Mardi Gras and Other Things

I have had lots to do since my last post! After 2 weeks of school, classes are going well but I am still trying to get back into the study habit. I continue to meet a lot of great people and learn more about Australian culture. Last weekend, I went with one of my Aussie friends to her house near Sydney and met a lot of her friends. Saturday, there was a huge Gay Pride parade and Mardi Gras celebration in the city, so I met up with my good friend Melissa and a few of her new friends for the celebration. The city was very busy and there was a lot going on, including a market and the crazy parade. Through the crowd, we could see the floats and a lot of scantily clad bodies. Although, you didn't have to see the parade to see colorful costumes and near-nakedness, just walk down the street! It was a fun weekend and I hope to get back to Sydney again on a "normal" weekend.

On Friday this week, my residential college, Weerona, had a semi-formal dinner and party. It was a blast and it was really nice to see everyone all dressed up! We had "nibblers" and cocktails in the courtyard before heading inside for dinner. The meal was just in our dining hall, but it was beautifully decorated and the kitchen staff served us a nice meal. After dinner, we all took a bus to a hall that was reserved for our party. The night was really fun and further reinforced the fantastic community feeling of Weerona.

The next morning, I had a surf lesson with the program that I came here with. I didn't have very high expectations of my surfing abilities, but it turned out to be a great time! The waves and weather was perfect, and with some instruction, I even stood up on the board and rode a couple of waves in to shore! Hopefully, I will get out again and improve, but not any time soon, as I am still tired from surfing yesterday. This morning, Weerona had a soccer tournament in the field next door and a BBQ at our college. Even though I wasn't on the winning team, it was still nice to play again. The weather is still beautiful here and making my time even more enjoyable!