What a whirlwind!

Where to begin…. Well... I finally made it to Australia!! These past few days have been very exciting and a little crazy with so many activities, house searching, finding a phone, orientation for school, etc.

I will say that this post is a bit all over the place (and perhaps not extremely logical...you know what they day about jet lag), but enjoy!

Upon first arrival I stayed three nights at a hostel called “backpackers by the beach” literally right by a beach called Newcastle beach. I stayed there while I searched for permanent accommodation. It was my first time staying at a hostel and I really enjoyed it! It gave me the opportunity to meet a lot of people from varying backgrounds each with a different story. In fact, this is where many of the university exchange students stayed while looking for something more permanent (they call it the "uni" here...it seems that every word has a slight abbreviation). All of the international students I have met have been great people. I have met students from Germany, Austria, Netherlands, Philippines, China, many other European countries, (and the U.S of course). 

So the big question.. where will I be living?!.... I found a a great apartment right next to the beach!! I can see the beach from inside of the place! I am living with an Australian woman who is 30 and works at the uni doing PR and media. Her name is Kate and she is truly an extraordinary person. I will also be getting another female roommate tomorrow who is from more of the countryside of Australia (she is 24 yrs old). I am looking forward to getting to know my roommates and getting a bit of first hand "Australian" info. There is also a lovely (lovely is a common word used as well) community (or so I hear) between our apartment and one other apartment that is very close (I have not met them all yet but they all seem to be very educated, well traveled and it makes me feel a little inexperienced...but it is great!)

The people here are so friendly, down to earth and have a great sense of humor! Everyone I have encountered has helped me when I have been lost, wandering, or simply want to talk with someone. I am looking really looking forward to starting classes so that I can meet even more people here. I have spent a little bit of time on campus with other international students for our orientation. All of the coordinators are great. For example, on the first day they brought in people with animals from a nearby animal conservation (a giant snake and two lizards). While I am terrified of snakes (as many of you know), I like lizards and actually held one! 

The animals: There are some very interesting birds, some that sound like a person laughing. I have been woken up by the birds almost every morning but I don't mind, I love the songs they sing! I have also seen whales, sea lions, and dolphins in the ocean!!! 

Here are a few photos from one of my first days. The city of Newcastle is surrounded (well for the most part) by 6 different beaches. I am within walking distance of about four. The one I have pictures from is called Nobby's beach (right by Newcastle beach) and it has a light house that is free on Sundays to explore.

The picture above is the view looking down at the city of Newcastle (I am on my way up to the light house)

Picture above: I met up with Giovanni, another student from Western studying at University of Newcastle!

Picture above: International students unite! All in picture are from Germany besides Giovanni and I.

Picture above: Palm trees in the city. Also, many people thought I was crazy to wear shorts during their winter. I'd say being from the Northwest definitely prepared me for the weather.

Anyways....I could go on forever and ever about this place but I will save it for a later post :)

I miss all of you (friends, family, babies, pets) back in the states!! Thank you once again for all of your support, it is much appreciated!

Remember... life is good, treasure the moments.. xoxo
You don't have to be far from home to be on an adventure. We can make one everyday.
Okay ya ya ya enough with the sappy stuff, I know....
More posts and pictures to come!!
Cheers!