It's the Most Wonderful Time of the Year

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Sorry for all you "Grinch" characters out there, but the holidays are upon us. Although, when it's 90+ degrees and a heavy helping of humidity sometimes the christmas spirit gets a bit lost.

Being so far from home on the holidays has been and will continue to be tough. You don't always understand how difficult changes can be until you're in full swing. I am however very thankful that i've met such loving and wonderful people here in Australia, to make me feel just a little closer to home. However, it isn't quite the same. I've always been a bit of a free bird but when it comes to family, I wouldn't want to be anywhere in the world without them. As sisters go, sure we have our fights from time to time, but there is NO one i'll fight for more then my sisters and family as a whole. My beautiful mother is and always has been my rock, even when things get rough we always have each other.

The holidays for me have ALWAYS been about making memories with family and friends. No amount of presents (unless from santa), delicious food or a few glasses of wine can replace the feeling of just simply being surrounded by family. As the men go out hunting and watching football (you know i'm right there on the couch too), women are cooking, having a glass of wine or cup of eggnog and gossiping, while the cousins all run around playing. It can be a manic household but I wouldn't have it any other way. I will be spending christmas and new years in Sydney with my boyfriend and his beautiful family this year. I am truly excited and still blessed to be in Australia, I am thankful to be welcomed into another families home for the holidays.

Along with the holidays for me comes a special dose of kindness towards others. I often think of how good my life is, all of the people in it and every little thing I own. I believe kindness should be shared all throughout the year, but especially on the holidays. You never know that a simple smile or conversation could change someones day. And for me, just this past weekend I have been touched.

While finishing up my christmas shopping, my friend Mckenzie (another nanny who's from Oklahoma, she is currently living in Cairns too) were having a look around this little book store. As we were checking out an elderly women named Marie started a conversation with the both of us. Right away she picked up that we were from the states (clearly I have not picked up on the aussie accent yet, bummer). She asked us specifically where we were from, what we were doing here, how the family's were and so on and so forth. She truly had a genuine interest in getting to know us. Marie explained she has been to America 3 times and will be going back again next fall for 3 months. She spoke of how excited she was and told us where was going to the heart of America- through the midwest. We continued to get to know one another for the next few minutes. As we were saying our goodbyes she said, "you must miss your families so very much, especially being so far from home around the holidays, let me give you a hug and just know you are loved by many". And of course she gave us the warmest hug and a big squeeze. We told her how sweet and kind her words were, to the point it brought tears to our eyes. But, both Mckenzie and I were taken back by her kindness.

So we left the book store and all throughout the day kept reminiscing on how much her simple gesture affected us, in a positive way of course. We plan to buy Marie a small gift and write her a card simply to let her know, her kindness did not go unnoticed and how grateful we are to have run into such a caring, special women. I truly wish this world had more people like Marie, we would be in such a better place.

I simply had to share, if anything at all, maybe remember to be kind to all. You never know how heavy someone's heart is or what they are going through. Be a positive change in this world.

Merry Christmas to all of my family and friends. Whether you're here with me in Australia, waiting for me at home, or forever in my heart. I am thinking of you and love you all. See you all in just 3 short months. xoxoxoxo

McKenzie And I 

                                           
               My beautiful christmas present from Gabby (bracelet says not all who wander are lost)

                                                           Jeff,  Jordan, Jim and I :)

Australia, Part 2

Greetings y'all! Wow, it's been 2 months since my last blog and 2 months of me living in far north Queensland!  The days seem to be flying by with 7 months down and 5 to go. I can say I am 100% loving everything about my new family, home, "town/city" and just overall experience.

Melbourne and Far north Queensland are very different. For those of you who don't know, Melbourne is much more city with that "busy busy" vibe as opposed to living in FNQ. Melbourne has been rated one of the most livable cities in the world, however as much as I love the city, i've found the laid-back coastal life is where i'm meant to be. Cairns and the surrounding areas (palm cove, port douglas etc) are known as the tropical region. This area of Australia stays warm all year round, they have a "wet" and a "dry" season, where as Melbourne is more like Kansas in the fact that it has various seasons. (Weather is so unpredictable in Melbourne it's known it go through all 4 seasons daily, not too much different from Kansas, except for no tornadoes). While the days are getting cooler in Kansas, it's warming up across Australia and in the next few months FNQ will enter the wet season.

Aside from the weather the people tend to be different as well. Very, very laid back, no shoe wearing FNQ people differ from the city folks down south. In FNQ you will find many tourists, "back packers" and seasonal holiday go-ers. My family whom I live with now included. Both Ella and Nash are in school full time which allows me for a lot of "down time". During my time I do the majority of the house cleaning; laundry, dishes, overall upkeep of our beautiful home. When i'm not cleaning I spend my time next to the pool, toes in the sand, or just relaxing. You sometimes forget how good it can feel to just sit and relax.

I've continued to try new cuisines while living up north, it seems to be much more available (Kangaroo, Croc, emu, fresh prawns (not called shrimp here) etc). Kangaroo really does have a similar taste to beef, especially when you eat it as a burger or something with extra flavors. I love trying new things, still working on a taste for seafood, but overall loving the food experience. I've also tried a huge variety of wines and beer, some local, craft and foreign.

Australia has been on school holidays this past week and will continue throughout next week as well. Their holidays differ from ours, mostly because they go to school "all year round". I've been given the majority of the two week holidays off which has been a true relaxation time. I've purchased a few new books and have been spending time with friends/family. This past week I did a few "touristy" things. We went by train to Kuranda, which is a touristy area filled with zoos, shops, etc. This was my first time on a proper train so I was actually slightly nervous but the views were gorgeous (however slightly hard to capture pictures while moving). We spent the afternoon shopping and having a few scooners (beer). On our way down we choose to take the sky rail, the sky rail is a cable way that overlooks the tropical forest and surrounding areas. It was truly beautiful (if you are afraid of heights it might not be your best choice).

Overall i'm loving every minute of my precious time in Australia. It truly is flying by and although i'm missing friends and family dearly it will be so bittersweet counting down my days. But while i'm here I plan to make the most of it.  I will be going to Sydney in November to see Chelsea Handler's Uganda be Kidding Me tour as well as doing a few touristy things while in Sydney. Plans to travel throughout the remainder of my last few months.

Thank you all again for being so loving and supportive, miss you all so much! Enjoy football season for me, as it's been very challenging being away from my favorite season, sport and memories i've made in the states.

LOVE YA!!!
Cheers
A

Making Changes

Making Changes- 

The winter months are quickly coming and going over here in Australia. The kids had a two week holiday throughout the first two weeks of July. The first week was spent with the kids, we went to the movies, swimming, tumbles, park and even had a picnic at the beach on a sunny day. Mid-week I was hit pretty hard with the flu that has knocked me out of commission for awhile. On Saturday night Leanne, the kids and I loaded up the car and drove 5 hours to Mt. Hotham.

Mt. Hotham is a beautiful mountainous region in Australia. While most days the temperature was around 0 degrees Celsius (32 f), so a rather mild snowy climate. We had loads of fun in the snow; snow ball fights, wrestles, snow angels and skiing. The kids were delighted to play in the snow, they would have stayed outside until they turned blue. Which, when I was younger I was the same way. I'll never forget sledding behind the 4-wheeler with my sisters and step dad, the uncomfortable feeling of being so warm in your bundled up clothes you start to sweat, and after hours of playing outside coming inside for a hot chocolate. Brought back lots of happy winter memories.

For those of you who have been following my journey thus far you'd know that I had at one point been deciding on if i'd stay 6 months or my full year in Australia. After only being here a month or two I had decided to stay my full year. Initially I had planned to stay in Williamstown with Leanne and her family. However a few months ago I made the decision to take another road in Australia. I am and always will be thankful for my time with Leanne and the whole family. It wasn't about "finding another family" I am wanting to make the most out of my opportunity in Australia. I feared that I would have regrets if I stayed my full year in one place. I questioned if I was really putting myself out there and gaining experiences. So as bittersweet as it's been to explain my leaving, i'm also beyond excited for the next road in my journey.

I was blessed to have found another loving family here in Australia. This family lives in Palm cove, which is 20 minutes from Cairns and the great barrier reef. Husbands name is Brent, wife is named Sarah and they also have two children; Ella is 8 and Nash is 5. I was so nervous about starting over with a new family but as soon as I spoke with Sarah I knew they were the perfect fit for me. I will be moving to Palm cove in less than a week. (Friday, July 18th). So excited to be in the tropical climate again, with a warm and loving family.

This last month has been the toughest for me as far as being away from home. I knew when coming to Australia for possibly a year these summer months (at home) would be the hardest. I've had so many people say, "you are living in AUSTRALIA, how could you miss home". And i've come to the conclusion it's not about where you are it's about who you are with. Yes, I absolutely love it in Australia, but it can be very lonely without my close friends and family. It's so easy to communicate with technology and everything, but it's not the same as jumping in the car to drive and see the people you love and care for the most. It breaks my heart to miss friends birthdays, weddings, baby showers and many more life moments. But while it can be hard, I am still happy and proud of myself for my journey thus far. I am living my life every day with no regrets and that's what matters most.

While in Hotham I had the opportunity to get a tarot card reading. And i've always thought it's a silly idea but I went along with it anyways. I chose a "general" reading. Instead of asking one specific question, the reading asked a series of questions for me and i'd like to share my reading with you all. 

1. Where am I now or an area that which concerns me? 

in search of the truth, experience life altering events, however struggling with feelings of inadequacy and wanting to get rid of negative people and feelings in your life. 

2. What is the force/ motivation behind my desire? 

Your focus is on travel but my heart and mind is on life, love and the pursuit of happiness. 

3. What is the underlining problem i'm currently facing?

Wanting things to be different than the way they are. This is in which the environment you live, work, and the people you associate with. 

4. What do I need to understand that i'm not aware of?

Your lack of faith within yourself is hindering ability to see what you really want. Don't give up on yourself or another or consider the situation hopeless. 

5. Best way to proceed?

relax and let ideas come and go, when the right ones come you will know. 

6. What's my ultimate attainment? 

potential that could be or is about to be, increase social activities and new areas of fulfillment. A new start or way of life will be realized

WOW! I couldn't believe how spot on the reading was. I suppose with readings and such you can formulate the reading to apply it to your own life, however I couldn't help but think it was so spot on.

A lot of my family and friends have contacted me the last couple weeks, many just to say hi and see how things have been. I am so thankful for every single message I have received. I have the best life and love everyone in it. Sometimes you have to go someplace new and completely different to find yourself and see your world for what it is, not what you want it to be. Just last night I had one of the best and most meaningful heart to hearts with a good girlfriend from home. We talked a lot about our past, things we wished we would have done, taken notice to, or even things we wish we hadn't done. As women I think we try to find the good in everyone, we can envision someone as we wish for them to be, but not always as they truly are. But all in all, the past is the past, we can learn and grow from it. We shouldn't allow our past to hinder our future.

So when I woke up this morning and saw that one of my all time favorite movies was on tv, I was so happy the positive vibes continued. I want to share a little quote from it because it's so true.  "Girls are taught a lot of stuff growing up. If a guy punches you, he likes you. Never try to trim your own bangs and someday you will meet a wonderful guy and get your very own happy ending. Every movie we see, every store we're told implores us to wait for it, the third act twist, the unexpected declaration of love, the exception to the rule. But sometimes we're so focus on finding our happy ending we don't learn how to read the signs. How to tell from the ones who want us and the ones who don't, the ones who will stay and the ones who will leave. And maybe a happy ending doesn't include a guy, maybe.. it's you, on your own, picking up the pieces and starting over. Freeing yourself up for something better in the future. Maybe the happy ending is just moving on. Or maybe the happy ending is this that you never gave up hope".

This last month has not only been about making changes physically but mentally and emotionally as well. :)

Cheers-
A

                                                          Photo taken at Mt. Hotham

"Prince Charming"

The majority of my blog's have been centered around my travels and daily life in Australia. However, every once in a while I throw a bit of a random blog in. I suppose it's more of a way to express my feelings, without stepping on anyones toes. It's an OPINION, and whether you agree with what I have to say, or not that's fine too. It's okay not to agree with what the "norm" or "society" says. I also don't care if once you have read my thoughts you judge me, or view me differently. Again, I don't care because I am comfortable in my own skin and am 100% okay with that.

Lately, I have read a large amount of blogs focused around marriage and the reason behind saying "yes". First of all i'd like to thank all of my married friends for "sharing" these articles on Facebook, otherwise I would never read them (a little behind in the times, or so it seems :) ). But, I have to voice my own opinion on the things i've read and my reaction to those.

The majority of these articles start out with talking about trying to find a "prince charming" or a "knight in shining armor" and how these women have such high expectations when finding a spouse. They believe in "the one", because that is what society has taught them. Yet these women are voicing how it's not about those silly ideas. Instead it's about finding someone to love under God's word, and that our purpose for marriage is to please God.

Let me start by saying, yes, I am a believer in the Lord. Mainly because it's how I was raised, however I have made the CHOICE to believe. However, not everyone believes in God or even a higher power. And that is okay, I don't judge anyone for those feelings. But being said, that I am a believer I disagree with the article. Call me old fashioned or even stuck in a fairly tale, but I believe in marrying your ONE TRUE LOVE.

Clearly, I am not married so I can't write about this blog from that perspective but I can write about where I am now. I do believe in finding your soul mate, someone who makes you a better person, someone you can have those disagreements with but still find an understanding of each other, someone who takes the time to truly love you, someone you want to marry to not only make yourself happy but to make them equally as happy, someone who makes you laugh even in the saddest of times, someone who has similar interests, and just the opposite- have some things you don't quite fancy because that's okay too, or maybe they can show you something you never thought possible. Be vulnerable, allow someone to change your view on things, or don't, but be understanding of those feelings. You can't change someone but you can change their world.

I do understand putting God into the relationship. Many reasons as to why, but I don't want to blog about religion because I think that is a touchy subject with many. I believe if you find a partner whom you can share the same beliefs and dreams with you can focus on things that make your relationship last forever with or without God in your lives.

Yes, I watch the "bachelor" and or "bachelorette" regularly. Do I believe in the system, no. Do I watch it and hope they find their one true love, yes. I think we all do. Maybe I am naive in believing in a one true love. But when I look at my grandparents, I know it's real. I've been raised in an environment where i've seen all sides of marriage, the good, the bad, and the ugly. But, it's what has made me who I am. I have a voice. I have an opinion.

I use to think that happiness was something you could find. Often believing that a man would make me the happiest. No. No. NO. To find your true love, you first must find yourself. You have to know who you are, what you want and where you want to be. You have to love yourself and find your own happiness. Happiness is something we all search for, but start first by searching from within. You can create an unlimited amount of happiness for you. Don't wait for that prince charming to swoop you up and make you happy, because even believing in that fairy tale will go nowhere if you don't believe, love and are happy with just you and you alone.

Once you find your own happiness and own life you will be ready to spread the love to others. That is when you will be blessed with conversations, a best friend, a one true love. Don't "settle" with someone to get married because everyone else is. Keep your standards high and follow your own heart.

Cheers
A

Winter days

Winter days..

Hello to my readers (so all 3 of you), it is time for another blog from the Kansas gal down under. I can't believe this will be my 4th month in Australia, time is flying by and i'm enjoying every minute. I will say, this month I started feeling just a little homesick. Our winter months have started, although it is still very mild, with day time temperatures in the high 50's low 60's. Very comfortable and actually enjoyable as far as winters go. While it is getting into the cooler months, friends and family at home have started summer months. One thing I will always love about Kansas is the summer months, at times it can be sooo hot and almost miserable. However, it's always been the simplistic life that I love. Friends, family, grilling out, lake and a little dirt road is where summers unfold. I will always remember the good times i've made over the years, and it keeps me positive in knowing that my true friends and family will be home when I return to continue making unforgettable memories.

While I have those memories to be thankful for, i'm even more excited about the things i've experience so far in Oz. While my routine has stayed the same tending to the children, and i've enjoyed countless laughs with Leanne, I have also had a little "off time" to travel outside of Williamstown. I have now been to Cairns (great barrier reef) twice now. My first time traveling to Cairns we experienced a cyclone-- just my luck. However, it was so nice to relax and hang out with a few mates. My second trip was a lot more productive. The weather was a bit rainy towards the start, however my last few days were filled with sunshine. (Yes, it is winter up north as well- however it remains in the 80's+ year round).  I was able to finally do a few touristy things, getting to hold koalas, pet/feed kangaroos and walking amongst other australian animals.

Not only was I able to interact with the animals I was able to try a few of Australia's animal cuisines as well. (Sorry, had to). Jim and I went to a very nice restaurant where I tried octopus, barramundi, emu, water buffalo, kangaroo and crocodile. For those of you who don't know, I wouldn't consider myself to be "picky" however i've never been a fan of seafood along with a few other things. Yet, I enjoyed everything I tasted- except for the Octopus. Texture was too weird for me, couldn't like it haha.

Aside from experiences I have also learned a lot over these last few months away. One thing in particular.. I have had soooo many friends comment on how awesome it is that i've traveled/ living in Australia. They say how envious they are, wishing they could do the same, etc. And I don't say that to brag, i'm repeating it because if I can do this, anyone can. Yes, it can be difficult to be so far from home. Yes, I miss my friends and family very much. Yes, it's hard to get adjusted to a new place, new home, new country. Yes, YOU CAN DO IT :). It is worth it. I am sooo happy I chose to travel and experience these moments. Life is short, life is what you make of it. Don't wait around wishing for life to happen, it's happening every day but it's up to you to make the most of it.

This experience has made me realize how big the world really is, and how you can experience things you never thought possible. I have realized that before this adventure, I had done some traveling here and there but not nearly enough. To travel is something that touches the soul above all else. For me it fills a void that i've longed for. A true happiness. I have plans to travel throughout my remainder time in Australia; Sydney, Brisbane and New Zealand just to name a few. But my travels won't stop there. I will continue to see the world and experience new things. I am thankful that i've realized this at my age so I can continue to make the most of my life.

"I always wonder why birds choose to stay in the same place when they can fly anywhere on earth, then I ask myself the same question."

Cheers- A

                                                             Melbourne Night Lights

Happy Birthday to Us

Today is April 26th, a day that will forever be a bittersweet day. I need to first and foremost take a minute to wish my sweet Aunt Debbie a happy birthday. As writing this brings me to tears I can't help but miss you and have a heavy ache in my heart. I miss you every day- but today, our special day, has been and always will be the hardest. I see you in a beautiful sunset, I hear you in the laughter of people around me, but it's not the same as once celebrating with you. Our bond was so strong; from sharing my first moments with you to growing up right beside you. My heart, passion, love and hard working qualities came from you. You touched the lives of every person (good or bad) you came across. Always willing to help others with open arms and a constant smile. But, if I know one thing you would not want any tears cried for you from someone you love. So instead of hurting on our day I am going to celebrate. Not only will I be celebrating my life but yours as well. As sad that I am that you're gone, I am so happy that you truly lived. I hope to inspire, love and laugh for all the days of my life, just like you.

 "For my Daughter on your birthday, I'm not going to offer you any wisdom about life- you're doing just fine. And I won't remind you to be happy, because you already have a gift for finding happiness and sharing it. All I want is to give you a few simple words to carry in your heart- I love you, believe in you and I just can't imagine anyone ever having a daughter more wonderful than you".  

This was the birthday card I received from my mom. I am never one to boast about myself, however this card couldn't be more true in regards to the life I am living. For this birthday I hoped to be living in some place new, surrounded by people i'd never met, living a life for me. I made it all possible. I am so so so happy to celebrate another year of this life. Birthdays are a new start; fresh beginnings, a time to start new endeavors with new goals. A time to move forward with fresh confidence and courage. I am blessed to continue my journey in life. 

Thank you for every friend and family member who has made not only my birthday(s) a happy one, but every single moment. I am truly blessed to have so many people who love and care about me. 

Cheers- to 24 happy years and many more to come. 

-A

One Month Down, Unda!

        WOW, can you believe i've been in Australia for a month?! It's crazy how quickly the hours turn to days, the days turn into weeks and now the weeks into a full month. I admit, I still have moments where I need to pinch myself a little to make sure that i'm actually living this life. I remember a few months prior to me leaving I had started second guessing if I would be able to do this. Move to a place unfamiliar, so very far from friends and family and become a part of this family. I am so glad I took my leap of Faith and boarded that plane to Oz. With this first month I know that this is what I wanted and needed.

          So what have I been up to the last few weeks? Besides my normal weekly routine i've experienced a few exciting moments as well. Both of the children are actively involved in extracurricular activities, while i'm familiar with gymnastics, piano and a few other odds and ends i've also gotten to learn about calisthenics. I'd describe calisthenics as various gymnastic/dance movements created to promote health, strength, flexibility and grace. Often they used "equipment" such as rods or clubs, other times they do what we would consider "lyrical" pieces. These individuals are very flexible and hard working! Coco is involved in a calisthenics club that meets every saturday. They practice all the variations of Calisthenics weekly and soon will begin performances. Growing up in dance I have not only an appreciation but love for the sport. It's truly fun and amazing to watch.


       Aside from the daily routine, I have gotten to experience a little more of Australia and where I live. Besides my daily adventures around town where I am beginning to have favorite coffee shops, cafes and boutiques, my trips into Melbourne, we also made a little trip about an hour down to Torquay where our holiday house is. Leanne's friend and her family also came down for the weekend too. Besides staying in a gorgeous home we also spent time at Torquay beach, drove along the Great Ocean Road and went on a hike where we walked in the tree tops. The absolute beauty and serenity that we saw and felt that weekend was so relaxing.

   
      So now that i'm getting a taste of the area I thought i'd fill you in on a few other elements. Lets start with...
- Driving. And on the left side of the road. Surprisingly, I think i'm a better left side of the road driver than  I am on the right side. I've even parallel parked a few times and didn't hit anything ;). I have yet to see a 4 way stop using stop signs, instead they use round-a-bouts.

- Jet lag. I think it took me about two weeks to finally feel that my body was back to normal. Had more energy throughout the day, was able to stay up a bit later, wake up earlier, etc.

-Food. Well I did try a Kangaroo burger, and it was delicious!! Otherwise food is very similar to it is in the states. I was asked about Vegemite. I think about half of the aussies love it and the other half hate it. I have tried it in multiple settings, not a huge fan when it's used as a spread on toast or by itself. But we have used it as a baste for roast and because of the salty taste of vegemite it was delicious. (Don't for one second think Vegemite would taste anything like Nutella)

-Lingo. Goodness this one will take me some time. I've picked up on every day phrases such as: "the boot"-trunk, "lollys"- candy, "jumper"- sweater, "prim"- stroller, "pardon"- I never hear what huh excuse me, "arvo"- afternoon, "chewy"- gum, "rubber"- eraser. Haha this is just a few i've had to get a bit adjusted too, trust me their are many more :).

-Music. I mostly listen to the radio when taking the kids to and from places, i've found a few "pop" stations and the ONE country station, but luckily the kids don't mind it.

(If anyone wants to know anything feel free to ask away).

Needless to say this first month has been one for the books. In April i'm looking forward to my friend Sarah's birthday, my birthday and while the kids are on a school holiday with their dad I will be traveling to Cairns (near Great Barrier Reef) to spend some time with a few mates. Lots to look forward to this next month!!!

I would like to send a few prayers and positive thoughts to the Keating family. You have always welcomed me into your home as not only a friend but another member of the family. Wishing I could be there physically for you all. Love you guys!!!

And to Brandon Martino who has just completed his time at basic! So very proud of you and can't wait to hear from you!!!!!  Love ya B!

Missing everyone at home but so blessed to know that you all support and love me while on my journey!

Xoxo- Cheers- A