Shopping, Eating, Drinking and Playing Aussie Style

Recently, we have been busy purchasing items that we had to sale before we moved here. Car #1? Check. A Nissan Pathfinder (Named Blue). Car #2? Check. A Mazda 3 (Named Steel). This weekend we continued the shop fest by purchasing all at the same time a washer, dryer, fridge, TV, microwave, vacuum, kettle, toaster, and DVD player. By bundling it all together, we were able to save a lot of money. Delivery set for July 20. Next up was a dining table. Done! Delivery set for June 20. We don't anticipate purchasing too much until after we move in. But in June they have the sales called "Stocktake" which is essentially similar to the end of the year sales back in the States. I am not sure why it is during this time of the year, but with it being so cold outside perhaps the only thing you can do is head inside and do some damage.

Speaking of cold, I know it was cold in Texas this past winter. Perhaps I am a bit more acclimated because of that but it does seem colder to me. No snow or ice in Melbourne, but it is bitter and chills you to the bone. This results in lots of hot drinks (coffee, tea, etc.) I noticed today that I have had more cappuccinos than I would have ever had back in Texas, and yet proudly enough I have not been to a Starbucks. Here, it is all about supporting the local cafe. Literally you can find little cafes everywhere you go. However, today the boys were thrilled to have a sandwich at Subway. They had been asking for it for weeks, so we finally gave in. Lucky for us there was a Sushi Sushi place next store, so we just grabbed their sandwiches and then grabbed our lunch. They were happy. We were happy.

The boys have been keeping busy playing Aussie Rules, or "Footy." They have managed to make it to two games so far, and have enrolled in Auskick. Ian is obsessed beyond means, but still loves his Aggie football too. He will be thrilled to find out that just when Aussie Rules is finishing, American football will be starting up.

Speaking of Ian, the all-American/Australian kid will turn 7 on Friday. It will be a bit different for him considering he won't be in the states to celebrate on July 4. The day will literally be all about him as he will not share the attention with 'Merica.

So, to sum up:
We shop.
We eat.
We drink coffee.
We shop some more.
We play footy.
We watch footy.
I poke my eyes out from having to listen about footy.
And then we go to bed.

Pretty much sums it up.

Dodge with a Blog Down Under: Kanga-What?

Ducks.
Cows.
Rabbits.
Really big rabbits.
Wait- what are those?

I have never, in my life been called a bad dog. I have great manners. I listen. I come. I sit. I stay. But on this particular day at the "farm" (OMG best place on earth, totes magotes) I thought I saw the biggest rabbits in my life. I chased and ran, and ran, and ran. So much in fact that I could no longer hear Paul or Suzanne call my name. When Suzanne came chasing me down later and said "bad dog" I was not sure what to do, so I just kept running the other direction. Imagine my surprise when said "rabbits" jumped over the very large fence that was intended to keep the cows out. WTH mate? What was it. I had to know.

That night, while the others slept I decided to google what Paul kept referring to as a "roo." I searched for "big rabbit" and "extra large bunny" but had no luck. So, then I tried to spell out what I thought he said...kangaROO. Google started working away and then the picture came up. That was it! This is what I saw. I could not believe my eyes and can't wait to go back to the farm to chase them some more.

Dodge out.

Random Crap You Probably Don't Care About

I have often times kept my thoughts to myself on specific subjects, especially on social media. I did this mainly because I worked for a state institution and understood that I represented something bigger. I also did this because I did not want to offend anyone. I may lose a few friends over what I say, but oh well. I am not up for discussions on anything below, just thought I would finally say what I think. For my close friends, none of this will surprise you because I would vocalize around you all.

1. GLBT issues. "Issue" is an interesting word as it seems to lead one to believe that something might be wrong. The truth in case is that I take no issue with the GLBT community, and in fact believe that everyone should be allowed to love who they want to and live their life in a way they want to. With so much hate in the world, so much violence, so many horrible things- why are we so focused on preventing love? Yes, I support equal marriage. Yes, I support adoptions or surrogates for any couple who has the love and the means to raise a family. Love is not a bad thing so stop treating it like it is. Providing love to another person, especially when so many go without it, cannot be a bad thing. I believe that everyone has the right to live their life in the way they need to and that no one should judge. I also believe that those who focus their energy on passing judgment and fighting about this should refocus on other "problems" in the world. Why do people waste their time worrying about how others are living their lives? Go volunteer at the food bank, or hunt down people who do horrible things to kids. Stop the hate.

2. Gun control. OMG I am a bad Texan I know. I get it. I should be able to carry a gun just in case someone walks on campus or in my office. I have the right to defend myself, right? Well- guess what? I believe in the law enforcement officers and the dedication they have to their jobs. I don't want to carry. And I don't want others carrying. How the hell am I supposed to know who is the good guys and who is the bad guys? Furthermore, why people claim they have the "right" to carry a gun I believe I have the right to send my children to school and not worry that some gun toting idiot will walk in to their school and start firing. I also don't believe you need a semi-automatic weapon for "hunting." I fully support the freedom we have in America and I appreciate those who fight for it. But I won't lie- as homesick as I am for Texas, at least I don't have to worry about mass shootings. Here the bad guys shoot the bad guys. But because of their strict gun laws, I don't have to worry about who is carrying and walking into my kids school. They had their last mass shooting in 1996. Google it. Enjoy. By the way- in a zombie apocalypse, I will carry a bow and arrow. Or use by boots to stomp their heads in. So, I really have nothing to worry about there.

3. Prancellor Sharp. I worked at Texas A&M for 13 years. I enjoyed my time most under Dr. Robert Gates. He was the type of leader I would follow off a cliff if need be. I didn't mind working for the other Presidents who followed. However- Sharp did things a bit different. I will not pretend to know all of the ins and outs of the politics, but I will let you know my perception.  I support the fact that the activity analysis was ordered; I believe looking for efficiencies is always a good thing. However, I believe the Chancellor's office should apply the same rules and take a good, long hard look in the mirror. My own two cents.

4. Texting and driving. Again- something you can't do in Australia. If you are caught texting or talking on the phone in your car you will be fined. It seems that many people think it is (once again) their right to text, talk, read the newspaper, do whatever they want while driving down the road. And once again, I think that people should feel safe on the roads. If you want to kill yourself, fine. Don't endanger the lives of those I love.

5. And while I am at it- the right to pull over and search without reason is not a bad thing. Why you ask? Because the drinking and driving laws are so strict here that you really cannot avoid the penalties. They set up random stops and can pull anyone over they want to and administer a breathalyzer. Many people would claim that this is a violation of rights, freedoms- whatever. If it keeps my family safe from stupid people, then I am ok with it.

Random crap, but things I think about now that I have the time.

May The Odds Be Ever In Your Favor

After 24 days of being here, we have finally found a home (to rent). I had previously written about the difference in viewing homes here vs back at home. Now, to elaborate more on the actual application process. In College Station, we had rented a few apartments. The last two homes we owned, however. The process to rent here was more similar to the process to purchase there. We needed an application and points (IDs, etc.) which is very usual. We also included a letter from ourselves to explain that we had just relocated. We included one letter of reference for Dodger (thanks Emma and Tony!) Yes, you read that correctly. A letter of reference for the dog. It was between that and a doggie resume, and there are only so many ways you can state how awesome a dog is on a resume.

Once we submitted the application, we received a requests for email addresses of our former realtor and our former supervisors. This led to a request from the agent here to them for a reference letter. Our realtor/builder discussed the sale of our home, the condition it was in, and what (if any) damage Dodger had caused. In all honestly, Dodger is not the one I have ever worried about. The kids cause more damage that he would ever consider. Our supervisors received a request as a testimony to our character to ensure that we would make good, reliable tenants.

Yesterday, we were pleased to receive the "offer" of the home. We had a week to decide. We knew right away however that we wanted it. The location and price can't be beat in a city of this size. We can walk to the cafes where we can grab a coffee, we can meet the grandparents at the park or the football oval, and we can walk to four family members homes (making it easy to have a few drinks with dinner when invited over). We move in on July 20.

So, in this case the odds were in our favor.

The odds have also been in the favor of Ian this week who had a "transition" day at his school. He had a great day and really wanted to return for day 2. But considering he just finished first grade in the states, he needs a break. He will start term 3 on July 14. He will have six more months of grade 1. I am hoping he won't grow bored. He indicated that he made several friends which was quite apparent when we were walking out and many of the students were saying "bye Ian." Ian just said "bye" in his cool way and kept walking.

While Ian was at school, Evan went to the leisure center to attend a class. Too bad they told us the wrong time. He was really looking forward to the class (football, soccer, and basketball). I felt so horrible for him. He was fine however when he was able to have a swim and then later head to the library.

As far as the odds not being in our favor...let's talk about the tv. I can't figure out when things are on, even with the guide. It might say 11:30 am, but that could mean anytime it seems. Last night I was watching Jimmy Fallon which was to start at a particular time, but in actuality it was already on. They also have random times for the shows such as 11:02-12:20. And finally, a show will end, an advertisement will come on indicating what is coming on next, and then it will cut into another show. No sense at all I say.

In other news, I am homesick and really just want to sit down and have lunch with my work friends. That would make it seem like a normal day to me. It's odd to check my email and not have 50 million awaiting a response. No one calls, no one writes. It's quite different when you have spent so much time replying to emails and answering calls to having none of it. This probably sounds nice to some of those I use to work with. But my mind is numb from not being used.

Oddities and Things

To those who have traveled as part of the international immersion experiences, we always talk about getting out of your comfort zone and exploring other countries with an open mind. Normally, we spend time looking at both our own culture as well as the culture of the country we will be visiting to determined that might be considered "odd" or unusual.

For those of you familiar with the Nacirema exercise, you will remember that the culture that used "hogs hair" and moved it around their mouths in the great mouth ritual seemed like an odd culture and if I recall correctly, most of you responded with an "ewwww." You all were also quick to pass judgement when we used our student trip leaders in the Albatross simulation. How dare the men lead the way and sit on chairs while the women sat on the ground and fed the men. Who knew that in reality the Nacirema were the Americans using their toothbrushes everyday and the Albatross valued women above all else (they are the only ones pure enough to sit on the land, touch the food, and had to be led in the event that some tribe was out to get them...the men were after all expendable in that particular culture.)

So, let me reflect on the oddities that I have seen since arriving here. Granted, it is an English speaking country with seemingly similar culture aspects as us in the states. However, when viewed through my cultural lens I can tell you there are still a view things I find odd. 

1. Round abouts. I get what they are and I understand that they are supposed to help traffic flow, but whenever I approach one while I am driving I get sweaty palms. How will I know when to go, and what if I get STUCK? For those of you who travelled to Paris, you will recall the round about surround the Arc de Triomphe. We would watch the cars drive around and around and wonder why there were no accidents. I am not driving around those type of round abouts, but sure enough they seem that way regardless. 

2. Aussie Rules Football. Imagine my view. No helmets, no pads. Just men (who in all honesty look rather small and not too athletic) running around "hitting" a ball (I have no clue what you call this) and kicking, and tackling, and bleeding...I don't understand it and I have yet to find any passion for it. This Saturday the Sealey boys will begin their Aussie Rules lessons. Maybe they can teach me a thing or two. 

3. The word "ripper" was used this week to describe our new car. They did a "ripper" of a job on the dash (it has a small scratch as it was a executive car). I told the guy I would have to get use to that word. He told me in Oz it is a good thing. 

4. Tea and coffee are served every ten minutes. I am not complaining about this, but it is different. I am on board with this concept. 

5. House viewing. Seriously odd. We are looking for a rental currently. This past Saturday we drove to our first viewing. It was scheduled from 10:00-10:15 and everyone was invited. There were about 20 cars there and everyone proceeded through the very small home at the same time. Worse yet is the reality that you are competing with these people for the house. It has a certain Hunger Games feeling to it...as though you should stake your claim and fight to the death. More efficient for the realtors? Yes. But trampling through a house with 40 other strangers is odd. 

I could perhaps write a new Nacirema called Ailartsua for you all to use in class. Something certainly to consider. What simple things might you as students at Texas A&M be used to that these Aussies would find odd? Let me know. 

Dodge With A Blog Down Under: Rollin' With My Homies

Captain's Log 08062014

Today was a day of days in my life. Let me first start off by explaining that Rob is home. Praise be as I am now back to my usual number of walks per day. I think some have forgotten how important I am (I am looking at you Paul Sealey) and that I am the Captain of this mission. 

Normal day for me- I woke up. Explored the house. Did my business outside. The others left to go to the "pool" and the "gym"- but whatever. I am over that now. Because it is what followed that was so spectacular. 

After lunch, I was able to get into the large voyager that picked me up from that place a few weeks ago and brought me to the house I am calling home. But, it is where I sat that is so important. Little humans sat in the very back. Not me. I sat in the second row. YES. You read that right. This was followed by a spectacular ride in the vehicle, a great walk along a river filled with ducks and other odd birds, more walking, socializing with other dogs and a view sniffs along the way. It was overall a great experience. And then it got better. My pups in the homeland will understand me when I say that I was rollin' with my homies. I was able to PUT MY HEAD OUT THE WINDOW. Do you understand the words that I am typing? Hang my head out the window. Tongue out. Ears flapping in the wind. 

Best. Day. Ever. At least until tomorrow. 

Dodge out. 

Parlez-vous Texan?

This morning I had a very different experience at the gym. Many of you were interested in the experience I had last week at the gym. My lack of ability to make friends perhaps had you concerned.

This morning however was a bit different. While waiting to enter the studio, the instructor came around and took up our tickets for the class. She looked at me and said that she had not seen me before. And then...I spoke. She immediately asked me where I was from, to which the next girl came and sat down next to me and inquired the same thing. They asked what I was doing here and how long I anticipated staying. I let them know where I was living (Monty). One of the women inquired as to if I had children and if so, where they would be going to school. When I replied with "Monty South" she showed more excitement than I had seen out of any other Aussies. She too had gone to school there. This was followed by another women then proceeding to get involved in the conversation by asking me where I was from. Again, I replied "Texas"- she was shocked. She stated to me that she had just talked to her friend who is a teacher at Monty South who had indicated that she had been told she would have a new student from Texas joining her grade 1 class and that he evidently has "the cutest little accent." In fact, this particular teacher was in the gym at the same time.

This was far from the high school experience I had last week. And what made the experience even better was that as I walked into Body Pump I clearly knew where the equipment was located and had no problems getting set up. I was really pleased at the end of the class when the guy next to me told his girlfriend "well, at least we made the others in the class look good." Maybe I can blend in and look like an experienced local.

Yes if you ask nicely I will speak Texan for you. I might say "bless your heart" and might even ask "how y'all doin?" I did say "let me scoot this over" today but I have not said "I'm fixin to" in about 10 years (I think). But in the end, it's all just my way of engaging in conversation. Today, I am very appreciative to the women who were interested in who I was just by the fact that I was an unfamiliar face. That is true southern hospitality (I am farther south than I have ever been before).

Perhaps this old gal can make friends. Let's see what this week brings...

And for those of you who need a lesson in Texan- I can share a view things with you. I won't lie that before we moved over here that I asked Paul how I was to order a soda. We say "what kind of Coke do you have?" But for those of you who don't understand what I am asking here- I want to know what type of sodas you have. This could mean you reply with Coke, Diet Coke, Dr. Pepper, Diet Dr. Pepper, Sprite- but regardless I will order a Diet. Coke. Lesson of the day.

For more info on things Texans say visit:http://yestotexas.com/14-things-all-texans-have-said-at-least-once/

Thanks and Gig'Em!

Blame It On Texas

Students and staff at Texas A&M- this one is for you.

Each fall we had new students arrive on campus. We would find upperclassmen to help the students transition into the university. A mentor, an orientation counselor, a peer instructor...it occurred to me today that this idea could be beneficial to life in general.

Today I headed to Eltham Leisure Center to participate in a group fitness class (Body Pump for those of you who go to Gold's Gym). I sat there outside of the classroom wondering where the equipment in the room was (I would later find out it was hidden in closets). I asked one of the ladies sitting if she could let me know where it all was. Straight forward. She answered. Not really a conversation.

I walked into the class and got all of my equipment out and set up in the back of the classroom. I watched others in the class chat and talk about life; many of them knew one another and seemed to have play dates set up afterwards with their children. It was the first time I felt extremely lonely and homesick. I was sad that I had not a single familiar face or a friend. And then the realization hit me of the fact that I really don't have friends here outside of those I have through Paul (which are mostly the family and who have been helpful). I missed my friends back in Texas who would understand my lingo and understand my desire to chat like a proud Texan. The people in the class seemed to look at me oddly, as though we were back in high school and I was not at the cool kids table. My Adidas gear certainly fit in, but my Texas A&M sweatshirt did not. Regardless, when the music started I knew what would happen next because the Body Pump classes are standard across the world. So, at that point in time I had a bit of familiarity. It did not stop me however from considering the fact that what I was going through is very similar to what our university students go through each fall when they arrive as new fish on the campus. Scared, lonely, unfamiliar with the lingo and worried to say much for fear of offending someone. But then they get into their classes and clubs and start learning and hopefully meet one person who will help them along. Perhaps those who are still working at the university will take what I say into consideration and remember what a difference a friendly hello (or howdy) can make and just what one simple statement of "I can help you" means. I can personally tell the students and staff at Texas A&M that I would certainly appreciate a mentor, orientation counselor, DG leader, peer instructor, or tutor to help, but that is not how life works. I wonder if you all back at Texas A&M will feel bad for me and think about how I perhaps helped you find your way at some point. Don't. That is not why I wrote this. I can take care of myself and will figure things out. But I wanted to take time and reflect on this so that you all will know that I understand just how much the fish will fully appreciate your help and guidance when the fall semester comes around.

And by the way- after class I drove home. My arms and legs were sore but I was determined to do something to make me feel in control of my situation. One day, I intend to find a way to help others moving to this area become familiar with their surroundings.

Now- to those who will understand me when I say this:

Blame it on Texas.
Don't blame it on me.
I am what I am, and that's who I'm gonna be.
You can say what you want to say, about my insanity.
Blame it on Texas.
Don't blame it on me.
-Mark Chestnutt

Dodge With a Blog Down Under: Oh Where Has My Rob Gone

I whimper, I sigh, I wait.

Where has my Rob gone? New Zealand. Where is that and when does he come back?

I sleep.

I eat.

I poo.

I sleep some more.

I wait. For my Rob.

Come home Rob. I need you. My W-A-L-K-S have been lacking.

The Kookaburra laugh just doesn't make me smile when you are away.

The Lorikeets annoy me when you are not there to calm them while I do my business.

The treats are tasteless.

Food Provider and Baby Carrier come and go. Little humans jump on me.

I need my Rob.

Come home.

Dodge sadly out.

Old, But I'm Not That Old. Young, But I'm Not That Bold.

The transition over the last week has been an interesting one at least. As mentioned previously, we had set up bank accounts and phones first. We next had to take care of health insurance. This required completing a few forms, and then heading to the insurance office at the local mall. We handed the paperwork over along with copies of passports and birth certificates and just like that- we were covered.  It's a bit odd thinking that I have no job but have health insurance. Friday, Saturday, and Sunday consisted of normal weekend types of activities. Otherwise, I lose track of the days and have no idea what day of the week it actually is. We headed off to Healesville Sanctuary where we were able to get close to kangaroos and wallabies and enjoyed a relaxing day strolling through the sanctuary which certainly does not feel like a zoo.

By Monday morning it was time to get back to work on the next steps for us to getting settled. First, we headed to the closest leisure center (gym) to join. This was followed by a trip to the realtor to find out about a few of the local rentals. I am happy to report that we have an "inspection" set up for this Saturday for a rental property with a large yard that welcomes dogs.

Later on Monday we headed back to the gym where Paul got a workout in and I attended a group fitness class. The boys swam with their grandmother and in all, we came out refreshed and exhausted.

Transitions have required baby steps and in some ways resemble a check list of items to take care of each day. The changes make me feel old and young all of the same time. Like a kid that is not sure what to do next and then an adult who is proud of accomplishing something during the day.

I have also made several observations over the past few days. Americans are called arrogant, self centered, and loud. I hate to break this news to the world,  but I think you find arrogant, self centered, and loud people every where you go to some extent. Perhaps the Europeans are not loud, but every country does have proud citizens (perhaps leading others to believe they are arrogant and self-centered). The Aussies seem to be more like the Americans than the Europeans for the most part, outside of tea time. They are quite keen to purchase things made in Australia to support the locals and the economy here. It makes sense and reminds me of the "Made in America" campaign. They are very proud of their country and want to support it as much as they can.

I don't feel the need to quiet my voice here as I do in Europe. No one gives me dirty looks for speaking as we normally do in Texas (unless I shout out "howdy!")

In all, I would say that the Aussies are the more fun version of the British and maybe even the Americans (not as competitive as bigger is not always better). Not as stuck up (a perception of the British but probably not a reality), easy going, and happy to have the royals for the soul purpose of having the Queen's birthday off as a holiday. They seem to have a more youthful approach to life, enjoying it to the fullest and taking it easy.