They charge for WHAT!?

So someone asked me yesterday if I missed home.  I said not really…but let me clarify.  I do miss my friends and family but I don’t really miss the place.  Yes I love the familiarity and the food, but there’s so much more to experience that’s new and exciting.  But the one thing I did mention was the PRICES!!!  Boy do I miss prices!!  My jaw drops every single time I go out and have to pay for a drink, meal, or even a soda at a neighbourhood 7-Eleven.  It is one thing to pay for an overpriced meal because lets face it, Australia is on the other side of the world and importing goods is just plain expensive and full of tacked on taxes, but it’s another thing to have to pay for condiments.  Say WHAT!?  Yes!!  It’s one of the first things I noticed here when I arrived and tried to get lunch…besides the gorgeous country of course.  I was buying fish and chips, but saw a price sign for tartar sauce and ketchup!?  I can only imagine what this would do to the American people and balance of order if we started charging for ketchup, mayo, or any other condiment we get for free at the fast food restaurants that seem to overtake our daily consumption of calories.  And I know even though you’re a health freak you can’t resist the powerful cravings to have that double bacon cheese burger from Wendy’s or Mickey D’s or if you’re on the West Coast its at an In and Out Burger or Carl’s Jr.  Before you even take a bite out of the burger, most of us add a little extra ketchup and perhaps mayo.  Then you’ve got fries or chicken nuggets to consider…ketchup, BBQ sauce, or the delicious Chick-fil-a Sauce.  Or if you’re not a fan of fast food, but LOVE sushi…what about the soy sauce and the wasabi.  Can you imagine if American’s were charged $.50 or as high as $2.00 for a small container of ketchup or pack of sauce!?   We grab these by the handful without even considering how much they cost.  They’re simply free and take how ever much we want.  I think if the fast food chains of America started charging, 1. The people would either flip out or 2. They would out right stop consuming the condiments. Wonder what our bellies would look like after that trend, eh?  All I know is that my tummy and wallet thanks me for not dishing out the $2 for a bit of ketchup.

Lose Your Inhibition

           It's been a crazy few days perhaps even weeks.  I just moved into a new place and no internet is provided so this is late as usual.  But the other week I went to the evening Victoria Market that happens every Wednesday.  During the day it's just a normal food market filled with the freshest produce this area has to offer, but by night the locals swarm to this market buzzing to check out the live music and the numerous food stands that serve tasty treats throughout the night.  The first time I went I had the opportunity to taste croc, emu and roo and I'll never forget how surprised I was at how tasty those were despite one's first impression.  I also can't forget the cool little craft stands that surround the large market.  From the handmade jewelry, sunny's, eclectic collection of clothing and fudge slices that are just to die for...you could not ask for a more energetic and entertaining evening with your mates. The best part...entrance and entertainment is all FREE!

              As my friend Elaine and I made our way through the hectic crowds, grabbing delicious wraps and a large cup of fresh crisp sangria, we arrived at one of the stages and watched little kids breaking it down.  And if you didn't catch the lingo, "breaking it down" basically means they were on the dance floor and busting the best moves they could.  They were giving the audience quite a laugh with their moves.  The crowd rooted them on and went wild as each of the kids tried to top each other to get approval from the crowd.  You'd think these kids would be older but many were very much under the age of 10.  Some were probably as young as 3 or 4.  An older man in his 60's or 70's even joined them to bust out his own moves.  This moment was priceless!

              I would have to give them mad respect for their confidence to do what they did in front of that many people.  It reminded me of how great it was to be a kid.  To lose all inhibition of your surroundings and just let loose!  I think a lot of people need to let loose more often.  We get so caught up in our work and drama that we forget to have fun sometimes.  You become overwhelmed with this feeling of freedom and peace when you let loose.  And if you think about it...how many of these random people in the crowd (market, bar, or concert) will you run into again!?  Not likely.  So I say kick off your shoes and let the kid inside of you take over...even if it's just for a moment.

Video coming soon :)
 

Highlight of the day

Apparently I can't keep up with this blog because it's just too much effort to catch up on everything I've been doing these past few months.  I've traveled up and down the coast of Australia as well as part of the west coast.  I've even traveled to New Zealand.  That's a lot of stories, experiences, etc.  I find it easier to post how I'm feeling on Facebook than a blog.  So instead of trying to catch up with the stories and adventures I've had, perhaps I shall try to update every few days with a quick highlight of my day.  It's quick, easy and will probably suite my lifestyle since I work 8+ hours everyday.  I'll also try to post a photo with the daily happenings.  Keep your eyes peeled for tomorrow's happenings :)

P.S. Much love and blessings to all of you that have been following me along the way. I appreciate all the prayers, love and support.