Landing in the Land of Oz

Dear friends, family and others who may have inadvertently found themselves a victim of this email list,

I have just relived my life as a fetus, only this time it was not in the comfort of my mother’s womb, but as a contortionist attempting to curl my frame into a ball the size of an airplane cushion. I found myself regretting that I had not begun my yoga classes again prior to my 14-hour journey across the Pacific Ocean, from LA to the enchanted land of Oz. It shouldn’t have been this way, you know, for when I boarded the gigantic bird, I had a row all to myself. Ecstatic at the thought of stretching out and catching a few winks, I sat, sullenly staring as other passengers boarded, daring them to attempt to sit in MY row. The piercing gaze and set jaw worked wonderfully – that is until a voice from behind with a delightful accent said, “Ma’am, may I share this row with you?” What could I say? I graciously nodded as I bitterly envisioned the leg cramps and stiff neck that were to follow as a result. Fortunately, I learned that I possess the ability to sleep with one leg wrapped around my neck, the other around an armrest.

For those of you who don’t know, I am backpacking around Australia for two weeks with my younger brother who is studying in Adelaide, South Australia. We met up in Sydney this morning and have had quite a full day, including a hike to the famous Bondi beach. The afternoon highlight was a game of “Aussie rules” – a game which I will never understand. It seemed to consist of 18 men running around a field, kicking or throwing a ball to no one in particular, tackling each other whenever they pleased and trying to kick a ball between two white posts. I think it was a combination of basketball, rugby and football all rolled into one. I chose to clap when those around me clapped in an effort to blend in as much as possible. I don’t think I succeeded. :)

Tomorrow we’ll spend the day in Sydney, playing tourist before we catch a night bus to Melbourne. I’ll keep you posted as our adventures unfold, but must say goodbye for now as my inner clock is about to shut down.

Cheers!

Mel