The First!

I don't like first posts! I guess I need to get over that because here we are... a new blog. Why am I getting rid of LJ? Because the time has come! Why am I starting a new one? Because it's a good way to keep in touch, and maybe it will inspire some of you to email me once in while. That's you, Dad! ... only joking :)

What's been happening? I finished up my contract with JET in late July, visited with Tom and his family during August, and returned to VA in September. I managed to find a job at a bookstore and an outdoors shop. My days are a combination of customer service and bewilderment at the ridiculousness of the retail world, but all and all it's been alright. It especially blows my mind when I run into people from my past. Sometimes it's a bit unpleasant and startling, almost like seeing a ghost, but sometimes it's truly a good feeling. I like it when I run into people and it feels like no amount of time nor distance can get in the way of our friendship. That's so cliche, but for a few people it's true. I feel lucky to have a few good friends like that.

I'll try and be better about updating between now and whenever. Lately I've felt like nothing I do is worth writing about, but perhaps that's not true. Working in a bookstore is surprisingly exciting. I guess dealing with the general public is just an interesting experience. People are so unpredictable! It makes me so happy when people are kind for no reason or exceptionally understanding or sweet to each other. There's plenty of people who do horrible or just inexplicably stupid things too, but it's no good to think about them. I'd rather write about something that gives me the warm fuzzies.

Another perk of working in a bookstore is that I've caught up on my reading. I've read so many good books in the past few months, which is nice. I'd forgotten how nice it is to sit down, relax, and read a really great book.

... not as if I have a lot of free time. I've been working a lot, and when I'm not working I've been trying to get my act together for Australia/grad school. The biggest thorn in my side has been getting my medical assessment for the visa application together. I had to get chest x-rays, poked, prodded, bled (I fainted!), and so on. I even had to get my eyeballs examined! I'm not sure why Australia wants to know all this about me. I'm surprised I didn't have to pass an IQ test, or maybe submit an essay. Perhaps at the airport they'll detain me until I can succesfully sing Waltzing Matilda, treat a snakebite, and explain the rules of footy. Better get crackin'.

Until next time, have a very Merry Christmas and a Happy New Year!