A month has gone by

Well, I have been at my new job for about a month now. It has been stressful as things are quite different and there is so much new information to digest and assimilate. However, everyone is very helpful and supportive and I'm sure I will learn everything in time.

The huge move has been more difficult then I imagined. I do miss all my friends, family, and social networks.  I have missed my sister's wedding and my parent's 55th wedding anniversary. I am fortunate to have a very supportive boyfriend and I am loving life with him. We are both growing to know each other every day and how to negotiate and compromise, now that it is the two of us.

I love Australia with its beautiful shorelines, wide, expansive spaces and untamed wilderness. There is a lot of amazing wildlife, including turtles and plenty of different kinds of birds. I have taken up a new lifestyle, cycling my way to better health and may perhaps, join the Townsville to Cairns bike ride next year (about 400kms). The people too, are so friendly, kind, and helpful. It is a place where neighbors talk over the new fence they are building and invite you over for a "barbie" (BBQ).  It is a multicultural place where one has to learn a myriad of dialects and colloquialisms.

Let the adventure continue!

Lots of changes!

Today I went to the hospital to sign on and complete the forms to begin my new job on Monday! Exciting and overwhelming all at once! The staff were really wonderful and welcoming.  I got the keys to my 3 weeks free accommodations near the hospital and am still learning how to drive on the left side of the road on the right hand side of the car!

The best news of all is that my house back in southern California will be closing escrow soon so that is a big load off my shoulders.

I will keep you posting on how my adventures are progressing so check back soon!

Another Day in Paradise

Last night the car wouldn't work. after calling Australian equivalent of triple A we drove to the auto parts store to buy a new fuel pump which David has just finished installing. I finished unpacking yesterday and we made it down to the strand for a garbanzo burger. Yummy! just had to leave he car running. it is a real blessing to be so close to the ocean. so peaceful and quiet here. the pace is different then the hustle and bustle of southern california as many people are here on vacation. I've just been cleaning and tidying the house, nothing too thrilling. Later we will go out and get some groceries. Settling into life here down under. Just really grateful to be here after a year and a half of hard work planning and sorting it all out. miss all you guys. Peace Out. Linda.

First Day in Townsville

Soooo...finally made it here. Arrived in Townsville yesterday. Tired, but happy to be home. Life is good and I feel blessed to be able to live in Australia. It was a long journey to get here in several ways, but with the support of my wonderful b/f and by the grace of God, I made it! Now to begin the unpacking...*sigh*