Walking Slow

Lack of convenient access to the internet is to blame for the delay in blog posts. Well...that, along with the change of pace Perth has bestowed upon me.  A change of pace that is greatly affecting the girl that left the hustle and bustle of the USA just 8 quick weeks ago.

A change of pace that made me realize I: 

walk fast.

plan a lot.

like to know what is next.

prefer to get to a destination without wasting time between the start and finish.

need organization.

enjoy working/making money.

walk really fast. 

I have been in Perth for two weeks now and have decided that I won't be here long enough to start working somewhere. Being unemployed has left me feeling different than I expected! One would think not having a job would equal endless parties, sleeping in, relaxation…total freedom. It does. BUT it also equals me feeling unorganized, money conscious, and learning how to chill out.

This new lifestyle has actually been quite difficult to adjust to. But, it is turning out to be a good exercise for me. 

Prior to my time in Perth I had no idea how fast I walked ( and by that I  am implying all of the traits listed above). Staying at a hostel with about 100 other backpackers has introduced me to a variety of attitudes, backgrounds, experiences, and tips- both about traveling and about life in general. On the whole-  I think I may be one of the most uptight backpackers in Perth! I spent my first week making a point to meet new friends, and unlike most people around me I was always making sure I had plans.  

Rottnest Island

With week two coming to an end I am proud to say progress has been made. I have slowed my canter to a trot. I am creating outlines, instead of detailed lists. Leaving room for unanticipated events and enjoying them when they occur. Worrying less about what is happening at my destination and enjoying the contents occurring on my way to it. I am recognizing it is OK to be somewhere and not know when I will change locations or what the next one might be. I am learning to live simply and prioritize where my money is spent. I am letting life happen around me and going where it takes me instead of me taking it. 

After eight weeks in Australia I am walking slower. 

Rottnest Island Surfers

Rottnest Island

Even though I have slowed my pace down, I have remained busy. In the last two weeks I: 

Spent HEAPS of time at the beach: North Beach, South Beach, CY O'Connor's Beach, Leighton Beach, Cottesloe Beach, Scarborough Beach

Hitchhiked... to the beach

Had a proper Australian barbecue on Australia Day

Aussie BBQ

Aussie Day Crew

Did a torch(aka-flashlight) tour through the Fremantle Prison

Lived in a room with people from England, Scotland, the Netherlands, and Switzerland. 

Tried Kangaroo and found out I like anchovies.

Taught some English guys how to throw an American Football

Attempted to pitch a ball like a Cricket Player

Biked around Rottnest Island and pet a Quokka while there

A Quokka

Ran on the beach

Swam in the Sea

Had a picnic outside of the Kings Park Amphitheater during the Train and INXS concert

Enjoyed a few open mic nights and sang along to live music

Had incredible conversations with people from around the world

Got my hair cut by an Aussie woman who was dancing while cutting and now half of my hair is gone. (but I don't care, because it's just hair...right???)

Proved Americans can dance to Sir Mixalot 

Found out I was more competitive than I once thought- must be the American in me. 

Attended the Fringe Festival of Arts in Perth

Needless to say, I am having fun and learning a lot in WA. 

  

In just 10 days Lisa gets here!  We will be taking off on a camping adventure down the south coast of this enormous state. I can't wait for that time to come! In the meantime I continue to find enjoyment in my life of ease and take everything in stride. Now…Off to the beach! After that… I don't have a clue!! 

Sunset Coast | WA