Summertime and the livin's OZ

Hello and welcome to Australia. Sit back, relax and grab a cold one 'cause it's hot and ain't no one movin' too fast. You know.

Well, Australia is hot. It's just what the doctor prescribed, and I'm so happy to be here enjoying the summertime vibes with really good friends. I landed safely (though mildly effected by my omnipotent fear of flying) in Brisbane on Thursday, 15 January. Daniel (aka Sam, my coworker from Japan) met me at the airport and drove me a few hours south to Byron Bay where he owns an aboriginal arts shop. Check it out online - http://www.planetcorroboree.com.au/.

We spent the night at his dad's house in a nearby city. Dan, Ayumi (his wife) and Yuki (their baby boy) are staying there until their house is finished being built. FYI, Yuki is F'in AWESOME. He's just about to start talking, so for now, he waddles around, imitates people and giggles. I spent today at the beach in Byron Bay while Dan was at work in his shop. Byron Bay is nice and hot...a typical beach town with a well developed beach culture.

As for everything else, it's been absolutely mesmerizing. First and for most, I can understand at least 95% of the signs and conversations around me. It's been a while since that has happened and it really is fabulous. The only problem is that I don't always remember that everyone can understand me as well. A few 'fucks' in the wrong place can really add some spice to the situation. But no worries. It's too hot to have problems.

And I imagine the other explicit difference is in the flora and fauna. I spent 3 nights and 2 days in the bush...in the outback...out back. My friend, Dan, owns some land and is building a house in the bush. It's been great. The birds are crazy. Their calls range across the board from a simple chirp to a loud obnoxious laugh - it's fun. And there is kangaroo shit everywhere. Evidently you can't have dogs or cats where his house is located. The cat's and dog's crap scares away local fauna (e.g. wallabies and kangaroos), and we couldn't have kangaroo's poohing in other places. I mean, from the amount of turds distributed around his land, the outback doesn't have much room for much more pooh. So to say the least, it's still a bit striking to see a small group of 5' kangaroos leaping/feeding/standing in the bush.

Anyway, we are heading back to the bush on Wednesday, and I'm planning on staying out there for a little while to help Dan get some significant work done on his house. Please keep in mind that there's limited electricity due to the fact that we are developing the land. Current projects include finishing the deck's roof, putting in the kitchen counter and sink, digging a trench for water pipes, and a bunch of gardening. Imagine the step between camping and bungalow - that's where we are right now. Nevertheless, I will get back to civilization when I can and email everyone. So hang in there because more is coming soon.