Sunday, October 19, 2008

happy days in byron bay

Some of the things that are big in my life right now:

1. It hailed the other day. As you can see from the following photo, it literally hailed golf balls. And this photo was taking several hours after the storm hit. Two of my roommates cars were severely damaged, along with 75% of the residents of Byron Bay. Reportedly, there were tennis ball size hail drops (if thats what you would call them) near my parents house in Coff's Harbour.

2. I have just started to become involved in a bit of volunteer work (only in the beginning stages, I hope it leads to some work in an orphanage in Kenya) for an association called African l.e.a.f., which is an amazing association that sponsors orphaned children in Kenya. An Afro-cuban band calle Chukale came out and played at a local venue while my friends and I sold raffle tickets. The band played for free, but we cornered everyone as they walked through the door so that they would donate $2 to the cause. We all snuck away from the raffle ticketing and got our fill of afrocuban dancing. Here we are showing off the fantastic prizes.



3. Mr. T himself has become the security guard at my house. Do I really need a fourth male roommate to watch over me? So I guess you don't need to worry about me, I am safe. I pity the fool who tries to get past a man geared up with snickers bars. 4. My good friend Robyn turned 34. I loved celebrating her day. Lots of good laughs. The day began by paddling out into shark infested waters (complete with a visit from the surf rescue boat and a search helicopter warning us of the sighting of two large sharks), walking into a field of bindies (thorn like blades of grass that can bring you to tears), and many other ridiculous things kept me entertained.
I just have to point out how much concentration has been put into racking up the pool balls. Can anyone pick up what is wrong with this picture. No, it has nothing to do with Robyn trying to distract Fiona.
We must get them just right since we don't have a triangle to help us out.
Even Robyn has stopped mucking around to help Fiona organise the pool balls. This all took about five minutes to complete (which explains why there are so many pictures showing the evidence, classic). Maybe you missed it too...The triangle is facing the wrong direction.

I made the mistake of telling the girls that, as a kid, our living room didn't have a couch, but a pool table. Here I am showing off the technique that was perfected in a couchless living room. Thanks dad.








When i grow up...

Last week I borrowed my friends camera and set off to unleash (or simply find) my creative side. I have been pretty busy with my student teaching, so the following photos are a result of my 15 minutes of creativity (and are all taken at my house). As hard as it is for me to sit still, I am really thinking about reading a book on photography. I am open to any suggestions that anyone has, since I have come to realize that 99% of the people I know are brilliant artists, photographers, musicians, etc. Hope this message finds you happy and well!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!







Friday, October 10, 2008

Getting ready for thanksgiving

The sunrise yesterday morning at my favorite surf spot.  No waves, but absolutely breathtaking skyline.




This morning out in front of my house.  Again, no waves, but a beautiful sky.



My house in Byron bay.  See the plumeria trees?! Can't wait for the flowers (You know you are getting old when you are anticipating flowers blossoming).





Some friends from school (lismore, which is an hour from my house) came to Byron bay for a fun evening out on the town.  I was the grandmother as always, checking out before midnight.  But I did have a few drinks, I have provided evidence (below) just for those of you that don't believe me:)  


It's almost turkey time, I have had my eye on this wild turkey.  You might see some photos of me chasing it soon.