30 day challenge; day 20..

Day 20 - The meaning behind your blog name

I first started a blog in June of 2005.  I've always enjoyed writing and it's always been an outlet for me.. whether it be a bitching post, funny post, what's going on in my life post, funny picture..etc... it's just always been something I've enjoyed.  Granted, it's rarely entertaining, amusing, or informative.... but hey, I never claimed to be ANY of those...right?? lol.  Bottom line is I blog for *ME*.  If nobody reads it, or a million.. well, it doesn't matter to me to be honest.  Although I do enjoy my handy IP tracker to see who does actually read it.. and not just the one at the bottom, there is another..just saying.  However... sometimes I just have to shake my head at some people..... that's all I'm saying on THAT for now....)

After the big "D" I closed off my old blog... "April's Reality".  Well, I closed it as in nobody can see it..except me.  Sometimes I log in and copy/paste some posts, or just read some of the random stuff like quotes and such. 

After the big D, I started a new blog...  "Still April's Reality" along with a SUPER private blog that hardly anyone knows about that I used when I entered the dating world.  All was well... and then....

I fell for an Aussie.  ;)  Not just ANY Aussie, my best guy friend. 

So, on Sunday, September 5, 2010, I started a new blog.. HERE is my first entry.  I hate to sound romantically sappy and say that I knew that I was starting my last blog ever (and I'm sure if you are a reader of my blog, you may recall a few rough patches....)  however, I think a part of me did know.. or at least hoped.  I like blogging, and I like having the ability to look back on things and milestones.  And I would like to someday maybe print some things off to keep.. cause Lord knows the Internet is far from dependable. 

So, while the name "April Down Under" sounds like a questionable adult film... it's not.  I started the blog once talks became serious, and the talks involved the talks of this "Yank" (as Americans are called in Australia) eventually moving to Australia as the relationship unfolded.  And while there have been a few bumps and such along this way.... the title is fitting for this Yank who is now living in Paradise.. I mean, Australia. 

If you had told me 2 years ago that THIS is where I'd be NOW.. I'd fall out of my chair laughing.  AND since I'm so UNgraceful, I probably would've broke something in the fall.  Luckily for me, the only fall I've experienced in this ride has been falling in love...with my best friend.

Sorry to go alllllll Chicky sappy on ya.... until next time!

30 day challenge; day 19

But first.. a blog....

So, I missed a day of the challenge...because of.. the... FLU.  Today was day 3 of feeling like crap.  I miss feeling like a normal person and really hope she is back soon.  She is crazy but MAN is she productive!! lol  I guess part of me is glad that right now I'm not having to work.  I guess my body has to adjust to life in a new climate?  I've never been as sick in my life as I have been in the past 13 months or so.. and with all the overseas visits, I guess my body is saying "WTF"!?!?!  Never really thought about it, but guess that could be it?  Oh well.. off to the challenge!!!

Day 19 - Another picture of yourself.

I could do so many posts with this one.. but I'll just post a random picture that doesn't make me wanna barf??

Getting a pedi a couple days before moving home to Perth.  :)

30 day challenge; day 18

Day 18 - Something you crave a lot.

I never get tired of a rare steak...and this is something I crave ALL.  THE.  TIME. 

30 day challenge; day 17

Day 17 - A photo of you and your family.

Well, considering I have very limited to photos at the moment.. this will be a fail.  I am waiting for the data from when my pc crashed, so all I have is a few pictures on the new laptop and from myspace/facebook....  And sadly, I have no current pictures of me with family, and very limited of family in general.  Most of these are either on the old laptop, or sadly back in the states.  So, I am using the bottom to portray my family.... (I take no credit for the following picture.)  Although I love my family ...some more than others...but some I love only because I think I *have* to.  HOWEVER.. there are no rules about LIKING family members....

Does it ever stop?

30 Day Challenge ; day 16

Day 16 - Your celebrity crush.

Well,  anyone who's ever read my blog knows about my crush love for Keith Urban.  And my recent confession of my admiration of Bradley Cooper's  acting abilities body.  So, instead of adding more evidence to their stalker charges (hey, it's not stalking if I don't put the car in "Park", guys..) I figure I will discuss another celebrity crush.

Ahh.. Matthew McConaughey.  And now my infamous blog word referring to my crushes... Gaaa...ROWL.  He's a great actor, easy on the eyes, and a nice southern accent without sounding like an uneducated redneck hick.  

So, I am late on this blog because I wanted to be very thorough.  I contacted Matty (my pet name for him.. he likes it, so it's fine. lol) and asked him to get ready for me.  And this is what I got in return...

LOL.

And in case you are wondering, no, I'm not crazy... I just have an imagination, sense of humor.. and google.  Can find some funny shit stuff on there!!!

It's Saturday morning, Wayne is home, and life.  is.  good. 

Until next time!!

A bad week...

I'd sum this week up as a bad one...

Lots of non blog worthy stuff has gone on... for example a rough night of sleep after an incident with drunk neighbors (thinking our house was theirs... key wouldn't work so they thought beating on the door would work... thank GAWD someone directed them to the right door..esp since I was home alone!!).  And I did get a part time (like majorly part time) job babysitting for two of the most aussome little aussie chicks I have met.  So awesome.  Fell in love in a second!

But my niece and I have had a falling out and now we are not on speaking terms.  In fact, none of my family is speaking to her and she is burning bridges one by one.   Anyone who knows me, has to know how hard this has been on me...even if I haven't seemed to truly show it.  There are times I've gone to places we went when she was here and I laugh to myself about an event, and then realization hits and I realize the truth.  It's been hard.  Add to that Wayne was away for work this week, so I haven't really had someone to talk to about it.  Not that I'm sure it's something I WOULD discuss.. because at our 2 hour long chat over dinner tonight, I didn't talk about feelings, just facts.  I guess part of me feels if I don't get past fact, emotions won't be a part and I won't have a breakdown or anything.  And I guess the fact that I'm more angry than I am hurt also plays a big part of that.  When you feel more rage than hurt, your reaction seems to be totally different... one is to cry..the other is to break things, such as the necks of those angering you?  Needless to say, wine has been my friend tonight.  I've been really working on alcohol, but it's Friday night, I've had a long week with lots of things going on mentally and emotionally, so I don't feel bad about it.

I'm also frustrated because I got an awesome job offer...however it involves a lot of paperwork and money to get it finalized (government stuff..not a scam!) so we just don't think it will be worth it since I plan on getting a job in nursing as SOON as my license is done (and already been in touch with a hospital like 2 blocks from here... literally walking distance).  My frustration comes in on the financial point.  I hate feeling dependant on someone for money.  I know once we are married and have kids it'll be different... but for now, just being girlfriend/boyfriend, I just hate it.  Wayne has never done anything to make me feel this way, I guess it's just me.  I've worked since I was 16 (wow..almost HALF my life?!!?) and I just wish I could contribute more.  And I know that soon I will be able to.  Although when certain bills roll in, I just can't help but feel bad that I can't offer more than love, support, and a clean house.  Most women would love to be in this situation.. an awesome partner, a beach 5 minutes away, and financially relying on someone else.  And I a grateful for the first 2.  I've just never been "that" girl.

So, I'm ready for the weekend.  Wayne has had a long week and is knackered..already in bed and snoring.  I'm blogging and talking to my mum.  The weekend looks good....nice forecast (before cold storms move in mid week) and a 60th bday dinner for Wayne's mom (my future mum-in-law! :D ) at a realllly nice restaurant.  Other than that, domestics and just spending time together.  After the week apart, I'm ready for Wayne to have a good night of sleep so he can tolerate me annoying him and some snuggling on the couch.  That's my favorite part of the weekend...and probably his LEAST favorite part.  I laid low tonight so he could unwind.  Tomorrow, well, that's another story! haha!!

Until next time...

30 day challenge; day 15 - HALF WAY POINT!

Day 15 - Something you don't leave the house without.

Easy!  Keys, purse, and phone.  Keys because, well, I can't lock the door to get OUT or unlock the main door downstairs when I get home...without them.  Purse because, well, ID and $.  Phone, well..just in case.  Although, I miss my smartphone and access to emails while I'm away from home, especially on busy days where I am gone alllll day, but hey, I appear to be surviving without it... for now ;)

This blog has been brought to you by the letters N, R, F, L, and T (no refund for lost time). 

Gotta go.. operation repo is on and some shit stuff is going DOWN!  Yeah, yeah... I'm a loser, I know.. but yet you keep reading my blog??? LOL  :) 

Until next time (oh crap, they have a GUN on this repo...)

yeah, cya!

My how things have changed.

On my last trip to Australia, I use to visit Burns Beach when I was homesick (which was nearly every night it seemed).  However today, I went to the same beach but with a different reason.  Because I wanted to remind myself how lucky I am to be so happy and loved.  It was a bloody cold rainy day, but for a brief moment the sun came out and I made a stop by Burns Beach to just have a few moments of "aww" and a few moments of thinking.... I took some pictures and here is one of them.  It's amazing how things change, isn't it?  Lovin' life.  Missing my Aussie.  Come on Friday, bring him home!! :)

I. Can't. Sleep

Perhaps it's the lack of snoring?  It's funny the thing I gripe about the most when he's home, I miss the most when he is gone?  OH.. DLBJ (dear lord baby jesus) don't let him see THAT?  lol.

So, tonight, as I lay in bed, I can't sleep.  I'm thinking about tomorrow and lots of stuff (family stuff..nothing related to me and my Aussie..thank GOD!). I just can't seem to turn my mind OFF.  I am almost tempted to go back on an herbal sleeping pill with all the stress I am going through to be honest.  Sigh.  Dont' want to, but really wonder if it would help me?

Anyways, on ipod shuffle...guess what keeps coming on.. Keith Urban.  Now yes, he and I have a sacred love...but lets not get into that now?  He hates when I blog about "us"..and it apparently has a conflict with the whole stalker papers Nicole filed. Blah.  Blah.  Blah. She really buggs me!!  lol  ;)

A part of me can't help but seriously look back..... I''ve always loved an Australian Artist.. and in 1999, I swore that in 10 years I would visit Australia.. I remember this, because survivor Australia was on TV and I LIVED around this show and swore I would see Australia within 10 years... (I was a couple years late on that, but hey..it was only a  couple of years....)  I became friends with an Australian who made me PROMISE I would visit before my 31st birthday.  Which is years from now. (hey..you can shut up!!!)  And who can forget when I first met Wayne... hearing him order "bacon" made me shut up my partner at the time.  And a few years later, (over 3 years ago) we would sit in Vegas together with people wondering why WE weren't married..and my parents WISHING that he was my significant other.  Funny how life works out... Looking back it cracks me up, so much!!!!  Actually, just looking back on some of the small things, makes me really appreciate the BIG things so much. 

I love my life, and am so grateful for my partner in crime...errr.. i mean.. partner in LIFE.....  (this COULD be used against me in a court of law someday after all?? HAHA)

Off to bed I go.. just felt a need for a non 30 day challenge post.  ;)

30 day challenge; day 14

Day 14 - A TV show you're currently addicted to

Well, as much useless TV as I watch, and admittidly enjoy, not sure what show I'm "addicted" to.   If I were still in America, the list would be Nurse Jackie (if in season) or Teen Mom (also if in season...which I CANNOT GET HERE!!!!!!!!  MUST.  BREAK.  SOMETHING!!)  Ok.  So it's not a current addiction, just more a withdrawl at this stage.  An addiction in progress?  Yeah yeah yeah. 

So, the current challenge.  I guess the show that I'm addicted to (and this is probably gonna not be the point of this blog challenge) is FOOTBALL!!  AMERICAN Football that is.  I have stayed up late and been up early watching football or listening to online.  College is UK Wildcats...although if they keep up the crap they've been pulling I will definitely pick SLEEP over their games.. two words.  Pa.  Thetic.  Yes, granted that is "technically" ONE word...but they have been so bad that one word just doesn't cover it!  I have a few other words, but try to avoid shouting them...  Especially with the no swearing rule in effect.  Although there are times that screaming at the radio or computer "take that darn ball and really run with it you silly boy" is just not the same as.......... "get the mother fu#*Ck@% ball and run it to the mother fu#CK@% goal you son of a b!&%h!" Nope, just doesn't feel the same at all.  LMAO...or is it LMBO now?  LOL! :) 

NFL... I'm a cheesehead.. Packers all the way.  Well, I'm a new Packers fan.  And no, not because of the Superbowl.  Because of Randall Cobb!!!  He's been my favorite UK player for the previous 3 seasons and as soon as he was recruited to Green Bay, I became a fan.  And was lucky enough to watch the opening game LIVE!!  Yes, it was 8am, and yes I drank a bourbon and coke at that time of day in honor of my favorite player making awesome plays.. and TYING an NFL record.  Hey, I'm shocked I stopped at ONE drink! HAHA!! :)  Ahh, the joys of not letting alcohol control your life anymore.  (that's a new topic, and a blog that I'm working on, someday I will post it..someday...)

So there ya go.  Granted, there is some trashy TV I really like.  Pawn Stars, Operation Repo, Big Bang Theory, Scrubs, Friends...... and I JUST realized I need to get a life outside of Facebook and T.V.

I think I need to join a gym.

OK friends.. off to bed I go.. big day tomorrow.... job interview and future mother in laws bday party.  Wish Wayne was here to celebrate, but hey, part of the job.

Until next time....

30 day challenge, Day 13 AND a real blog entry...... what, what?

Day 13 - Your favorite musician and why?

Hmm...well, I have lots of bands and groups that I'm a fan of, and lots of artists/singers... so for this I'll go with Keith Urban.  I know you must be surprised?

Great voice, plays the guitar very well.. and, um... hello?? Pretty!  Gaarowl.  ;)

And in case you need to know about my personal relationship with Keith, feel free to read all about our relationship HERE .  hehe.

So, as I said, I decided to add a touch of a real blog today.  I know you must be thrilled.  Cause well, you just must be?  So, in the past I have blogged about SIGNS.  Read the blog HERE if you don't remember, it's the story of the signs involving the "Red Man". So last weekend we met up with some friends at Little Creatures Brewery in Fremantle.   It was an amazing day.  The weather was gorgeous, and the view was simply amazing.  Not a cloud in the sky.  It was actually on Sept 11, and at one stage there were fireworks going off on what we believe was a nearby 9/11 ceremony.  Granted, fireworks in the daytime aren't the most effective as far as looks go, and the first hour it seemed a cannon went off every few minutes which scared the you know what outta me!!  Anyways... As we were walking back to the car afterwards... we came across this statue.....

Now, I'm sure you are giggling like a little kid (because, hey, it's a penis on a statue in public... wait, that's just me that's immature?? Noted).  However this is a smaller scale to a sculpture that we saw together in March.....

Looking closer, part of me almost wonders if it is the same one??  The actual sculpture is called "coastguard" by Greg James.  (no, I didn't know that.  Yes, I use google.)



Anyways, made me have a strange reassurance, like I'm exactly where I should be, and exactly where I'm suppose to be.  The FUNNY thing is as I have been working on this blog, I have "How I met your mother" playing in the background, and a voice over really just spoke to me (again..shocker.. I know).  So I thought I'd end this blog with the quotes from the show...

"Kids, I've been telling you the story of how I met your mother, and while there's many things to learn from this story, this may be the biggest. The great moments of your life won't necessarily be the things you do, they'll also be the things that happen to you. Now, I'm not saying you can't take action to affect the outcome of your life, you have to take action, and you will. But never forget that on any day, you can step out the front door and your whole life can change forever. You see, the universe has a plan kids, and that plan is always in motion. A butterfly flaps its wings, and it starts to rain. It's a scary thought but it's also kind of wonderful. All these little parts of the machine constantly working, making sure that you end up exactly where you're supposed to be, exactly when you're supposed to be there. The right place at the right time.

So there you have it, kids, there's a lot of little reasons why the big things in our lives happen. If I had known then where all those little things were leading me and how grateful I'd be to get there... well, I probably would have done something like this.
   [Ted goes to every person involved and gives them a hug]
Because somehow I ended up at the right place at the right time. And as a result, my life would never be the same."

30 day challenge; day 12

Day 12 - A photograph of the town you live in.

Me and my niece at Kings' Park with the city skyline in the Background.

 And in my opinion, the most gorgeous thing in town is the Indian Ocean.  LOVE it.

30 day challenge; day 11

Day 11 - What's in your makeup bag.

This is an easy one!!!  What's in my makeup bag??? Nothing!  I have one of those counter top cosmetic organizers that holds all my make up goodies.  So, my makeup bag is literally empty! :)

In case you are curious what I would have in my make up bag if I DIDN'T have said counter top thingy (cause, I know you are just dying to know, right?)  HA.  Clinique liquid and powder foundation, clinique blush, clinique eye shadow and mascara, clinique "Black honey" lipstick (which I LOVVVEEE) and Merle Norman eyeliner.  There ya go. 

And again, I simply cannot emphasize the fact that I do not offer a refund or exchange for wasted time reading my not so exciting blog.

30 day challenge; day 10

Day 10 - A photo of your favorite place to eat

Hmmmm.. this one is tricky, because there are many places I would consider a "favorite"...  so, I'm gonna break the rule here and show some PHOTOS of my favourite PLACES to eat.  (hey, it's my blog! lol).



This is probably my favorite fast food restaurant.  Too bad there isn't one here!




HANDS DOWN the BEST Mexican Restaurant EVER.  This is located in Richmond, KY and is soooo yum!



Old Hickory is a BBQ place in Owensboro, KY (the town I was born in) and is so delicious. 



Hands down my favorite pizza!



Lion Thai is my new favorite here in Perth.  It's within walking distance from the house, and you basically HAVE to have reservations, because they only have about 10 or 12 tables.  The food is soooooo good, and the small size makes for a very intimate feel.  Plus, it's BYOB, so that helps out on the cost of the meal if you want wine.  It.  Is.  YUMMMMY.




Malone's is a Lexington restaurant with 3 locations, and the one in Hamburg is the BEST, imo.  The food is always great, service is good, AND they have an awesome patio bar (where you can order any of the food, not just the bar menu grub) that is open year round.  In the Winter there are windows that come up and enclose it, but still give you the patio "feel", and in summer they are gone.  They also have outdoor heaters and fans to help cool it down on a really hot day or warm it up on a chilly evening/day.  I've never had a bad experience.  I use to meet friends here quite often as my apartment in Lexington was really close.  And, helllllooooo Pixie Stick Martini's!!





Of all the places you can eat, I gotta say that a packed dinner with THIS as your view, with someone you love beside you is pretty damn hard to top!

30 day challenge; day 9

Day 9 - A photo of the item you last purchased

Today, knowing I had this blog entry coming up, I went on a massive shopping spree.  Everything I found, I put in my shopping cart.  Jewelry, household things, vacuum cleaners, silverware... you name it. Some items were cheap, some were.. well.... FAR from it.  Basically, if I liked it, it went in the cart.  Then I realized I had things to do, so I clicked on "empty cart", got off the internet, and went about my day ;)

So, here's a picture of the last item I purchased....

This is my FAVORITE sauce... makes a great chicken and rice or chicken and noodle dish.  Is a TAD on the spicy said but adding some coconut cream to it totally takes the kick out.  Wayne would probably prefer not to have the spice taken out, as he eats VERY spicy food quite easily.  (Even did the BW's Blazing Wing Challenge in Florida in 2008 very easily).  I however, am a wimp.  I thought for years that I was just a major wimp until in July the dentist at a check up told me I have a Geographic tongue.  It affects 2% of the population, and only 0.6% of Americans (go figure) and causes a burning/stinging sensation when you eat certain foods, such as spicy foods.  So, it's not that the food is too hot, it literally causes me physical tongue pain.  And typically drinking milk afterwards doesn't do anything.  While it causes the "spicy" to leave, it does nothing for the reaction my tongue has.  So avoiding spicy food is about all I really can do. 

So, in addition to the above I purchased the chicken and am cooking up some grub tonight for myself.  Wayne is away tonight with work, so that means I get to eat yummy leftovers for lunch tomorrow Woot!  And that's not sarcasm, I'm quite a fan of leftovers for lunch.  And tonight is Thursday night, which means in this household it's the night of AWESOME television.  The line up is....."The big bang theory", then "Pawn Stars", "Hardcore Pawn", "Operation Repo", "Jail" followed by bed time.  Exciting, yes.  Don't be jealous.  lol.  I think it's the one night in the house that we actually agree on what to watch all night.. lol.

Until next time, see ya!

Late night post...

For those who might be reading this, it's a little before noon.. Here, it's almost Thursday.  This time zone thing is crazy eh?!!?

So, I'm loving my new 30 day challenge.  I just glanced and tomorrow's post is a picture of something I purchased "today" aka "tomorrow" for the current April.... I guess that means I should make it an exciting post and shop!!!!!!!  Ahhh.. if only I were a major shopper.  However, this is quite motivating..... how DARE I let my followers down?????  haha  ;)

The job search continues, but at the same time the nursing license process moves forward... so while it's short term failure, I have long term success?? Confused??  Well, here anyone over like the age of 18 or something (which I BARELY cross...ok, whatever..hush) gets paid MUCH higher than, um... a 15 year old.  So, while I am happy to do WHATEVER, the stores are happy to pay someone a fraction of my pay and get the job done (eventually).  So, all the jobs I can do, so can someone nearly 1/2 my age (and, yup, I officially feel OLD!).  So, they are cheaper... and hey it's business.  I get it.  Anyways, I interviewed for a job today (kid's photography place) and will know more by the end of the week.  I would hate this job (a LOT of sales requirements, and I am FAR from pushy) but hey, it's $.  But then again, they will probably tell me I'm "over qualified" and all the other shit crap I've been told.  (we are working on our language for the nephews who absorb EVERYTHING...... and for future yankie aussies...). 

The other thing that worries me about this job is the travels.  Granted, they pay for all of my travel fees and accomodations ( I ONLY pay for food)....and the thought of seeing some of this AMAZING country for FREE is appealing...... but this is for 2-4 weeks at a time.  Ok, I think back to my first Oz trip which was October 2010.  After that, we were apart for 35 days until Christmas.  Let me tell you, between the tearful airport goodbyes and the LONG days (which seemed like eternity) apart, I'm just not sure how happy I am thinking about being that far apart for that long of a period.  Now granted, Wayne travels with his job.  That's a fact we've known since day one.  And other than a night or two here, we both are ok with it.  But 4 solid weeks???  I dunno.  And we have so much going on in the next few months.... a friend's wedding, Aussie Thanksgiving (a new tradition we are sooo excited about starting!) and such.. I just don't know.  And there is a lot of sales involved.  But at the same time, it's a job, and $ is starting to become urgent for me.  I'd just LOVE it if they could tell me that they can take me on, hire me for a few weeks local, let me make some money, and hopefully by then my nursing license will be active and then I can start as a NURSE, which I was born to be, and am reassured with every job application and such.

So, things I miss....  I miss my niece, but am sure she is off making her way in the world and that I rarely cross her mind.

I miss my friends but am thankful for the internet and blessed that I don't rely on a pigeon to deliver a message.

I miss my mom, but at the same time am sad she is experiencing some stuff right now.  It's so hard to try to make choices for yourself, and hope my words of experience get across.

I *really* miss my dad.  I thought I'd miss my niece more, but I am wrong (perhaps it's because I saw her more recently?).  I really miss my dad.  And am sooo excited when he is at home alone and decides to call me... for NO reason.   I can't express to you how much my dad means to me.  He's my step dad (so he's KIND OF a hostage?) and has treated me like a daughter since..well... as far back as I can remember.  HE IS MY DAD!!  Age 3 or 4.

So what else shall I blog about?  Home.... Well, I guess on my own blog, I can be honest.  We both have spent a lot of time in the past few weeks in tears.  Me, him... I mean, just lots of tears.....

Wait...let me clarify. 

Tears of laughter. 

I can't remember a time in my entire life ever being so happy.  I've been here for 7 weeks, and everyday has been an adventure, a journey, and lots of tears following massive laughter...   So I end with a quote...(what... me?? Quotes?? noooooooo...lol)

"Falling in love with someone isn't always going to be easy... Anger... tears... laughter.. It's when you want to be together despite it all. That's when you truly love another. I'm sure of it."



30 day challenge... day 8

Day 8 - A song to match your mood.

 I just posted my status on fb as, "feels lazier than the guy who drew the Japanese flag" and then looked up what day 8 challenge was... I laughed.  So, here's my song to match my mood!  And I must admit, I had never seen the actual video until now.... lmao.  Check, check... check it out!

30 day challenge; day 7

Day 7 - Your dream wedding.

Hmmm.... that's a tough one.  We just discussed this a little on Sunday as far as the where part as a matter of fact.  So, I use to think a beach wedding would be amazing, however the more I think about it, I dunno.  Lots of factors there that can't be controlled, ya know?? The weather for one.  Who wants to have a nasty weather day?? Secondly, as I learned in the summer here in Perth, if the wind is blowing just right, the sand hurts like HELL, to be honest!  (Think sand blaster + exposed skin.....)  So, knowing *MY* luck, it'd be a horrible rainy day with sandblasting.  Me admitting those uncontrollable factors made me want a beach wedding less and less lead to Wayne asking if that was all beaches or just Perth... as in somewhere like Bali or Tahiti or something along those lines........  Hmmmm..... I can't say a part of me didn't stop and go "hmm.... now we are talking..."  But at the same time, I'd *really* love to have as many friends and family there as possible.  Not talking a huge expensive fair or anything, but just them to be there.  Then again, who's to say they can't join us somewhere else???   So yeah, this blog has no conclusion because it's currently not clear what I would think my dream wedding will be.  The end result is all the same, and to me that's the most important part.  :)

30 day challenge; day 6

Day 6 - A photo of an animal you'd love to keep as a pet.

Awwww... who could resist????

Cute and cuddly.

 

Warm and friendly.

 

Will keep you warm and night.

Protect you from just about anything.

Could get lost looking into those eyes.

 

Sexy doesn't even BEGIN to describe...

Waiittttttt............

You look confused???????

Surely you don't think I'm talking about the dog do you???

Have another look at the picture.  Yes, that is the one and only... Bradley Cooper.

Gaaa...rowl.

Hey, nobody said the "animal" couldn't be a person.... *wink*

A day America will never forget.....

September 11, 2001.  Can't believe it's been TEN YEARS since this horrible day.  On my very first 30 day challenge, I blogged about 9/11.  You can read it by clicking HERE.

May we never forget.

30 day challenge; day 5

Day 5 - A photo of yourself two years ago.

Well, it's been a little over 2 years, but this is me in May of 2009 with my nursing school BFF, Jodi.. aka princess...lol.  Hard to believe it's been that long ago.  So thankful I stuck through the really hard days (which would have been all of them??) and completed my degree that has allowed me to do so much in just 2 years. 

30 day challenge.

Day 4 - Your favorite photograph of your best friend

Oh dear lord... this could get ugly.  And although she would KILL me for this, I gotta post this picture.....

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OK.. you know what??  Not posting the picture I was thinking...best friends NEVER post "those" pictures.... we threaten, but we never do!!  Instead will just post one of my fav pics (sober) with me and my BFF!!! 

I love and miss you Autumn!!!

A true friend is one of lifes most precious gifts.  My bff is truly a sister, but god knew that our mothers couldn't handle both of us.  Thank god we were united.

Love you soooo much friend!!

30 day challenge, day 3

Day 3 - Your idea of the perfect first date.

Hmm... I think this is a difficult one to answer (and luckily one I don't ever have to experience again, thank you Jesus!).  I think movies and loud concerts are horrible first dates.  A first date is an opportunity to see if there is compatibility that could lead to a second date.  Sitting staring at a big screen or screaming along to some music, just doesn't give that opportunity, in my opinion.  I think a good first date is something fun and interactive to get to see each other during a fun situation (such as bowling, pool, etc) followed by dinner in an environment that you can talk and get to know each other better.  Communication is key to any relationship, whether it's the first date or the millionth date (as we have learned over time). 

I will take this opportunity to blog about the worst. first. date. ever.  Just cause I'm in the mood to blog while watching some football (which by the way, football at 9am just seems wrong, but GO PACKERS, and GO RANDALL!)

Ok...

Dinner and a movie.  Totally against the above right?  But I didn't get the chance to chose what we did, was just asked if I would go to dinner and a movie.  This guy wasn't my type, but I decided, what the heck.  He DID let me pick the movie after all. (which is a brave thing for a guy to do when there are like 15 new chick flicks out).  So, I went with Toy Story 3.  Yes, totally a kid movie, but hey, I love the series (and this was the BEST of the 3, in case you haven't seen it!).  A few times into the movie, he'd lean over and say "is something wrong?"  "no, why?"  "you are quiet"  (umm, yeah dude.. I'm watching the movie..remember the opening commercial that said "keep personal chats to a minimum"?) "yeah, just watching".  At one point, something funny happened and as I laugh, he reaches over and says to me "ahhh..you are gonna make an amazing mom". 

Wait.  WHAT????

So...we've gone from first date and now we are talking about children???  What f''d up time warp is this?

I just pretend I didn't hear.  Afterall we are in a theater with surround sound and surely he didn't see the look on my face that I'm sure was there.  Ahh yes, that'd be the "are you f'in serious???" look.  Surely it wasn't *that* obvious? 

To top it off in the, ehh... 100 minutes (or so) of the movie, he made 3 or 4 bathroom breaks, bought popcorn, a soda, and candy... he left the movie a total of 7 times or so.  Perhaps that was because of the conversation we would have at dinner?????

So, fast forward to dinner.  The dude had told me he was divorced when I first met him, and we met a few months before I agreed to a date.  I had literally just separated from the ex when we first met and was completely in my man hater stage (ha!).  Not long after my divorce was final, I ran into him again and that's when he asked me out on a date. A time gap of, oh...3 months? Anyways.... the entire dinner conversation he turned into how his "ex wife" screwed him over, all the stuff he bought her, how much money he made, the type of things he owned, how much money he had in the bank account...yada, yada, yada... basically thinking I was *that* girl that was into material things and such.. or that I cared about his "ex wife". 

Then went onto say that he recently got a transfer with work because someone tried to poison him.   (Although when he said it I have to admit that the first thing that crossed my mind was, "shocker").  I asked him what it was that they tried to kill him with,  (ya know...just in case I ever needed to know that information) he said "Saline".   "How much saline" (just to clarify...because a LARGE amount CAN do damage)  "About a teaspoon full".  (oh dear lord baby Jesus).  So, I dont' tell him that THAT small amount of saline won't kill him, just let him think that he survived a horrific event (just as surely I would survive this horrific date???? Although I had my doubts). 

So, Mr. Talksalot continues on the ex.  So, thinking he obviously had a lot of issues with the divorce to be discussing it so heavily on a first date, I said "so, how long have you been divorced?"  *crickets*  "Oh, we are still married, just not divorced yet"  Me thinking about how long the legal process is, asked "so just waiting for it to be finalized?"  "Oh, no.  We haven't filed anything."  "Umm.. so you are still married?  Because you said you were divorced when we first met?"  "Oh, well, I mean, you might as well say we are divorced".

Umm.. yeah.  And THIS my friends, is why I always met people at the venue for the first date.

 

And the scary part is.... people like this are allowed to reproduce...

I do not miss being single, my friends.  Not. at. all.

30 day challenge; day 2

Day 2 - A photo of something you ate today.

Coconut chilli and lemon Myrtle chicken with noodles.  (the picture seen is from a couple weeks ago when I made it with rice).  The flavor of this is soooo nice.  This was last night's dinner, so today's lunch was heated up left overs.  :) 

I had a late lunch today..... why you ask???   Because somebody.. (ummm... me) didn't realize that today was the day we were due to have the power cut off from 8am-3pm.  Even though the notice is plastered right up on the fridge to remind me.  (smh).  So, I woke up at around 8:40, looked over and the alarm clock is blank.  I instantly start thinking that there is something wrong with the cord/outlet/alarm and try to fix it.  I knew the time from my iphone, but couldn't understand why the clock wouldn't work.  I admit defeat and got out of bed to go to the bathroom.... light switch turned on, yet, no light.  This is where the light in my head goes off and I remembered today is power free day in the Yank/Aussie household.   So here is my attempts and FAILS for the day.... which I still blame on feeling like crap.

Thought one.  I'll take a shower!!  Realized, electric hot water heater... so shower = fail.

Well, I can do some laundry and get it hung out since it's gonna be a nice day!  Realized, unless I wanna wash them by HAND, the no power means no washer.  

Hmmm.. I have some emails to send, and my laptop is charged!!  SWEET!!   NOOOOO.. FAIL!!  No modem = no Internet.

I swear, it's a wonder I have actually lived this long, without my stupidity killing me.....

So, feeling bad still I figured that since there wasn't much to do, going back to bed and restarting the day seemed like the most logical answer; esp since I'm still under the weather.  And luckily the power came on 3 hours earlier than the notice stated and came back on at Noon.  Perfect timing for the couch, leftovers, and The Oprah Winfrey Show. 

Wayne will be home in a couple hours.  Yah!!  And hopefully this bug will leave by the weekend!!

Until next time.... 

Bleh... and a new challenge....

Why???????? 

Because........

It's a well known fact that nurses are horrible patients.  Actually, we are the worst.  I admit it.  As a matter of fact if you find out one of your patients is a nurse or has a family member that is a nurse, well, you just know that you are in for a loooonnnggggg 12 hour shift. 

This "bug" slammed me late yesterday afternoon.  I was at Wayne's folks house having a couple hours of chat with his mum in the morning, left to run errands, and then was heading back 3 hrs later for dinner (as Wayne is away with work this week).  In the course of one hour I went from perfect to "WTH is wrong with me... I feel like CRAP!"  A lot of the family has recently had the flu and weren't all back to 100% over the weekend, so I'm guessing that is where I picked it up.  I have fever off and on, body aches, facial pressure, chest congestion, cough..... and just feel like crap.  (whaaa whaaa whaaaaaa... I know, I know....)

Anyways, enough whining for now. 

As I mentioned in a recent post, I am going to attempt another 30 day challenge.  I will state that while I will try to do it consecutive days, there is no way I will commit to having a post a day for 30 days straight.  Let's face it, life is busy, and there are things much more important than a blog.  I'm just sayin'.

So, on the couch today, feeling like poo, I sat out to find a 30 day challenge to go by.  THIS seemed like a great option.......

And considering my first ever 30 day challenge I was bad at and that the SECOND one I attempted was an epic fail, I felt like this is one I could ACTUALLY follow!!  Winning!!!  HA! 

Instead, I found one that I liked pretty well and decided that THIS is my new 30 day challenge...

Day 1 - A photo of yourself and a description of how your day was.
Day 2 - A photo of something you ate today.
Day 3 - Your idea of the perfect first date.
Day 4 - Your favorite photograph of your best friend.
Day 5 - A photo of yourself two years ago.
Day 6 - A photo of an animal you'd love to keep as a pet.
Day 7 - Your dream wedding.
Day 8 - A song to match your mood.
Day 9 - A photo of the item you last purchased.
Day 10 - A photo of your favourite place to eat.
Day 11 - What's in your makeup bag.
Day 12 - A photograph of the town you live in.
Day 13 - Your favorite musician and why?
Day 14 - A TV show you're currently addicted to.
Day 15 - Something you don't leave the house without.
Day 16 - Your celebrity crush.
Day 17 - A photo of you and your family.
Day 18 - Something you crave a lot.
Day 19 - Another picture of yourself.
Day 20 - The meaning behind your blog name.
Day 21 - A photo of something that makes you happy.
Day 22 - A letter to someone who has hurt you recently.
Day 23 - 15 facts about you.
Day 24 - A photo of something that means a lot to you.
Day 25 - What's in your purse?
Day 26 - A photo of somewhere you've been to.
Day 27 - A picture of you last year and now and how you changed since then?
Day 28 - Your favorite movie.
Day 29 - Something you could never get tired of doing.
Day 30 - A photograph of yourself today + three good things that have happened in the past 30 days.

So here we go...

Day 1 - A photo of yourself and a description of how your day was.

Charming aren't I???  LOL!!  This was taken by my niece on her last night here in Australia.  Turns out all you have to do is show me a camera, and I will show you a 3 year old.  Who knew? HA!

Today was a boring day, so this is gonna be a boring start to this 30 day challenge, my friends!  I slept in today, because I had taken a cold/flu tablet last night.  It wasn't the first dose, but the second dose a little after midnight that knocked me out essentially.  So I slept in til nearly NOON, fixed a sandwich for breakfast lunch, watched TV, went to the grocery.... came home and fixed myself some dinner (not sure why since I don't feel well I didn't just opt for carry out or fast food???).  This evening, I have talked to my honey, my mom, and my dadg.  Also did a load of laundry.

Wow.. what an exciting day, eh??? LOL!!  And as I've said before, this blog does NOT offer a refund for the time wasted reading it.  :P

As Tigger would say... TTFN... ta ta for now!!

Lyrics.

So, after the 2am bedtime Saturday (err... SUNDAY morning...) after consuming massive amounts of alcohol for Grans bday weekend...... we attended Mass.  (thank GOD the desire to puke came AFTER this mass... just saying).  However, during mass, I caught a line of a hymn that we were singing and I loved it.  Thought I would share.

"I will weep when you are weeping.
When you laugh I'll laugh with you.
I will share your joy and sorrow
Til we've seen this journey through"

This is my promise, love.

50 Questions about me...

So on my quest to find something entertaining to do on here, I came across this "50 questions about me".  So, why not.  I'm still exhausted from the weekend away for Wayne's Grandfather's 90th bday celebration (and man, the family is awesome, but boy do they drink... shew.. my liver is still sore 2 days later! ha!).  I thought about picking up my "30 day challenge" that I failed, but nah..... start a new! 

So here are 50 questions about me......  (note: I haven't read all of the questions yet myself, so hopefully they won't be too boring...)

1. What was your favorite food when you were a child? Chicken (of any type... grilled, fried, nuggets, etc.)  I remember my family telling me as a young child that I was going to turn into a chicken.
2. What’s the #1 most played song on your iPod? "Hammer and a Stone" 7m3
3. What is one of your favorite quotes?  Considering how much I love quotes, this is a tough questions... so I'll go with:
   
   "Be who you are and say what you feel, because those who mind don't matter, and those who matter don't mind." -Dr. Seuss
4. What’s your favorite indoor/outdoor activity?
   Indoor: movies or board games.
   Outdoor: sight seeing, discovering new places, and going for drives down new roads/paths.
5. What chore do you absolutely hate doing? LAUNDRY.  I know of all the things that a person could hate, I hate it.  From the sorting, to the actual laundry part....to the folding and putting away.  I *despise* it.
6. What is your favorite form of exercise?  Does sex count?? haha.  Walking, preferably at a park on a nice day.
7. What is your favorite time of day/day of the week/month of the year?  Favorite time of day is sunset/evening.  It's always been the time of day I feel the best.  Favorite day of the week varies, probably Saturday I guess.  Favorite Month.. hmm.... December.  All the holiday festivities and gatherings with family and friends.  Plus the snow (although since here December occurs in Summer, I guess I have some adjusting to do on that one..haha)
8. What’s your least favorite mode of transportation? Bicycle
9. What is your favorite body part?  I have had a lot of compliments on my eyes, so I guess I'll go with that. 
10. What sound do you love? The sounds of the ocean.  And now I'm lucky enough to hear it everyday if I want!  Also, the sound of the waves crashing under the moonlight is just amazing.

If… Questions

1. If you could throw any kind of party, what would it be like and what would it be for? Wedding reception??? haha.  If I threw a party, it'd be a casual, friendly get together with music, drinks... nothing major, and not a college type party (over all that).  Perhaps a Seven Mary Three down under party... hmmmm....... :D
2. If you could paint a picture of any scenery you’ve seen before, what would you paint? The ocean under the moonlight.  Why?  Because it's something no camera can capture (trust me I've tried).  However, I cannot even draw a stick figure, so me painting scenery just isn't an option.
3. If you could choose to stay a certain age forever, what age would it be?  26.  I was physically in shape, could recover easily after a night of drinking, and in general felt pretty good. 
4. If you knew the world was ending in 2012, what would you do differently? Nothing.  And I wouldn't want to know if the world was ending or what I would actually die to be honest.
5. If you could choose anyone, who would you pick as your mentor? Oprah!! lol
6. If you could witness any event past, present or future, what would it be? hmmm... the pyramids being built... dinosaurs roaming.... or perhaps Tiger Woods getting his ass kicked by his OWN line of golf clubs?? HA.  Yeah, that's irony at it's best. 
7. If you could learn to do anything, what would it be? knit
8. If you had to work on only one project for the next year, what would it be? Not sure what "projects" I'm currently working on???   I guess I would say organizing and decorating the house :) 
9. If you were immortal for a day, what would you do? Save people from burning buildings?  Or just stand on the highway and freak people out!
10. If you had to change your first name, what would you change it to? Princess??? haha.  No idea.  When I was younger I wished my first name was Michelle (spelled Michele, though) which is my middle name.  But that's when I was like 10?  lol 
11. If you could meet anyone, living or dead, who would you meet?   hmm... lots of people alive I'd like to meet.. so I'll go with dead and say Chris Farley.
12. If you won the lottery, what is the first thing you would do? Pay off all our debt...
13. If you were reincarnated as an animal/drink/ice cream flavor, what would it be?  Animal would be a dog.  One that is well taken care of.  That's the life right there.  Umm...drink or ice cream flavor?  wth?  Not even answering those..lol.   
14. If you could know the answer to any question, besides “What is the meaning of life?”, what would it be?  What is tomorrow's winning lottery numbers for every lottery in the world?
15. If you could be any fictional character, who would you choose?  Cinderella.  Proof that one pair of shoes can change your life.  :)

Personal Questions

1. Which celebrity do you get mistaken for?  As a kid I was told Punky Brewster.  As an adult, I haven't been told anyone in ages.  Except for the crazy lady at the mental institution that said I looked like the chick off of "Jag".  I think she has more than mental problems... needs an eye exam too! ha!
2. What do you want to be when you grow up?  I don't wanna grow up!!  As a kid I wanted to be the first female NFL player (only the rule was that I was NOT allowed to get tackled!)  Always wanted to do something in health care, so that's what I've done for the last 12 years.  Next gig I wanna try out (down the road....) is full time mom to a couple of little ones. :)
3. When you have 30 minutes of free-time, how do you pass the time?  Sadly the internet.. message boards facebook, blogging, and news.  Sometimes a cat nap. ;)
4. What would you name the autobiography of your life?  Life and times of a crazy yank
5. What songs are included on the soundtrack to your life? Too many to name!!  It'd be a flippin COLLECTION!! LOL

Personal History Questions

1. Have you ever had something happen to you that you thought was bad but it turned out to be for the best?  Yes, my divorce and the event that caused it. 
2. What was one of the best parties you’ve ever been to?  Happy Camp!
3. What was the last movie, TV show or book that made you cry or tear up? Oprah today, Jennifer Hudson was talking about losing her mother, brother, and nephew.  How tragic that must have been. 
4. What’s the hardest thing you’ve ever done?  Rubix Cubes!! haha.  Developing the courage to make a big change in life.. this applies to several different incidents.
5. What was the last experience that made you a stronger person? Travel Nursing in Maryland.  That's a long story, and not really blogworthy.... a personal story, some life and self discovery... and a very personal battle. 
6. What did you do growing up that got you into trouble? haha..what didn't I do?? lol.  Being a smartass seemed to get me in trouble from time to time (shocker, I know.)  In fourth grade I got in trouble for dropping the F bomb....
7. When was the last time you had an amazing meal?  Most recently we went to Hippo Creek for dinner and the steak I had was AMAZING!!!!   
8. What’s the best/worst gift you’ve ever given/received? I hate questions like this, because I hate judging gifts that were given to me.  If someone is nice enough to think of you, then who the hell am I to judge it?  I will say that the year my biological father gave me an orange and underwear that was too small, then complained about being tight on money, then proceeded to give my step mom a new car for her gift all within an hour really pissed me off at the age of 10.  That's enough of that question...
9. What do you miss most about being a kid? Not having to worry about adult things; bills, money, shopping, house stuff, the future, etc.  Oh, and nap time!!
10. What is your first memory of being really excited? Probably going to an amusement park?  I don't really remember though.
11. What was the first thing you bought with your own money?  I was 16, so probably something useless like clothes.
12. When was the last time you were nervous?  Last week I was driving to the Nursing office to apply for my nursing license.  I was going to Hay Street in Subiaco.  The GPS put it to Hay street in downtown Perth.  So, I was going through major lunchtime traffic, felt lost, and construction was causing detours.   I was a nervous wreck.  Oh, and I hit a parked semi truck with my side view mirror.  Fun times!
13. What is something you learned in the last week? The reason I quit drinking so frequently and heavily!
14. What story does your family always tell about you?  My great grandmother, Maggie (god rest her soul) would always tell a story about how I HATED to get dirty as a kid and would cry and run and hide if I got dirty.  lol.  Somethings never change (minus the crying and hiding, that is..lol) 
15. At what age did you become an adult?   Still haven't! lol

Random Questions

1. Is a picture worth a thousand words? Yes
2. Where’s Waldo? At the clinic getting tested???
3. The best part of waking up is? You survived another night?
4. How now brown cow? say what?
5. Whasssssuuuupppppp? ummm......

So there ya go.. DISCLAIMER:  this blog does not offer refunds on the amount of time lost by reading silly posts.  :)

How about some quotes????

As I sit here on the heating pad, wishing I could have a spine transplant (I'm too young to feel this old!), I felt like reading some quotes.  Then I thought that it'd been a while since I have posted some random quotes (minus the OTH quotes recently) so felt like I'd pass some along to you. 

**I take NO credit for any of these posts!!**

“I don't pretend to know what love is for everyone, but I can tell you what it is for me; love is knowing all about someone, and still wanting to be with them more than any other person, love is trusting them enough to tell them everything about yourself, including the things you might be ashamed of, love is feeling comfortable and safe with someone, but still getting weak knees when they walk into a room and smile at you.”

“If you love somebody, let them go. If they return, they were always yours. If they don't, they never were.”

“Sometimes it's the smallest decisions that can change your life forever.”

“What is love? Love is when one person knows all of your secrets... your deepest, darkest, most dreadful secrets of which no one else in the world knows... and yet in the end, that one person does not think any less of you; even if the rest of the world does.”

These next few quotes are from the site lovingfromadistance.com... it's an online LDR (long distance relationship) site that has poems, advice, stories, etc that I often would browse during the nearly 12 month long distance relationship that Wayne and I endured.  Oh it's so nice to read them and look BACK on our distance, and not to comfort me DURING the times apart.  :)

"Distance is not for the fearful, it is for the bold. It's for those who are willing to spend a lot of time alone in exchange for a little time with the one they love. It's for those knowing a good thing when they see it, even if they don't see it nearly enough..."

 

"Distance means so little when someone means so much."

 

"True love doesn't mean being inseparable; it means being separated and nothing changes."

 

 

"Missing someone gets easier every day because even though you are one day further from the last time you saw them, you are one day closer to the next time you will."

 

I still can't believe that we have now been a couple for over a year.  It has certainly not been easy, especially during our times apart.  But has it been worth it?  Absolutely.  Would I do it all again?  Absolutely.  If you had told me before we became "us" that one of my BEST friends in the entire world would become the person I am in love with, the man that I am living with and lucky enough to wake up to every morning, and plan on spending my life with and having a family with.....  would I have believed you?  Absolutely NOT!  lol.  It's funny how life works out sometimes.   Guess life is what happens while we are busy making plans.....

And no real reason for the sappy lovey dovey post tonight, just reflecting on how happy I am.  Hey, I'm allowed to be a sappy girlie girl every now and then, right?   hehehe....

And now, some pictures.....

3 years ago, May 2008.... who would've known what the future held for two dear friends.



A pic from one of our day trips to DC in mid May 2010, no longer just friends... soo much more.  :)





Best pals, rocking out to 7m3 Indy 2008 (July I think??)







Our first 7m3 concert as a couple May 2010. <3


 

And last picture, our first picture together after me moving home!! :)

Note the above was a "winter" day.. such a hard life, I tell ya ;)

I am such a lucky gal!! 

Ok, will wrap up the sap... and perhaps the next post I will resume my 30 day challenge??? Yeah, I know..epic FAIL on that challenge...but maybe I'll get back on the blogging wagon and offer entertainment instead of reasons to make readers roll their eyes and gag?  lol.  Until next time.