i gEt LosT tO fiNd mYseLF...: February 2012

Some may look at it as I had TWO options: I could Sink or I could Swim. And I'll be honest at first that is how I viewed it, but I then remembered "Everything Happens for a Reason." This "happening" definitely assists in keeping my head above water, in addition to an opportunity I have been given that I never would have (most likely) done while I was here.

Most are probably wondering what I am talking about. Without going into too much detail- The company I came over here to work for is a company that employs based on the contracts it has made for the year. Unfortunately, the type of contract I need to be written is one after a Natural Disaster has hit and insurance companies need to further outsource "resources". Not in a Million Years would I wish for such a thing to happen to anyone- so I have chosen to be patient with my company and wait. I feel as if it would be a good experience at the end of the day, and I honestly respect the company for how they are handling "My" Situation.

In the meantime, I will technically not be employed. No, I do not have a timeline of when I think I will start working, but I can promise you I'm fine monetarily AND I am just going to enjoy this ride. And yes, of course I could sit here and talk some one's head-off with complaints, but to be honest that seems like a waste of time. I would rather put my feet in the sand and run into the Pacific Ocean- need I remind you, I am LIVING IN AUSTRALIA! I am really, really happy right now.

So what is my opportunity? What do I get to do and see that originally I really had not planned on, unless it was a layover I booked. I'm jumping ship and heading to New Zealand. I leave February 18th aka NEXT Saturday! This is BY FAR the most spontaneous thing I have ever done and It Is Exhilarating. For now I have it booked to stay until March 9th since NZ requires a return-ticket back to Australia for you to step foot in. I have a trip planned to the Great Barrier Reef with two friends from the states. I know, I know I live a rough life- but I learned at a very young age, it is what YOU make it. Side Note slash Fun Fact- Twenty-seven NZ's fit into Australia. In addition, instead of being 16hrs ahead I will now be 19hrs! I may stay in NZ for up to two months- we shall see and I will definitely keep you updated. Another added bonus- when I do start work, I will have a better understanding of the Kiwi Culture and maybe see some of the earthquake's impacts first-hand. For those who are unaware, New Zealanders are referred to as Kiwi's and according to Wikipedia "it is because the name derives from the kiwi, a flightless bird, which is native to, and the national symbol of, New Zealand"; it is Not considered Offensive.

This is the Front Yard of where I will be in NZ!

Looks like complete Serenity.

Lately, I have felt really blessed and extremely thankful. I have some of the coolest or as Jacinta would say frothiest friends in Brisbane. They all seem to love adventures as much as I do and are always positive. I find it refreshing how active Aussies are, not sitting in front of the TV only to watch games on EVERY weekend off but rather doing something: going to the beach, or as simple as walking instead of driving to the grocery store, or reaching out to a stranger in need. EX: I saw on the bus a little girl no more than 2 trying to sing her ABC's and a young gentleman (not with the family and completely harmless) started singing with her to help her get past "g". One of the sweetest things I've ever seen a stranger do. But then again, it is so much safer here (don't worry still have my wits about me) Once again, I am going to challenge you to do something. TiVo "your" game and go out and do something.

But Kristin, its snowing here or it is toooo cold to do anything outside. So?? Go to a local gym and take a couple laps and watch a community basketball game to get your "sport fix in" while being Active ORRRR Better Yet there is a place in the city called Bottle&Bottega where you and a group of friends are taught how to paint a specific picture. And guys, no excuses about paintings- a majority of the Most Well-Known Painters were males... Go do something. Add that to your bucket list and then check it off!

http://bottleandbottega.com/

No, I do not know the owner's

OR own stock in this business...

I probably should have written a Blog sooner, but I have been a bit distracted figuring out some of the next steps in my life. I have seen much more of the BrisVegas area.

Went to the Gold Coast for a proper Aussie BBQ

Hiked around Toohey Forest looking for Wild Koala Bears

Become a Member AND Explored Lone Pine Koala Sanctuary (was not wearing the right outfit to hold a Koala BUT as a Member I get extra copies of my Koala-time pictures Free :) - I know what you are thinking... Smart Girl!)

May have Trespassed to find a Hidden Gem of Brisbane- Old Carindale Quarry. And this my friends, is the EXACT reason I love to live in another culture and NOT be just a tourist. I get to see things and do things I never would have otherwised experienced.