tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-63331362297032826592024-03-14T02:15:30.974-05:00Mutual WeirdnessAlexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.comBlogger473125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-58632766925376475932015-05-04T20:33:00.000-05:002015-05-04T20:33:15.309-05:00The Sydney Opera House<div style="text-align: center;">
For my birthday (four months ago), Will and I went to Sydney for the weekend.</div>
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I'm all about iconic landmarks, so clearly I took 500 photos of the Opera House.</div>
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Since it was New Year's Day, the Harbour Bridge still had some lights set up from the previous night's celebrations. </div>
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Sydney is so different from Melbourne, but you can't deny the charm of the bridge and the Opera House.</div>
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We spent the evening wandering around Circular Quay and The Rocks, including a tragically average dinner at a place called Pony. Traveler's tip: Don't go to Pony if you visit Sydney.</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-11526603343263324922015-02-05T22:19:00.003-06:002015-02-05T22:19:41.889-06:00The view from up here<div style="text-align: center;">
Sometimes when the stress of visas, joblessness, and "what the hell am I doing?" gets to be too much, I look out at the view from our balcony and just think...wow, life is pretty good! </div>
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It's all worth it.</div>
Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-88960014458612734922015-01-07T15:00:00.000-06:002015-01-07T15:00:01.741-06:00Flinders<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
Otherwise known as...that time Will and I accidentally wore too much matching clothing.</div>
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The weekend after Christmas was spent in a charming little beach cottage with some of the extended family. There was a lot of eating and drinking and general good times. </div>
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And of course, lots of time on the beaches. Operation TAN is going amazingly well for me thanks to summer Christmas!</div>
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Ever the animal lover, I was tasked with "dealing with" a tiny bat that was found in the cottage. After googling bat rescue options in the Mornington Peninsula, I discerned that this was a mircrobat common to the area, and I should just let it go. </div>
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I am hoping that it is happily living its life now and was not eaten by a seagull. </div>
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I really enjoyed seeing a new part of Victoria, as there is really so much to see in the Melbourne area. These gorgeous beaches (AND manyyyy wineries) were just a little over an hour away from us. I'll take any excuse to escape to the sea side! </div>
<br />Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-53586766990746507842014-12-28T20:58:00.000-06:002014-12-28T20:58:08.001-06:00My first Aussie Christmas<div style="text-align: center;">
A belated Merry Christmas to you all!</div>
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I hope everyone had a fantastic day filled with food, family, and fun. </div>
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I was prepared to be some sort of mess on my first Christmas away from my family - ever- but all was well. Between all the food, preparing of food, eating of food, and having the best time hanging out with both sides of Will's rather large family, I thankfully didn't have any time to be blue. </div>
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Christmas Eve was COLD, so it actually felt like Christmas at home. Christmas day was another story, but I must admit that it was pretty glorious drinking champagne out in the sun and having our lunch outside at a beautifully set table. There was even a game of cricket, which I will need more practice at. I thought watching Will play so much would result in some sort of skills osmosis, but nay.</div>
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So all in all, a fantastic Christmas! </div>
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Plus, I'm incredibly tan. What more could I ask for?</div>
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Funny story: Will and I went camping (my very first camping trip) with some friends recently and, long story short, had an incident in which the campsite was burned down. Hence this gift. And I got camping magazines. Cheeky!</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-69137571456544226612014-12-23T18:00:00.000-06:002014-12-23T18:00:10.489-06:00There's no place like home<div style="text-align: center;">
Last month I was lucky enough to make a trip back home for a dear friend's wedding. </div>
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While we were there, we stayed on through Thanksgiving and had</div>
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ourselves a grand old time. </div>
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There was inordinate amounts of food, lots of catching up with friends, and so many pet cuddles.</div>
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This is probably a very common observation, but I think it takes leaving a place to really understand how much it means to you. </div>
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It turns out I missed home more than I thought- and not just because I can't get bean and cheese tacos or cuddle with Chester & Henry down here.</div>
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In true "home" fashion, being back there felt like I never left. Isn't that the best?</div>
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The first thing I asked for upon arrival in San Antonio was a bean and cheese taco (duh) and queso. My stomach said "THANK YOU SO MUCH I'VE MISSED YOU LIKE CRAZY OH MY GOD."</div>
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And of course I was delighted to be reunited with my furry friends. </div>
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I got to catch up with all the people I love, which was so good for the soul!!</div>
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We even had Will's little sister there for Thanksgiving! She's studying abroad in Wyoming, so it was great to be able to show her what Thanksgiving is all about, not to mention meet my family. </div>
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Thanksgiving was a success, as usual, and I ate all the things. I've yet to miss a Thanksgiving, so when I finally do it is going to be a very depressing day.</div>
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There was also the aforementioned wedding + time in Houston with some besties andddd a gender reveal party for Ronnie! It was a busy, blissful two weeks.</div>
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And for the icing on the cake, a seven hour layover in L.A. meant a nice stroll in Santa Monica plus delicious dinner and drinks with my dear Julianne.</div>
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It was a whirlwind, but so worth the trip back. I must admit it was a bit hard to leave, but I am still so thankful for this experience I am having. </div>
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Until next time!</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-75667668785390680032014-12-22T21:42:00.000-06:002014-12-22T21:42:47.958-06:00Melbourne at Christmastime <div style="text-align: center;">
Some snapshots of Melbourne at this joyful time of the year!</div>
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Our building has a beautiful tree that welcomed us back when returned from Texas.</div>
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Living in the CBD means we are around all the major Christmas decorations put up by the city. The main shopping road has lights all the way down that remind you it's Christmas even when it's 80 degrees!</div>
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There is an awesome projection show at the Melbourne Town Hall that showcases Christmas around the world.</div>
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I'm still getting used to a Southern Hemisphere Christmas (though let's be honest..it only recently even got warm!), but you can't beat beautiful days in a beautiful city.</div>
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UDuHQ9Bg4C8/VJjidnrktUI/AAAAAAAAFzo/N2cYNNhQuGY/s1600/IMG_1914.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-UDuHQ9Bg4C8/VJjidnrktUI/AAAAAAAAFzo/N2cYNNhQuGY/s1600/IMG_1914.JPG" height="248" width="640" /></a></div>
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Our apartment isn't lacking Christmas spirit either!</div>
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gg7dlca9i3M/VJjiRAnIrzI/AAAAAAAAFzY/FmqbBq-lFpI/s1600/IMG_1946.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-Gg7dlca9i3M/VJjiRAnIrzI/AAAAAAAAFzY/FmqbBq-lFpI/s1600/IMG_1946.JPG" height="640" width="480" /></a></div>
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All the Ryan + partners stockings. Please note that mine has Chester, Henry, and a kangaroo on it. I happen to think mine is the very best!</div>
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y-Fz2jQAzjQ/VJjiYd2uCqI/AAAAAAAAFzg/cIMxDbFn-FM/s1600/IMG_1958.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-y-Fz2jQAzjQ/VJjiYd2uCqI/AAAAAAAAFzg/cIMxDbFn-FM/s1600/IMG_1958.JPG" height="480" width="640" /></a></div>
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After panicking over the fact that Will's parents didn't yet have a tree, off to the bush we went to cut one down!</div>
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The days have been warm, and I am in top tan form...in December. It is both awesome and a little bittersweet. </div>
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I think the US goes more "all out" for Christmas, though I've been pleasantly surprised by the decorations and festive music here in the city. </div>
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And most American-like of all...the stores are packed to the rafters and open until midnight this week. Capitalism!</div>
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Merry Christmas, everyone!</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-15786334600985520882014-12-11T17:13:00.003-06:002014-12-11T17:13:18.788-06:00Travel life-savers <div style="text-align: center;">
Thanks to a mom with a travel bug and a former job with a very international company, I've done my fair share of traveling over the years. To say it is one of my greatest passions would be an understatement. I love it so much that I up and moved across the world!</div>
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While discovering new places is wonderful, the actual act of travel can be a bit stressful, tiring, annoying, or all of the above. A great peer-to-peer car rental company, <a href="https://relayrides.com/"><b>RelayRides</b></a>, asked me to share some of my travel must-haves. So here we are!<br />
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1. <b>Phone/Kindle/Computer/iPad/etc. charger in your carry on</b>- Nothing worse than a flat phone when all you want to do is check in at the airport before your big trip! Or show your boarding pass. Whatever your priority may be. </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J21_QCVbasw/VIeq38wFdEI/AAAAAAAAFxE/VpwQBR5eaLg/s1600/USB-Cell-Phone-Charger.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-J21_QCVbasw/VIeq38wFdEI/AAAAAAAAFxE/VpwQBR5eaLg/s1600/USB-Cell-Phone-Charger.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://car-memes.com/10-in-1-usb-charging-cable-multi-function-mobile-phone-charger-adapter/">Via</a></td></tr>
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2. <b>Converter</b>- If you're traveling internationally, this is clearly a must. I also keep this in my carry on so I can have it handy in case the checked luggage is delayed.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JyriG6RcvI0/VIeq9aTSDNI/AAAAAAAAFxY/mxduYtGj1-4/s1600/efcc_global_power_converter_parts.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JyriG6RcvI0/VIeq9aTSDNI/AAAAAAAAFxY/mxduYtGj1-4/s1600/efcc_global_power_converter_parts.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.thinkgeek.com/product/efcc/">Via</a></td></tr>
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3. <b>Pen</b>- This may seem like a simple, silly item to list, but it just plain sucks when you don't have one to fill out your customs formly with. As an over prepared traveler and someone who hates waiting in line, I always make sure my customs card gets filled out on the plane so I don't have to waste time doing it in the airport. On another note, if you're a frequent international traveler you should really look into being part of <a href="http://www.cbp.gov/global-entry/about"><b>Global Entry</b></a>. No customs card, no lines, just a quick stop at a machine once you're back in the US and voila! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uf2_C4z4qGw/VIerAwtzn9I/AAAAAAAAFx0/_ExsB1Fk91s/s1600/pen.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-uf2_C4z4qGw/VIerAwtzn9I/AAAAAAAAFx0/_ExsB1Fk91s/s1600/pen.jpg" height="267" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pen">Via</a></td></tr>
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4. <b>Card</b>s- For when you're waiting around for an (inevitably) delayed flight or just feel like flogging your partner in your favorite game of cards.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FUO2m0MuOT8/VIeq9LHQn7I/AAAAAAAAFxQ/GM7OiyyVGTA/s1600/deck-of-cards.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-FUO2m0MuOT8/VIeq9LHQn7I/AAAAAAAAFxQ/GM7OiyyVGTA/s1600/deck-of-cards.jpg" height="400" width="347" /></a></td></tr>
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5. <b>Change of clothes or AT LEAST clean undies</b>- Because baggage never gets lost, right? </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_vL8_RP-GQ/VIerAo2fApI/AAAAAAAAFxw/vfMeKYvqJjc/s1600/undies-300x210.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-5_vL8_RP-GQ/VIerAo2fApI/AAAAAAAAFxw/vfMeKYvqJjc/s1600/undies-300x210.jpg" height="280" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://blog.magnation.com/2010/02/24/undies-mondays-our-most-revealing-promotion-yet/#.VIeqZ6SUcmU">Via</a></td></tr>
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6. <b>Pre-packed toiletry case</b>- Such a packing time saver if you already have a toiletry bag ready to go with travel sized items. Bonus: if all the toiletries really are travel sized, you can pop it into your carry on to ensure you have necessities if your luggage doesn't show up! </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Tcj0lwtdpU/VIeq84x1yxI/AAAAAAAAFxM/v7d0E5z7fCM/s1600/WallyBags-Hanging-Toiletry-Kit-P15011831s.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-5Tcj0lwtdpU/VIeq84x1yxI/AAAAAAAAFxM/v7d0E5z7fCM/s1600/WallyBags-Hanging-Toiletry-Kit-P15011831s.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.overstock.com/Luggage-Bags/Toiletry-Bags/3219/cat.html">Via</a></td></tr>
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7. <b>Plane toiletries</b>- For long overnight flights, it can be really nice to have a bit of a freshen up before sleeping. I like to bring a contact case and solution, glasses, and a mini toothbrush and toothpaste. Deodorant and a brush can't hurt either! </div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><img border="0" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-8spJn88SYNc/VIeq-PRxerI/AAAAAAAAFxg/gzdYn9ImJqQ/s1600/glasses.jpg" height="251" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;" width="400" /></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://lensmakersoptical.com/portfolio-view/eye-glasses/">Via</a></td></tr>
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8. <b>Foldable extra bag</b>- For when you buy lots of American grocery items and there's no way they're going to fit into the luggage you brought with you. Not that I would know. </div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JDggXMy4BOY/VIeq_0Yjo-I/AAAAAAAAFxs/fdtj7eQ7zVY/s1600/overnight_navy_1_fixed_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JDggXMy4BOY/VIeq_0Yjo-I/AAAAAAAAFxs/fdtj7eQ7zVY/s1600/overnight_navy_1_fixed_2.jpg" height="400" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.cuyana.com/canvas-and-leather-overnight-bag-navy.html">Via</a></td></tr>
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Now go forth and have an adventure!<br />
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<span style="font-size: x-small;">RelayRides provides car rental services from people like you and me! Visit their current airport options <a href="https://relayrides.com/airports"><b>here</b></a>.</span></div>
Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-9366804539944251842014-12-08T18:00:00.000-06:002014-12-08T18:00:00.936-06:00Unemployment, take two<div style="text-align: center;">
After working the legal maximum of six months with one company, it was once again time to say goodbye to working life and hello to stay at home girlfriend life. </div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">My fabulous farewell card</td></tr>
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The following is an example of a typical day for me, using a few different days combined for affect. You will either be jealous or pity me. Or a mixture of both. </div>
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<b>6:45 am</b>- Wake up, due to a mixture of jet lag and excitement over what exciting possibilities the day might bring. </div>
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<b>7:00 am</b>- Eat breakfast using granola acquired on your trip home. Are initially very excited, but then frown upon realizing how small a serving size is. You solider on.</div>
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<b>7:30 am</b>- Grocery list in hand, journey off to the Vic Market to fill the empty refrigerator. Become quite pleased with self when realizing that you have officially claimed your favorite produce stand. As this is at least the fifth time you have bought produce exclusively from them, you applaud yourself on finding such a good quality, reasonably priced stand. Heart plummets when bill comes to $53 for assorted fruits and veggies. The fact that this would have cost at least $70 at a normal grocery store lifts your spirits slightly.</div>
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<b>8:00 am</b>- Peruse a legit Asian market for rice noodles. Are confused by so many options, but ultimately choose one that is under $2 and seems to be made of brown rice.</div>
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<b>8:15 am</b>- Begrudgingly head to Aldi, the only grocery store that can successfully turn you into a sullen monster. Leave only with items needed and still feeling human.</div>
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<b>8:30 am</b>- Realize that two items you need (jarred jalepenos and more mince meat since for some reason you did not buy enough at the earlier market) can only be procured at Woolworth's, the normal grocery store. Though you are laden with bags and feel like a pack mule, you continue on your journey. All the pain becomes worth it upon the discovery of mince turkey. As you've been searching for this item for the past eight months, it is a glorious occasion that they've suddenly started selling it! </div>
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<b>9:00 am</b>- Arrive back at home feeling like the most productive person in the universe. FaceTime with parents to tell them of all you've already accomplished that day. Avoid questions about when you'll get a job and instead ask to see your cats, whom you've only left 1.5 days ago. </div>
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<b>9:30 am</b>- Send out emails for possible job leads, fervently search for jobs, and lastly even apply for a job. This part of the day serves to remind you of how jobless you are. </div>
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<b>10:30 am</b>- As your recent trip home to the US has packed on the pounds, it is now time to partake in your newly acquired Pure Barre DVD set. Complete a workout feeling like death, but determined to get back to your pre-Australia physique. </div>
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<b>11:30 am</b>- Bust out your new Skinny Taste cookbook and begin preparations on a healthy lunch. Pat yourself on the back for using all locally-sourced produce.</div>
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<b>12:00 pm</b>- Eat lunch while sending more emails/watching an episode of Scandal. You once again wonder how Olivia Pope isn't nervous about drinking red wine in her creamy attire. </div>
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<b>12:30 pm</b>- The sun is out, so you better take advantage of it. First is a dip in the pool to soothe your already aching muscles (and so you can later gloat to Will that you did not one, but TWO forms of exercise that day. Three if you count all the walking to and from the market). Second is sun bathing with a good book. You contemplate that being a stay at home girlfriend isn't too awful. </div>
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<b>2:30 pm</b>- Time for some marathon TV watching. American TV programming waits for no expats.</div>
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<b>4:00 pm</b>- The mind needs some exercise, so you read the better part of a book about what Area 51 REALLY is. </div>
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<b>6:30 pm</b>- Ask Will why he isn't home yet, then explain you are dying of starvation. Promptly start dinner, also courtesy of Skinny Taste. Your thoughts are haunted by all the things you ate in Texas.</div>
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<b>7:15 pm</b>- Your healthy, locally-sourced produce culinary efforts are tested and given two thumbs up, and both parties marvel over the appearance of turkey mince in Australian grocery stores. </div>
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<b>8:30 pm</b>- Wander a few blocks to take in the Christmas projection show. Have conflicting feelings over the fact that Christmas falls during summer in this hemisphere, yet it isn't exactly warm. Should you feel happy that the weather is more like home (or honestly, a little colder) and what you're used to in December, or angry that you still haven't gotten a proper summer? These are the big questions in life.</div>
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<b>9:30 pm</b>- Hop into bed and watch your new favorite comedy- Upper Middle Bogan. Feel grateful that at least you aren't secretly adopted with hilarious bogan parents. </div>
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And there you have it.</div>
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Anyone want to give me a job? :)</div>
Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-41516892638094725352014-11-17T18:22:00.000-06:002014-11-17T18:22:00.562-06:00The Bloody Long Walk was bloody painful<div style="text-align: center;">
When your friend says she's doing a 35km charity walk and that you should join, you should really have a (bloody) long think about it before agreeing. </div>
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<i>Walking isn't hard</i>, you say.</div>
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<i>I love to walk,</i> you say.</div>
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<i>I can totally do that, </i>you say. </div>
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<i>Sign me up</i>, you say.</div>
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<i>Training? I don't need to train, </i>you say.</div>
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Ha! </div>
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Just an FYI, walking 35km (21 miles) is not, by any means, easy. </div>
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Things started off fine; I was enjoying the scenery and was concentrating on telling my feet to behave themselves and not hurt. Then the aches kicked. Then more. Then, 30km in, there was crying over the aches and pains and wondering if I could make it those last 5kms. </div>
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Well, I did. Feet, legs, hips all screaming in pain. I had a hard-earned cider and giant bowl of chips, then proceeded to lay on the couch for the remainder of my day. </div>
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I'm glad I did it, just to prove I could, and the company was lovely. But if you have any "fun" charity walks coming up any time soon, count this girl out!! </div>
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Our team was called Unhappy Feet. Little did we know how appropriate it would be! </div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-76550679798384892792014-11-14T17:53:00.000-06:002014-11-14T17:53:00.048-06:00You may call me Little Bo Peep<div style="text-align: center;">
We spend a lot of time out at the farm. It's beautiful, peaceful, and there's always wine and homemade bread readily available.</div>
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In the seven months I've been here I've been able to do a bit of actual farm work, which is a sentence I never thought I would utter. </div>
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But alas! I have, and I like it. Let's be honest, my favorite part about it is getting to pat lambs and try to make them love me. But there's also something calming about it, not to mention I like feeling like I'm actually contributing and being useful.</div>
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Some skills I've learned that may impress some of my friends:</div>
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1. How to drive a four wheeler</div>
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2. Mustering sheep with said four wheeler</div>
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3. Droving sheep, also with said four wheeler</div>
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4. Marking lamb ears</div>
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5. Giving innoculations</div>
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6. General pushing/moving/interacting with sheep</div>
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7. Becoming an expert lamb holder (this is not a useful skill, just something I like to do if a lamb isn't fast enough to get away from my cuddles)</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-86830665107174394532014-11-13T17:50:00.001-06:002014-11-13T17:50:24.286-06:00And I'm off to the races<div style="text-align: center;">
Picture a college football tailgating situation. </div>
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Now replace F150s and RVs with Range Rovers and BMWs. Get rid of that Lonestar and Bud Light and bring in the bubbly. School colored attire is replaced with a nice frock, and baseball caps become outlandish hats or fascinators.</div>
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And that is a Melbourne Cup "car park". </div>
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The Spring Racing Carnival is a huge deal here in Melbourne. There are four (I think?) races throughout the week, with the biggest one being the Melbourne Cup. Everyone even gets the day off to attend or partake in other activities! </div>
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For someone who had never been to a horse race, the whole experience was quite interesting. Wearing a pretty dress and fascinator while sipping champagne seemed like a pretty good way to spend a day, in my opinion. </div>
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It also didn't hurt that I won some money on a couple races, which if you know me then you're aware what a big deal it is that I even entertained the idea of betting money. Side note: I feel very conflicted about the actual sport of horse racing, so I am choosing to focus on the champers, fashion, and classy day drinking situation. </div>
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The day started with a big breaky consisting of things that Australians are sadly not very familiar with: breakfast casserole and mimosas. I mean the casserole, fine, but mimosas?! For a country that loves to drink, they're severely lacking in that area.</div>
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After a crash course in how racing odds work, I placed about five bets throughout the day. My biggest win was picking a horse called Hijack Hussy to win a race, which she did. The ticket below won me a few bills for the horse getting third place in the big cup race.</div>
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We left the safety of our car park area to venture out to the actual track so I could see one of the races. It was basically a writhing mass of well dressed, drunken humanity. </div>
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But it was fun to see my winning horse prancing by!</div>
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Dolla dolla bills, y'all.</div>
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Needless to say, it was a lively rain ride back home. My chins had a great time.</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-27781835611113073822014-10-24T07:00:00.000-05:002014-10-24T07:00:00.895-05:00In which I prove I am not a snow bunny<div style="text-align: center;">
At the end of August we were able to catch the last of the snow season for a day of skiing. At just three hours away, this was an easy little trip to take.</div>
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I will preface the following story with the fact that I just KNEW that something was going to go wrong. Every bone in my body told me that I would probably break said bones. But off I went!</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Check out those matching jackets. For the record, I got my jacket first!</td></tr>
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Things started off easily enough. It had been about four years since I last went skiing, but I was able to pick it right back up on the tame green slope. At this point I thought I had conquered the world and sang my own praises to Will. I even joked about how I was sure he was relieved that I was a decent skier and he didn't have to babysit me. Then I said for probably the millionth time that I had never taken a spill while skiing (all two times I had been skiing). </div>
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Famous last words.</div>
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The group decided a blue run was feasible, so despite my horror at how steep it looked on the map, off we went. </div>
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Things went badly. Quickly.</div>
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Because it was the end of the season, the snow conditions weren't great. This particular run was a mix of ice and random piles of snow. It was also pretty steep, though I'm just a baby when it comes to heights. As soon as I started making my descent, I knew I was a goner. I was completely out of control, flying down the mountain at a speed I didn't know I was capable of. Because I typically enjoy fast skiing (on green runs only, mind you), I had never truly learned how to turn slowly and control myself. </div>
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I flew past all our friends, and finally past Will, screaming all the while. I knew the fall was coming, I just didn't know when. When it did happen, all I felt was cold, wind, and like someone had punched me in the chest.</div>
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According to witnesses, I looked like a snowball. Apparently I went prettyyyy far down the mountain. Will was sure he would come to me and find broken bones or worse.</div>
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But nay. My some sort of miracle, I was fine. Scared as shit, but fine. And some really lovely strangers helped gather all my equipment (it was scattered all around) and stayed with me until Will was able to make it over. </div>
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Needless to say, the green run and I were BFFs after that. Luckily I had some lovely friends who also decided the green run was more appealing, so we ended up having a great time.</div>
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I ended up with a few battle scars and some killer soreness that gave me an excellent excuse to not exercise for a few days. While I will certainly go skiing again, I must admit that I'm glad summer is coming so I won't have to do it again for a whole year!</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-44107964073061642832014-10-22T05:23:00.004-05:002014-10-22T05:23:47.245-05:00The measures a crazy cat lady must take<div style="text-align: center;">
When I found out a Cat Cafe was opening in Melbourne, I added it to the many reasons why my move to this city was meant to be. </div>
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I'd of course heard of the Cat Cafes of Asia where patrons happily sip lattes while patting friendly felines. Obviously this sounded like a dream to me.</div>
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Yours truly booked (yes, you must book to visit the cafe) a time with the kitties straight away, as absence from my beloved Chester and Henry was starting to weigh heavily on me. </div>
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Because of Australia's strict food service laws, this is not your typical cats-all-over-the-tables-and-on-your-lap-while-enjoying-coffee Cat Cafe. Instead, there were separate rooms upstairs where the cats roamed freely and waiters brought you vending machine coffee from downstairs. Not fancy, but whatever, I was finally around cats! </div>
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It was lovely being able to socialize with my favorite animal, but I'll be the first to say that this was a weird place to go solo. I felt like a creepy woman wandering around from cat to cat, taking pictures here and there. As everyone else was there in a group or with at least one other person, I stuck out like a sore thumb. </div>
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Lesson learned: Bring a friend.</div>
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This might be the most pathetic blog post I have ever written.</div>
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The end.</div>
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Meow.</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-59596886398355964492014-10-06T06:59:00.001-05:002014-10-06T06:59:58.484-05:00Around Hamilton Island...and that time I cuddled a koala<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
When we weren't cruising out to white sand beaches or snorkeling in waters I was sure I'd be attacked by a shark in, we spent lots of time just exploring the island.</div>
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There was even a nice hike up to a lookout point that provided 360 degree views of the island.</div>
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Aaaand then I fulfilled my dream of cuddling a koala. </div>
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Her name was Lola, and she was a sweet 18 month old tiny girl. Her sleepy little face was just the cutest!</div>
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I wish this moment had lasted more than 30 seconds, but alas there was a line of other people after the same experience.</div>
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Shortly after this picture was taken, I proceeded to pick up pretty much every shell on the beach. Apologies for the lack of shells, Hamilton Island.</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-3674912344402155032014-09-09T07:00:00.000-05:002014-09-09T07:00:06.102-05:00Ticking off the Bucket List: Great Barrier Reef<div style="text-align: center;">
Wow, where do I even begin?</div>
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I know. Let's talk about how I had a serious misconception about the location of The Great Barrier Reef. </div>
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I consider myself to be fairly smart, well traveled, and knowledgeable about the world around me. So I'm embarrassed to say that I thought the GBR was just right offshore. You know, like you go to the beach, swim out a bit, and there it is!</div>
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Please tell me someone else thought/thinks this.</div>
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Obviously, I was completely incorrect. As soon as we booked our day trip and I learned it was an almost two hour boat ride out to the reef, I knew I was in trouble.</div>
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Trouble, as in I could be eaten by a shark in the middle of the ocean. This is Australia, after all.</div>
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Three cheers to Will for putting up with a really anxious person on that boat ride. But come on, jumping into the ocean when you can barely see land in the distance is a bit scary, right?!</div>
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Anyway, it was 50000000% worth the anxious nerves because let me tell you, The Great Barrier Reef is one of the most amazing things I have ever seen. It's a whole different world down there, and most of it doesn't even look real. There were fish in colors I didn't even think fish came in, caves that seemed to never end, plants that danced and swayed as the water moved.</div>
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I wish the pictures could do it more justice! Shout out to our underwater camera who mercifuly decided not to die until the end.</div>
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It should be noted that no, I did not find Nemo, and yes, I did see a shark.</div>
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HOWEVER, it was a baby shark. And my scream caused it to swim away very quickly.</div>
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I highly recommend this experience as a must-do if you ever visit Australia.</div>
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I can't wait to go again!</div>
Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-7166036257407100172014-08-23T04:11:00.001-05:002014-08-23T04:11:23.273-05:00Whitehaven Beach<div style="text-align: center;">
Australian beaches are kind of awesome. I mean, it IS Australia after all.</div>
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Whitehaven Beach was no exception. </div>
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The sand was out of this word. Not only was it pristinely white, it was also very soft and squeaky! The silica content makes it this way, and I had never encountered anything like it.<br />
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Located on Whitsunday Island, the beach was about a 45 minute boat ride away from Hamilton Island. Best part of the boat ride: seeing Humpback Whales!<br />
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Once there, we had time to lay out, take naps, and perfect jumping pictures.<br />
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This is definitely a place I need to come back to.<br />
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-19894504378685613312014-08-19T22:00:00.000-05:002014-08-19T22:00:03.783-05:00A respite from winter's cold<div style="text-align: center;">
Let me just say it. </div>
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Not having summer for a year really blows. My timing with this move was impeccable! </div>
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Therefore, it was high time for a quick holiday to a warm destination.</div>
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Enter: Hamilton Island, located in Queensland in what is called the Whitsunday Islands.</div>
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I'd been wanting to go there since Will started teasing me with pictures of it two years ago. To me, it looked like absolute paradise. </div>
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I wanted to cry with happiness when we got off the plane and stepped into WARMTH and HUMIDITY. My god, I never thought I'd be so happy to encounter humidity again!</div>
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Ok, so, picture the mountain resort from <i>Dirty Dancing</i>. Now transplant it to an island instead. That's pretty much the best way I can describe Hamilton Island. It's a resort island with one main street where the shops and eateries are, and the rest is accommodation. Fun fact: Julia Roberts has a house there! And Pit Bull. Random.</div>
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There are also no cars, aside from service and official island vehicles. Everyone gets around by foot or by golf cart. Bonus: the golf carts had the steering wheel on the left side! </div>
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Except for a couple super swanky, exclusive places, everyone on the island has access to all the hotels and their pools and restaurants. So basically it's a relaxing [not so] free for all. We stayed in very nice-sized apartment right across from the beach, which was my main objective in seeking a place to stay.</div>
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It was such a magical, relaxing weekend, and we did quite a few fun things. More posts to come!</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-36761248045905521262014-08-18T03:07:00.000-05:002014-08-18T03:07:04.711-05:00In my new life, I go to things like the Sheep and Wool Show<div style="text-align: center;">
Sheep are big business in Australia. </div>
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They're cute, they bah, and they're yummy. </div>
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They're such big business, in fact, that there are whole shows dedicated to them! Imagine a rodeo, minus the actual rodeo part. But there is indeed a shearing competition!</div>
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My favorite part was the huge building filled with row after row of show sheep. Not dirty, out in the paddock sheep. Show sheep. Perfectly coiffed, regal, GIANT. And all available for patting! </div>
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Baah ram ewe.</div>
Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-69346904767091653022014-08-15T23:43:00.001-05:002014-08-15T23:43:05.394-05:004th of July in another country<div style="text-align: center;">
Living in another country can suddenly turn the most averagely patriotic person into a full God-bless-America-let's eat ribs-and-wave-a-flag patriot. </div>
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Let it be known: I don't own US flag shorts. I love the USA, but I also think there are a lot of other great countries out there. </div>
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However, spending 4th of July in Australia had me wishing I owned a ballgown made out of the US flag. </div>
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Or at least some novelty shorts.</div>
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So what was there to do, other than throw an epic 4th of July party?</div>
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Always one to welcome other cultures, it became an Aussie-style USA party. It was held on a cold winter's night out at the drinking hut on the farm. And let me just say, some of these Aussies were way more prepared for an American party than I was. </div>
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There were giant "AMERICAN STYLE" hot dogs with Heinz ketchup and French's mustard (thanks, Costco!) , a cake with a flag on it (you're welcome), and even some buffalo wings with FRANK'S HOT SAUCE (thank you, friends who regularly go to the US and love Frank's hot sauce as much as I do. Beer pong and flip cup were played, though I was told I took it way too seriously. To this I say, how can you not?! "Party in the USA" and other American themed songs were sung loudly and badly. There were "American costumes" worn.</div>
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All in all, an excellent night. America was celebrated well, and I think we did her proud.</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-52795437431275809092014-06-28T21:00:00.000-05:002014-06-28T21:00:00.291-05:00On becoming a "sports person"<div style="text-align: center;">
It is a widely known truth that I am not a sports person.</div>
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I don't like watching them, and I certainly don't like playing them. </div>
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Case in point: In elementary school during our baseball unit, I once ran behind the batting cage after hitting the ball instead of running to first base. </div>
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Second case in point: During my time in Houston, I refused to sign up for any sort of "fun" intramural league because the thought of team sports and ultimate failure was too terrifying for me.</div>
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My one exception is the San Antonio Spurs because come on, five time NBA champs. </div>
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Did I watch the finals even though they came on mid-day here? Yes.</div>
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Did I cry at my desk when we won? Yes.</div>
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Did I proceed to read every article and watch every video in the following days and also cry over those? Yes.</div>
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Is Patty Mills Australian? Yes.</div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AZV_bs9prhA/U6laenNnATI/AAAAAAAAFQA/j7vNk2gqfWQ/s1600/san-antonio-spurs_champion-nba-2014.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-AZV_bs9prhA/U6laenNnATI/AAAAAAAAFQA/j7vNk2gqfWQ/s1600/san-antonio-spurs_champion-nba-2014.jpg" height="396" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://en.africatopsports.com/2014/06/16/nba-finals-san-antonio-spurs-champions-video/">Via</a></td></tr>
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Then I moved to Melbourne.</div>
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People in Melbourne are OBSESSED with AFL [Australian Rules Football/footy]. I mean, Texas A&M football-level obsessed. </div>
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Upon meeting someone new it is customary to ask each other what footy team you support, and the answers could make or break a relationship.</div>
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Will supports the Richmond Tigers, which is an unfortunate team to support. As a comparison, it's kind of like supporting the Houston Texans- lovable, yet so tragic. But I am a supportive girlfriend, so I support the Tigers too. </div>
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I've been to a few footy games over the past two years, and must admit they're not awful. </div>
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There's a lot of action and no annoying, constant timeouts [I'm looking at you, football].</div>
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The winning team all gathers to sing their club song at the end, which is both weird and endearing. Richmond's is called "Tigerland", and it is not heard enough. Poor tigers.</div>
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Plus, the food of choice is a meat pie. Hand me a meat pie and I'll be happy with anything.</div>
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Rugby is also wildly popular here. </div>
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Maybe I was just unaware, but I'm pretty sure rugby is not a thing in the US. I mean, I know it exists, but it just isn't a popular sport to keep up with, to my knowledge. But we already know my sports knowledge is limited. </div>
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In my time here, I have watched two rugby games in full [on TV]!</div>
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Granted, I watched because the boys in my home had invited friends over for two big games. However, my watching was also rather willing, as I felt it would be a good cultural experience. </div>
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I'd be remiss if I didn't also add that there was food involved.</div>
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My assessment of rugby is as follows:</div>
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Violent. Impressive. Weird backwards passing. Massive thighs. Fights. Glorious lack of time outs. They need protective gear.</div>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.dailytelegraph.com.au/sport/nrl/state-of-origin-ticket-prices-set-to-soar/story-fni3fqyo-1226729687712">Via</a></td></tr>
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Now for the real clincher. The thing you will find hard to believe.</div>
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I, Alex, hater of playing sports, have started playing a sport.</div>
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Netball is a traditional sport for women to play here. Because it definitely doesn't exist in the US, I had ZERO idea what it was upon arrival. </div>
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Will plays on a social, mixed team, so I went once to observe this curious sport that upon googling, seemed sort of like basketball but with weird robotic stop-start motions.</div>
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After watching a game, I was firm in my assessment.</div>
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Then, as fate would have it, the team needed extra players.</div>
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Guess who was forced into playing?</div>
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Guess who looked like an idiot for the first quarter?</div>
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As someone who hates confrontation, playing a defensive position was not a good idea for my first foray into an unknown sport.</div>
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Will said I looked like a deer in headlights, and I know he is 100% correct.</div>
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BUT! Over the next three quarters I started to get more comfortable as I was placed in a position that just involved running and throwing + catching a ball. </div>
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I may not be sporty, but I can do those things! </div>
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I now play every weekend, and remarkably, I really look forward to it!</div>
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It's a good chance to hang out with friends and get some exercise while we're at it.</div>
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A lack of Pure Barre plus my ability to lick a Nutella jar dry means I am in serious need of activity, and this makes me feel better about the horrible eating/drinking decisions I most certainly made during the weekend.</div>
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So there you have it. My sports transformation, thanks to a cross-world move.</div>
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Maybe I'm still high on the Spurs victory, or maybe I'm just glad that my Facebook timeline is blessedly free of all things football during the off season, but I'd like to think I'm more sports-tolerant these days.</div>
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Ask me again when the US fall rolls around.</div>
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At least the TV will be gloriously freeeeeee of any games! Ah, the perk of living in a country where [American] football is not king :)</div>
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I'm a bad Texan, I know.</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com5tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-81033910699433495022014-06-26T21:00:00.000-05:002014-06-26T21:00:00.913-05:00Throwing a party in another country<div style="text-align: center;">
...is just like throwing one in the US. </div>
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Except this one was with 30+ people in an apartment overlooking Melbourne. And it was the first party I've thrown in my own place of residence since uni [please excuse me as I use words to sound like the people I interact with every day]!</div>
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The occasion was a SURPRISE birthday shindig for our wonderful housemate, Veri, complete with hiding, jumping out of the dark, and toilet paper streamers. </div>
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Saying it was a fun night would be an understatement. Any party that has margaritas, guacamole, AND Tim Tam cake balls is bound to be a good time.</div>
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Next party: 4th of July hut party. Words cannot express my excitement. </div>
Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-62440245858366372952014-06-24T05:04:00.000-05:002014-06-24T05:04:02.954-05:00The Great Ocean Road<div style="text-align: center;">
My BFF/grandma, Queen Elizabeth, had a birthday earlier this month and was lovely enough to give most of Australia a holiday (sorry boutcha, WA)!</div>
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For us this meant fishing, catching up with friends, and a gorgeous road trip down The Great Ocean Road. The <a href="http://alexandramal.blogspot.com.au/2012/09/the-pacific-coast-highway-is-no-longer.html"><b>first time</b></a> I partook in this iconic drive we were on a bit of a time crunch, so I didn't get to see very much of it. This time we went allll the way down to the Twelve Apostles, something I've really been wanting to see before they all fall down. </div>
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Though it was a bit chilly, we were set on doing some fishing in a pretty town pretty much right at the start of The Great Ocean Road (Barwon Heads). </div>
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There may or may not have been zero fish caught.</div>
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Then came the veryyy scenic drive. </div>
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There are about 500 pictures that look something similar to this one, so I'll spare you all the repetitiveness.</div>
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One of my favorite stops was Apollo Bay. The views were stunning, plus I got to eat. Win win.</div>
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Does this remind anyone else of the wall in Free Willy that he gloriously jumps over in the end?</div>
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Australia likes to impress people with views at every turn. Mountains + farms + ocean. Stop it.</div>
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AND THEN SOMETIMES YOU SEE KOALAS IN TREES, AND YOU AND ASIAN TOURISTS SQUEAL OVER IT AND TAKE WAY TOO MANY PICTURES!</div>
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A few hours later we were at our destination- The Twelve Apostles. What a stunning natural wonder! It's too bad that "twelve" is actually incorrect. The apostles are crumbling.</div>
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This beautiful country continues to amaze me. There are so many different types of scenery to see in Victoria alone, and I've only scratched the surface!</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-46394293301586124652014-05-07T15:00:00.000-05:002014-05-07T15:00:02.865-05:00The High Country, and another Australian cultural experience<div style="text-align: center;">
Like hut parties, country charity balls are another cultural Australian experience.</div>
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People come from miles around, in this case to a town that consisted only of a pub and a hall, to eat, drink, party, and camp. I'm starting to see that there seems to be a trend with these quintessential Australian cultural experiences. Can't say that I have any complaints! </div>
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We embarked upon a really gorgeous road trip that took us into the High Country and over to New South Wales. One thing I've learned about Australians is that they really love to drive. They think nothing of driving hours just to get somewhere. I used to complain about the three hour drive from Houston to San Antonio. What a wuss.</div>
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There is literally one picture of the aforementioned ball. I'm afraid I was far too busy eating appetizers, enjoying rums, and dancing like a fool. It was hilarious seeing guys in tuxedos and girls in nice dresses out in the absolute middle of nowhere. It was not so hilarious sleeping in a swag [this is a genius invention that is pretty much a cross between a tent and a sleeping bag] in a nice dress, but at least it was a very comfortable swag.</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-19255249417796964932014-05-06T06:00:00.000-05:002014-05-06T06:00:07.441-05:00Hut party- An Australian cultural experience<div style="text-align: center;">
Ever heard of a hut party?</div>
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I hadn't until I met Will. As soon as I heard epic stories about these fantastical events, I knew I needed to experience one for myself. </div>
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Basically, it is not uncommon for farms to have special little wooden huts that are used for parties. So everyone goes out to the hut, eats, drinks, dances around, then camps out. Just a simple country good time!</div>
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This particular hut party was quite an international event. There was me, our German housemate, Veri, a Spanish friend, Ane, and two British girls. I'd say we all felt sufficiently Australian afterward!</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-6333136229703282659.post-57763464284120314562014-05-05T15:00:00.000-05:002014-05-05T15:00:03.111-05:00Perth<div style="text-align: center;">
Will had to go to Perth for work a couple weeks ago, so I thought this was the perfect excuse to get a tan and bask in some warm weather. </div>
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Mother Nature had some other ideas most of the time, but it was a nice, relaxing trip nonetheless! </div>
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I paid a visit to the Perth Zoo one afternoon, the only person who wasn't there with a gaggle of kids.</div>
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Just a typical day hanging out in the stocks.</div>
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Let it be known that I had my first taste of Australian Tex-Mex while I was here. After a month without queso, fajitas, and margaritas, my heart was starting to die just a little. Good news, the queso was pretty damn tasty. Bad news, the margarita was not. But it quenched my craving at least!</div>
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Alexhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/10421087467190953091noreply@blogger.com4