9:48am
Waken up by my phone! Yay! I have an interview today for a job at a dance clothing store. Nice! And another interview waiting for me in my e-mail for Wednesday. What? My phone again! You’re kidding me!? Well, there you go, 3 interviews in less than 3 hours. One today, one tomorrow and one Wednesday. We’ll see how they go. I’m mostly hopping to get this one. Seems like a good stable job, just not sure they’d go for someone that can be there for only 6 months. Well, I loose nothing in trying. This is crap! I have 2 busses to take and the first one didn’t show up! I was there early and it never came the one scheduled after that one is late. Awesome! I missed my connection and I’m gonna be late. I know she said I could arrive early or late depending on the bus but I really hate being late. This will not look good, not at all.
I’m still happy about these interviews. But I’m not happy about my heel though! It’s been hurting since last night, even more when I put weight on it. I’m scared it might be serious. Well, got my interview slightly late but I don’t even think she look at the time. Most of the interview was about the job and things I’d have to do. All she really asked me was my dance experience. Towards the end, I just specified that I was only allowed to work for 6 months. The lady who interviewed me is not the owner of the store but she’s very satisfied with my resume and told me I was exactly the candidate they’d be looking for but the owner will have to make a decision about my working restrictions. We’ll see if I can have the job or not. The owner should contact me tomorrow to let me know. Gotta make sure I stop by the bank today so I can pay my part of the rent.
Tuesday, April 3rd ‘07
Got another interview today for a marketing company. Gotta dress business. Will have to make something out of the clothes I brought with me. Nice, the interview went well and the guy is really cute. I have a second interview tomorrow and I think it’s a group interview, I hate those. That would mean 2 group interviews tomorrow. Ah well! I’ll have to deal with it. I’m so happy that I’ll just walk around for awhile. Called Drew to invite him over for a poutine. I’m too happy to be alone now. He can’t today but Friday will be the day! Just hope I’ll be as happy or even more by then.
I’m at South Bank enjoying a treat. Yes, you guessed it… a Cold Rock ice cream. Soooooo good! I’ve walked around the other way then I usually go and there’s a maritime museum with a couple of boats. Right now, I’m sitting on a bench on a bridge overlooking the boats and there’s a model having her picture taken on one of the boats with different outfits. Well, she e-mailed me about the job (from yesterday the dance clothes store), I didn’t get it as she wants someone permanently. Ah well! 2 interviews tomorrow.
Have I mentioned the trees here are awesome. I’ve never been a tree person but just all the different kinds they have here and how they complement the view is just magnificent. I think I’m gonna become a tree person. Trees here are really very nice. If I’ve mentioned it before, I’m not sorry ‘cause it’s worth mentioning it again.
Wednesday, April 4th ‘07
Had a really hard time falling asleep last night and made quite an erotic dream. Weird! Got a group interview, which actually turns out being an observation of employees on site. I really think the guy that interviewed me likes me and he owns the company. His name is Gabriel, nice! I miss Gab. Feels like it’s been 2 years since I’ve seen him or at lease the Gab I knew before I left for Greece in June ’05.
They placed us in pairs and sent us with a team of employees. Gabriel drove me, 2 employees and an “observer” (like me) to a big mall in Carindale. The suburb is right after Coorparoo (where I am). He bought us all a Coffee/Tea and explaned the job. We did some observation and he left me at the bus stop. I have to wait until 1pm (time on his phone call) to see if I get the job.
I’m home and I have another interview at 3pm. Eat food and chat a bit on the net before I leave. 2nd interview done! This time, it’s for a company comparable to the one I did the Dentyne Ice promotion. I really want a job with them. The only thing is it seems like they’re looking for models ready to be a piece of meat in a bikini. I just have a bit of time as I have to be at city hall by 6 for the swing classes given by Mark (2). He invited me to take part of it. There’s lindy hop and balboa for beginners. Oh and I got the job from this morning it’s good news ‘cause I need it and not so good ‘cause I don’t think it’s my cup of tea. I start at 7:15 tomorrow morning. At lease, it’s a chance for me to make some money!
How fun was tonight?! I attended and helped out giving the classes. Mark even wanted to offer me to take his place when he’s gone but his new partner Amanda didn’t seem so keen about it as he offered it to me in front of her without asking for her opinion first. I didn’t say anything, not wanting to create a conflict but I’d love to do it. I think Mark like me a lot and I like him too, he’s really nice and pretty cool! He invited me to come again for the 2nd class but I think I better not for Amanda’s sake.
I did ask about Sean (the guy with his gooey hands all over me) and apparently he’s handsy with all the girls. What a relief! So I can tell him off without creating a cold in the scene. I also met Richard who lived in Montreal and knows Philou as well. Nice! Mark gave me a lift to the dance in the valley. James was there and Drew joined later on. It was fun and I had a very enjoyable night. Drew and I danced and the second one we did, I felt very observed. He’s really good and loads of fun to dance with. I then asked Mark for a dance and he said: “I’m not Drew!” (or something like that) My first taught was : “and…” I mean, they’re both great, have awesome personalities and are fun dancers. They just have different styles. I told him that. I really do enjoy dancing with both of them. It’s just really fun and I’d love to befriend both. I think in the case of Drew, we’re just about there and with Mark it’s getting there (I hope).
They’re both really nice and fun. Got to chat quite a bit with Drew and the evening ended. Another dancer, Kameron dropped me home, really nice of him. I my day was full and I had an awesome evening. I’m so glad! Well, it’s late and I’ve gotta be up by 5:30 this morning. Good night!
Thursday, April 5th ‘07
First day at work. Not sure I want to do this job but I gotta do it. Need the green! Every morning we meet at the office for a reunion, we get paired up and get our location. Gabriel gave us all a Lint gold Easter bunny. Nice! This is a sales/marketing company. They focus on customer service and sales. I’m at a stand in a mall solicitating people and trying to get them to join a donation program for the Australian Conservation Foundation. I don’t get a base salary, just commission, 50$ per person that “joins”. Today, I get a bonus of 20$ per person so 70$. Wow, I’m good at math!!! LoL.
I’m on brake right now, I had to spend on transport as my location is in zone 5 but my pass (10 trip saver) is only good for zones 1 and 2. We are 2 at the stand and he’s helping me out. It’s not easy and my feet are killing me from my high heels (they are the only “proper” shoes I have), thought a lot of people especially men like to complement my shoes. Don’t forget that my heel is still in pain. I think that when I get back to the office, I’ll quite. I’m not happy and I’m not making any money. I almost feel like leaving now. I’m also very tired as I slept less than 5hrs. This job really makes me feel like when I worked in Athens and I went to the bus station to get customers but was being exploited as I was “training” and not being paid.
Just finished my shift. I’m on a train on my way back to the office. I made 2 “sales” so 140$, it’s not bad but I was at the office for 7:15, it’s 6 and I’m not done yet, so it’s a bit over 10$/hr and that’s only ‘cause I have a 20$ bonus else, it would’ve been 100$. I feel a bit better about the job now but I still don’t like not having an hourly wage.
Turn out I didn’t have to go back to the office, I could’ve gone directly home and I’m so tired it would’ve been good. Well, got an e-mail from the other company I had an interview with yesterday and I got the job. The only problem with it is that it’s contracts, sometimes one day, sometimes a weekend, sometimes more. I love that job but it’s not a constant one. I don’t know what I’ll do! I have Friday and Monday off as it is Easter so I have 4 days to think about it.
Friday, April 6th ‘07
Got up this morning to chat with my mom. She was at her boyfriend’s with the dogs and he has a webcam so I got to see them. I was a mess from all the emotion. Soooooo happy of seeing them. The girls where just so beautiful and my mom looked great. I which the dogs could see me so I can see their reaction. I miss them so much, I just want to pet them, hold them, play with them, kiss them, etc. So beautiful! It was also sad to see Fanny looking unhappy as she is very medicated. I’m at the other end of the world and I can see them now how great is that! I took a picture of me and sent it so my mom could see what I looked like right at that moment. Isn’t technology great!
Drew’s coming over tonight at 7pm and I just realized, I have noting to drink. I’m a water person what can I say! Just got to a store and bought some Coke and Cream Soda. It’s gonna be time soon so I should start on that poutine sauce.
That was sooooo much fun. I’m so glad he came over and he’s so nice, great and fun. As I made poutine, we talked then Stephanie arrived and joined us. Drew brought a drink called Cordial. As we made some jokes thru sms and he mentioned it, I didn’t know what it was. It’s a drink that children like, you put a bit in a glass and add water. It’s good! Not a big deal but ok. Made him taste poutine and he loved it, I also made him taste some of my pickled eggs which he seemed to like too. It was really nice having all 3 of us chatting over a poutine. Once we finished eating, he said something that strucked me, he said : “May I do the dishes please!”. I mean how can I refuse such a request asked in such a nice way. It almost felt like he was begging and really wanted to do it. Normally I would have said that I’ll do it later but I just couldn’t say no after the way he had asked.
Then, to integrate him and bring him into the Canadian/Quebecer mentality before he gets there, we watched Bon cop, Bad cop. He actually understood and laugh at the jokes. :-P Nah, it was great! Then Stephanie went to bed as she was falling asleep. Drew and I kept on talking about everything and noting. He’s really fun to chat with and interesting. I think my favorite part was when we started talking about TV shows from our childhood such as Sesame Street, Shera, Degrassi and Heartbreak high (the Australian version of Degrassi, was translated in French and played on Tele-Quebec). This really was a great night. I’ve been “saying” it a bit lately but things are really getting better and I’m so happy and glad to be here. I feel like I’m making good friends and I don’t feel so much alone. It’s great and a really good feeling.
Sunday, April 8th ‘07
Staying inside today. As I was cooking, I heard someone playing the pipe. I went out in the backyard. I couldn’t see the guy but it’s really nice to listen too. I’m feeling so good. It’s great to be here. Hey! My heel doesn’t hurt anymore. That’s good new! I’m meeting people, making friends, doing stuff, I’m invited here and there. I’m really starting to make a life of my own here. If I can just get a better job than what I have right now, all would be great.
Monday, April 9th ‘07
I must have slept in an awkward position as my neck and right shoulder are killing me. Really hurts! I did my groceries today. I’m not too bad, I’ve learned to do some menus and different meals using the same ingredients so they don’t turn bad and loose the food. It’s not easy but I’ve managed. I’m on my own for this.
Richard just texted me, he’s just a bored as I am. He’s one of the guys that swing dances and knows Philou. We’re meeting up this evening so we can be bored together. Well, better be bored with someone than bored alone! I’m waiting for the bus as I just missed it! It passes every 15mins so that’s how long I’ll be waiting. Wonder if I’ll get a cute driver this time. Nop! And he’s a little grumpy too. Maybe Snow White could cheer him up! Oh crap! I’m Show White! Thought since I’ve left home, I’m not much of Snow White but Snow Tan. Not much better, that would be slightly polluted snow. Great! I’m polluted snow! lol
Well, we met up in front of the movie theatre. We walked and chatted. I really enjoyed myself, especially when I got him to give me a massage and he rubbed my shoulder and neck that hurts like hell and still do. I think we really enjoy each other’s company. He’s really nice and funny. He might be a bit too much of a Philou fan! I never met someone ticklish on the but until I met Richard. lol I invited him over to watch a movie and of all the movies I brought, he choose The Count of Monte Cristo. It really surprised me in a good way. What a great choice and one not many people would do. Unfortunately, by placing the DVD in my laptop, I realized that it didn’t come with English subtitles so we watched Bon cop, Bad cop instead. He lived in Montreal for awhile so it was great being with someone that understood the cultural jokes. It was getting late and I’m supposed to get up at 5:30am to go to work. I’ll just show up to quit as I’m really not happy with this job.
Tuesday, April 10th ‘07
Just spoke with Gabriel (my boss) and told him I quit. Don’t think this job’s for me anyways, I have another job it’s just not full time. I don’t think I could’ve doubt with working 12-14hrs/day, paying for my transport and getting an average of 150$/day. Not worth it and I don’t want to work 50-60hrs a week, I’m here on “vacation”. I’d rather work at McD’s for 6 months. I remember liking it from time to time. Wow! My shoulder and neck are really killing me. He’s pretty good at massages (Richard) but I’d have to guess it’s the futon.
Not working today. I’ll open my bank account while I’m in the city. It’s a bit too early now as banks open at 9am. I’ll get myself an hash brown at McD’s until 9. I’ll just go to every bank and see which is most advantageous for me, I know 4 or 5 different institutions. I just don’t have my passport with me. I’ll go get it later once I know which bank I want to open an account with. I’ll also go back to Infinity (my ex-job) to see if they gotten my ABN (Australian Business Number) as I need it for the promotion job. Else, I’ll have to go on the net to get one. Things are going forward as for friends, work, hobby, things to do. It feels really good. Well these hash browns don’t taste the same as back home. Prefer the ones from home. I do encourage the fact that it’s made with potatoes from Tasmania. What am I gonna do with myself today? I just hope I have some work for this weekend! Thought Drew seemed really keen on my going to see this band or something on Friday night before the swing shack.
9am!
Time to go look at bank accounts. I just been into 4 or 5 banks and it seems to me that Suncorp is the best option for me. They have an account that’s only 3$/month with unlimited “electronic” transactions, all I have to pay is if I go to the teller but I never do so I’m good. I just don’t have my passport to open one today. I’m back and I’m gonna take a nap. Richard texted me, we’re meeting up at 4 and he’s be cooking. Great! Gotta luv it when someone else cooks for me. I also got a phone call for an interview tomorrow morning. Great! Just hope it’s not the same crap as Infinity. The problem is when I search on http://www.seek.com.au/ I choose the category and some companies posts jobs without much info on what the job is or what it implies. Infinity had posted themselves under promotions but it’s not promotions at all, it’s sales. They also did not specify what they actually do, what the job is nor what function I’d be doing. It only advertises the qualities they are looking for and say how much “fun” it is.
I didn’t tell Gabriel (the owner of Infinity) why I really quit. He just tried to make me feel bad for not trying hard enough and not giving me time. They get you in the office for 7:15 so they can brainwash you into thinking it’s a “fun” place to work at with power talks and bell ringing for outstanding sales, games, clapping, screaming, energy boosting, etc. By the end, it’s still only commission 12-14hr per day and an average of 150$/day plus expenses on you. Wow! That way too good of a deal! Why did I quit again?! (being really sarcastic)
Got to take an hour nap but now, I’m on my way to meet up with Richard. I’m glad he’s making food, as y’all know me, I don’t like cooking so if someone else wants to do it for me, I’m not gonna refuse. I think we both get along well. Hey, I got here knowing no one and now I know some people, I’m not gonna start refusing invitations now. He did the groceries, I guess he has something in mind, I mean diner wise. Yup, I know what just came into your minds! lol He has 2 roommates, Scott and Mark it’s a house of geeks! :D They are really nice and I had a lot of fun with them. They’re also very addicted to video games. I love his roommates they are really fun and great to chat with. Richard is sooo in love with Philou. He keeps on talking about him, he told his roommates about him and also has a picture of him on his wall. At lease, he has the Quebec flag in his room! He made chicken with rice and vegetables for all of us. Nice! I need more friends like that you know, the type that cooks! What do you think about that Carl?! ;)
Wednesday, April 11th ‘07
Went to the interview and left really quick when my fears of it being the same job as Infinity came to life! What’s up with those crappy commission only jobs?! Don’t they have any good regular jobs anymore?! Ah well, I’ll find something, soon I hope! Went back home and did some stuff. I have to start looking for a job all over again and I have to find myself a new place to stay as I sense my welcome has worn out even if I pay my part of the rent.
Wow, I just watched the news. Water is a big deal here. They just created a new level of water restriction 5. We’ve been on level 4 ever since I got here and now it’s even stricter. I don’t even know what it means. I try my best to be careful even when I wash the dishes or fill the water bottle. It’s so bad that someone stole water from a school rugby league during Easter weekend. Never taught I’d see the day where people would actually steel water. This is how precious it is here.
Well, I’m in the Valley right now as there’s a dance tonight. I just don’t know the name of the bar nor the address. Great! Nor Mark nor Richard are answering their phones. I’ve been looking for this place for like half an hour now. I’ll have to call Drew I just hope his class has not started or is finished. OK, I just called Drew in the middle of his class, got the name of the bar but not the location. This place is a bit sketchy and I’m tired of looking for it. Great! Now that I’m fed up of looking, I find it. I also just realized that I left my dancing shoes in the bus. Now that’s just great! I’m also a bit pissed off that neither Mark or Richard answered their phones. Not much I can do about it and not worth my lingering on it. It’s a bit sad to have a nice venue like this (a bit like petit medley with less people and a bigger dance floor) and that most people sit most of the night. Thought it ends oh so very late, and I mean 11pm. (oh so sarcastic!) Did get to talk to people and finally met Drew’s girlfriend Emma.
Drew was nice enough to give me a lift to the city but I missed the last bus by 6 minutes. So, I walked all the way to the Gabba (the stadium where the Brisbane Lions play – AFL Australian Football Ligue). I called my mum as she’s the only one up just in case. There’s not much she can do from Montreal but she can call Stephanie and she can call 000 if needed. I took a taxi from the Gabba to somewhere much closer to home. Just don’t really have the budget for a cab right now. Next time I’ll know to get my ass there before 11:30.
Thursday, April 12th ‘07
Today, I opened myself a bank account. I need it to receive my pay checks from work, when I actually get some. I also refilled my phone as I was out of money. This time, I’ll be able to stretch it a bit longer, I think. Else, I’ll look at other mobile phone companies. I’ve also been looking at any store with adds looking for employees and they all refused me because of my visa situation where I can only work for the same company for 6 months. I really don’t want to leave Brisbane now, not when things are going so well and I have a social life. This job thing is really getting harder and harder. I’ve called translink the transport company to see if they had my dancing shoes and they do. I’ll have to pick them up tomorrow. I’ve also looked at the chance to fly on Saturday as James has offered me to join him again to Caboolture. I might actually go for half an hour and learn to fly a bit. It would be awesome!
Add promotions just called me for a job tomorrow, wine tasting. I so wanted to do it. It’s a 3 hour shift tomorrow but I can’t. Not ‘cause I don’t want to but ‘cause I don’t have a car. I’d have to go to the office to get the material including a table. I couldn’t bring it in the bus. Crap! I really could’ve used the job. Ah well! Hopefully next week they’ll have something for me that doesn’t require a car to get the material. I really wanted to do it. I could so use the pay as well. Not much I can do.
I’m extremely tired. I’ll take a nap and get up early enough to go to Stephanie’s Ultimate Frisbee game. Got there on time for the second half. One of Stephanie’s friend Genevieve from Montreal was there as well so we hung together during the match. It was nice to have someone to talk with and enjoy the game.
Friday, April 13th ‘07
Back to job searching! I’m really fed up of this. Yesterday I went into every store which posted openings but they all want permanent workers, to think that I could be working today. Ah well! I’ve applied on the net to McD’s and Woolworth. Not the best places but better then noting. I have to go downtown to get my dance shoes I left in the bus the other night. Texted Richard to see if he’d meet me after work. Well, got my shoes back and meeting with Richard.
We spent a lot of time together this week and it’s really nice. Doesn’t feel like I’m waisting my days doing noting. He’s great! I always have a good time with him. I can be myself with no pressure like with a close friend. He’s so sweet! We went for ice cream and he thought there was a Cold Rock in this mall downtown knowing how much I like this place. We ended up at another ice cream parlor. And guess what?… He paid! I don’t know if it really counts as he read my journal and the part where I had a date with Jonathan. Well, the gesture is still appreciated.
We walked downtown and then went to my place for supper. I was going to go to the swing shack but it’s a bit late for that as it closes early. So I guess I’ll go to Pipa’s going away party. Mark seemed to want me there. We got there, I got to meet Pipa for the first and last time. Mark has watched the first 20mins of The Rocket. He’s leaving tomorrow for Adelaide as he’s referring some Ice Hockey game there. Here, Hockey is grass hockey played with different rules so to refer to the hockey we all know, they add the word ice in front of it. Clever!!! Richard and I left pretty quick. I had just a bit of time to speak with Mark. Got some money to pay my rent and my bus pass (10 trip saver). He walked me to the bus stop and we talked a lot. I even missed a bus.
James haven’t e-mailed. I’ll get up early and ring him to know if I’m still going to Caboolture with him.
Saturday, April 14th ‘07
Called James and we’re meeting at the same place as last time. I’m really glad to go and I hope they still have availability after him, if James doesn’t mind. We’re here and James just left for his flight. I’m really thirsty and the AC is making me cold. Just got a bottle of water from the museum next to the school. I’m so sleepy, I slept 7hrs but still sleepy.
This is great! We’re driving thru this village and there’s a couple of 1910, 1920’s Fords parked in a car park. We stopped to check them out. Most of them where made in Canada. Nice! Then we took the scenic route back to Brisbane. It’s so beautiful here in the mountains. There’s just so many turns it reminds me of Apache Trail in Arizona. I’m also falling asleep. We stopped to walk around in this “park” on top of a mountain where you can BBQ. Great place to party and picnic. The view is magnificent. There’s a forest fire in the mountains, we both smelt it earlier but I thought it was just a fire camp or “house” fire.
I’m really starting to get dizzy and a huge head ache. Have I mentioned how beautiful it is here. We’re now at more than 2000 feet in a rainforest. The trees are very beautiful and it’s fun to drive thru. Feels great to be outside of the city in the middle of nature. We stopped at a café with an incredibly nice view, we can even see Brisbane from here. Crossing this mountain range was really nice.
James brought me to this touristic “hill” not far from the city where I took pictures. It reminded me a bit of the view we get of Montreal from Mont-Royal but just a bit further. There’s wild turkeys here! OK sure, in the city why not! I had a great day and I have James to thank once again. I’m so tired, I took a nap the minute I got home. Now I’m watching a movie and I’m tired.
Monday, April 16th ‘07
Today’s pretty hot and boring. Today’s plan is to take a shower, get dressed and go to South Bank to take a walk, let’s not forget a trip at Cold Rock. Here I am in beautiful South Bank. I just love walking around here. I’m feeling a bit nostalgic as I’m walking in the park looking at the city across the river. Just thinking of me being at the other end of the world. I still can’t believe I made it this far.
I booked an interview with McD’s today. It’s not the best job ever but I liked it at times. I could easily deal with working 6 months at McD’s. My interview is next Monday and it will determine if I’m staying in Brisbane or not.
I love this park, it’s my favorite place here. It’s also good to take some time to think. I really can’t believe that I’m here. I never would’ve been able to predict that one day I’d be traveling this much and seeing the world. All this helps me into my personal growth.
The city is so beautiful. I walked under the Victoria bridge, there’s a boardwalk and it’s nice. I love just standing there looking at the city. It’s a bit like looking at Montreal from the bridge. The Brisbane river is not as large as the St-Laurent. I wore my poca dot dress today and it made me feel good. I love that dress! Wonder why I haven’t put it on since I left Montreal?! It really makes me feel good. I’ll cross the bridge, enjoy my walk thru the city.
Wow, the city is really nice to walk thru when the stores are closing. It’s full of people walking, talking, taking their time. It really doesn’t feel much like a city, people are sitting on benches or standing and chatting, just taking their time. It’s really not one of those fast pace, busy business cities full of suits running around like ants. I love being here, I need to get that McD’s job so I can stay here for awhile.
Walked back to South Bank and got my ice cream from Cold Rock. It felt good and was comforting. It’s great sitting on a bench in South Park, looking at the city with all the lights eating a Cold Rocks ice cream. Just me on a bench with my ice-cream, the river, the city, the creatures that makes weird sounds. It’s really nice here. I could really get used to this city.
Back home after all the walking and thinking. Felt really good! I can hear the bats fighting in the trees and the possums running on the roof and jumping on trees. Well, it’s late I’m going to bed.
Wednesday, April 18th ‘07
Last night, I stayed up really late watching episodes of Nikita. I also got up late today. Ain’t got noting to do else than the dance tonight. Add promotions texted me this evening for a job with Mazda on Saturday at the Carrera Stadium on the Gold Coast for the AFL (Australian Football League), Nice! Maybe I’ll catch a bit of the game. They don’t have American football here. I’m just glad to work and get some hours in bank.
Well, this time I didn’t search long and didn’t lose my shoes. Woooo! I’m at the Fringe bar, James is here as well as Drew and some others. Still don’t know everyone’s names yet. People danced a bit more tonight. Mark is in Adelaide but I was hopping that Richard would drop by. He didn’t! Ah well! I’m still having fun and meeting new people. Kameron just got here. He’s a nice bloke! Drew and Emma gave me a lift to my bus stop at Culture Center. They are really nice and fun. I had a good night!
Thursday, April 19th ‘07
Richard and I are going out tonight. I offered to eat poutine at my place but he wanted to take me out. Well, I’m not gonna refuse that! I dot dressed, put on my poca dot dress. Richard is picking me up at 7 tonight. Don’t know where he’s taking me! It’ll be nice to go out and eat at the restaurant, haven’t done that since Hawaii and I was alone then. He’s soooo nice, he brought me to a Mexican Restaurant, got lost a couple of times on the way there but didn’t mind. As my mom’s boyfriend would say: “We are just visiting!” I was so laughing at him ‘cause he tried to hide that he was lost but it didn’t work with me, I knew it. lol!
It felt really good to go to the restaurant with a friend. Unfortunately, the food wasn’t all that good. I still had a great time. We then went to get a coffee/tea where they have a mini Eiffel tower. He thought there was a Cold Rock there. So sweet of him! We talked a lot. I always seem to have fun with him.
Saturday, April 21st ‘07
8:35am
James just called! Time to wake up and get dressed. We are driving down the Gold Coast to New South Wales (the state south of Queensland). He’s driving this other Scottish girl around as well. She’s only here for a couple of days. My mom just called as we are on our way to where ever James is bringing us. We’ll probably go up mountains and do some sightseeing as it seems to be what he likes to do best. We’re at a lookout and there’s a big (James says it’s a small one but it’s big to me) iguana in the car park. Awesome! It’s great to see him go around slowly with his tongue sticking out. What a lovely creature! The next spot we went too is called: “The best of all views” and it’s not an under statement, that’s for sure! View is magnificent. There are some small waterfalls in the mountains here and there. The other place we went, was a waterfall that ends up in a mini lake in a cave. That sight seeing “tour” was great!
We are now in a small village in NSW and it’s really nice. We stopped for cakes and I just ate the best olive and cheese bread ever. It’s so good! I need to find this place back in Brisbane. We are at James’s friends on a hill in the middle of nowhere but it’s so beautiful, they have an awesome view, it’s great! They also have a garden with lemon trees, macadamia trees, banana, star fruit trees, etc. It’s a great garden and pretty big as well. We even got to taste one of those macadamia nuts. Mmmmm! It was a really nice afternoon tea/coffee with cakes and I taste a Lamington which is Australian, it’s some kind of a white sponge cake covered with a small layer of chocolate sponge covered in coconut. It was an enjoyable day in the mountains with pastures filled with cows, horses and even pigs. It was very lovely!
Got back home to take a nap then met up with Jen in the City. We walked around the city and South Bank. Finally! I just saw a possum in the South Bank Park, it was about time! I hear them every night on the roof but never see them. Nice little creature! So we walked thru South Bank and ate some sea food at some “sea fast food” joint. Then we went back to the city and walked around until the bus got there. We also "visited" the casino, it's always full of young adults. They have nice bars with live shows, now I understand why it's popular with the young adults. She’s really nice and fun to talk with. I was glad to meet her. On my way home from the bus stop, something sticking out of a hole made me jump as it went quickly back in then, I realized it was a snake. Pretty glad it went back in the hole and didn't attact me. Wow!
Sunday, April 22nd ‘07
Today, I’m going to see West Texas Crude again. Richard’s picking me up after he fixed his parent’s computer problems. I have the interview tomorrow with McD’s and it’ll be the turning point where I will either stay in Brisbane for 6 months or leave at the end of the week. I really want to stay. I’ve made friends, I can practice my hobbies and built myself a social life here. I really want the job.
In the car with Richard on our way to West Texas Crude and he got lost, again! Oh ya! I told him the city was the other way but he didn’t listen, I also told him the highway was parallel to us, he didn’t listen and who was right at the end… yes, it was me!!!! Dear oh dear Richard, what am I gonna do with you? We finally got there, in one piece and before the end of the show. lol James was there, not surprising as it is his favorite band, he was a bit tired though. I had a great time chatting with people and dancing a bit. I also finally got to dance with Richard and I just couldn’t help myself to laugh, he really needs help. He’s so goofy!
When we came back to my place, we check out rooms for rent as if I get the McD’s job, I’ll need to move really soon. The average rent is between 90-120/week before amenities (water, gas, electricity, internet, etc.) which are approximately 50$/person/month. Calculating about 125$/week on housing plus about 100$/month on food and 86$/month on bus pass, it’s about 700$/month for living.
Monday, April 23rd ‘07
Well, it’s 2pm and I have my McD’s interview at 3pm, should get going to the interview that will impact what I’m gonna do next. I didn’t get it! She didn’t say in so many words but I asked questions especially about the 6 months restriction and the answer was obvious. As I got on the bus to go to the city, the girl in front of me had a maple leaf tattooed on her ankle, figured she was Canadian and my “suspicions” were confirmed when I saw her bag that had a maple leaf written: “The eh team” below it.
Plan : Go to Woolworth and get some comforting food : i.e. cheese and olives. Also go to Baker’s Delight to get some of that cheese and olive bread that I love so much. Went to Baker’s Delight, no cheese and olive bread apparently, each bakery chooses which they will do in a long list of choices. Nice to know! (not too happy about that). My mom called as I was in line to pay for my groceries at Woolworth which included some feta cheese stuffed olives. Mmmmmmm. Just went to Michel’s pastries, got a cannoli and a mud cake. It will be nice for desert tonight as well as comforting.
Oh yes, Richard is coming over to dye my hair and we also made a deal where I will teach/help him swing dance in exchange for him cooking. I think it’s a pretty good deal as I hate to cook and eat alone. Just got an e-mail from McD’s, I didn’t get the job, it’s not surprising as I knew it inside of me. “sigh!” And so I’m leaving Brisbane by Sunday or Monday. That’s it for Brisbane! I’ll probably be coming back when, I don’t know. I’ll keep on applying for jobs thru the net. Who knows, I might land a job while I’m away. I really wanted to spend the next 6 months here and the last 4 months of my visa traveling around the country. Ah well! I guess I’ll be traveling around sooner.
Richard just got here and we are preparing to dye my hair. He only brought 3 t-shirts! Hun, I’ll be wearing one and 2 will be used for covering the chair. He’s wearing work clothes, not a good idea, wouldn’t want to get them stained. HAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHA I just can’t stop laughing! This is sooooooo funny! I’m having a gag! The only solution we found, was that he would wear one of my boxers. I wish I had working batteries to capture this. It’s hilarious. I just can’t believe he’s gonna wear this and only this (well, he got his own undies under it) to dye my hair. Every time I’m gonna read this part of the journal, I’m gonna take a crack out of it. He just made my day. So, Richard just finished dying my hair (wearing my boxers – he dressed now!) and he’s cooking as I’m waiting ‘till it’s time to wash my hair.
I really appreciate the time we spend together and we do spend a lot of it. We ate some teriyaki chicken while watching a bit of Down with love and now, I’m teaching him how to not look goofy when he dances. Trying to get him better technically, after practicing and sucking in these concept, he’ll be much better.
We ate our deserts watching the rest of Down with love and chatted for a bit. I’m really grateful to have Richard here, it really helps me cooping with hard times like now where I’ll have to leave thought I don’t want to. He’s been a really good friend to me and I’m very appreciative. He’s tired, but he stayed a little longer feeling I needed a friend. He’s very thoughtful! Thank you Richard, you really don’t know how much this means to me!!! Thanks.
Richard just left and I feel so alone. A tear roles down my cheek as I’ll be leaving (against my will) at the end of the week. I can still come back but I guess I was hopping to stay a little longer. I really feel isolated. I feel like I’ve let myself down by not trying hard enough to find a job. I’m so discourage. I feel really lame. I wish Richard would’ve stayed again tonight, I know it’s hard for him as he needs some sleep before going to work. I would’ve felt better and I’d be sleeping right now instead of crying. I can’t be that selfish, he has his own life! The real question is: “Where am I at?” I don’t know! (tear) I think I feel a little lost, lost in what I’m gonna do, lost in whom I am, lost in my mind, lost in my feelings. I’m so fucked up!
Tuesday, April 24th ‘07
Got to bed late as I was a bit depressed from knowing I have to leave this city soon. Now it’s 8am and I have an “interview” at the Visitor’s info but it’s more of a volunteer for sometime, and then we might give you a job. It doesn’t hurt to check it out. Good my mom just called! She the best! She had a feeling from yesterday that I wouldn’t be to happy from not getting the job and that I was pretty sure I didn’t get it. So she called me to encourage me and give me some advise. I love her so much. She’s a big part of my strength I don’t think I would’ve done all of this and been this far without her. I miss her a lot, she really is the best.
Well, now I’m really very late for the “interview” as it is 9am and I should be there like, now. Ah well, I’ll give them a call and be late. Ok, it was more of an info meeting about the volunteer work. Most were old woman it’s like a give us 4 hours/week type of thing. I’ll go on Friday, it’s not like I have anything better to do anyways, maybe I can sell myself into having a job really quickly.
Texted Drew to see if he could host me a couple of days from Saturday as I have a huge (have been told as well) feeling that I’m not very welcome here anymore which is ok. I got here on a Saturday so I’ll finish my week for rent purpose and move out. So Drew will pick me up on Saturday and I’ll stay there until I leave for Cairns sometime next week. Just looked at flights and hostels for Cairns. Might just get myself there next week to relax, dive and see if there’s anything there for me. It’ll be good for me to get my mind off things and stop worrying about not having a job. My Australian adventure is just not finished yet!!! That’s for sure!
Oh and for those that keep on asking me about Kangaroos because they jump around the city all the time, here’s the ones I saw (city Kangaroos).
Wednesday, April 25th ’07 (ANZAC day)
Just woken up by James he’s brining Jen to Redcliff, Bribie island, Glasshouse Mountain and Mount Coot Tha. Wanted to know if I’ll join them. Sure! Why not?! Was going to go downtown to check out ANZAC festivities but when it comes to the choice of spending the day alone or with friends, there’s no second thoughts.
As I walked towards the corner street, I saw a postman. It’s really nice, they have scooters and ride on the side walk stopping in front of every box distributing mail without getting off the scooter. Practical! Time and energy efficient.
We started off by going to Kangaroo point (no, there isn’t any Kangaroos there at lease not anymore) to see the rock climbers. Then, we went to the airport to see the aircraft Sir Charles Kingsford Smith used to make the first flight across the pacific ocean. We then went to Redcliff, tried to get to the beach but streets were closed due to festivities. There was old army/red cross trucks from the first and second world war. Cool! Failing to get to the beach here, we went to the beach at Bribie island. Then, it was off to Glasshouse Mountain.
Looked for food in this village but every “kitchen” closed at 2pm and it’s 2:23pm. Found a pastry opened! Went thru the mountains but I was so tired and had a headache from all the turning so I sleep most of it. (Already seen it!) We go to Mount Coot Tha for the view, took some pics and went home. I’m only sad I missed the ANZAC festivities.
Thursday, April 26th ‘07
Just a couple of days left. I decided to go to the botanic garden today. It’s 11:40am and I’m on a bench in the gardens by the river over looking the climbing wall of Kangaroo point. It’s really nice to walk thru. There’s trees growing from a mud “lake”. It’s actually a layer of mud over the water. As I walked along the path, there are boards with info on the birds and creatures that lives here. That’s when I think of my aunt Carla who would love this. Really nice! At the entrance of the gardens, there’s a board with info on times when you can get a free guided tour. I was a little too late (didn’t know about it). It’s a pretty cloudy and windy day today which isn’t very usual here.
I’m walking thru the gardens and I heard a bird so I turned around and see a creature that looks like a cat with red eyes. It’s a possum. It’s very rare to see them out daytime. I took pictures it wasn’t scared of me or the flash. It climbed a tree and was able to get it’s attention as I took a picture. There’s a fair amount of people here. It has a bike path, people are jugging, walking, exercising, sun tanning, etc. It’s very quiet and peaceful. Really doesn’t feel or smell like the city. I’m glad I came to walk thru it.
Went to the city. On my way, I walked thru the QUT campus. It’s so beautiful, I want to take classes just so I can spend time on the campus studying. There’s gardens, trees, even animals. It’s awesome! It’s lunch time and I’m trying to find what I want to eat. Hey! Maybe I could join Richard for lunch, he works in the city. That was nice! While I was texting Richard, this girl came up to me and asked me if I would be her model. She’s a hairdresser that just started a new job in a salon and she needed someone to practice on. I accepted. Last time my hair was cut, t’was done by me about a month ago. The result is really nice. I look like I have less hair.
Also, I was asked by the promo company I work for to work on Saturday. Nice! Richard was unavailable for lunch, ah well! It’s good since I just spent almost 2hrs at the hairdresser. I really gotta get something to eat now. Seeing Richard this evening as I’m leaving Brisbane soon. Oh, have I mentioned I’m leaving? Was unable to find an employer that would take me for 6 months or less so I’m leaving. Going to Cairns, do some diving and sight seeing. Who knows, something might turn up! Richard and I went for ice-cream. I’m always happy to spend some time with him. He’s great!
Friday, April 27th ‘07
It’s been 2 months since I left Montreal for my 3rd adventure. This one has been very different then the others with different challenges. Such an experience! Here, everyone seem to have an Akubra (Australian hat), there are different kinds and models. They are part of work uniforms, school uniforms (every school has a uniform) and even certain sports uniforms such as grass bowling, what we would call in French : “petancle” also surprisingly popular with the younger crowd. Funny!
Today, I’m volunteering at the Visitor’s info hoping to maybe get a job out of it. Did my volunteering and I was surprised at how much I was able to help and how much I know about Brisbane. It was a nice experience. Gotta run home pack, do some security “course” online for tomorrow’s job and there’s the swing shack tonight at 8:30.
I’m at the swing shack having a good time but it’s 10:45pm and Drew’s not here. Makes me wonder what I’m gonna do as we’re supposed to go to my place pick up my luggage and going to his place. That’s right, I’m moving out tonight. He doesn’t strike me as a guy that would bail on me. He’s here! What a relief!
On our way to the house, I saw a man beating up someone else on the ground so I called the Emergency line (000). I was shacking as I was on the phone with the emergency services and the guy was sooo calm on the phone taking his time asking many questions. Must’ve talked for at lease 5 mins. I hung up and Drew saw a cop car at the light so he drove next to it and we told them what was happening. Drew was shocked seeing it on the street, far from a bar.
Went to the house, got my stuff and left for his place. It’s nice! He lives in the basement where he has all he needs. They have 2 dogs and a cat. I’m so happy to get to pet dogs. Wooohoooo! OK Drew that’s enough! Ok ok! Drew just keeps on taking pictures of me. Most of them must be horrible. Stop! He’s like the Brisbane paparazzi. Drew and I spoke for a bit and went to bed as we’re both working tomorrow.
Saturday, April 28th ‘07
Slept in a real bed! Smaller but not a futon. Haven’t slept this well since I left Montreal. A real comfy bed! Ahhhhh (drawling) Got to speak with his parents for a bit. They are really nice. His mom is glad that I love dogs and his father is Austrian, he traveled quite a bit.
From Coorparoo to where I’m working today is 15 mins by bus but from here, it’s a hour and a half. He lives about 35mins from the city. He’s working from 1 to 5 and I from 3 to 6 but we left at the same time.
I’m at 1st Choice which is a liquor store owned by Coles. I’m at a wine/demo tasting booth. It’s nice and easy. People are nice time goes by fast enough. It’s long at times when there’s no one. I also learned how to open a sparkling wine. All of you who know me, knows it’s a bit ironic that I’m making people taste wine (sparkling wine). It’s 4:30pm done half my shift. It’s swing at South Bank tonight. Last swing dance before I leave! Finish work and I’m waiting for the bus. It’s pretty cold out and I know it’s gonna be just as cold in the bus with the AC. Wish I would’ve brought my jacket.
On my way to the city for food, only had toast at Drew’s this morning. I’m in South Bank looking at Mark giving the introduction swing class. There really are loads of people that shows up. Cool! Of all the people there, not many are actual dancers and the ones that are, stay secluded with their friends. It’s sad! The only people I know here are Mark, Richard and Amanda. Not much for dancing. Mark is DJing, Richard’s a goof and Amanda’s a follow. I had planned to stay ‘till the end and go for a drink afterwards with them but not worth staying and Richard (my lift) is feeling like shit. Drew was spending the evening with Emma and sleeping at her place tonight but he kept on texting me and calling to make sure I was OK to get back to his place.
Great! I just got my credit card from my purse to buy my plane ticket and my Australian bank card (Suncorp) is missing. I lost it! That’s just dandy! They only way I can get another one is by mail, it takes 5 days and I get the PIN “3 days” later, so they say. Last time I got both letters at the same time. What a bunch of idiots! I’m going to Cairns on Tuesday and I’m not too keen on having it sent there especially if the PIN comes with it like last time. Well, I’ll have to see on Monday. Oh! And to top it off, it’s 12$ to have it replaced.
Sunday, April 29th ‘07
The neighbor’s dog kept on howling all night so I didn’t get much sleep and had to get up early as I’m meeting Mark for breakfast. 1st real breakfast I had in 2 months, last time I had one like this (in the morning) was the Saturday morning after the Rockabilly/Jive night organized by Marc-Andre, as Christian from Quebec city that stayed at my place that night, insisted on taking me out for breakfast. Really nice of him! This time it was Mark that was nice to take me for breakfast in South Bank. My mom called and then Stephanie texted me as I dropped my bank card in front of her house, probably Friday night when I went to get my luggage. Nice! I don’t have to get into all the trouble to get another card. This is such a relief!
Went to her place but she wasn’t there so I started my journey back to Drew’s place. She called minutes before my connection bus arrived. I went back got my card and re-started my journey back to Drew’s place. I spend most of my time with his mom and the dogs. She’s really nice and fun to talk with. That’s about all that happened. Very exciting, isn’t it? (so sarcastic) Tomorrow’s my last “full” day in Brisbane as my flight on Tuesday is leaving at 5:15pm. Hopefully Richard will be able to bring me to the airport. I’d really like that! We’ll see! He just started a new job so it’s not very likely but I’ll see him tomorrow evening. I’ll miss him very much. It was nice having a friend here. At home on the net and Drew just got here with Emma. He bought a huge back pack for travelling. Oh no! He just got his camera out. Great!
Monday, April 30th ‘07
Last day in Brisbane. I’m so sad to leave and excited to see what this next step in this adventure has in store for me. Drew’s parents are really nice, they want me to them if I have any problems or need anything. So nice! I’ll be going downtown to buy myself a ticket for the Airtain (train to the airport) as it’s cheaper to buy it at the Visitor’s info (10$) then at the train station (~ 15$). I’m also hopping to find a house warming gift for Drew’s parents. Then, I’ll be going to Kedron where Add Promotion has it’s offices to give my report signed by the manager at 1st Choice. The office closes at 5pm and Richard will pick me up as he lives not far from here.
Didn’t find a gift. :( Ah well! I’ll have something for them next time I get back here. I’m walking from the Add promotions office in the direction of Richard's place and there’s millions of birds “screaming” and flying around these trees. It looks like a scene from Albert Hitchcock’s The Birds. It’s really freaky. As I had to walk under them, I feel lucky that non of them pooped on me. It’s really scary!
Walked and texted to Richard so we can meet somewhere in between. We did find each other and went to his place as he just got his car and came to get me directly. So we went to his place so he could take a shower while I watch Mark (his roommate) play Guitar Hero. I really like his roommates they’re cool! We he was finally done, we left and went to Milton (where the mini Eiffel tower is) to eat at an Italian restaurant. It was nice! I’ll really miss him and spending quality time with him. We had a great evening and my lobster in avocado sauce was great. We then went to Mount Coot Tha to look at the view of Brisbane at night. Really nice!
Then, we went for ice-cream at Cold Rock and stopped at McD’s for fries. He brought me back and we stayed in the car for awhile just talking and taking advantage of the last moments we have until I leave as we don’t know when our paths will cross again. I really cherish the friendship Richard and I grew to have. He’s become very important to me. Time to go. Thanks Richard for being such a good friend, I’ll really miss you.
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