She just smiled and gave me a Vegamite sandwich

Since everyone I know wanted to get regular updates and pictures of my time here in Australia, I decided to create this blog as a way for everyone to get all the info they want. Those who know me, know I am very open and honest—perhaps to a fault—so expect to see a lot of details and stories not just the general overview of things. At times I can also swear like a sailor. Granted I won't exactly be doing that in my blog, but I will be swearing from time to time so be aware, those of you who find that offensive. In the words of Popeye, "I am what I am and that's all I am."

Well I suppose I should start things off explaining my trek to Australia. There are many reasons really. I mean what person in their early 30's quits everything, packs up and moves to the other side of the world to go back to school and take out a huge school loan? This chick right here apparently.

So how did I get here? Well for several years now I've had the feeling like I'm just kind of plodding along, going in circles - like a row boat with only one oar. After several layoffs in my dream job, then a floundering career filled with jobs I only took to be employed, I needed a change. I was in such a slump that I felt like I needed a big change. Something drastic to restart my life. I ended up choosing Australia because I had intended on coming over here to live with my boyfriend, but that relationship ended. At that point I had already spent a year planning the move and transition to Australia. I still wasn't happy with my life back in the States so I figured, why not continue to go for it anyway? I could do this on my own just as well as I could have with him. Plus I've always wanted to live in another country and since I'm not married, don't have kids and don't own a home, its the best (and probably last) time to do it.

So here I am, in a new country, solo, going back to school after being out of the education system for almost 10 years. I'll be getting my teaching certification and trying out a new career. I think doing it in Australia could also be helpful because I can see how they look at their education system and what ideologies have worked for them. Then I could perhaps incorporate some of their practices when I teach back in the States. The long and short of it, is that I needed a drastic change to jump start my life and had already started on a path that would lead me to that option.

Over the next year I'll be posting as often as possible and posting pictures from my travels in Australia and around Brisbane where I currently live. Feel free to ask any questions and DEFINITELY come visit!

Hope you enjoy it.