Almost a month under my belt!

It' hard to believe, but I've been Australia for almost a month! I also can't believe that it's already August! I'm really pleased with how everything has been so far. I feel very welcome and comfortable here. I haven't met too many Australians yet, just talked to a few in class. Hopefully the more I'm in my tutorials (see last blog if you're not sure what this is), the more I'll be able to get to know them!

I'm not too sure what to write about since I'm settling into a routine. I have class Monday through Friday, but usually only one or two classes a day. I've visited the gym a couple times and it's pretty nice! The equipment is pretty limited, but for the most part it's all functioning, so that's all I need. This past weekend we visited the pool, hot tub, and sauna. I didn't even know we had a sauna! Definitely enjoyed putting those amenities to use. I stepped outside for a bit to see if it would be warm enough to lay out, but it was just a little too chilly to stay outside. I also went to the beach Sunday in hopes of working on my tan, but again too cold! I was able to wear shorts, but I had to keep my sweatshirt on and still I was covered in goosebumps.

Saturday a group from our apartment walked down Oxford Street to Paddington to visit the market. They have one set up every weekend featuring mainly boutique clothing and jewelry, but there were also a few food stands, as well as some specialty/trinket items. It was really nice just to walk around and check everything out! I ended up buying a bracelet and 2 pairs of earring at a bargain of $20 all together! Since everything was so specialized, much of it was pretty pricey. Also on Saturday, I was surprised by flowers arriving at my door! My boyfriend, Luke, sent me a massive, beeeaaaauuuutiful vase of flowers - light pink and orange roses, gerbera daisies, and lilies (my favorite)!! The lilies just opened up today and they are HUUGE! What a nice surprise that was =)

So! Not much else to say. If you have anything you want me to answer, just let me know! Also, if any of you have Skype and want to talk, just search for me. I'm pretty sure I'm the only Emily Nicholson in Indianapolis. Hope you all are well! (Oh, and postcards are being sent soon!)

Love, Em.