Study Abroad: Phase 2

One week down, four more to go. That was the conversation today on the train on our way to visit Demitri. Has it gone quickly? Maybe that's it. Does it seem like forever since we left LAX? Quite possibly. I decided today that I have entered the next chapter of this Australian adventure: I am in a far away foreign land. The initial excitement and giddiness I felt when I first arrived here has by no means worn off, far from it in fact. I do think, however, that like one of the multiple cups of coffee i have enjoyed in the cafes of Sydney, I have acclimated to this state of mind. It is now easier to notice the small differences of Australia and its people than the familiar Americans. I think it is these minute details that make you realize you are far from home.

Let me elaborate...

The faces in Sydney are not much different than those you would see in any major U.S. city. The buildings are modern, the stores well stocked and people fill the sidewalks. It might be how everyone seems to be dressed in black and gray winter clothes while I wear my bright summer shorts. It could be that everyone is constantly on their cell phones while I don't even carry a phone. Or maybe it's the fact that I don't share anything in common with the people on the trains and buses. I am a foreigner in a far away land. Now, i could definitely be in a more foreign place than Australia and would stick out like a sore thumb, but I think this realization is an important step of my trip. The Australians here have their own Australia lives and own Australian worries and they aren't much concerned with us little American visitors. I am a guest in this country and now that I feel settled and in a routine, I see foreign culture and tendencies that I at first overlooked. Time to begin phase two of this adventure:... ... but I have no idea what that will be!  A.J.'s not in Kansas anymore. (DUH).

*short entry, not an overly eventful day. Going on a fieldtrip in the morning then have the rest of the day free. If there is sun out I will surely be on the beach instead of exploring downtown. Hoping for the sunniest! Goodnight America.