"Some things are hard to write about. After something happens to you, you go to write it down, and either you over dramatize it, or underplay it, exaggerate the wrong parts or ignore the important ones. At any rate, you never write it quite the way you want to." -Sylvia Plath
My blog has been but a fragment of my experience that I have been able to put into words for you. Some of my experiences were far too absurd, others were not even worth mentioning, and many may have slipped my mind as I was too occupied doing what I wanted to do (for once).
This entry marks the end of my semester abroad. I am left with 3 more days in a country that has made me feel more alive, lost, frustrated, inspired, bold, and free than I have ever felt. I cannot say that I have enjoyed every minute of my trip, but I know that it will be an experience that has marked my life forever.
This word, 'experience', that I so nonchalantly toss around holds much more than words can describe and pictures are worth. I truly mean that while I was here I have LIVED.
Let me try to explain this to you: I was scared to live in Australia in the beginning- not because of the reasons you may automatically assume like missing out on a semester at school, missing family and friends, being so far away... No. I was scared because I expected SO much out of this semester abroad. I had only heard of great stories from friends who had studied here, from family-friends who had visited, and from random people I would interact with; in short, Australia was nothing short of amazing. I wanted to do it all. I wanted to live the stories I had heard of and see the things they described to me.
..The reality of it was that I DID NOTHING I WAS SUPPOSED TO DO & everything I wanted to. I didn't snorkel the Great Barrier Reef, instead I wanted to snorkel in Fiji. I didn't go to the Blue Mountains, instead I wanted to hike up Mt. Victoria in New Zealand. I didn't get to skydive, but I did the sling-shot in the GoldCoast. I didn't tan everyday at the beach but I went white-water rafting in New Zealand and saw the sunset at Byron Bay. No matter how careful you are, there's going to be the sense you missed something, the feeling under your skin that you didn't experience it all. But who is to tell me that I lacked experience? At the beginning I was too concerned on what I should be experiencing, and less concerned about what I wanted to do. And it made me think of my life back at home where I am too concerned with trying to make other people happy. (Let's skip the part where I tell you not to misunderstand me- that I truly do enjoy reaching out to people -- because I do.) I just mean that, for once, it became more important for me to listen to, well, ME.
So, yes, my "experience" from Australia will be different than what you heard from your friend or your colleagues, but I learned that it was not something I could set out to create, or re-create to tell people, "I did that too!". "It"... my experience was something I went through. By choosing one adventure over the other, living in a room with 3 girls, jumping on 13 different flights to travel Australia, Fiji and New Zealand, sleeping in, skipping class, and just doing what I wanted to do- that's when I was truly living. When I say "I have had an experience that will mark my life forever" get past the cliche thoughts; this goes beyond what they write in the brochures to get you to go abroad.
I have been marked. I have experienced more feelings than a heart could hold. I have seen sights that made me dream of heaven. I have put up walls to take them down and cried myself to sleep at night. I have had my fix of "listening to people with accents." I've picked up "heaps" of Aussie-isms to bring back to the states. I've met backpackers from England, Germany, Ireland, Canada and all over the world; all of them with different reasons for traveling and the best stories to tell. I have heard songs sung from a man who who hasn't seen change for his people in years and still has Hope for a better tomorrow. I have eaten enough for three people and gotten enough free drinks for four. I have spent nights with friends by the harbour having men from foreign countries splurge on bottle after bottle of champagne for the table. I have laughed until my stomach hurts with new friends and strengthened my relationship with others. I learned distance is for the bold. I learned that freedom is a beautiful-disaster. But most importantly, I understood that enjoying life should be of much greater concern than understanding it. And that, well that I learned from experience (and with a little inspiration from Ghandi) ;)
Even after I have left this place, I know I will have it forever.
Traveling closes and opens chapters in your life. Australia has done both. Although this blog is closure to my adventures to this great land, it has certainly turned the page to allow me to fill my book with more words, more experiences... more living.
To all of those who followed me along, thank you for reading.
Life is a journey, not a destination....
..... Ka kite ano a te wa, until we meet again <3
Thursday, June 3, 2010
Monday, May 3, 2010
.:.*When it is dark enough, you can see the stars*.:.
As soon as we boarded off the plane, it was as if the sun had rolled up its sleeves and was ready to beam its rays on us all day. The humidity wrapped itself across my chest and all of a sudden I found it difficult to get in a solid deep breath of fresh air. Right then, I knew we had just arrived to distinctive territory and that Western Australia had more in store for us then we expected. For 10 days the interns and I were fortunate enough to have the experience of traveling to the west coast of Australia, where the sun was out and blazing and the sand was a deep red. With temperatures rising well over comfortable levels and high humidity making it hard to breathe, the interns and I viewed awe-inspiring beauty and experienced an extraordinary adventure.
Traveling to Western Australia (WA)(Broome, Perth, Fitzroy Crossing [Derby]) affected me in so many ways. Not only was it a great bonding experience with the other interns, but I was able to gain insight about a culture that even most Australians living in Sydney do not have the chance to experience.
Aside from riding camels on the beach, learning how to throw boomerangs and spears, swimming in 90 degree water at Cable Beach (and suffering some pretty bad battle wounds due to high tide, strong waves, and sharp rocks, and yes it was as painful as it sounded), eating fish and chips by the sunset, having my first experiences at "backpackers" resorts, roadtrips along the west coast in a 4X4 truck, and CAMPING in the Outback, I realized something about L.I.F.E.
Before this epiphany, however, let me give you a little bit of background as to why I was in the scorching heat and traveling to WA. Through a series of city-based seminars in the remote northwest region of Australia, the interns and I were exposed to some of the issues and the realities of the working world as they arise in a diverse range of business frameworks in the Indigenous contexts. We covered issues such as business, ethics, gender roles, global position, socio-political influences, business objectives, and social responsibilities to learn about the importance of intercultural understanding of the aboriginal community that mostly reside in the western territory of Australia.
Each workplace revealed an underlying struggle to make ends meet. It was eye opening to learn about this culture in ‘remote communities’ and their road to economic survival. Visiting sites like the pearling industry and learning about 'blackbirding' (similar to slavery), or the "Kimberley Aboriginal Law and Culture Centre" and learning about a workplace whose mission it is to preserve and maintain the aboriginal community showed me just how hard life has been and continues to be for the people and children in this region.
It was not until we camped on the riverside of Geikie Gorge National Park that I gained new outlooks to my concepts of *LOVE* and *LIFE*
The mighty Fiztroy River has carved a 30 meter deep gorge into the remains of the ancient limestone barrier reef that existed there in the Devonian period. Truly a sight for eyes, Darngku, as I learned, is the Aboriginal name of Geikie Gorge, given to it by the traditional owners, the Bunaba. We were fortunate enough to have Carrie and her family take us to places that you wouldn't usually have access to- this is because the land we were on belonged to her ancestors- the Bunaba- 30,000 years ago and her family has been on the land ever since. Alongside a campfire and meal, we listened as they shared with us their knowledge of the flora and fauna, tell stories from their 30,000 year old culture, point out how to find bush foods as we hiked up the rocks and walked into caves, and of course keep eyes out for the fresh water crocodiles that peered at us on the river.
That night I had never seen stars shine as brightly as they did over my head. Listening to the struggles of the family, seeing their dedication to saving their land and noticing how important it was for them to create awareness for others to learn who they are and where they came from touched me. It was like it had all added up; all of the sites we had visited, all of the stories we had listened to finally connected as I lay there looking up at the stars with the young aboriginal girls pointing out the constellations in the midnight sky... the Milky Way and O'Ryans belt.
**"When it's dark enough you can see the stars"** I thought to myself. No matter how dark it got- no matter how much struggle they suffered that day- in the midst of when everything seems as if their is no hope- stars will shine.... when it is dark enough. And through it all, every work site was unflinching-- they know it isn’t going to be easy and yet they take steps forward where they can, talk when they should, and never give up. Their fortitude shows the strength of the people in the community.
It was as if through this experience I realized what it meant to have passion and hope... and hold on to what you have in the name of LOVE. As the aboriginal man sang to us in his song, "it's time to shut the window and find a different point of view."
Life is not fair. Life is not easy. The aboriginal community showed me this. My life experiences have shown me this. Yet, challenges are what make life interesting- Overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.
Not everything in Australia has been sunny weather and paved pathways. I have hurt more than I have ever hurt before. I have felt sad and distanced, and all of this has been part of the challenge, part of the experience. Of course, I cannot compare my challenges to the ones I witnessed in WA, but I can relate to the feeling of despair and helplessness.
Missing my family and not being there to give my mother a hug on Mother's Day. Not being able to see my brother off for Junior Prom. Not being able to call home as frequently because of the time difference; it all adds up. Not being able to get reception for one of the most significant games in my boyfriend's basketball career to date. Not being able to be there for Delroy and talk to him. Getting robbed. Having my computer crash (hence why there are no pictures to this blog post)-- it has all made me realize that you cannot always be in control of what happens in your life... and THAT.IS.OKAY.
Many times you cannot see what's coming next, but when the world pushes you to your knees, you are in a perfect position to pray. Pray for love. Pray for strength.
My trip to WA opened my eyes and my heart to something new about LIFE and something new about LOVE...and it all happened underneath the stars; that night when I just wanted to go home because 'it' was too hard-- everything seemed to dark....for the people... for me
<3 "I know nothing with any certainty, except the sight of stars makes me dream" <3
- Van Gogh
..... friends and family, this is not to worry you, for it is through the distance, through the not-so-happy times that I can also learn and grow.
What I want to leave you thinking about is why I felt so sad on that trip and often angry-- I just keep thinking of the cycle of life for most of the aboriginals in the community, working hard to survive on limited resources and constant obstacles.
I gave them all I had, and that was an open hand and an open mind. They gave me hope and humility.
With Love,
Shavely
Traveling to Western Australia (WA)(Broome, Perth, Fitzroy Crossing [Derby]) affected me in so many ways. Not only was it a great bonding experience with the other interns, but I was able to gain insight about a culture that even most Australians living in Sydney do not have the chance to experience.
Aside from riding camels on the beach, learning how to throw boomerangs and spears, swimming in 90 degree water at Cable Beach (and suffering some pretty bad battle wounds due to high tide, strong waves, and sharp rocks, and yes it was as painful as it sounded), eating fish and chips by the sunset, having my first experiences at "backpackers" resorts, roadtrips along the west coast in a 4X4 truck, and CAMPING in the Outback, I realized something about L.I.F.E.
Before this epiphany, however, let me give you a little bit of background as to why I was in the scorching heat and traveling to WA. Through a series of city-based seminars in the remote northwest region of Australia, the interns and I were exposed to some of the issues and the realities of the working world as they arise in a diverse range of business frameworks in the Indigenous contexts. We covered issues such as business, ethics, gender roles, global position, socio-political influences, business objectives, and social responsibilities to learn about the importance of intercultural understanding of the aboriginal community that mostly reside in the western territory of Australia.
Each workplace revealed an underlying struggle to make ends meet. It was eye opening to learn about this culture in ‘remote communities’ and their road to economic survival. Visiting sites like the pearling industry and learning about 'blackbirding' (similar to slavery), or the "Kimberley Aboriginal Law and Culture Centre" and learning about a workplace whose mission it is to preserve and maintain the aboriginal community showed me just how hard life has been and continues to be for the people and children in this region.
It was not until we camped on the riverside of Geikie Gorge National Park that I gained new outlooks to my concepts of *LOVE* and *LIFE*
The mighty Fiztroy River has carved a 30 meter deep gorge into the remains of the ancient limestone barrier reef that existed there in the Devonian period. Truly a sight for eyes, Darngku, as I learned, is the Aboriginal name of Geikie Gorge, given to it by the traditional owners, the Bunaba. We were fortunate enough to have Carrie and her family take us to places that you wouldn't usually have access to- this is because the land we were on belonged to her ancestors- the Bunaba- 30,000 years ago and her family has been on the land ever since. Alongside a campfire and meal, we listened as they shared with us their knowledge of the flora and fauna, tell stories from their 30,000 year old culture, point out how to find bush foods as we hiked up the rocks and walked into caves, and of course keep eyes out for the fresh water crocodiles that peered at us on the river.
That night I had never seen stars shine as brightly as they did over my head. Listening to the struggles of the family, seeing their dedication to saving their land and noticing how important it was for them to create awareness for others to learn who they are and where they came from touched me. It was like it had all added up; all of the sites we had visited, all of the stories we had listened to finally connected as I lay there looking up at the stars with the young aboriginal girls pointing out the constellations in the midnight sky... the Milky Way and O'Ryans belt.
**"When it's dark enough you can see the stars"** I thought to myself. No matter how dark it got- no matter how much struggle they suffered that day- in the midst of when everything seems as if their is no hope- stars will shine.... when it is dark enough. And through it all, every work site was unflinching-- they know it isn’t going to be easy and yet they take steps forward where they can, talk when they should, and never give up. Their fortitude shows the strength of the people in the community.
It was as if through this experience I realized what it meant to have passion and hope... and hold on to what you have in the name of LOVE. As the aboriginal man sang to us in his song, "it's time to shut the window and find a different point of view."
Life is not fair. Life is not easy. The aboriginal community showed me this. My life experiences have shown me this. Yet, challenges are what make life interesting- Overcoming them is what makes life meaningful.
Not everything in Australia has been sunny weather and paved pathways. I have hurt more than I have ever hurt before. I have felt sad and distanced, and all of this has been part of the challenge, part of the experience. Of course, I cannot compare my challenges to the ones I witnessed in WA, but I can relate to the feeling of despair and helplessness.
Missing my family and not being there to give my mother a hug on Mother's Day. Not being able to see my brother off for Junior Prom. Not being able to call home as frequently because of the time difference; it all adds up. Not being able to get reception for one of the most significant games in my boyfriend's basketball career to date. Not being able to be there for Delroy and talk to him. Getting robbed. Having my computer crash (hence why there are no pictures to this blog post)-- it has all made me realize that you cannot always be in control of what happens in your life... and THAT.IS.OKAY.
Many times you cannot see what's coming next, but when the world pushes you to your knees, you are in a perfect position to pray. Pray for love. Pray for strength.
My trip to WA opened my eyes and my heart to something new about LIFE and something new about LOVE...and it all happened underneath the stars; that night when I just wanted to go home because 'it' was too hard-- everything seemed to dark....for the people... for me
<3 "I know nothing with any certainty, except the sight of stars makes me dream" <3
- Van Gogh
..... friends and family, this is not to worry you, for it is through the distance, through the not-so-happy times that I can also learn and grow.
What I want to leave you thinking about is why I felt so sad on that trip and often angry-- I just keep thinking of the cycle of life for most of the aboriginals in the community, working hard to survive on limited resources and constant obstacles.
I gave them all I had, and that was an open hand and an open mind. They gave me hope and humility.
With Love,
Shavely
Wednesday, April 7, 2010
Life is Like This: Sometimes Sun, Sometimes Rain
A two week lapse; my apologies, but I have a good excuse... I promise!
You know how the saying goes, "April showers bring May flowers;" well, the beginning of this month has already brought the rain, but, I have never been scared about getting a little wet ;)
Last week I was able to explore history, dance in the street, and *CHEER* on the Australian Swannies at my first Australian Football League Game. ((Side Note: You do not ROOT for a team here...you CHEER, unless you really do mean ROOT, in Australia, you are 'having sex' with the whole team. Don't be THAT American ))
Monday morning the interns and I had the opportunity to visit the Sydney Jewish Museum. This visit gave me a new perspective of the aftermath of the Second World War. Walking over three floors of exhibitions, video presentations, newspaper clippings, pictures, narrations, letters and first-hand accounts, I was able to focus on the Holocaust and learn about the life for those people and their families in the early days in the settlement of Australia. Interestingly, about 30,000 survivors of the Nazi Holocaust migrated to Australia and settled mainly in Sydney and Melbourne.
Tuesday evening while Shauna and I were on our run, we heard that Ke$ha was performing at a free concert in the city-- haha, why not!? The American pop-singer brought in teeny-boppers all throughout Syndey. But you couldn't miss me, singing along to her hit 'TIK TOK'. It was so random, and so fun :)
To wrap up the week a group of us bought Australian t-shirts and headed to the Sydney Olympic Stadium for our first AFL Game, or "Footie" as they call it here. With 18 players a-side there is never a dull moment on the field! There is kicking, punching, running, bouncing and no offside rules. The men are allowed to shove eachother, even if they don't have the ball! Fans were wild, beers were flowing, and the Swannies won :)
.... and now, let's make it rain ......
On our walk back home, the girls and I were still energized from the game, we had also just came from "our spot" and ate some delicious chicken kebabs; we were happy and had full tummy's -- AND we were headed to Paradise for break, the FIJI Islands... we were basically floating on cloud 9.
We all got in the house and per usual, I went right upstairs to my room. The first thing I noticed was my bed ... papers were scattered all over the place. If you know me, then you know that this sent chills right down my spine. I KNOW my papers had been neatly piled on the side of my bed ready to get packed into my bags. I quickly looked at Shauna's bed and all of her papers were everywhere. "The wind?," I thought.... ( Mind you, this whole thought process happened in a matter of 7 seconds)... I looked at Stephanie's closet and all of her things were scattered on the floor. I grabbed Shauna who was walking into the room and said, "someone was in our house!" At this point Stephanie was still downstairs and we yelled for her to come upstairs. Long story short, what started out as a great week, ended with an unfortunate event. We were all torn and completely shaken. I had had hopes of packing, blogging, and going to sleep early. Instead, I couldn't get over the fact that SOMEONE had sat on my bed and had rummaged through my papers, tore up my agenda book, stolen my money, and helped themselves to my cereal and milk... I kid you not -- the robber actually had finished what little milk I had left in my room and stuffed all of our wallets with cereal. Needless to say, we didn't sleep.
We had the Police and Coordinators in and out of the house while I not only managed to throw a few belonging for my Fiji trip, but also packed up my whole room back into suitcases and had my friends store all of my things at their place for the week.
.... oh Mr. Sun, Sun, Mr. Golden sun.....
That did not stop the girls and I from experiencing the most of what Fiji had to offer. Think of the 5-star resorts, with pool-in-bar and scheduled events on a remote island in Fiji.... and toss it out the window!! Stephanie, Shauna and I took on the "real" Fiji. We took 6 days to hit 3 islands and a Fijian village.
Switching between island to island and from boat to boat, all transfers were literally made in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. A motor boat would take you and your luggage out to the ocean to meet with the regularly scheduled "big" boat that would drop you off at your next island! By the end of the week I could make a swift move from motor boat to "big" boat without breaking a sweat...it was so much fun! From Tavewa to Naviti and lastly to Mamanuca Island, the girls and I ate like Fijians (eating only what they cooked and served us), sang like Fijians, learned Fijian words ( BULA!! -- our favorite, meaning Welcome!), and we even got to dance like the Fijians, joining the BULA BOYS in the rain during their evening show! That night went on until the wee hours of the night as we danced in the rain all night long and finished with a midnight swim in the ocean.
Anyone who says only sunshine brings happiness, has never danced in the rain. [<3] Life is Like This: Sometimes Sun, Sometimes Rain...both beautiful, just depends how you look at it.
Our Fijian adventures continued as we visited a remote Fijian village on Yanuya Island and participated in their 'Kava' ceremony. The kava ceremony is one of the central Fijian traditions; it was great to participate in the ceremony and drink kava. (( I only had one serving and it numbed my tongue! Fijians will pound sun-dried kava root into a fine powder, called "grog" because of its groggy effects on the drinker- this will usually bring the men together for hours of storytelling and socializing in the village ))
But that was not all, we were greeted with more BULA welcomes, spent nights by the beach, sailed the Pacific Ocean on 'Seaspray', snorkeled the waters where they filmed the 2000 film, starring Tom Hanks, 'Cast Away', ate the most delicious seafood known to my tastebuds, sipped on umbrella drinks, shoo-ed away mosquitoes, experienced a life with the Fijians... and learned what it meant to be on "Fiji Time"!! ... the good life :)
Although the house was broken into and it rained on a few nights of my vacation in paradise, I learned that life is _______________. That is right. YOU fill in the blank! Sometimes it's this and sometimes it's that; but I've learned to take the good with the not so good -- I only have 1 life to live.
WHAT IS LIFE?
Life is an Adventure ... Dare it
Life is a Beauty ... Praise it
Life is a Challenge ... Meet it
Life is a Duty ... Perform it
Life is a Love ... Enjoy it
Life is a Tragedy ... Face it
Life is a Struggle ... Fight it
Life is a Promise ... Fulfill it
Life is a Game ... Play it
Life is a Gift ... Accept it
Life is a Journey ... Complete it
Life is a Mystery ... Unfold it
Life is a Goal ... Achieve it
Life is an Opportunity ... Take it
Life is a Puzzle ... Solve it
Life is a Song ... Sing it
Life is a Sorrow ... Overcome it
Life is a Spirit ... Realize it
--Anon
Fill in your own blank & Live the life you Love.
I'll be back the 19th. Next stop; a 10 day trip to Broome and Perth in the remote northwest region of Australia. Bring on the hiking boots and flashlights
<3 This post is in remembrance of my angel Maria Adela who opened my eyes to what it meant to be young, alive and living life <3 "When someone you Love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure" Maria Adela, my angel ♥ I love you, everyday....everyday* 11.20.88-04.06.08
Peace,
Shavely
You know how the saying goes, "April showers bring May flowers;" well, the beginning of this month has already brought the rain, but, I have never been scared about getting a little wet ;)
Last week I was able to explore history, dance in the street, and *CHEER* on the Australian Swannies at my first Australian Football League Game. ((Side Note: You do not ROOT for a team here...you CHEER, unless you really do mean ROOT, in Australia, you are 'having sex' with the whole team. Don't be THAT American ))
Monday morning the interns and I had the opportunity to visit the Sydney Jewish Museum. This visit gave me a new perspective of the aftermath of the Second World War. Walking over three floors of exhibitions, video presentations, newspaper clippings, pictures, narrations, letters and first-hand accounts, I was able to focus on the Holocaust and learn about the life for those people and their families in the early days in the settlement of Australia. Interestingly, about 30,000 survivors of the Nazi Holocaust migrated to Australia and settled mainly in Sydney and Melbourne.
Tuesday evening while Shauna and I were on our run, we heard that Ke$ha was performing at a free concert in the city-- haha, why not!? The American pop-singer brought in teeny-boppers all throughout Syndey. But you couldn't miss me, singing along to her hit 'TIK TOK'. It was so random, and so fun :)
To wrap up the week a group of us bought Australian t-shirts and headed to the Sydney Olympic Stadium for our first AFL Game, or "Footie" as they call it here. With 18 players a-side there is never a dull moment on the field! There is kicking, punching, running, bouncing and no offside rules. The men are allowed to shove eachother, even if they don't have the ball! Fans were wild, beers were flowing, and the Swannies won :)
.... and now, let's make it rain ......
On our walk back home, the girls and I were still energized from the game, we had also just came from "our spot" and ate some delicious chicken kebabs; we were happy and had full tummy's -- AND we were headed to Paradise for break, the FIJI Islands... we were basically floating on cloud 9.
We all got in the house and per usual, I went right upstairs to my room. The first thing I noticed was my bed ... papers were scattered all over the place. If you know me, then you know that this sent chills right down my spine. I KNOW my papers had been neatly piled on the side of my bed ready to get packed into my bags. I quickly looked at Shauna's bed and all of her papers were everywhere. "The wind?," I thought.... ( Mind you, this whole thought process happened in a matter of 7 seconds)... I looked at Stephanie's closet and all of her things were scattered on the floor. I grabbed Shauna who was walking into the room and said, "someone was in our house!" At this point Stephanie was still downstairs and we yelled for her to come upstairs. Long story short, what started out as a great week, ended with an unfortunate event. We were all torn and completely shaken. I had had hopes of packing, blogging, and going to sleep early. Instead, I couldn't get over the fact that SOMEONE had sat on my bed and had rummaged through my papers, tore up my agenda book, stolen my money, and helped themselves to my cereal and milk... I kid you not -- the robber actually had finished what little milk I had left in my room and stuffed all of our wallets with cereal. Needless to say, we didn't sleep.
We had the Police and Coordinators in and out of the house while I not only managed to throw a few belonging for my Fiji trip, but also packed up my whole room back into suitcases and had my friends store all of my things at their place for the week. .... oh Mr. Sun, Sun, Mr. Golden sun.....
That did not stop the girls and I from experiencing the most of what Fiji had to offer. Think of the 5-star resorts, with pool-in-bar and scheduled events on a remote island in Fiji.... and toss it out the window!! Stephanie, Shauna and I took on the "real" Fiji. We took 6 days to hit 3 islands and a Fijian village.
Switching between island to island and from boat to boat, all transfers were literally made in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. A motor boat would take you and your luggage out to the ocean to meet with the regularly scheduled "big" boat that would drop you off at your next island! By the end of the week I could make a swift move from motor boat to "big" boat without breaking a sweat...it was so much fun! From Tavewa to Naviti and lastly to Mamanuca Island, the girls and I ate like Fijians (eating only what they cooked and served us), sang like Fijians, learned Fijian words ( BULA!! -- our favorite, meaning Welcome!), and we even got to dance like the Fijians, joining the BULA BOYS in the rain during their evening show! That night went on until the wee hours of the night as we danced in the rain all night long and finished with a midnight swim in the ocean.
Anyone who says only sunshine brings happiness, has never danced in the rain. [<3] Life is Like This: Sometimes Sun, Sometimes Rain...both beautiful, just depends how you look at it.
Our Fijian adventures continued as we visited a remote Fijian village on Yanuya Island and participated in their 'Kava' ceremony. The kava ceremony is one of the central Fijian traditions; it was great to participate in the ceremony and drink kava. (( I only had one serving and it numbed my tongue! Fijians will pound sun-dried kava root into a fine powder, called "grog" because of its groggy effects on the drinker- this will usually bring the men together for hours of storytelling and socializing in the village ))
But that was not all, we were greeted with more BULA welcomes, spent nights by the beach, sailed the Pacific Ocean on 'Seaspray', snorkeled the waters where they filmed the 2000 film, starring Tom Hanks, 'Cast Away', ate the most delicious seafood known to my tastebuds, sipped on umbrella drinks, shoo-ed away mosquitoes, experienced a life with the Fijians... and learned what it meant to be on "Fiji Time"!! ... the good life :)
Although the house was broken into and it rained on a few nights of my vacation in paradise, I learned that life is _______________. That is right. YOU fill in the blank! Sometimes it's this and sometimes it's that; but I've learned to take the good with the not so good -- I only have 1 life to live.
WHAT IS LIFE?
Life is an Adventure ... Dare it
Life is a Beauty ... Praise it
Life is a Challenge ... Meet it
Life is a Duty ... Perform it
Life is a Love ... Enjoy it
Life is a Tragedy ... Face it
Life is a Struggle ... Fight it
Life is a Promise ... Fulfill it
Life is a Game ... Play it
Life is a Gift ... Accept it
Life is a Journey ... Complete it
Life is a Mystery ... Unfold it
Life is a Goal ... Achieve it
Life is an Opportunity ... Take it
Life is a Puzzle ... Solve it
Life is a Song ... Sing it
Life is a Sorrow ... Overcome it
Life is a Spirit ... Realize it
--Anon
Fill in your own blank & Live the life you Love.
I'll be back the 19th. Next stop; a 10 day trip to Broome and Perth in the remote northwest region of Australia. Bring on the hiking boots and flashlights
<3 This post is in remembrance of my angel Maria Adela who opened my eyes to what it meant to be young, alive and living life <3 "When someone you Love becomes a memory, the memory becomes a treasure" Maria Adela, my angel ♥ I love you, everyday....everyday* 11.20.88-04.06.08
Peace,
Shavely
Monday, March 22, 2010
Patience Carries a lot of "Wait"
4 young women. 3 young men. 4 bedrooms. 7 perspectives. 1 house.
I am going into my sixth week here in OZ and every day brings about a new adventure, more laughs, more 'I miss yous,' more planning, more nights out.... and more time together with the housemates. If there is one thing I have learned from my time here and living in a house with 6 other mates, just as excited as I am to take this experience for all that it's worth, is that *patience is a virtue*
Bring seven, diverse 20-year-old strangers together, (well okay, I did know Steve and Steph beforehand), put them in a beautiful terrace house in Sydney, add sun, fun, and Aussie accents...take away supervision, and you have yourself a second season of MTV's 'Real World: Sydney."
I have been fortunate enough to have gotten the best roommate my first year at Denison. Eileen and I have lived together since our first year on the hill when we shared the smallest room in Shorney Hall, throwing any notion of 'personal space' out of the window. We just "clicked" and it works; and I've never appreciated her so much until I realized how complicated it could be to live with so many people. (Love you Eileenyyyyyy!)
The house is a completely different experience for me. With 2 floors, 3 bathrooms, a living room and full kitchen- there is never a dull moment in the house. Whether its the chefs of the house reenacting another episode of "My Kitchen Rules" and cooking up a 3-course meal downstairs, or the crew jammin' to the "Power Hour" playlist before heading out, the in-and-out of visitors, the youtube clips followed by minutes of constant laughter, and recently, the sounds of broken glass coming from the shattered bottles our neighbor seems to like to throw on our patio- you know you have entered "the spot." And in the midst of this high-energy, adrenaline-driven household, I have learned to practice patience. Whoever said patience is not active is mistaken; on the contrary, it IS active; it is concentrated strength :)
We all have our moments (Yes, even YOU), and most of the time we don't know where they come from. I will be the first to admit that I tend to be moody from time-to-time (Okay mami, after all these years, I can see what you're talking about!) I have learned this about myself and realize how this may affect the people around me. During these moments, when I feel a swing, I am learning the importance of examining my feelings. Not only has this helped me be a "better" person to live with, but taking a pulse check and being patient has taught me how to live with others and accept their "moments." It was an epiphany!
But, it is easier said than done. Being patient is not being indifferent or cowardly! To me, it is when you are able to simply witness your feelings and those around you instead of reacting to them instinctively. This way you allow yourself to understand and empathize, giving you (and me) the capacity to be our happiest with what we have been faced with.
"Patience in the present, faith in the future, and joy in the doing" --Source Unknown
On another note in the life of Shavely, emotions were high this past week!
This past Thursday the interns were fortunate enough to be a part of a special night where we volunteered our time to help set-up, work and clean-up at the "OperArtUnity" Event. "OperArtUnity" was an exclusive fundraising event to support Opportunity International Australia's micro-financing programs to help end the poverty cycle.
Hosted at 'ArtEst Art School' (Stephanie's internship site), the night combined the powerful voices of opera singers, a silent auction, a unique art exhibition and fine wines and delicious gourmet food! The saris decorated the walls of the studio and the dimmed lights and candelabras set the mood for the evening event. I was busy serving food (and eating in the kitchen), while some of the interns poured bottle after bottle of red and white wines. The event was a great success, raising over $15,000 dollars and transforming 250 lives.
On Saturday morning, Steve, Steph and I woke up bright and early for the infamous "Spit Bridge to Manly Beach" walk. This walk, or rather hike, is a 10km (about 6 miles) bushwalk track leading you through the most amazing views of the Middle Harbour. What a surprise! The walk took about 4 hours and it was well worth it! This was definitely a "Life is Good" moment. As they say about Manly Beach, "7 miles from Sydney, thousand miles from care" . You have no worries as you gaze out into the picturesque views that Sydney has to offer. On our way home (no we did not walk back!), we rode Sydney's famous Manly Ferry back to the city. Perfect way to close the perfect day.
Australia has taught me to Breathe In and Be Patient; that's the best we can do.
I will leave you with this quote I jotted down today while visiting the Sydney Jewish Museum: "How wonderful it is that nobody needs to wait a single moment before starting to improve the world" -- Anne Frank, Diary of a Young Girl
Love.Peace. &(Patience)
Shavely
Monday, March 15, 2010
Let A Smile Be Your Umbrella : )
How are you feeling today?
What made you smile; better yet, who made you smile today? Have you laughed today or told someone you love them?
Given, sometimes a few tears must fall, but happiness comes at times to all. I am thinking of those "feel good moments." You know, the moments when you can't help but just stop, smile and say "Thank you"-- I thank God at these moments, but you may just take pleasure in taking a second to let it all in. I'm talking about the small things in life, something I learned to do from my best friend Maria Adela. For example, I love it when my favorite song plays on the radio while I'm driving on the highway or how my stomach hurts after laughing, probably at myself. I remember so many times when I just stopped mid-walk on my way to class on the hill to take in the scenery (it really is a beautiful campus)or how the sun kissing my cheek reminds me that Maria will always be with me. These moments make me feel alive.
This week I found myself wrapped up in these moments, thankful that I was in Australia :)
* Taking the bus to my internship is great. I have to take one bus and the stop is right in front of the 2-story glass MAC store. Every so often (meaning since I've started my internship this has happened once) I decide to walk from my internship back to the house. It is a one hour walk and one very long street. I had about 100 pages or so left to read of "Dear John" and I had gotten out early from work, and I thought, 'what the heck'- I'll walk home and read! As I flipped through pages and pages of the romantic novel, I stopped: okay, I'll admit it was because the pedestrian walking signal was red, but I looked up from the book and just took in my surroundings; there were buses zooming through the city streets. Nearby I could hear jazz music coming from a man playing the saxophone, hoping that someone would snap out of their zombie-like walk to hear the music filling the air and drop a few coins in his hat laying in front of him. Across the street I saw people enjoying their lunches on the steps beside the Martin Place fountain (I just learned it was in the film the Matrix). The vibe of the city was high, the sun was shining, "Dear John" was carrying me through a beautiful love story.... and I couldn't have been any happier. At that moment, I smiled and thought, "life is good."
* Even a windy day on the beach is great...when you're in Australia! The crew and I went to Bondi Beach early Saturday morning to check out the Surfing Competition. Having survived the car ride was reason enough to be thankful (our mate, Mike, bought a car, and having a 20-year old American boy drive on the opposite side of the road and navigate to the beach is its own experience) yet, as I sat on the beach watching the surfers and stared out to the ocean, I couldn't picture myself anywhere else.
* At school, I would go to run at our lovely window-less gym facilities, that is, when there wasn't an "out of order" sign on the machine. In Australia, Shauna and I get to run outside at the University of Sydney's Main Quadrangle, the heart of Aussie’s oldest university(completed in 1859)-- take that for a change in scenery, eh? Whenever I think of stopping, I look up and think to myself, "I'm running in Australia" .... again, "life is good."
* This past Sunday Steve and I were able to catch a taxi to Parramata City for 'Kai Fech' at Riverside Theaters for a "total African drum and dance experience." What a show! Lead percussionist, Pape Mbaye, took us to the heat of West Africa "with no visa or passport" (haha, he was funny too) to enjoy the sounds and instruments of the group. It was when Pape pulled me out of the audience to dance (with an extra nudge from Steve), that I was reminded of how much I love to perform and dance! Along with the funny video Steve was able to capture of me, I couldn't help but smile as I danced to the beat (making sure I held my dress!). Steve and I left feeling so energized from the show that we took the train to Sydney Harbour for some seafood and ice cream!
As I stood on the boardwalk and gazed at the Sydney Harbour Bridge to my left, lit up against the summer night's sky, and looked over to the Sydney Opera House, a masterpiece in itself --- I knew that as long as I live I would never forget that moment .
Take in the moments that make you feel alive! Smile often, cherish the people who make you laugh, and overuse 'I Love You.'
"LIFE is not the amount of breaths you take, it's the moments that take your breath away."
Live.Laugh.Love
Shavely
What made you smile; better yet, who made you smile today? Have you laughed today or told someone you love them?
Given, sometimes a few tears must fall, but happiness comes at times to all. I am thinking of those "feel good moments." You know, the moments when you can't help but just stop, smile and say "Thank you"-- I thank God at these moments, but you may just take pleasure in taking a second to let it all in. I'm talking about the small things in life, something I learned to do from my best friend Maria Adela. For example, I love it when my favorite song plays on the radio while I'm driving on the highway or how my stomach hurts after laughing, probably at myself. I remember so many times when I just stopped mid-walk on my way to class on the hill to take in the scenery (it really is a beautiful campus)or how the sun kissing my cheek reminds me that Maria will always be with me. These moments make me feel alive.
This week I found myself wrapped up in these moments, thankful that I was in Australia :)
* Taking the bus to my internship is great. I have to take one bus and the stop is right in front of the 2-story glass MAC store. Every so often (meaning since I've started my internship this has happened once) I decide to walk from my internship back to the house. It is a one hour walk and one very long street. I had about 100 pages or so left to read of "Dear John" and I had gotten out early from work, and I thought, 'what the heck'- I'll walk home and read! As I flipped through pages and pages of the romantic novel, I stopped: okay, I'll admit it was because the pedestrian walking signal was red, but I looked up from the book and just took in my surroundings; there were buses zooming through the city streets. Nearby I could hear jazz music coming from a man playing the saxophone, hoping that someone would snap out of their zombie-like walk to hear the music filling the air and drop a few coins in his hat laying in front of him. Across the street I saw people enjoying their lunches on the steps beside the Martin Place fountain (I just learned it was in the film the Matrix). The vibe of the city was high, the sun was shining, "Dear John" was carrying me through a beautiful love story.... and I couldn't have been any happier. At that moment, I smiled and thought, "life is good."
* Even a windy day on the beach is great...when you're in Australia! The crew and I went to Bondi Beach early Saturday morning to check out the Surfing Competition. Having survived the car ride was reason enough to be thankful (our mate, Mike, bought a car, and having a 20-year old American boy drive on the opposite side of the road and navigate to the beach is its own experience) yet, as I sat on the beach watching the surfers and stared out to the ocean, I couldn't picture myself anywhere else.
* At school, I would go to run at our lovely window-less gym facilities, that is, when there wasn't an "out of order" sign on the machine. In Australia, Shauna and I get to run outside at the University of Sydney's Main Quadrangle, the heart of Aussie’s oldest university(completed in 1859)-- take that for a change in scenery, eh? Whenever I think of stopping, I look up and think to myself, "I'm running in Australia" .... again, "life is good."
* This past Sunday Steve and I were able to catch a taxi to Parramata City for 'Kai Fech' at Riverside Theaters for a "total African drum and dance experience." What a show! Lead percussionist, Pape Mbaye, took us to the heat of West Africa "with no visa or passport" (haha, he was funny too) to enjoy the sounds and instruments of the group. It was when Pape pulled me out of the audience to dance (with an extra nudge from Steve), that I was reminded of how much I love to perform and dance! Along with the funny video Steve was able to capture of me, I couldn't help but smile as I danced to the beat (making sure I held my dress!). Steve and I left feeling so energized from the show that we took the train to Sydney Harbour for some seafood and ice cream!
As I stood on the boardwalk and gazed at the Sydney Harbour Bridge to my left, lit up against the summer night's sky, and looked over to the Sydney Opera House, a masterpiece in itself --- I knew that as long as I live I would never forget that moment .
Take in the moments that make you feel alive! Smile often, cherish the people who make you laugh, and overuse 'I Love You.'
"LIFE is not the amount of breaths you take, it's the moments that take your breath away."
Live.Laugh.Love
Shavely
Monday, March 8, 2010
Going the Distance
At Denison, I was living life in the fast lane; my days started early and ended late, and in between was a race. I raced from classes to meetings, meetings to group meetings, group meetings to one-on-ones, one-on-ones to .... yes, you get the picture. But I loved it-- I love getting through a day and knowing I put my best foot out there and did all I could do. And yet, life often throws curve balls your way-- many will dodge them and keep on going, some will fall and not take the time to either get up and continue or, even worse, get up without reflecting on why they fell, and some, well some will take a moment to pause.
Studying abroad has given me time to live life on the slow lane- it has been my pause. Every experience I have had here has given me a different perspective and a new lens to appreciate, reflect and enjoy the opportunity I have been given.
For example, I began my internship this past Tuesday, interning at Channel 7/Channel 7 Gymnasium. Under the guidance of Lachlan, I will be working at the gym, writing articles for their newsletter "Live Simply," completing an 8-week long trainer's workshop (more details to follow), and working on Lachlan's PR along with Channel 7 for his run, "Run4Mum."
The Channel 7 building stands tall amidst the several historical buildings that form the hub of the business district at Martin Place and home to the most prestigious fashion labels-- it is like the fashion of Newbury Street in Boston. This iconic public space in Sydney is corporate Australia brought to life from the hundreds of pedestrians shopping, drinking, dining, or meeting for lunch outside of the steps. Entertainment is also a highlight! The first day I sat outside as I watched the taping of a movie scene and the next afternoon characters from "Alice in Wonderland" were acting out scenes of the movie to promote its release that weekend. I love commuting to work every day, seeing all of the people dressed in suits and high- waisted skirts.
...And then there is Lachlan, slim and fit, cutting across the district as he runs to the 10th floor of Channel 7, in his running sneakers and shorts, to the gymnasium. This is one of the two gym he manages in Sydney, with a third to open while I am here (which is exciting since I will be able to get exposure in all three gyms). It was when Lachlan took me for a 2 hour walk on my first day at work when I realized there was something special about him. This walk through the city, although it felt more like a brisk jog at his pace, truly gave me insight to love and passion-- it was my "pause" for the week.
Lachlan told me about his "Run4Mum". As I managed to ask questions in between short breaths I was able to learn about his race and his life in the fast lane; yet his tracks will leave footprints in my heart.
Lachlan is going the distance this July. A former paratrooper in the Australian Army, and now a Physical Training Instructor and Endurance Runner, Lachlan is conducting a 4,200km ultra marathon to raise awareness for postnatal depression. (4,200 km is equivalent to 2,609.759 miles). He will be running an average of 100km (62.137 miles) a day with two rest days each week-- over a 2-month period Lachlan will be running about the equivalent of 100 marathons. His motivation? -- His wife, Belinda.
Just over a year ago, his wife Belinda (Bel) gave birth to their first child, a gorgeous baby boy named Bailey. Imagining this would be the happiest time of their life, they were thrown a curve ball that turned out to be the most difficult experience either of them had ever faced. By the time their son was three weeks old, it was clear that something was not quite right with Bel; something that went well beyond the ‘baby blues’. After two weeks of what could only be described as a living nightmare, Bel was diagnosed with Postnatal Depression and they were fortunate enough to finally be able to secure a place in one of the 8 beds that exist in the only 'Mother and Baby' unit in New South Wales.
Since that time, Bel and Lachlan have undertaken a huge journey of understanding and recovering from Postnatal Depression. Bel is now moving forward and is basking in the love and life of her husband and baby boy. Bel has been writing of her experiences and sharing her journey in her blog “give.love.get.love” (http://www.givelovegetlove.blogspot.com)
However, they realized this is not the happy ending for many couples in Australia. Statistics show astoundingly that around one in six women who give birth in Australia will experience a form of Postnatal Depression. Their biggest realization from their experience is the huge lack of awareness and understanding of this illness and the limited facilities available for treatment and recovery for those who suffer from Postnatal Depression. Needless to say, they are passionate about generating greater awareness of this mental illness.
Throughout my time here, I am grateful to be working alongside Lachlan. His passion and love lead him in his daily life and it is inspiring for me to "pause" and see why he races in life-- a long-distance race with hope in his heart.
So-- have a field day! Find something you're passionate about, whether it is awareness for a cause or giving 100 % in your day. Find a reason for the need for speed and make new tracks-- that is what LIFE is about.
<3 Do not sprint to the finish line but enjoy the feeling of the freedom in running, the fresh air, the feeling that the only person you have to compete with everyday, is YOURSELF***
The rest of the week I was able to:
* Book my spring break trip with Stephanie & Shauna to Fiji Islands for the end of this month
* Book a trip to New Zealand in May to visit Maggie Hoskin (Denisonian) with Stephanie
* On Friday, all of the interns went to see the play, 'Orestes 2.0' by Charles Mee at SBW Stables Theatre in Kings Cross
* How could I forget; I sprained my ankle Friday afternoon :) .... it actually hurt pretty badly, and I was limping on my walk back home
* Saturday, sprained ankle and all, I went to COOGEE BEACH for the Brazilian Carnaval. It was a great way to end the week.
....until next time
Live.In.Love my family and friends,
Shavely
Studying abroad has given me time to live life on the slow lane- it has been my pause. Every experience I have had here has given me a different perspective and a new lens to appreciate, reflect and enjoy the opportunity I have been given.
For example, I began my internship this past Tuesday, interning at Channel 7/Channel 7 Gymnasium. Under the guidance of Lachlan, I will be working at the gym, writing articles for their newsletter "Live Simply," completing an 8-week long trainer's workshop (more details to follow), and working on Lachlan's PR along with Channel 7 for his run, "Run4Mum."
The Channel 7 building stands tall amidst the several historical buildings that form the hub of the business district at Martin Place and home to the most prestigious fashion labels-- it is like the fashion of Newbury Street in Boston. This iconic public space in Sydney is corporate Australia brought to life from the hundreds of pedestrians shopping, drinking, dining, or meeting for lunch outside of the steps. Entertainment is also a highlight! The first day I sat outside as I watched the taping of a movie scene and the next afternoon characters from "Alice in Wonderland" were acting out scenes of the movie to promote its release that weekend. I love commuting to work every day, seeing all of the people dressed in suits and high- waisted skirts.
...And then there is Lachlan, slim and fit, cutting across the district as he runs to the 10th floor of Channel 7, in his running sneakers and shorts, to the gymnasium. This is one of the two gym he manages in Sydney, with a third to open while I am here (which is exciting since I will be able to get exposure in all three gyms). It was when Lachlan took me for a 2 hour walk on my first day at work when I realized there was something special about him. This walk through the city, although it felt more like a brisk jog at his pace, truly gave me insight to love and passion-- it was my "pause" for the week.
Lachlan told me about his "Run4Mum". As I managed to ask questions in between short breaths I was able to learn about his race and his life in the fast lane; yet his tracks will leave footprints in my heart.
Lachlan is going the distance this July. A former paratrooper in the Australian Army, and now a Physical Training Instructor and Endurance Runner, Lachlan is conducting a 4,200km ultra marathon to raise awareness for postnatal depression. (4,200 km is equivalent to 2,609.759 miles). He will be running an average of 100km (62.137 miles) a day with two rest days each week-- over a 2-month period Lachlan will be running about the equivalent of 100 marathons. His motivation? -- His wife, Belinda.
Just over a year ago, his wife Belinda (Bel) gave birth to their first child, a gorgeous baby boy named Bailey. Imagining this would be the happiest time of their life, they were thrown a curve ball that turned out to be the most difficult experience either of them had ever faced. By the time their son was three weeks old, it was clear that something was not quite right with Bel; something that went well beyond the ‘baby blues’. After two weeks of what could only be described as a living nightmare, Bel was diagnosed with Postnatal Depression and they were fortunate enough to finally be able to secure a place in one of the 8 beds that exist in the only 'Mother and Baby' unit in New South Wales.
Since that time, Bel and Lachlan have undertaken a huge journey of understanding and recovering from Postnatal Depression. Bel is now moving forward and is basking in the love and life of her husband and baby boy. Bel has been writing of her experiences and sharing her journey in her blog “give.love.get.love” (http://www.givelovegetlove.blogspot.com)
However, they realized this is not the happy ending for many couples in Australia. Statistics show astoundingly that around one in six women who give birth in Australia will experience a form of Postnatal Depression. Their biggest realization from their experience is the huge lack of awareness and understanding of this illness and the limited facilities available for treatment and recovery for those who suffer from Postnatal Depression. Needless to say, they are passionate about generating greater awareness of this mental illness.
Throughout my time here, I am grateful to be working alongside Lachlan. His passion and love lead him in his daily life and it is inspiring for me to "pause" and see why he races in life-- a long-distance race with hope in his heart.
So-- have a field day! Find something you're passionate about, whether it is awareness for a cause or giving 100 % in your day. Find a reason for the need for speed and make new tracks-- that is what LIFE is about.
<3 Do not sprint to the finish line but enjoy the feeling of the freedom in running, the fresh air, the feeling that the only person you have to compete with everyday, is YOURSELF***
The rest of the week I was able to:
* Book my spring break trip with Stephanie & Shauna to Fiji Islands for the end of this month
* Book a trip to New Zealand in May to visit Maggie Hoskin (Denisonian) with Stephanie
* On Friday, all of the interns went to see the play, 'Orestes 2.0' by Charles Mee at SBW Stables Theatre in Kings Cross
* How could I forget; I sprained my ankle Friday afternoon :) .... it actually hurt pretty badly, and I was limping on my walk back home
* Saturday, sprained ankle and all, I went to COOGEE BEACH for the Brazilian Carnaval. It was a great way to end the week.
....until next time
Live.In.Love my family and friends,
Shavely
Monday, March 1, 2010
All We Need is LOVE; Happy Mardi Gras, Sydney!
"Why is it that, as a culture, we are more comfortable seeing two men holding guns than holding hands?" ~Ernest Gaines
Saturday evening was a night for the books! The Gay & Lesbian Mardi Gras Parade was a spectacle not to be missed -- I mean, you couldn't if you tried! The parade brought in hundreds of thousands of people onto Oxford St. for the flamboyant event that included 100 floats, marches, dances, and some 9,500 performers! The Mardi Gras is THE event to top off the Gay/Lesbian festival which runs for about 3-4 weeks; the festival has fabulous theater, music, dance and fairs to celebrate gay pride. This year's theme was: "Mardi Gras- History of the World."
I was so excited to be one amongst the thousands of people on the street eagerly supporting and cheering the glitz and glamour of the event. It was truly an experience to see the support the event had from the broader community.
Flashback: The inaugural 1978 march was staged at a time when male homosexuality was still illegal in New South Wales state and ended with more than 50 arrests as police and protesters clashed. Police and members of the military now join the parade.
The event was truly an experience I will never forget; getting dressed and going out- just to be on the street that night was exhilarating :) It opened my eyes to a whole new world...celebrating diversity by coloring outside of the lines!!
LOVE.PEACE.& RAINBOWS
Shavely
Saturday, February 27, 2010
Whirlwind Welcome: 9,000 miles Later and "Settling In"
Gidday Mates!
9,000 miles (from good ole' Massachusettes) and 15 hours and 25 minutes (from Los Angeles)later, I HAVE ARRIVED TO AUSTRALIA :)
WARNING: This first post will seem more like 2 1/2 weeks worth of word vomit than great insight and reflection. Traveling to the other side of the world and 7 days of orientation gave me much to do, with little time to digest it all.
So, from the beginning and leading up to this 81* and sunny Saturday in Sydney ....
I departed from Boston to LA with my friend Stephanie from high school, Steve from Denison, and Stephanie's friend Shauna from Bryant 2 days before we were leaving for Aussie. (It was exciting to be going with friends from home).
We arrived at LAX that night and met up with Michelle, who is also a friend from Bryant, and we headed to the Marriott hotel. The next day we decided we would venture to downtown LA and head through Hollywood Blvd. To our pleasant surprise we walked right into the movie premiere for "Valentine's Day" -- ONLY IN HOLLYWOOD! I was totally stoked; talk about a movie with an all-star ensemble cast coming together in one movie! It was a 'starry'-night on the red carpet**** Taylor Lautner, JESSICA ALBA<3, Julia & Emma Roberts, Ashton Kutcher & Demi, Jamiie Fox, George Lopez, Jessica Biel; they were all coming out of their limos and crossing the street to take pictures and sign autographs, what a sight. As if I hadn't been star-struck already, Jennifer Garner was also at the premiere. As she neared where we were standing, Steve yelled, "Jennifer, we go to Denison!" (For those who don't know, Jennifer Garner is a '94 Denison Alum!); She quickly turned around and began asking Steve and I questions!! We were able to get a picture before her publicist was dragging her back to the lights. Check out the blog post titled, "Report from the (Big) Red Carpet" and picture from Denison's website: http://magazine.denison.edu/blog/.
The following day we hit the malls and did some last minute shopping and packing during the day; that night we each made our last calls and sent our last text messages from the U.S from LAX. It was at LAX that we met many of the other students from our program as we anxiously awaited to board the plane.
((THE PLANE RIDE)) ... it was not nearly as bad as I would have expected. I had my book, my iPod, my journal, and a few magazine thinking I was going to need everything to keep me busy. Surprisingly I fell asleep for 8 hours! After that it was free movies until we landed to the land down under.
it is at this point where everything gets disorientated and blurry! I had no concept of time, I had "misplaced" my Blackberry, and it was HOT! The next week or so was filled with orientation, information, explanation...a whirlwind of sorts. What better way to bring order to chaos than to do what I do best: make a list! So, in chronological order I will list for you what has occurred up until now:
1) Landed in Melbourne Airport where our Australian coordinators met us.
2) All the students loaded up onto a van for a 40 min drive to the seaside town of Sorrento along the Mornington Peninsula where we spent the following two nights for orientation.
3) It actually rained the night we got there, and the following night, and the following night. It was funny because they kept telling us we had to take two minute showers because they were experiencing a drought... anywho
4)We started with brekky (breakfast) bright and early at 7 am for morning and afternoon sessions such as 'local issues', Australian history & culture', 'financial issues' and the like. I had to drink some water before choking on my breakfast when I learned that Sydney is Australia's most expensive city (and the 66th most expensive in the world).
5) That evening we causht a sunset cruise where we spotted seals, KANGAROOS (an official marking point for me that I was truly here), and DOLPHINS :) We also enjoyed fish and chips (which are french fries here). It was then when I was introduced to Australia's most popular condiment; that of sweet chilli sauce! (IT IS REALLY GOOD)
6) More sessions the next day and a walk along the beach before we drove back to Melbourne to check into a hotel and followed Patrick (Arcadia staff) on a short walking tour of the city. Melbourne is a friendly and cultured city, with cute shops- almost European in its fashion and more great food.
7) We had the night to ourselves in Melbourne and it just so happened one of our friends had been placed in the penthouse room for the evening. Needless to say we had a few people over and took some great pictures from the balcony-- before we were asked to move the "gathering" to the city streets by the managers.
8) Flight to Syndey the next morning-- finally.
9) Arrived to our Terrace House!!! :) :)
** Living accommodation: 4 girls, 3 boys, 4 rooms, 3 bathrooms (one of those being outside!), 2 floors, washer, wireless internet, and kitchen all within 5 min walk to the university, 10 min walk to the mall, and the bus stop is right outside of our place. NOT TOO SHABBY! I am roomine with Stephanie and Shauna in the biggest room of the house with three closets and 3 beds and our own bathroom :)
10) Patrick took us for a night stroll that first night to see the the famous Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Opera House (I will go back many times to take pictures) followed by some crocodile and kangaroo pizza. Yes, crocodile and kangaroo pizza. I can do the croc but I will have to gather up more courage next time to finsh the roo pizza. (They have kangaroo burgers, wraps and salads too).
11) And yes TIM TAMS live up to the hype. Originating from Australia are these delicious, double-layered chocolate covered biscuits (what they call a cookie)...and let's not forget the chocolate cream filling that separates the layers. It is truly a sin to indulge in these delights <3 <3 (Rumor has it, they are being sold in the states. TRY THEM, but don't say I didn't warn you ;)
12) On the other hand, I have not tried Vegemite, another one of Australia's creations. Except this time, they didn't get it right. This food paste made from yeast extract has the most pungent smell my nostrils have ever smelled. Maybe a few weeks from now I will gather up the strength :O
13) My mates and I have had fun doing Pub Crawls, going to the famous and touristy Bondi Beach, venturing through ChinaTown, and boarding the boat for a cruise on the Sydney Harbour, && also a visit from COLIN BURKHARDT!... many more adventures to follow and I am sure with much more detail.
14) Last things to note: the time difference is a real killer- I am about 15 hours ahead from home and for someone who spoke to her family multiple times throughout the day it is a real bummer when I wake up at 830am and it is already 430pm the previous day at home :/...; it is extremely strange and often frightening to see cars driving on the opposite side of the road- I often find myself flinching when I'm in the taxi thinking he is taking a left turn to the wrong lane and surly going to crash; They have two different buttons on every toilet ( a half flush and a full flush)-- we will leave toilet business there; You can take the carts from the grocery store out of the store and leave it in front of your house! The "trolley men" will take them for you; They have tissues instead of napkins at almost every Asian food place; AND $6 dollar Phad Thai is a ritual ....so yummy!; My Aussie slang is not in full swing yet. I have gathered a few words here and there and it is so much fun to squeeze them in whenever I remember or know how-- the key to Aussie slang is, if the word is too long, cut out some letters and make it shorter!
14) Last but not least, I begin classes March 1st at Syndey Uni and my internship March 2nd at Channel 7.
If you made it to the end of this post, CONGRATS!
Getting to the other side of the world has been an adventure already and I can only expect more adventurous activities. I hope this will help you follow me along throughout my journey! (I will update every Sunday) Thanks for reading!
Love, Peace, & Oz
Shavely
9,000 miles (from good ole' Massachusettes) and 15 hours and 25 minutes (from Los Angeles)later, I HAVE ARRIVED TO AUSTRALIA :)
WARNING: This first post will seem more like 2 1/2 weeks worth of word vomit than great insight and reflection. Traveling to the other side of the world and 7 days of orientation gave me much to do, with little time to digest it all.
So, from the beginning and leading up to this 81* and sunny Saturday in Sydney ....
I departed from Boston to LA with my friend Stephanie from high school, Steve from Denison, and Stephanie's friend Shauna from Bryant 2 days before we were leaving for Aussie. (It was exciting to be going with friends from home).
We arrived at LAX that night and met up with Michelle, who is also a friend from Bryant, and we headed to the Marriott hotel. The next day we decided we would venture to downtown LA and head through Hollywood Blvd. To our pleasant surprise we walked right into the movie premiere for "Valentine's Day" -- ONLY IN HOLLYWOOD! I was totally stoked; talk about a movie with an all-star ensemble cast coming together in one movie! It was a 'starry'-night on the red carpet**** Taylor Lautner, JESSICA ALBA<3, Julia & Emma Roberts, Ashton Kutcher & Demi, Jamiie Fox, George Lopez, Jessica Biel; they were all coming out of their limos and crossing the street to take pictures and sign autographs, what a sight. As if I hadn't been star-struck already, Jennifer Garner was also at the premiere. As she neared where we were standing, Steve yelled, "Jennifer, we go to Denison!" (For those who don't know, Jennifer Garner is a '94 Denison Alum!); She quickly turned around and began asking Steve and I questions!! We were able to get a picture before her publicist was dragging her back to the lights. Check out the blog post titled, "Report from the (Big) Red Carpet" and picture from Denison's website: http://magazine.denison.edu/blog/.
The following day we hit the malls and did some last minute shopping and packing during the day; that night we each made our last calls and sent our last text messages from the U.S from LAX. It was at LAX that we met many of the other students from our program as we anxiously awaited to board the plane.
((THE PLANE RIDE)) ... it was not nearly as bad as I would have expected. I had my book, my iPod, my journal, and a few magazine thinking I was going to need everything to keep me busy. Surprisingly I fell asleep for 8 hours! After that it was free movies until we landed to the land down under.
it is at this point where everything gets disorientated and blurry! I had no concept of time, I had "misplaced" my Blackberry, and it was HOT! The next week or so was filled with orientation, information, explanation...a whirlwind of sorts. What better way to bring order to chaos than to do what I do best: make a list! So, in chronological order I will list for you what has occurred up until now:
1) Landed in Melbourne Airport where our Australian coordinators met us.
2) All the students loaded up onto a van for a 40 min drive to the seaside town of Sorrento along the Mornington Peninsula where we spent the following two nights for orientation.
3) It actually rained the night we got there, and the following night, and the following night. It was funny because they kept telling us we had to take two minute showers because they were experiencing a drought... anywho
4)We started with brekky (breakfast) bright and early at 7 am for morning and afternoon sessions such as 'local issues', Australian history & culture', 'financial issues' and the like. I had to drink some water before choking on my breakfast when I learned that Sydney is Australia's most expensive city (and the 66th most expensive in the world).
5) That evening we causht a sunset cruise where we spotted seals, KANGAROOS (an official marking point for me that I was truly here), and DOLPHINS :) We also enjoyed fish and chips (which are french fries here). It was then when I was introduced to Australia's most popular condiment; that of sweet chilli sauce! (IT IS REALLY GOOD)
6) More sessions the next day and a walk along the beach before we drove back to Melbourne to check into a hotel and followed Patrick (Arcadia staff) on a short walking tour of the city. Melbourne is a friendly and cultured city, with cute shops- almost European in its fashion and more great food.
7) We had the night to ourselves in Melbourne and it just so happened one of our friends had been placed in the penthouse room for the evening. Needless to say we had a few people over and took some great pictures from the balcony-- before we were asked to move the "gathering" to the city streets by the managers.
8) Flight to Syndey the next morning-- finally.
9) Arrived to our Terrace House!!! :) :)
** Living accommodation: 4 girls, 3 boys, 4 rooms, 3 bathrooms (one of those being outside!), 2 floors, washer, wireless internet, and kitchen all within 5 min walk to the university, 10 min walk to the mall, and the bus stop is right outside of our place. NOT TOO SHABBY! I am roomine with Stephanie and Shauna in the biggest room of the house with three closets and 3 beds and our own bathroom :)
10) Patrick took us for a night stroll that first night to see the the famous Sydney Harbor Bridge and the Opera House (I will go back many times to take pictures) followed by some crocodile and kangaroo pizza. Yes, crocodile and kangaroo pizza. I can do the croc but I will have to gather up more courage next time to finsh the roo pizza. (They have kangaroo burgers, wraps and salads too).
11) And yes TIM TAMS live up to the hype. Originating from Australia are these delicious, double-layered chocolate covered biscuits (what they call a cookie)...and let's not forget the chocolate cream filling that separates the layers. It is truly a sin to indulge in these delights <3 <3 (Rumor has it, they are being sold in the states. TRY THEM, but don't say I didn't warn you ;)
12) On the other hand, I have not tried Vegemite, another one of Australia's creations. Except this time, they didn't get it right. This food paste made from yeast extract has the most pungent smell my nostrils have ever smelled. Maybe a few weeks from now I will gather up the strength :O
13) My mates and I have had fun doing Pub Crawls, going to the famous and touristy Bondi Beach, venturing through ChinaTown, and boarding the boat for a cruise on the Sydney Harbour, && also a visit from COLIN BURKHARDT!... many more adventures to follow and I am sure with much more detail.
14) Last things to note: the time difference is a real killer- I am about 15 hours ahead from home and for someone who spoke to her family multiple times throughout the day it is a real bummer when I wake up at 830am and it is already 430pm the previous day at home :/...; it is extremely strange and often frightening to see cars driving on the opposite side of the road- I often find myself flinching when I'm in the taxi thinking he is taking a left turn to the wrong lane and surly going to crash; They have two different buttons on every toilet ( a half flush and a full flush)-- we will leave toilet business there; You can take the carts from the grocery store out of the store and leave it in front of your house! The "trolley men" will take them for you; They have tissues instead of napkins at almost every Asian food place; AND $6 dollar Phad Thai is a ritual ....so yummy!; My Aussie slang is not in full swing yet. I have gathered a few words here and there and it is so much fun to squeeze them in whenever I remember or know how-- the key to Aussie slang is, if the word is too long, cut out some letters and make it shorter!
14) Last but not least, I begin classes March 1st at Syndey Uni and my internship March 2nd at Channel 7.
If you made it to the end of this post, CONGRATS!
Getting to the other side of the world has been an adventure already and I can only expect more adventurous activities. I hope this will help you follow me along throughout my journey! (I will update every Sunday) Thanks for reading!
Love, Peace, & Oz
Shavely
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