Luther in Aussie-land

Over the past couple days I've been having some grand adventures, especially those involving public transportation. I've certainly used public transportation when I visited other countries. However I was never by myself, so this was a very new experience for me! Luckily I had some great help from my host mom and most Aussies are so helpful if you just ask.

When I first decided to come to Australia, I wanted to make sure I found a home congregation while I was here. Within the first few days of searching, I found St. John's in Northbridge (a part of Perth) and thanks to the help of one of my pastors, the church knew I would be arriving within the next few months. It was an interesting experience trying to find St. John's on Sunday morning. I had to take one bus for about 30min into the city. I then I had to walk about 20min to get to the church since the free bus transport doesn't run until later in the morning. Lucky me! Although, I did get some good exercise with those hills. :)

St. John's is a quaint little church. It only houses about 30 pews max with a very small balcony. The congregation is so friendly and very welcoming. I have already been introduced to probably over half of the congregation and was even offered a ride home within minutes of arriving. I also have been invited to join the praise band and also attend the "Bandie Barbecue" in a couple weeks. I'm already starting to feel quite at home. A few members of the band have already exchanged phone numbers with me and are willing to show me around Perth this week. I'm very excited to be able to get out of the house for a while! :)

After a restful few days of getting acquainted with the time difference and Australian life, I started my first real day as an au pair. I'm sure today was one of the easier days I will be having, but I'm excited for the upcoming year. My kiddos are wonderful and I love that they are already giving me hugs and telling me they love me! :)

It's been a long day and as I think about it now, I can't believe I've already been gone for a week! It feels like I was just in the snow and cold yesterday. I'm sure that day when I'm back in the cold will come soon enough, but I'm very happy that I have been given this opportunity even if it is just for year. :)

The sky is clear and the moon is shining bright. That is definitely my cue to head to bed for some very restful sleep. Until next time - I miss you, my American friends and family!


~A