As I look back at the past few months, it's been a complete whirl wind of events....moving back to the states, beginning classes at Concordia, coping with loss and immense change, creating new friendships and losing old ones, and meeting a spectacular guy. Some days I really wonder how I got to this point, but I'm so thankful for all that has happened and the experiences I have had. But mostly, I am content with where my life has landed at this point and I'm excited for the next chapter...and so, after a crazy few months, my summer back in Wisconsin begins and it's shaping up to be quite the adventure! Bring on the beer, brats, and baseball...but mostly baking. :)
Gluten Free Oreos
With summer class in full swing (by that I mean I only have a week and a half left of a 3 week independent study) and working at a childcare, I am certainly keeping busy. However, once this class is finished, my baking and other various cooking projects for the summer will be up and running. I've already made a few goodies as test batches and I'm sure there will be plenty more. I think I'm going to have to start recruiting a few taste testers to make sure these items are acceptable for the public arena. *Experience required*
Currently, I've been experimenting with some new bread recipes and locally sourced ingredients. I'm particularly excited for the start of farmers market season and the numerous possibilities of fresh produce. :) My passion for food (especially locally grown and produced ingredients) has been reignited thanks to a very special guy. Be sure to keep an eye out for his up and coming website on reeducating urban America on the importance of knowing where our food comes from!
Nutella Cinnamon Rolls
So back to the baking...any requests for treats this summer? I'm planning some big things for canning soups and veggies for the fall. Should be a good time trying out some new recipes and utilizing some of my old culinary texts. As I page through my Australia pictures, I'm eager to get back to using fresh, summer ingredients and use all of those bright flavors that garden produce has to offer. I've certainly missed the flavor combinations of the coastal cuisine in Perth. I've particularly been missing the tropical tastes of mango and passionfruit. Fortunately I am able to find some decent mangoes already, but I'm still in search of passionfruit pulp as it is not the season for fresh passionfruit quite yet. Getting back to the kitchen was a much needed release for me and I hope to keep it up! This week's baking included gluten free Oreos, Nutella inspired cinnamon rolls, and cheesy jalepeno herb bread. Let the experimenting begin!
~A
P.S. You can submit applications for taste testing at anytime. :)
After a two month break of trying to figure out what to write, I figured it was time to just start writing and see what my hands had to say.
Returning home has been quite the adventure. Between classes, homework, work, and attempting to get a decent amount of sleep, my life has become a blur - a very busy but happy blur. In amongst the craziness, I've managed to reconnect with old friends and make some new ones. I have also started up all my music again - french horn, piano, and handbells. My cheeks, fingers, and arms are all sore, but I'm loving being back in the music!
I thought I would be coming home to frozen tundra with icicles in the trees and snow all around, but I could not have been more wrong! The ground may still be brown and the trees aren't full of leaves, but the sun has been shining and the air has been so mild. In the last two months, I have seen no more than a handful of days with snow. The temperatures have actually been tolerable to the point where I only where hoodies outside. Now the spring weather is upon us with warm breezes, buds on the trees, and birds singing through the clear air. What a wonderful time of year!
A few weeks ago I had been looking forward to a little breather during my Spring Break. I had set up an opportunity with my cousin in South Dakota to knock out some of my needed in-class observation hours for my education classes. But more than anything I was so excited about being able to see my Grandpa again after over a year and a half. I was so lucky to be able to Skype with him while I was away in Australia, but I was thrilled at the thought of being able to see him in person again. Unfortunately, a week and a half before our planned visit to the Black Hills, my Grandfather lost his fight and passed away from complications with pneumonia.
My Grandfather was such a phenomenal man and inspiration to so many. He has been a blessing to countless lives and a Christian witness to numerous others. Throughout the years, my grandfather supported and encouraged each of his children and grandchildren in anything they decided to do. Music has been a constant in my life from birth because of my Grandpa. He encouraged my mother with her music and even bought her a piano when she was young. In the months before I was born, my Grandpa purchased a set of handbells just so my mom could have something to do at church. It's amazing how much those little things have influenced the outcome of my life. He will certainly be missed and remembered always. If you care to read his obituary or sign the guestbook, I've attached the link here. Click on "Archives" and locate "Erwin Kirschenmann." The weekend was filled with many emotions, but it was a spectacular celebration of my Grandpa's life. Music, pictures, stories, and countless memories enveloped the whole of the weekend. In addition to celebrating his life as a wonderful Father, Grandfather, and Papa Great, he was honored for his service as a Marine in WWII with a 21 Gun Salute at the burial grounds. What an experience and honor!
Though I may not have been able to see him one more time, I do have hope that I will see him again in heaven. I know he's in the place where he most wanted to be and with whom he most wanted to see again - my Grandma. What a spectacular life, what a phenomenal man! Love you and miss you, Grandpa!
I guess it's a good thing I'm getting back into the swing of things, but did that really have to include classes and homework?! In a way I'm looking forward to classes because it means I'm one step closer to finally finishing my degree and moving on. It also means that once I finish uni I am free to move back to Australia (which has certainly not left my mind, nor will it for a very long time, if at all!). However, how fun can uni be once you've left for a year and a half? I suppose we will find out. :-P
In amongst the flurry of moving back and readjusting to the states, I've managed to reorganize my room completely and I got rid of over seven full garbage bags of clothing, donations, and rubbish. It feels good to have a clean and organized room. That's one less thing to keep me from doing homework! I've also made the effort to catch up with friends and spend time with family. My family has been pretty awesome since I got back, especially since they saved a Christmas celebration specifically for me. :) The weekend was filled with fun with the family including a symphony concert. Carmina Burana was fabulous!
My week has been beyond busy without many moments to stop and relax. However, that's not necessarily a bad thing. Busy is certainly what I need right now, but I'm sure tired as well! My hectic schedule has helped keep me distracted from missing what I left behind in Australia, but I certainly cannot outrun those feelings forever. They eventually caught up with me this week. It's not been easy leaving such a great place, but I have a goal to return and as long as that goal remains, I will continue pushing myself to finish school and save, save, save!
Now it's back to reading for class tomorrow. In some strange way, it feels good to be a student again. :) Much love!
After a year of sun and sand, I've returned to the land of frozen tundra. Though I may now be frozen to the core, it's good to be back. Seeing family and friends is something I've been looking forward to all year.
But it's not like going to the beach!
I had quite the trek back to the states with my total travel time equaling well over 24 hours. You'd think I'd be extremely tired after one layover, two flights, multiple time changes, and a general lack of sleep, but after stepping off that plane in Chicago, the adrenaline was pumping. Lots of emotions were seeping out, but the one that shown brightly was excitement. I didn't realize the pace I took walking off the plane, but I made it down to baggage claim in no time flat. I saw my parents and I thought they saw me, but I soon came to find out, they didn't even recognize me! Although, I suppose with a bit of a changed hairstyle and new clothes that's to be expected. To say the least, I was quite amused that they didn't recognize me. :)
Remy <3
After some hugs, a hot latte, and putting on my new uggs, it was time to hit the road for the last leg of my journey home. Wow! I was not ready for the cold and apparently it wasn't even that cold. My blood sure had thinned over the last year! =P That last hour back to Milwaukee seemed like an eternity, but we finally made it and I was eagerly greeted at the door by my little darling, Remy. He was so excited to see me and snuggled up to me as soon as I was in the door. Sure does feel good to be loved!
Sleep didn't come soon enough and morning came all too soon. But I had some great motivation to get me out of bed - a visit with my niece and nephew! Storytime was calling and I was not about to miss that call! I was a bit tired, but I eagerly awaited the arrival of my two favorite kiddos. Sophie didn't know who I was (to be expected) and Andrew just seemed very confused by the whole thing, but I at least got a hug out of him. After a little while I asked Andrew if I was supposed to be on a computer screen instead of sitting next him. He looked at me with those big eyes and simply nodded "yes." =P Luckily he got over the confusion and we were soon playing trains and reading books like the good old days. :)
Winter Wonderland
Not only was I greeted by family and friends today, but another visitor came to call. I didn't want to answer for this particular visitor, but I obviously had no choice. As expected, my dear friend, snow, came for a visit today and has decided to stay for a while. The snow is pretty, but I'm not ready to be in a winter wonderland again. I better adjust quickly! =P
What a mess!
My room is now in shambles from my bags exploding all over the place. So the coming days will be filled with unpacking and organizing. I'll also catch up with old friends and of course, I will be getting heaps of sleep! It's still a bit surreal being home and realizing my year down under has come to end, but that just means I have another whole year of adventures ahead of me! :)
Whatever it may be, today still marks the end of a spectacular year spent exploring, adventuring, and enjoying such a beautiful country. This year has been filled with ups and downs, mostly laughter and smiles, and regaining a focus on my life. Before I left for Australia, I was stressed and torn about what to do with my life. Thanks to the outpouring hospitality of this country and the love and support of new found friends, I now have a better focus and have come to accept that it's okay not to know what's ahead and to always remember to enjoy the ride. "No worries, mate. She'll be right."
See you later!
I've met some pretty amazing people this year that made it that much more exciting and fun to be spending a year abroad. I certainly hope these friendships will continue throughout the years regardless of where in the world we each might be. Thank you to all who made this a fabulous year away. I will certainly never forget the role each of you played in my life. No matter how big or small that role was, each was just as important and meaningful as the next. Special thanks to:
The Kirby family for letting me be part of your family for the year.
St. John's Lutheran Church for so warmly welcoming me into the fold.
My PYWC girls for such a spectacular year of music and new friendships.
All my dear friends I've met along the way - Brad, Karen, Caitlin E., Katina, Maya, Camilla, Karina, Exi, Lovena, Emma, Josh, Pete, Andre, Greg, Pam, Armi, Lara, Caitlin B., Alinta, Thea, Louisa, Caitlin A., Ellie, Kate, Jane, and anyone I may have forgotten.
And I mustn't forget all the people I've met on my travels to Kuala Lumpur, Melbourne, and Sydney.
Let's see what this new year brings as I put this new love of life and focus to the test! Bring it on! I'll see you soon USA. You ready for me?! :)
Leaving Perth was certainly not an easy task. Between packing, selling my car, flight arrangements, and final goodbyes all the while still trying to enjoy my last week proved to be quite the challenge, but it all ended quite well and I wouldn't have changed it for anything. The week was a bit tearful on my part as I said goodbye to friends made throughout the year. However, I kept a smile on and made the best of the bittersweet time. After a wonderful last week in sunny Perth, I made my way to the east coast to suss out Sydney before I head back to the states.
I was fortunate enough to have my good friend, Caitlin, living in Sydney so I was set for accommodation during my short stay. Unfortunately, due to her work schedule, we were only able to spend a portion of my stay together. Although that did not stop me from venturing out and exploring Sydney on my own!
Harbour Bridge
Sunday I found myself wandering around the city on a 3 hour walking tour. The tour was phenomenal and what was even better was that it was free! :) On our little trek we managed to hit almost every single Sydney icon (that was within walking distance of course!). The journey began at Town Hall which is now primarily used as a concert hall. We continued down George St. - the main street of the city- and explored Pitt Street Mall and then continued on to Hyde Park, the "Rum" Hospital, and the Sydney Tower. We eventually found ourselves at Circular Quay - the main water hub for Sydney. The tour took us through The Rocks (the oldest part of Sydney) and finally to the Harbour Bridge and Opera House. What a sight! Both are absolutely spectacular, but I must say that after walking through Sydney, I still much prefer Perth and Melbourne. Although, I might be a little biased. :) My day finished out with a lovely dinner at a tiny Thai restaurant with Caitlin. It was certainly great to catch up with her after so many months!
Chilling with my new friends :)
Blue Mountains
A tour to the Blue Mountains was on the docket for Monday and they were absolutely breathtaking. The day was perfect for the trip - sunny, blue skies, and 27C! Beautiful! The journey to the Blue Mountains from Sydney takes about 2 hours, but to help break up the time a bit, the tour stopped at Featherdale Animal Park where I got to feed kangaroos and pet a koala. Along the journey, we also stopped to learn how to throw boomerangs! We finally made it to Wentworth Falls after a short stop in Leura for lunch. After exploring for a bit, it was on to the Three Sisters and Kitoomba Falls where we were taken on 2 cable cars and the steepest railway incline in the world - 52 degrees! I made friends with a Welsh couple on the tour and we explored the rainforest around Kitoomba Falls. The tour's last stop before hopping on a ferry was to the Olympic Park at Homebush. Unfortunately this was just a quick stop, but I still managed to find something interesting under the Olympic Flame. All of the medalist from the 2000 Olympics each have name plates below the sculpture and I found my host dad's plate. :) The ferry ride back to Circular Quay gave way to some spectacular views of the Harbour Bridge and Opera House as well as different views of the city. After a long 10 hour day touring around it was time for a pint and some grub while chatting with Caitlin. We reminisced about Perth and the time we shared there. I even managed to make her laugh so hard she cried. =P
Bondi with Caitlin
For my last full day in Australia, there was no better choice than to hit the beach! Caitlin and I spent the better part of the day soaking up the sun and splashing in the waves. I somehow even managed to get burned! The plane ride won't be quite as enjoyable now. =P After a fun day of sun, surf, and bubble tea, it was time to say goodbye to Caitlin. Certainly not a fun task, but we have great memories! :)
Now I must finish up some last minute packing and head off before my big day of travel begins! Much love!
What better way to end 2011 than attending the Perth Cup with my favorite guy and rocking a gorgeous dress my friend made for me. :) It was a fabulous New Year’s Eve and probably the most unique I’ve had by far. The races are an all-day event with nine races in total. Punting (or betting) is a very big part of the day and I even played my part and made a few bets. Obviously I had no idea what I was doing, but it was still good fun getting in on the action and even making a few dollars on the Perth Cup with my horse placing 2nd.
Perth Cup
The ebb and flow of the event was quite fun to watch. As betting closed for the race, everyone would make their way to the course to get a good view of the race. As soon as the race finished, a sea of people flooded back to shade, booze, and more punting. With each race, the grounds became more saturated with people and the enthusiasm during each race was incredible. Everyone was cheering and pushing for their horse to win.
The year ended with a quiet night in with my guy watching movies and enjoying the Sydney fireworks on tv. I couldn't have asked for a better day. :)
Hopman Cup
Caroline Wozniacki
I finished out my time in Perth by catching up with friends, venturing to the beach a couple more times, and attending the Hopman Cup. This was the first time I've ever seen tennis live and I had a blast (even though the US lost)! This was probably the best atmosphere to learn about the game of tennis. It was relaxed, casual, and so fun and now I actually understand the game for once! I even started getting into the game a bit and cheered for the players, but I ended up frightening the lady in front of me because of how loud I was. Oops! Needless to say it was a great time and I'll certainly be keeping a close eye on the Australian Open in the next couple of weeks. :)
