, and me insisting we watch the celebrations happening around the world, much to her chagrin. As part of the meal planning, we had to assume even a slight hangover was possible for 1/1/2000. We weren't going out to drink plain OJ, mind you. So we ordered a perfect NY pizza, ate some for dinner and then had enough to save for the next morning. We ordered a medium so the pizza box could fit in Hilary's city fridge. I mean, we really thought this out thoroughly. Dad, this is what our UVa education prepared us for - real-life problem solving. Anyway, at this point, the PLAN IS IN PLACE AND IT'S PERFECT.
Buuuut, they delivered the pizza IN A LARGE BOX! Nooooooo! This was problematic for several reasons. That box would not fit in the fridge properly without serious tilting. What's the problem with tilting the box, you ask? Well, I will tell you. The cheese of the pizza would slide off the slices. Unacceptable.
We thus commenced the great Physics experiment of 1999/2000 - how to get that pizza in the fridge, tilted but not too much (the trick was to wait for the pizza to cool off a bit before fridge entry) all to have hangover food on the first day of the new century. And we did, with the strategic use of yogurt canisters, removal of the fridge's lightbulb (it got in the way) and pure tenacity & focus.
I thought to myself this morning - a solid 11 years later, why did we not consider taking the pizza out of the box and putting it on plates that would fit in the fridge?? We had other things on our mind....like outfits to wear and the welcoming in of a brand new century, for the love of God.
There will be another Physics experiment today. It will involve how to get 2 boxes, each weighing 40 pounds, packed tight with the worldly possessions I sent to Australia, from the office to my apartment. I have yet to find a dolly of any sorts, and I can't lift the boxes. I am off to the office with my large suitcase, via subway, which in and of itself will be highly amusing since all the entryways are as narrow as my hips and thighs were when I was 12. By golly, everything better fit in that suitcase. Oh, and it's raining, heavily.
For the energy to make this all go down, I will first seek out bacon and an espresso coffee of some sorts, Wish me luck, friends.
xo
Monday, April 11, 2011
Downsizing! (no, seriously...)
My boxes arrived today!! After 3 weeks and a crazy journey, here they are. YAY! If only I could remember what I packed. Remarkably, for such a clothes/handbag/shoes fanatic, I have been surviving just fine on what I brought in my suitcase. So, it's like Christmas in April for me as I rediscover what I packed and have reminders of home to greet me. I only sent 3 medium-sized boxes, and am already thinking I sent too much. Incredible.
One thing I have already learned about living here is that people live with a lot less. The culture here is that you just don't need a lot of stuff, space, etc. Cars are smaller, living spaces are too. People spend time with each other, outside or dining at cafes; except for sport, they are not really glued to their TVs.
It's actually fairly refreshing. While I can't promise not to shop at all (that would seriously be insane), I plan to spend my Benjamin's on travel, great food and this amazing experience. Keep me honest, peeps.
xo
One thing I have already learned about living here is that people live with a lot less. The culture here is that you just don't need a lot of stuff, space, etc. Cars are smaller, living spaces are too. People spend time with each other, outside or dining at cafes; except for sport, they are not really glued to their TVs.
It's actually fairly refreshing. While I can't promise not to shop at all (that would seriously be insane), I plan to spend my Benjamin's on travel, great food and this amazing experience. Keep me honest, peeps.
xo
Sunday, April 10, 2011
When in Rome....
Friday night, I did what I typically do in DC on Friday nights. Enjoyed a salad, glass of vino, and went to sleep early after taking an Ambien. HEAVEN. What I also added this past Friday night, on the advice of my very wise sister Hilary, was earplugs. Good gracious they work, once you get used to the enormous pressure they put on the inside of your ears. But sweet, quiet sleep was in store for me, and I relished every moment. NO banging of the espresso maker for me on Saturday morning.
On Saturday, I visited the farmers market across the street and bought a delicious and fresh organic raspberry and apple juice. I then walked across the Domain, down to Circular Quay and caught a ferry to Manly Beach. Even though it's autumn here, it was a lovely 85F day. Of course my boxes have yet to arrive, so no bathing suit on hand (that's actually a good thing). I put my feet in the sand and warm ocean water, and had a lovely day.
Saturday night I treated myself to a ticket (the only one available for 3 weeks!) to the ballet....specifically, the Madame Butterfly performance by the Sydney Ballet Company at the Opera House. It was magnificent. I had a glass of champagne when I arrived, sat on the Opera House steps to take a few snaps and enjoyed the beautiful performance. I then sat outside with a view of the Bridge and had a bite to eat while emailing with Inna and Allen. I felt close to home, thanks to them!
Today I didn't have power in my pad for about 5 hours. The whole block was out. No real explanation, though no one really batted an eye. I worked until my laptop lost juice, then read and napped while the rain came down. Then met 2 friends from work at an off-the-beaten-path traditional British pub in Woolloomooloo. They had acoustic music - great songs like This Year's Love, Brown-Eyed Girl (HILARY!!), Hallelujah and 90's hits, like Is This Love by Whitesnake. Hellz yeah. Great for a rainy Sunday night.
Two weeks to Bali!
Oh, and I met a Cavalier who looked so much like BooBoo. Her name is Stephanie and she was soo sweet. I miss my dog. But I love Sydney.
Friday, April 8, 2011
The Opera House is more than just a pretty face...
My 3rd week is complete! This week was busy at work but great. My friend and colleague Stephanie had her baby early - Clementine Ava. Couldn't you just die with that name?! I adore it. So happy mum and baby are healthy.
I happened upon an adorable wine bar on Tuesday night. Its just around the corner from my pad, and its perfect. Great music (think Depeche Mode, Morcheeba, the Fray mixed), GREAT food, small and intimate. The bartender, Sam, is so nice; she is way cool and a great pour (maybe too good given I had a headache for 2 days afterwards)! She intends to take me through their wine and cocktails list, one by one. I met Jeff as well, who edits fashion photography. We talked for hours, and of course scooped on models and fashion and photoediting. I loved every second and am excited to hang at Sydney fashion week (with sample sales, natch) in May. I went back to the wine bar tonight. Had an amazing thing they called "sashima nachos". Tuna and whitefish sashima, with corn, creme fraiche, green chilis, caviar and a light vinagerette with toasted french bread crostini. yum!
I actually bought myself a ticket to the Madame Butterfly ballet at the Sydney Opera House for tomorrow night. It opened today and is essentially sold out for its 3 week run. They had 1 seat left for tomorrow night, so I grabbed it. When in Rome.....and yes, Tammy, apparently people do go there for shows!
It's turning to autumn here, but will still be 80 degrees tomorrow so I may venture over to the famous Bondi Beach. A ferry ride from the Sydney Harbour, a pitstop at Watson's Bay for fish & chips and a day at the beach is not half bad, if I do say so myself.
I'm homesick this week but getting excited for Bali in 2 weeks! Where should I go next? New Zealand, Thailand or the Great Barrier Reef? Opinions and suggestions welcomed!
I happened upon an adorable wine bar on Tuesday night. Its just around the corner from my pad, and its perfect. Great music (think Depeche Mode, Morcheeba, the Fray mixed), GREAT food, small and intimate. The bartender, Sam, is so nice; she is way cool and a great pour (maybe too good given I had a headache for 2 days afterwards)! She intends to take me through their wine and cocktails list, one by one. I met Jeff as well, who edits fashion photography. We talked for hours, and of course scooped on models and fashion and photoediting. I loved every second and am excited to hang at Sydney fashion week (with sample sales, natch) in May. I went back to the wine bar tonight. Had an amazing thing they called "sashima nachos". Tuna and whitefish sashima, with corn, creme fraiche, green chilis, caviar and a light vinagerette with toasted french bread crostini. yum!
I actually bought myself a ticket to the Madame Butterfly ballet at the Sydney Opera House for tomorrow night. It opened today and is essentially sold out for its 3 week run. They had 1 seat left for tomorrow night, so I grabbed it. When in Rome.....and yes, Tammy, apparently people do go there for shows!
It's turning to autumn here, but will still be 80 degrees tomorrow so I may venture over to the famous Bondi Beach. A ferry ride from the Sydney Harbour, a pitstop at Watson's Bay for fish & chips and a day at the beach is not half bad, if I do say so myself.
I'm homesick this week but getting excited for Bali in 2 weeks! Where should I go next? New Zealand, Thailand or the Great Barrier Reef? Opinions and suggestions welcomed!
Monday, April 4, 2011
14 days!
I've been here 14 days, and have surprised myself with how easy it's been to settle in. Don't get me wrong...I am homesick and miss Fletcher SO much, but am enjoying my adventure.
I spent the weekend running errands to help settle into my new flat, which I love. It's perfect for me. There is a small coffe shop/cafe called Room 10 just beneath my windows which will ensure I'm up early every morning. :) I may or may not have done a little clothes shopping while out and about, too.
A few phrases I have picked up:
Shattered = very tired
Pissed = Drunk
How you going? = how are you doing?
Chemist Shop = drugstore
Macca's = McDonald's
I have a chill = I have a cold
Brekkie = breakfast
I went to a great yoga session yesterday! My friend Stephanie has been so nice and called in guest passes for me to her gym. The yoga studio room was amazing - lit candles and Buddhist chests and statues. Very zen. And intense...in a good way. Aussies are serious about their fitness.
Last night was dinner at Mad Pizza, on the corner of Darlinghurst and Llankelly Streets. Tiny....9 tables, 3 barstools. Great music. "Walk on By", "Let's Stay Together", and a classic (and one of my mom's favorites) "Bernadette". Combine that with a beautiful thin-crust pizza, homemade limoncello shots and tiramisu. 100 steps from my front door. All I can say is YES.
I met a lovely couple from Vancouver last night. She teaches bridge on cruise ships, and so they cruise for 7 months out of the year. Not a bad gig! They were lovely, and only realized as I was leaving that I am from Washington, DC, not WA state. I think they liked me anyway!
And the UConn Huskies won a hard-fought Final Four game. Goodness in this cold hard world prevails. At least for today.
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