No Shrimp on the Barbie Here

That's right friends, this phrase "let's put shrimp on the barbie" is entirely incorrect. I learned today that Australians do not refer to our little crustacean friends as shrimp but rather prawns. I always think of prawns as being the really big shrimp or "jumbo shrimp," if you will. However, to our Australian brethren that is not the case. Shrimp to them are the very small ones used for salads and such. Well whatever the case, I love the little buggers and they made for a great dinner.

I'm learning some great colloquialisms while I'm here. I've listed a few new ones below.

U.S.                         Australia
Swimming suit           Bather
Underwear               Knickers
"have a turn"             "have a go"
"good for you"           "good on ya"
Diapers                     Nappies
Tough guy                 Yobo
"take a nap"              "have a sleep"
Gum                         Chewing gum or minty
Breakfast                  Brekky
Afternoon                  Arvo

As you all can probably tell, I'm having a great time in Perth even though I've only been here for a few days. The family is absolutely great and I could not have asked for a better family to work with. They've been so helpful in getting me adjusted to the time difference and the slight differences in Australian life.

I had quite the day. It was so very different from a typical day in the Midwest. I woke up and was greeted with an offer to go to the beach and of course I said "yes." I lathered on the sunscreen and off we went. The weather was gorgeous and the water was a little cold at first, but it definitely warmed up. I had a fun time jumping through waves with Sahmara after I got used to being in the ocean again. Unfortunately I had to get bowled over by a huge wave to get me back into the swing of things. :)

After returning from the beach, I made my way to the river. It was quite a lovely bike ride! I certainly think I will be making that ride a regular occurrence for me. I found a nice perch by the beach and read for a little while and had a nice chat with my mom. It was great to hear her voice. :) I had a yummy roasted veg and goat cheese panini with apple & guava juice for a little snack.

Later in the afternoon I went to Little Creatures Brewery in Fremantle with the family. I met two of their friends and we enjoyed some good beers before dinner. For dinner we had chips (french fries) and a completely gluten free meal of nachos, prosciutto wrapped prawns, and chicken. Very yummy! We walked along the pier for a bit and had some gelato.

After a long day out in the sun, it's time for a little sleep. It was a great day but certainly very tiring. I did get sunburned today, however it's not as bad as I thought it would be. Sunscreen is an amazing thing! :)

Now it's time to decide if I want to make it to church tomorrow or try watching the Packer game. Oh the choices! :)


~A