Here we go!

I figured it is about time I start writing my own stuff again, rather than lazily linking to Daves blog.

So, Dave left last Sunday & to be honest I felt a little down after - we had a cool time together & it was good to hang out with a close friend again, with some 'history' & shared stories to laugh at: we remembered lots of good times from LA & tennyson, often involving Nath... so it was sad to say bye.

While he was here we saw some of Perth, headed down south to a famous wine & surf region (not always the most successful mix!), hired scooters to explore - not quite Tom Cruise in Top Gun, but still very manly I can assure you, watched a few movies, played some tennis, & ate Aussie style... it was cool to be a bit more 'touristy' as I have been plugged into the uni life & settling in since arriving.

Coincedentally, Dave timed his visit to Perth with that of Don Carson, a Christian theologian who's books and talks I have found well helpful. So, we heard a few talks that he gave - very challenging and thought provoking. He spoke at the Perth Mens Convention - a quality day, & very cool to hear 600 men sing in full voice (Dave is convinced it makes men sing lower so we can sound 'ultra manly' when no women are about!).

This week was a study break - a week off from my usually very strenuous 9 hours of contact a week. I was planning to go away again but after consultation with Westpac Bank thought better of it. I have essay deadlines looming anyway so it has been a good chance to get on top of the work (a bit!), & hang out in Perth. So, I have been to the beach a few times as the early summer sun is becoming a more regular feature, also been surfing, & played golf too. Anyone who has seen my golf skills will know they are somewhat lacking, but I did manage to score a hit on a duck on the 9th green in front of the club house... & from the tee! Don't worry about reporting it to the RSPCA - it's still alive. It has also been a good chance to hang out with some people that I am getting to know, and try to build stronger friendships... very appreciated.

From the sounds of it, everyone is moving out of that summer vibe & into the September 'new year' style life back home. Lots of friends are beginning exciting new phases in student work, church work, new jobs, back to/starting uni, new school years & all the rest. Summer 2006 is gone! For me I guess this emphasises that I am not here for a short summer trip but am settling here semi-permanently. This is a very cool thing, but also has some challenges...I have left some very special people back home in the UK.

OK, so I decided that due to a few requests I would leave you with a few photo's, but due to my inept computer skills I have only been able to upload this one... & spent an hour at it! So, this will have to do for now. But, I can assure you - I look almost the same as I did a few months ago! Thanks for reading. Jxx

The surf wagon that stealthily takes Eugene & I to our sporadic adventures. We listen to (& sing along to!) country music & old style rock n roll en route. Perfect!