I finally did it

At my new job I keep files. I like to organize my files, unlike most of the guys in the office who just use ginormous binder clips to hold all the papers together. Not sure what it is about binder clips, but they love them here. I'm more of a two hole punch and metal file organizer type of gal. So last week I brought a box of metal file clips into the office, much to the chagrin of my colleague whose exact words were, "you're mutilating files with those bloody things - I can't stand them". So on Friday much like waving a red flag in front of a bull I reached into my drawer to taunt him with one. Serves me right, I guess. In my haste to get one out of the box I somehow sliced my finger on a sharp edge. As soon as I looked at it I knew it wasn't a regular cut. I cook a lot, I use knives a lot and I've cut myself more times that I can remember. Usually Don comes running in with a towel, Neosporin, and a Band Aid, and all is well. This one was pretty deep so my boss told me go across the street to the mall and have the medical center take a look. Did I mention that every mall usually has a medical center inside? I told the receptionist what had happened, she asked for my medicare card, I told her I was paying cash. I asked her how long it would be, and she stated, "Well, since you're paying cash, you're next". I was gobsmacked (my new very favorite word). I've never been triaged according to my financial status. So, in less time than it took to find a magazine I was whisked back, past the coughing children and their parents, all shooting daggers my way. I got two shots to numb, and I'm sure they would have done the trick, had the doctor waited long enough. I felt the first stitch and it hurt, bad. The only way I can explain it is like having dental work, and you think you're numb then suddenly you realize you're not. She offered to give me another shot, but since she only had one more stitch to go I told her to finish. I have to return on Tuesday for a checkup; I think the stitches stay in a week. If you're wondering why such a detailed post about two little stitches, well, why not. And I guess now I can say that I've injured myself to the point of requiring stitches. Although, at 41 I'd have thought there would be more exciting things on my Bucket List.

Lane Cove National Park

Every morning as I sit in traffic on my way to work I see the entrance and sign for Lane Cove National Park. A few weeks ago I noticed a sign for the park indicating that there is a boat shed with boats to rent, and a canteen (that's Ozspeak for snack bar). Sounded like a good time. So last Saturday we decided to check it out. It was a really nice park, and we spent the afternoon there walking the trails and climbing the rocks. I don't think we covered 1/10 of the park, so we'll definitely be back. I think the reason I really like the park so much is that it reminded me of trees in the States. Eucalyptus forests are great, but it's nice to see big green trees every once in a while too. As we were leaving, Don spotted a goanna, or monitor lizard. We got a few pictures, then Mitch moved in for a closer look, and hot damn if it didn't get up on it's back two legs and run off, just like on the Discovery channel. It ran away too quick to get a photo, but you get the idea, right? Pretty cool.

I think by now most everyone is aware that I started a new job last month. Pretty sweet deal. I'm back to investigating, I get a generous car allowance, and I have a flexible schedule. I'm actually able to volunteer at Mitchell's class' reading group on Wednesday mornings! Plus, I get to attend client business lunches with views like this. How can I go wrong? Honestly, it's amazing how a change of scenery can totally change your perspective.

Name that Gecko

We found this little guy hiding behind Mitch's bicycle yesterday. I looked online and haven't been able to ID it. I've never seen a gecko with a tail like this. Anyone?

Feeding the Chooks

A few weekends ago we visited the Rouse Hill House and Farm. It was built in 1813 and it's the oldest farm house in Sydney still standing. It was a nice outing for a rainy day, totally something that history buffs (like Don) would love. The tour was just over an hour, and Mitch did fantastic! Kindergarten must be teaching him something, because he was the perfect little gentleman. A few little reminders here and there, but overall he was attentive and even asked some questions. At the end of the tour, they let Mitch go and feed the chickens, or chooks, as they're called in Australia.

The quintessential rooster. A model for cookie jars and country folk art the world over....


The brown chooks were really tame, the guide advised us that this breed is known for their tame nature. They just pecked the food out of our of hands gently.

Applesauce

Has it really been a month since I last posted?!

I'm not sure how to write this without it sounding like a complaint. There's my disclaimer. Anyways, processed food is expensive here. Meat, fresh vegetables, fruit, eggs, milk are a good value. It's the snack food and mayonnaise that will kill you. Also included in price gouging is prepackaged fruit like diced peaches or applesauce. I've yet to find applesauce in a jar like the US, it usually comes in a small four pack - lunchbox size packs - for around $5.00. Like a few things here (Mexican food for one), I searched online looking for recipes for things I either can't find here, or are too expensive. So onto Allrecipes I went. My very favorite recipe site in the whole wide world. I found a few recipes for apple sauce, and all were surprisingly quick and simple. I have absolutely no idea where I got the idea that apple sauce was difficult and time consuming. But since then about once a week Mitch pulls out his Pampered Chef child's knife and we whip up a batch. In case anyone is inspired, here is the recipe we use http://allrecipes.com/Recipe/Delicious-Apple-Sauce/Detail.aspx


First we cut the apples...


Then we add the water...


And finally the cinnamon... Perfection!

Beach Time

Here are some photos taken this week when Don and Mitch headed out to the beach for a few hours. The sand is a completely different color and consistency in the Upper Northern Beaches than the Southern beaches. It's a caramel color, and the grains are larger, almost like Kosher salt. As you can see, Mitch has discovered the joy of digging holes and sand tunnels. He likes to build castles, but digging seems to be the bomb for him.

Not sure how much of our news make it to the States, but there have been record breaking temperatures in Melbourne, South of Sydney. I think it was the equivalent of 114 on Friday, and they are predicting much of the same through this week. There were reports of people sleeping on the beach to avoid the heat.


We haven't had it so bad in Sydney. It's been hovering in the low to mid 90s and I'm hoping it doesn't get too much hotter. The weather seems to regulate itself here. It gets blistering hot, then usually rains for a day and cools it down for a few days or so until it gets blistering hot, then rains and starts the whole cycle again. I'm sure it has something to do with high or low pressure systems and condensation. I guess if I was a meteorologist, I'd have a better idea of what was going on, and be able to explain it much more eloquently. I guess that's what WeatherBug is for.