it's not easy being green

It's officially been nine months without a car. At first it was great not owning a vehicle. I dont have to worry about inspection stickers, speed cameras, gas prices, insurance payments, car payments, and constantly having "clean out car" on my to-do list. It was refreshing not having a car. I was enjoying listening to my ipod, and starting my day with a morning walk. But the honeymoon is over. I want a car again. Monday morning, Brisbane saw a lot of rain. The only way for me to get to work is walk. I went outside, late as usual, ready to brave the rain with only an umbrella. My umbrella failed me as I was splashed by a passing car. My pants were pretty soaked. Just as I'm thinking that I could probably dry my pants off with the hand dryer in the bathroom, I am splashed a second time. It was like a cartoon. This time, I was COMPLETELY soaked. I went home, changed, and waited for a cab...and only an hour late for work1

Tuesday morning was definitely off to a better start. It was still overcast, and just barely drizzling. About halfway to work, I take my umbrella down. The sun was starting to shine, and there was only an occasional rain drop. As I'm waiting for a pedestrian light to change, I felt an one of those occasional drops - no big deal. Then I feel another one right on the top of my head. But this one was bigger...and wait - WARMER. I instinctively touch the top of my head, and yup - just as i suspected--- BIRD SHIT!!! But this isn't dainty American white bird droppings. This is yellow, chunky, a la curried lentils, Australian bird poop. absolutely disgusting. I can't wait to return to Texas and drive a car that will shelter me from the elements. Oh, and take up dove hunting in retaliation against birds. all birds.





PS. i've been shit on by birds three times in my life. Is that normal or above average?

PPS. "lemonade" in Australia is carbonated (aka Sprite)

Living overseas and getting paid in the US dollar is quickly starting to suck.

no further explanation necessary.

uh oh, Australia is too Americanized for me

America is everywhere...

1. I saw a truck driver today with rebel flag in the cab. I seriously doubt he drove here from south of the mason dixon line, but I guess he's just an american racisit who moved here because there are less black people.

2. songs i've heard on the radio today - "born in the USA" and "Sweet home alabama"

3. and check out this wine label:







in conclusion... wtf????

Sydney: Repetitive Pictures of the Opera House and Harbour Bridge

scenic pictures from Christmas (Holy crap that was more than 4/12ths of a year ago!)

These pictures were taken at Airlie Beach and the Whitsunday Islands, Queensland. The Whitsunday Islands are 74 Islands in northern Queensland and are bordered by the Great Barrier Reef. It was absolutely beautiful and anyone who comes all the way to visit Australia shouldn't skip the Whitsundays.














Safety comes first in Australia and at Airlie Beach. Below is a coconet. Coconuts kill.

These next pictures are of Whithaven Beach, which is one of the top ten beaches in the world. It was stunning. I saw Stingrays and little sharks swimming in just a few inches of crystal clear water.




And here I am in my beautiful full bodied lycra suit and lady hat, just adding to the beauty of Whitehaven Beach. I can't wait to go back!

two scoops of sultanas?

Queensland Driver's License - I reckon I could have made one myself

I finally made it to the Australian equivalent of the DMV (department of motor vehicles). And let me tell you I was quite impressed. It was well lit, there was no faint hint of urine, I didn't feel the need to clutch my purse close to my body, the chairs weren't sticky, and I was actually able to get in and out all in a lunch break's time. And not only that - I didnt have to take a test, and left with an actual drivers license!! Here it is in all of its dot matrix printer/ laminating machine glory. Anyone need a fake Australian License? I can hook you up.