Last Friday night after work, a bunch of us went around on a pub-crawl. We ended up in "Squires"; part of the Portland Hotel on Russel Street. I ordered fish & chips and round of drinks for my colleagues. Meanwhile, the men's semi-final Australia open was on the TV. I was rooting for Verdasco since Nadal is #1 seed. I want to see the underdog win. There was a guy in the pub who made a bet with me: I buy him a drink if Nadal wins the first set / he buys me a drink if Verdasco wins the first set. Low and behold, I got a free pint out of it! What a sweet guy - he was half my age and from the area called Fitzroy, his name is Donnie. I didn't have my camera with me or else I would have definately taken a photo of us. He said that they all love Obama down here. Yes - they do love us Americans even though they are contained under the Commonwealth.
Went home appliance shopping today at the "Good Guys"; which is the equivalent to our Amercian "Best Buy". Selected a washing macine, vacuum cleaner and microwave all to be scheduled for delivery when the washer is available. Attempted to use my corporate credit card from the States and couldn't use it. I guess the security on this is working. Amercian card being used on extraordinary credit purchasing amounts. Last weekend it was David Jones charges for the chair and bed purchase. 2 more weeks in my temporary confines and waiting for my acceptance into the Bourke Street city apartment.
The public transport is very easy here. MetCard purchase includes trains, buses and trams - how cool is that? Too bad California couldn't be that gracious. People on these public transports all speak different languages; made me feel right at home in Southern California. Unfortunately, I am not dressed as a girly-girl with sleeveless tank tops anymore. Not exactly a Vogue model here from the States :P The locals here are very helpful when you are asking for directions and help to get around. In Los Angeles, you are lucky you find someone who is willing to not think of themselves in order to help out.
Found great Indian food here but I think I ate the wrong item yesterday....my tummy has not been the same. Cropped up some IBS issues (irritable bowel syndrome). Nice to have when in the stifling summer heat waiting for the tram with other people.
Otherwise, I am knitting up a storm. I am finishing up one sleeve for Flo's Blossom remake and finished one cashmere sock for Frank; top down size 2 needles. I made him a pair toe up size 0 and I am thinking of redoing them since they turned out too large and clumsy looking than the top-down. When I redo that first pair, I will use size 1 needles since I have already severed the yarn for the one sock. I miss hanging out with the Ventura knitn kitns and wondering if they really miss me. Waiting for all of my stash to arrive in shipment April. Yes, all of my yarn stash is coming over here. I get the feeling that the quality of fibers here will not be the same.
31 January 2009
30 January 2009
Stifling Heat and Drought
Yup...just like living in California again.
This past week, finally got my temporary place sprayed for bugs and the bathroom sink unclogged by a plummer. Also getting identity checked by the apartment management company I have been selected to be the renter. More paperwork and checks to get here. Apparently these folks have taken stringent security precautions for anyone to enter, work and live here in this country since 911 tragedy.
Been watching the Australia Open (hooked on it since last weekend) and it's now down to the finals. I thought of going down there to see a live match but the heat and crowds are not for me. I see the plays much better on the TV anyway. Melbourne park does show the match on a screen but once again...heat and crowds. Wanted to see Nadal lose last night for the sake of seeing Verdasco the underdog win. Guess it will be a rematch of Wimbeldon with Federer and Nadal. Haven't been watching much of the woman's matches. Good luck Serena!
Today I selected more furniture for my antipcated place and a fridge from Brooke, our admin support in the office. Just a matter of scheduling movers to pick this stuff up and move it in. Still needing to get a microwave, TV and washer/dryer. I have to find a place first where I can get all of these items in one place; Good Guys, whatever.
Noticing sayings with people:
"heaps" - translates to 'a lot'
"on the back foot" - translates to 'being behind'
"bloke"
There are others but I cannot understand them as they say them too fast for me. Far dikcum (spelling?) was what I thought is a common saying but nobody I have run across has said that yet.
This past week, finally got my temporary place sprayed for bugs and the bathroom sink unclogged by a plummer. Also getting identity checked by the apartment management company I have been selected to be the renter. More paperwork and checks to get here. Apparently these folks have taken stringent security precautions for anyone to enter, work and live here in this country since 911 tragedy.
Been watching the Australia Open (hooked on it since last weekend) and it's now down to the finals. I thought of going down there to see a live match but the heat and crowds are not for me. I see the plays much better on the TV anyway. Melbourne park does show the match on a screen but once again...heat and crowds. Wanted to see Nadal lose last night for the sake of seeing Verdasco the underdog win. Guess it will be a rematch of Wimbeldon with Federer and Nadal. Haven't been watching much of the woman's matches. Good luck Serena!
Today I selected more furniture for my antipcated place and a fridge from Brooke, our admin support in the office. Just a matter of scheduling movers to pick this stuff up and move it in. Still needing to get a microwave, TV and washer/dryer. I have to find a place first where I can get all of these items in one place; Good Guys, whatever.
Noticing sayings with people:
"heaps" - translates to 'a lot'
"on the back foot" - translates to 'being behind'
"bloke"
There are others but I cannot understand them as they say them too fast for me. Far dikcum (spelling?) was what I thought is a common saying but nobody I have run across has said that yet.
Australia Day!
Posting on the last day of January living in my fourth continent....
They eat Skippy down here! I found out last week that they eat kangaroo meat down here on the BBQ. They cannot cook it too long or else it becomes too tough to eat. So...they eat mutton and kangaroo. Have I eaten any yet? No way. I ate a silk worm larvae while visiting in Korea and that is about the extent of my adventurous taste testing. My apetite is happily decreasing with the very hot dry weather now and the fact that I am walking everywhere. My mid section is finally feeling a bit trimmer.
On Australia day (last Monday), I went to Port Melbourne. It was an equivalent to San Pedro harbor in Los Angeles but much cleaner and prettier! There are ferries or ships that go to Tasmania from here. Because it was a holiday, there was the Young Endeavor and The Enterprise ships sailing in and out of the port. What a nice surprise! I LOVE authentic vessels like these.
Young Endeavor - replica of the ship that Capt. Cook came over to Australia in.
The Enterprise
Wishful thinking...the barge you see in the background, I was fantasising that all of my shipped belongings were arriving into port. Haha
St. Kilda Beach (reminds me of Miami Beach).
I realised that my thick American accent is not always understood. When I was asking a woman about the ships approaching if it's a race or an event...she said "Talk to my husband, I can't understand what you are saying". If I talked to a husband in America, I would have been slapped by that woman. Such subtle social differences here.
Have to find the time to get to Tasmania and find a devil. I was told from a man I met watching the boats come in that there are not many left.
Off to shopping I go - bought this bed
and this chair and ottoman but will be in grey-pewter color
Down on Elizabeth street, I felt like I was visiting mini-Korea. Here is an artist doing the beautiful name banner in pictures....same what I saw in Seoul in 2000.
Then there was this poor pathetic 76 y/o performing with a sign in front of him stating he was injured during the Korean war
He is standing on a box with a hoola hoop with this garb on. A little bit of Venice Beach flashback.
They eat Skippy down here! I found out last week that they eat kangaroo meat down here on the BBQ. They cannot cook it too long or else it becomes too tough to eat. So...they eat mutton and kangaroo. Have I eaten any yet? No way. I ate a silk worm larvae while visiting in Korea and that is about the extent of my adventurous taste testing. My apetite is happily decreasing with the very hot dry weather now and the fact that I am walking everywhere. My mid section is finally feeling a bit trimmer.
On Australia day (last Monday), I went to Port Melbourne. It was an equivalent to San Pedro harbor in Los Angeles but much cleaner and prettier! There are ferries or ships that go to Tasmania from here. Because it was a holiday, there was the Young Endeavor and The Enterprise ships sailing in and out of the port. What a nice surprise! I LOVE authentic vessels like these.
Young Endeavor - replica of the ship that Capt. Cook came over to Australia in.
The Enterprise
Wishful thinking...the barge you see in the background, I was fantasising that all of my shipped belongings were arriving into port. Haha
St. Kilda Beach (reminds me of Miami Beach).
I realised that my thick American accent is not always understood. When I was asking a woman about the ships approaching if it's a race or an event...she said "Talk to my husband, I can't understand what you are saying". If I talked to a husband in America, I would have been slapped by that woman. Such subtle social differences here.
Have to find the time to get to Tasmania and find a devil. I was told from a man I met watching the boats come in that there are not many left. Off to shopping I go - bought this bed
and this chair and ottoman but will be in grey-pewter color
Down on Elizabeth street, I felt like I was visiting mini-Korea. Here is an artist doing the beautiful name banner in pictures....same what I saw in Seoul in 2000.
Then there was this poor pathetic 76 y/o performing with a sign in front of him stating he was injured during the Korean war
He is standing on a box with a hoola hoop with this garb on. A little bit of Venice Beach flashback.
24 January 2009
More City Scenes
Took this photo on my way to the Immigration office early morning; I love the old gothic church structures they have here. It's not the whole church but the morning light was shining through that window in the steeple just at the right time.
Yes, I am a foreigner! Got my 457 working VISA in my passport - I am official as a working employee now.
Here is the river that separates the city of Melbourne; similar to the River Thames in London. Much cleaner and more modern here.
Hmmm...I don't remember all of this high risers when I was here in 1986! It definately has grown and there are still more high riser building in progress all around the city. These river photos were taken from the south bank where a wonderful line of restaurants were - I can't wait to try eating at one of them; some more expensive than others. At 9 PM a line of torches blume out flames about 3 times. The apartment I chose (or the owner chose me; that is how it works here) has that view from the living area. I do notice that women really dress up on Saturday nights here. Something we don't pay much attention to in California. Guess I need to dust off my business casual outfits more so. Unfortunately, I only have fall/winter ones.
More photos to come as I peruse the areas.
Living Update
Realized that I should have opened bank accounts in another bank that doesn't charge monthly transaction fees. So at the moment I have 4 accounts opened.
Went on a private apartment inspection based on a work colleague referral (check out the link while it's there!). It took me several hours afterwards but I did call him back and said that I will take the place, unfurnished. It's close the the very large Southern Cross train station, tram stop right in front of the entrance, swimming pool and exercise room including tennis courts. This means I have to go out and get stuff starting from scratch. This will give me an opportunity to experience Australian consumerism. I will stay in the temporary bug infested apartment until I have a comfy bed and eating conveniences in the new place! Take a look at my buddy in the temporay apartment I found this morning. This is the result of community living.
Went on a private apartment inspection based on a work colleague referral (check out the link while it's there!). It took me several hours afterwards but I did call him back and said that I will take the place, unfurnished. It's close the the very large Southern Cross train station, tram stop right in front of the entrance, swimming pool and exercise room including tennis courts. This means I have to go out and get stuff starting from scratch. This will give me an opportunity to experience Australian consumerism. I will stay in the temporary bug infested apartment until I have a comfy bed and eating conveniences in the new place! Take a look at my buddy in the temporay apartment I found this morning. This is the result of community living.
Photo Catchup
I realized that I did have the plug adapter to plug my camera battery charger in the Australia wall, the converter is already included in the whole unit, duh! Here are pictures.
Yup, they have a Chinatown here in Melbounre
How can you be anywhere in this world without a McDonalds?
Down hidden ally ways there are cool pubs, coffee kiosks and bistros
Then I ran into the local artist George Kamikawa on Bourke Street (central shopping area of CBD); the Japanese cowboy. I am a sucker for live music entertainment.
Then I found him again this weekend while walking along the south bank to Queensbridge square so I had to get more photos of him with me this time.
Yup, they have a Chinatown here in Melbounre
How can you be anywhere in this world without a McDonalds?
Down hidden ally ways there are cool pubs, coffee kiosks and bistros
Then I ran into the local artist George Kamikawa on Bourke Street (central shopping area of CBD); the Japanese cowboy. I am a sucker for live music entertainment.
Then I found him again this weekend while walking along the south bank to Queensbridge square so I had to get more photos of him with me this time.
21 January 2009
ObamaRama!
Since 20 January - Presidential inaugeral ceremony, parade and balls were all over Australia TV news! They really are looking forward to a new era with Obama in office. Didn't realize that they are so attached to us Americans. I forgot how they actually listen to us when we speak! A sense of autonomy has returned - hurray!
Opened a bank account yesterday; no problems despite what I was told. I guess my tons of American Travelers' checks didn't stop the ANZ bank
Still having difficulty obtaining my corporate AMEX credit card - there are gotchas that the HR representative failed to tell me about; I think she doesn't give a fuck other than "get it done asap"! You know how I respond in rebuttal fashion for missing communications :)
Meeting client personalities; they are the same as in America but the term "cheeky" is more prevalent for one in mind. We term that personality 'annoying'.
I think I am finally getting over the jet lag. This morning I woke up at 5 AM instead of 2 or 3 AM Aussie time. Once I feel like I am in the real time zone, I can see myself thinking of socialising (Aussie spelling) in this culture. Still waiting to find the time to get the right power cord for my camera battery.
In the meantime - bye bye Bush!! It's a new era and a new life for me.
Opened a bank account yesterday; no problems despite what I was told. I guess my tons of American Travelers' checks didn't stop the ANZ bank
Still having difficulty obtaining my corporate AMEX credit card - there are gotchas that the HR representative failed to tell me about; I think she doesn't give a fuck other than "get it done asap"! You know how I respond in rebuttal fashion for missing communications :)
Meeting client personalities; they are the same as in America but the term "cheeky" is more prevalent for one in mind. We term that personality 'annoying'.
I think I am finally getting over the jet lag. This morning I woke up at 5 AM instead of 2 or 3 AM Aussie time. Once I feel like I am in the real time zone, I can see myself thinking of socialising (Aussie spelling) in this culture. Still waiting to find the time to get the right power cord for my camera battery.
In the meantime - bye bye Bush!! It's a new era and a new life for me.
18 January 2009
I HAVE ARRIVED
I am here in Melbourne - uneventful flight and it was quick! The only mishap was that there was nobody at the apartment to give me the key; no concierge to let me in etc. Thank goodness the taxi driver from Melbourne airport allowed me to use his phone to call the building manager. Building manager called the contact for my access to the apartment and the rest is history.
It has definately changed since 1986! More Asian population than I remember; only a handful of Black or Afro-Australians on the street. What is funny is this place reminds me of British California: the young Asian girls are walking around with hiked up dresses or skirts and stileto heels. California we see the young Hispanic girls dressed like that. I love their accents! I am going to really like it here even though I have problems understanding them when they speak fast.
I have taken photos of the downtown areas but haven't uploaded to this PC yet. I am conserving energy in the battery because I need to find an Olympic store that sells the battery charger adapter to Australian current. My portable converter set doesn't seem to work :( I have bought my first weekly tram/train transport ticket to ride the public rails throughout the city. I just have to remember what side of the street to stand in order to get on the tram that is going the direction I want. Damn the left-sided transporters here! Haven't been run over by crossing the street yet since I look in the right direction before crossing; just disoriented on the trams.
Here is the rundown of similarities:
-McDonalds EVERYWHERE! Yuk!
-Burger Kings everywhere as well but they are called "Hungry Jacks"
-Starbucks Coffee (of course)
-Virgin Records
-Cable cars everywhere for transport just like being in San Francisco
-Weather and ambient air is absolutely wonderful; just like being in Southern California
-Street performers (bought my first CD from a Japanese artist who plays honky tonk blues)
-People honk in their cars while driving impatiently
Subtle Differences:
-Getting used their currency and coins; paper currency all have different colors like other countries
-David Jones is their large department store (haven't had the time to shop there nor ambition)
-Showers do not exist in homes; they bathe with a half glass on the tub to shelter the floor from the shower head (just like the UK)
-Spelling of their words are taken from the British spelling e.g. Centre and colour
-They drive on the left side of the street with the steering column in the right side of the car
-Their local coffee shops sell instant coffee and not the bean/grounded coffee (YUK!)
I am sure I will come across more similarities and differences as time marches on. My priority is to get myself burried in the current project of work and find my own apartment and health care here in the great state of Victoria - Australia. Photos will follow once I have access to power to my battery charger.
It has definately changed since 1986! More Asian population than I remember; only a handful of Black or Afro-Australians on the street. What is funny is this place reminds me of British California: the young Asian girls are walking around with hiked up dresses or skirts and stileto heels. California we see the young Hispanic girls dressed like that. I love their accents! I am going to really like it here even though I have problems understanding them when they speak fast.
I have taken photos of the downtown areas but haven't uploaded to this PC yet. I am conserving energy in the battery because I need to find an Olympic store that sells the battery charger adapter to Australian current. My portable converter set doesn't seem to work :( I have bought my first weekly tram/train transport ticket to ride the public rails throughout the city. I just have to remember what side of the street to stand in order to get on the tram that is going the direction I want. Damn the left-sided transporters here! Haven't been run over by crossing the street yet since I look in the right direction before crossing; just disoriented on the trams.
Here is the rundown of similarities:
-McDonalds EVERYWHERE! Yuk!
-Burger Kings everywhere as well but they are called "Hungry Jacks"
-Starbucks Coffee (of course)
-Virgin Records
-Cable cars everywhere for transport just like being in San Francisco
-Weather and ambient air is absolutely wonderful; just like being in Southern California
-Street performers (bought my first CD from a Japanese artist who plays honky tonk blues)
-People honk in their cars while driving impatiently
Subtle Differences:
-Getting used their currency and coins; paper currency all have different colors like other countries
-David Jones is their large department store (haven't had the time to shop there nor ambition)
-Showers do not exist in homes; they bathe with a half glass on the tub to shelter the floor from the shower head (just like the UK)
-Spelling of their words are taken from the British spelling e.g. Centre and colour
-They drive on the left side of the street with the steering column in the right side of the car
-Their local coffee shops sell instant coffee and not the bean/grounded coffee (YUK!)
I am sure I will come across more similarities and differences as time marches on. My priority is to get myself burried in the current project of work and find my own apartment and health care here in the great state of Victoria - Australia. Photos will follow once I have access to power to my battery charger.
13 January 2009
Changing My Mind
No...not changing my mind to stay here in the US (gawd!!)
Changed my mind and not hiring an attorney to represent me in court for the speeding ticket. By the time I return as a resident, it will be the only driving mark against my record - replacing my doomed accident which I had 4 years ago April. Switch one point against me for another by the time I am back.
I believe it is time for me to take a break from this country. It's a shame that all other countries have to rely on our economy and living through the bureaucracy e.g. traffic violations and driving records is just fucked!!
Last minute stuff to take care of before I am really offline:
-Reinforce boxes for shipping pickup tomorrow
-TV and foam pads to my neighbor
-Complete Honda transaction tomorrow and get rental car for one day
-Give Tag Gilbert the other house key and door openers
-Throw out all remaining food from fridge...there is a science project growing in there anyway
-Miata DMV form for state transfer
Today's adventure:
-Lost my ATM card yesterday (yesterday was a bad day) and got a temp one for 30 days. By then, I will have the permanent replacement when I return in March
-Wrote a check to property management to get this place rental ready
-Had a potential renter come through; more likely to rent this but there are other interested callers :)
-Packed the rest of my clothes hangning in the closet; realized I will be paying an extra luggage fee of $125 for all the crap that I need to bring with me on the plane
Ok....I am now really not able to log anymore entries here. My life needs to focus on closure for these last 2 days. C...ya from the Southern Hemisphere!!
Changed my mind and not hiring an attorney to represent me in court for the speeding ticket. By the time I return as a resident, it will be the only driving mark against my record - replacing my doomed accident which I had 4 years ago April. Switch one point against me for another by the time I am back.
I believe it is time for me to take a break from this country. It's a shame that all other countries have to rely on our economy and living through the bureaucracy e.g. traffic violations and driving records is just fucked!!
Last minute stuff to take care of before I am really offline:
-Reinforce boxes for shipping pickup tomorrow
-TV and foam pads to my neighbor
-Complete Honda transaction tomorrow and get rental car for one day
-Give Tag Gilbert the other house key and door openers
-Throw out all remaining food from fridge...there is a science project growing in there anyway
-Miata DMV form for state transfer
Today's adventure:
-Lost my ATM card yesterday (yesterday was a bad day) and got a temp one for 30 days. By then, I will have the permanent replacement when I return in March
-Wrote a check to property management to get this place rental ready
-Had a potential renter come through; more likely to rent this but there are other interested callers :)
-Packed the rest of my clothes hangning in the closet; realized I will be paying an extra luggage fee of $125 for all the crap that I need to bring with me on the plane
Ok....I am now really not able to log anymore entries here. My life needs to focus on closure for these last 2 days. C...ya from the Southern Hemisphere!!
12 January 2009
Can't seem to Get out of Here
Got a speeding ticket up 33 to Ojai so I can contribute my remaining cat supplies to Humane Society. CHPS got me for 15 over the limit. Funny how this is pissing me off and happening right before I leave the country. This happened to me in Riverside county when I wanted to leave to live in the UK 3 years ago. I think I am a target for the overseas adventures. Again....have to hire a traffic attorney to represent me in my designated court date. The price to pay off an attorney is more than the violation itself; but I want to make sure this moving violoation is not on my record that has an accident on it from 3-4 years ago. (Can I get a fucking break anywhere?) I can't go to traffic school and I am out of the country in 3 days. Didn't have proof of insurance in the car since I am selling this vehicle and all paperwork was cleaned out!!!
Then there is the 457 working VISA dilema.....I have been approved for an electronic visiting VISA to Australia but cannot work until I get a "health check"; that is now scheduled next Monday when I am in Melbourne. Meanwhile, my house is creepy with nothing in it and my clothes yet to be packed in the suit cases. Wednesday is when the shipping company will arrive to pick up my stuff to ship. Also the day when this car is completing the sale. When is this all going to end?
This society doesn't realize that I am really doing this shit all by myself. If it wasn't for my friends helping me with the house sale and packing up my crap, I wouldn't be in a good position to move at this time. Too much shit going on and I think I need to cease logging my events in here until I am over there. I give up everyone! My US work phone is going away Wednesday including the internet access. Hey, at least I got my hair colored and cut before the big move...woohooo!
See you all Down Under! "God Bless America" and good luck to this country!
Then there is the 457 working VISA dilema.....I have been approved for an electronic visiting VISA to Australia but cannot work until I get a "health check"; that is now scheduled next Monday when I am in Melbourne. Meanwhile, my house is creepy with nothing in it and my clothes yet to be packed in the suit cases. Wednesday is when the shipping company will arrive to pick up my stuff to ship. Also the day when this car is completing the sale. When is this all going to end?
This society doesn't realize that I am really doing this shit all by myself. If it wasn't for my friends helping me with the house sale and packing up my crap, I wouldn't be in a good position to move at this time. Too much shit going on and I think I need to cease logging my events in here until I am over there. I give up everyone! My US work phone is going away Wednesday including the internet access. Hey, at least I got my hair colored and cut before the big move...woohooo!
See you all Down Under! "God Bless America" and good luck to this country!
11 January 2009
Closure and Exhaustion
Things accomplished:
-Cleaned out the corners of my house for another Battered Women pickup and trash
-Signed papers for rental property management with Tag Gilbert
-Collected hazardous materials on the property for appropriate disposal
-Felt exuberant when trashing items into the dumpster in the front of the house
-Scheduled a dinner with Stephanie Scott Sunday evening; one is scheduled for Tuesday with Preita
-Sorting through more things to ship and now sorting on what I need to travel with on flight
-Received notification that the electronic "Business Electronic Travel Authority" is available; a paperless visa which does not allow me to work there yet until I get the Subclass 457 approved
-Scheduled my required x-ray and exam to complete Subclass 457 VISA to work Down Under
-Closed my AMEX account
Camille came over again yesterday to help out in the remaining items to trash, sort or take home with her as well. It's amazing on how much us humans cling to in life. Have to remember that what I am shipping to Australia will need to ship back with me when I return. This means I need to watch what I am accumulating in the next 4 years or else I will have to sell or give away the crap again.
I have now parsed out what is left for me to do before I leave Thursaday evening:
Monday
-Obtain 5 passport photos for my Clinic medical exam
-Call City Hall to report abandoned car in front of my house that is now leaking fluid under the engine (hope it's not human body fluid!)
-Also ask City Hall on where I can dispose of hazardous materials (Mark has volunteered to take this box but I said I will hold it to understand where it should be disposed)
-Check on what Australian bank is affiliated with BofA
-Contact TSA to make sure I can flight internationally with my knitting needles
-Go to my clinic appointment for the 457 VISA requirement
-Initiate hotel stays at Marriott
Tuesday
-Fax needed medical forms for 457 VISA process completion
-Pay Charter cable and E.J Harrison (garbage disposal) on last remaining charges
-Call Western Schools for course order for R.N. continuing ed
-Pack clothes and immediate items for the flight; ensure all shipping items are counted including my window coverings
-Humane Society for donations
Wednesday
-Return foam to my neighbor (that was a life saver for sleeping on the floor)
-Give the large TV to same neighbor; won't be watching TV after this point
-Complete Honda transaction and obtain rental car
-Dispose of all remaining food items in fridge
-Hilford shipping pickup
-Sort through remaining paperwork and bills
-Accomplish anything left over from Monday and Tuesday
Thursday
-DMV for both vehicle transfer
-Obtain bank deposit slips for Tag; cash for the next 2 months of my life
-Deliver keys, door opener and bank slips to Tag Gilbert
-Return rental car
-Transport to LAX!!!
Life here in Ventura County is definately coming to a closure. I am exhausted and hope to look forward to a full day of sleep when I am in Melbourne Astra Apartments.
-Cleaned out the corners of my house for another Battered Women pickup and trash
-Signed papers for rental property management with Tag Gilbert
-Collected hazardous materials on the property for appropriate disposal
-Felt exuberant when trashing items into the dumpster in the front of the house
-Scheduled a dinner with Stephanie Scott Sunday evening; one is scheduled for Tuesday with Preita
-Sorting through more things to ship and now sorting on what I need to travel with on flight
-Received notification that the electronic "Business Electronic Travel Authority" is available; a paperless visa which does not allow me to work there yet until I get the Subclass 457 approved
-Scheduled my required x-ray and exam to complete Subclass 457 VISA to work Down Under
-Closed my AMEX account
Camille came over again yesterday to help out in the remaining items to trash, sort or take home with her as well. It's amazing on how much us humans cling to in life. Have to remember that what I am shipping to Australia will need to ship back with me when I return. This means I need to watch what I am accumulating in the next 4 years or else I will have to sell or give away the crap again.
I have now parsed out what is left for me to do before I leave Thursaday evening:
Monday
-Obtain 5 passport photos for my Clinic medical exam
-Call City Hall to report abandoned car in front of my house that is now leaking fluid under the engine (hope it's not human body fluid!)
-Also ask City Hall on where I can dispose of hazardous materials (Mark has volunteered to take this box but I said I will hold it to understand where it should be disposed)
-Check on what Australian bank is affiliated with BofA
-Contact TSA to make sure I can flight internationally with my knitting needles
-Go to my clinic appointment for the 457 VISA requirement
-Initiate hotel stays at Marriott
Tuesday
-Fax needed medical forms for 457 VISA process completion
-Pay Charter cable and E.J Harrison (garbage disposal) on last remaining charges
-Call Western Schools for course order for R.N. continuing ed
-Pack clothes and immediate items for the flight; ensure all shipping items are counted including my window coverings
-Humane Society for donations
Wednesday
-Return foam to my neighbor (that was a life saver for sleeping on the floor)
-Give the large TV to same neighbor; won't be watching TV after this point
-Complete Honda transaction and obtain rental car
-Dispose of all remaining food items in fridge
-Hilford shipping pickup
-Sort through remaining paperwork and bills
-Accomplish anything left over from Monday and Tuesday
Thursday
-DMV for both vehicle transfer
-Obtain bank deposit slips for Tag; cash for the next 2 months of my life
-Deliver keys, door opener and bank slips to Tag Gilbert
-Return rental car
-Transport to LAX!!!
Life here in Ventura County is definately coming to a closure. I am exhausted and hope to look forward to a full day of sleep when I am in Melbourne Astra Apartments.
09 January 2009
Cave of Doom
Yesterday was a bad day...I was feeling overwhelmed again and there wasn't much around me; just paperwork to process my VISA and employement that they only sent to me the evening before. "Hurry up and sign this Cheryl, because we are non compliant with the immigration legislation with the 'electronic visa' ". Of course it's my fault for not signing quickly as I am in the midst of many other personal business that I alone am taking care of. The damn paperwork was faxed and sent over the key stakeholders. Let's see how fast they can process this work VISA for my entry. Or else I may be leaving later than I think.
With the suggestion of Camille, I stayed in a hotel room with my many hotel points in town. I have to admit, I did finally get a decent night's sleep. Only back to the cave of doom. Max, the Disabled Vet representative finally showed up with his son to pick up the remaining large pieces of furniture - I am only left with a 3x3 bookshelf, cocktail table and the table where the large TV is on. Cocktail table is going to Stephanie; TV table going to Mark. I will be staying at the Marriott again Mon-Thursday before I leave for sleeping comfort. It's a matter of really clearing out the remaining stuff I want to ship. Shipping folks are scheduled to pick up my stuff on the 14th.
Battered Women Thrift charity came to pick up ALL the remaining junk that I had left over from the home sale. I rescheduled another pickup for next week to get the kitchen stuff that I am still using until then (dishware, glassware, etc.).
Had visits from a handyman and a painter to get this place rental ready - you can imagine that I have had lots of traffic through here and I burned out! Signed paperwork with Tag Gilbert to get the rental management going. Just have to give him bank deposit slips, keys and the door opener when I am out of here. Painting and handywork is scheduled for Tuesday next week. Tag told me there is already an interested party to look at the place. The garbage dumpster arrived this morning. I had to knock on my neighbor's door to get them to move their truck parked where I want the dumpster. Found out that my next door neighbor is paying $1800/month rent for a place that had drain problems and the heat doesn't work! I think I am fair on what I am asking for this place that has a locked shed for storage, large and landscaped backyard, heating and all major appliances. Not to mention a newly fixed sewage line to the street.
Things I have yet to do:
-Call Ventura City to report abandoned car in front of my house; leaking fluids under the engine (I can tell it has been there too long!)
-Doctor's appt in L.A. for immigration process (Monday)
-Pay the TV cable bill when it arrives
-Pay the home owner's insurance
-Check on the Aussie bank affiliation with BofA
-Complete the Honda transaction and send Miata plates and Honda transfer form into DMV
-Call Western Schools to see if they can send a course to Mark's address; will work on this in March when I return
-Call Firestation to see if they can take my hazardous materials off this property
-Pack one more box of my remaining things to ship overseas
With the suggestion of Camille, I stayed in a hotel room with my many hotel points in town. I have to admit, I did finally get a decent night's sleep. Only back to the cave of doom. Max, the Disabled Vet representative finally showed up with his son to pick up the remaining large pieces of furniture - I am only left with a 3x3 bookshelf, cocktail table and the table where the large TV is on. Cocktail table is going to Stephanie; TV table going to Mark. I will be staying at the Marriott again Mon-Thursday before I leave for sleeping comfort. It's a matter of really clearing out the remaining stuff I want to ship. Shipping folks are scheduled to pick up my stuff on the 14th.
Battered Women Thrift charity came to pick up ALL the remaining junk that I had left over from the home sale. I rescheduled another pickup for next week to get the kitchen stuff that I am still using until then (dishware, glassware, etc.).
Had visits from a handyman and a painter to get this place rental ready - you can imagine that I have had lots of traffic through here and I burned out! Signed paperwork with Tag Gilbert to get the rental management going. Just have to give him bank deposit slips, keys and the door opener when I am out of here. Painting and handywork is scheduled for Tuesday next week. Tag told me there is already an interested party to look at the place. The garbage dumpster arrived this morning. I had to knock on my neighbor's door to get them to move their truck parked where I want the dumpster. Found out that my next door neighbor is paying $1800/month rent for a place that had drain problems and the heat doesn't work! I think I am fair on what I am asking for this place that has a locked shed for storage, large and landscaped backyard, heating and all major appliances. Not to mention a newly fixed sewage line to the street.
Things I have yet to do:
-Call Ventura City to report abandoned car in front of my house; leaking fluids under the engine (I can tell it has been there too long!)
-Doctor's appt in L.A. for immigration process (Monday)
-Pay the TV cable bill when it arrives
-Pay the home owner's insurance
-Check on the Aussie bank affiliation with BofA
-Complete the Honda transaction and send Miata plates and Honda transfer form into DMV
-Call Western Schools to see if they can send a course to Mark's address; will work on this in March when I return
-Call Firestation to see if they can take my hazardous materials off this property
-Pack one more box of my remaining things to ship overseas
07 January 2009
Getting Down to the Wire
Today I started a dose of glucosamine for my left hip. I can't seem to find time to do my usual walk up to Grant Park and down to the pier with work and trying to get my moving business accomplished day after day. My knitting time has ceased because of the shit I still have to do....getting frustrated on that note.
Found out that my passport faxed to Melbourne will do for the immigration process. I still have not seen my employement agreement for my signature to work there...hah! Meanwhile, I am trying to find any charity to take the remaining pieces of furniture from the house sale. Bought more yarn at Anacapa: can't resist the collective colors of the Blue Heron rayon metallic! Got Pumpkin pie, Aubergine and Deep Space/Gold. Couldn't resist Malibrigo yarn as well. So I think I wrapped up my SABLE (stash accumulation beyond life expectancy) for the overseas trek. Filled out forms for the shipping of my belongings that I have packed for faxing tomorrow. I still have another big box to fill up with last remaining stuff. Decided to keep the one cookware set that didn't sell and my pink tupperware set - rare! Also keeping my new pieces of tupperware as well. These items will be in a box that will be stored at my friend Mark's house in Camarillo.
Found out that I cannot bring my bottles of red wine that I collected/bought from here to New Zealand. Guess I need to store that with Mark as well.
I met with Tag Gilbert, the agent who will rent out my house. More forms to fill out. Contacted my home owner's insurance agent for the new "landlord" policy change.
Got an appointment with Disabled Veterans for the guy to come over and see if he wants to take my remaining furniture.
I think emotions are starting up again because I realize these are my last days here before I really take off. My current client in Bakersfield finally got the word that I am leaving, my project team got the message as well today. Closure is coming up very shortly and I feel as though I don't have everything settled. Pacing myself to finish things is the only way to survive or else I will need more medication than joint issues. I see myself staying at the full-service Marriott before I leave next week :)
Found out that my passport faxed to Melbourne will do for the immigration process. I still have not seen my employement agreement for my signature to work there...hah! Meanwhile, I am trying to find any charity to take the remaining pieces of furniture from the house sale. Bought more yarn at Anacapa: can't resist the collective colors of the Blue Heron rayon metallic! Got Pumpkin pie, Aubergine and Deep Space/Gold. Couldn't resist Malibrigo yarn as well. So I think I wrapped up my SABLE (stash accumulation beyond life expectancy) for the overseas trek. Filled out forms for the shipping of my belongings that I have packed for faxing tomorrow. I still have another big box to fill up with last remaining stuff. Decided to keep the one cookware set that didn't sell and my pink tupperware set - rare! Also keeping my new pieces of tupperware as well. These items will be in a box that will be stored at my friend Mark's house in Camarillo.
Found out that I cannot bring my bottles of red wine that I collected/bought from here to New Zealand. Guess I need to store that with Mark as well.
I met with Tag Gilbert, the agent who will rent out my house. More forms to fill out. Contacted my home owner's insurance agent for the new "landlord" policy change.
Got an appointment with Disabled Veterans for the guy to come over and see if he wants to take my remaining furniture.
I think emotions are starting up again because I realize these are my last days here before I really take off. My current client in Bakersfield finally got the word that I am leaving, my project team got the message as well today. Closure is coming up very shortly and I feel as though I don't have everything settled. Pacing myself to finish things is the only way to survive or else I will need more medication than joint issues. I see myself staying at the full-service Marriott before I leave next week :)
06 January 2009
Still not Official but am Living the Vida Loca!
T-9 days to go in the US and Australia doesn't have my Employment Agreement ready for my signature. Meanwhile, other folks are asking for my immigration stuff to process and inform me that I cannot travel to Australia until they are completed. I already booked by flight to leave 15th and that seems to be threatened. Then I proceed to get another message saying to keep my travel plan as booked; hopefully my immigration stuff will come through by the time I arrive. Do you suspect someone in retainment in Melbourne airport on the 17th Aussie time?
St. Vincent De Paul Thrift shop finally arrive to pick up my remaining furniture and state that they cannot take anything apart since the don't have tools. Jan 14 is a rescheduled date for them to come out and they want the entertainment center taken apart and my bedroom set out in the same room so they can pick it all up. I think I will take the Center and the mirror off the bedroom dresser but will not move the furniture all in one room! For goodness sakes....I am giving these and my nice patio furniture to them for free, fuck them for a compromise.
Pete my shipping coordinator has informed me on the pricing and scheduled a date to pick up my stuff that is packed and stowed in my shed. The 15th is the date that all my stuff will be picked up and will ship arriving in April into Melbourne.
Rolled up all my pennies and brought them to the bank for another deposit.
Packing up other things for the Battered Women charity for Thursday...having hard time packing up my last set of cookware when I have a fridge full of food to eat up. Went to Trader Joe's to get milk for my cereal and ended up getting more food to cook while I am still here :P
Last night I slept on firm foam that was provided by my neighbor instead of sleeping on the hard carpeting. Oh, I had a wonderful night sleep! Until my dodgy left hip woke me up in the middle of the night again in pain. Can't wait for Australia to make myself walk this pain out. It is strange to sleep in an empty house, it will be to the point that I may want to really want to get out of here by next week anyway. Problem is that my kitchen is still fully loaded with living ammenities. Must clear this out by this weekend!
Faxed my passport for electronic form for Australia immigration process; not that clear but it's the best that can be done for now...waiting for copies of my diplomas that I accidentally put in the box shipped in my Miata. My parents are sending the photocopies to me so I can fax those as well for Australia immigration. I guess they need proof that I am an educated woman. Sent my updated internal resume to Australia office; guess they need that for the HR records like all employees.
St. Vincent De Paul Thrift shop finally arrive to pick up my remaining furniture and state that they cannot take anything apart since the don't have tools. Jan 14 is a rescheduled date for them to come out and they want the entertainment center taken apart and my bedroom set out in the same room so they can pick it all up. I think I will take the Center and the mirror off the bedroom dresser but will not move the furniture all in one room! For goodness sakes....I am giving these and my nice patio furniture to them for free, fuck them for a compromise.
Pete my shipping coordinator has informed me on the pricing and scheduled a date to pick up my stuff that is packed and stowed in my shed. The 15th is the date that all my stuff will be picked up and will ship arriving in April into Melbourne.
Rolled up all my pennies and brought them to the bank for another deposit.
Packing up other things for the Battered Women charity for Thursday...having hard time packing up my last set of cookware when I have a fridge full of food to eat up. Went to Trader Joe's to get milk for my cereal and ended up getting more food to cook while I am still here :P
Last night I slept on firm foam that was provided by my neighbor instead of sleeping on the hard carpeting. Oh, I had a wonderful night sleep! Until my dodgy left hip woke me up in the middle of the night again in pain. Can't wait for Australia to make myself walk this pain out. It is strange to sleep in an empty house, it will be to the point that I may want to really want to get out of here by next week anyway. Problem is that my kitchen is still fully loaded with living ammenities. Must clear this out by this weekend!
Faxed my passport for electronic form for Australia immigration process; not that clear but it's the best that can be done for now...waiting for copies of my diplomas that I accidentally put in the box shipped in my Miata. My parents are sending the photocopies to me so I can fax those as well for Australia immigration. I guess they need proof that I am an educated woman. Sent my updated internal resume to Australia office; guess they need that for the HR records like all employees.
Jack Denny - Hero
I am singling out Mr. Jack Denny who belongs to Kim David. He truly was a wonderful help with my house sale and muscles to help carry out the furniture that was selling quickly - thanks Jack!
05 January 2009
Swarming Locust & The Point of no Return
More things accomplished:
-Booked Qantas flight to Melbourne to depart evening of 1/15/09; my time is truly limited here
-Emailed Tag Gilbert to get the home rental situation going
-Sorted out what to be sold versus trashed; still calling charities for pickups
-Finally received my passport back from PVS International with my African VISA; now I cannot find my diplomas that I set out to copy with my passport for the Aussie immigration process. If it's one thing I can find, I lose something else in this chaos.
-Finalized the Geico car insurance application for my Miata in Florida
-Paid my property tax; completing the year until the next statement for 2009
-Contacted and met my shipping coordinator, Pete, who will find out the cost effective means of my things to be shipped and to arrive when I will be back there post Africa
-Conducted the big house purge sale; completed brain fried from being overstimulated. People swarming all around me and in all my cupboards trying to buy even things I am still using. (Note: I am NOT a garage sale seller or buyer)
-Discontinued my home phone service since my phones were sold in my home sale
-Transferred my reward points from AMEX and Diners to hotel points for free stays, these accounts will be closed soon
-Sold my Honda during the house sale
This photo is the outside of the first day's sale:
Here is another one where my helper friends are exhausted just like me
...and the happy picture after me having a real drink after this chaotic day. I don't think I would have survived without my friends that helped. (Kim David, Betsy, Camille, me and Kim Boone-Nakase) I was completed exhausted in this photo and reflected on how I will not do this again!
Sunday was more subdued with one guy returning from the day before; he made off with my ratchet set hidden in my tool box that he bought from me. Oh well, so much for the professional garage sale buyers. I guess I am in the wrong business. With no beds to sleep on and no living room furniture (except for the monstrous entertainment center) I am definately up to say that this is a point of no return for me. It's all about moving out of here and down under. Last week I was emotional while in Florida with my kitty girls. It was PMS! But then, who would really go through this uprooting life change and trauma anyway?
Things to accomplish this week:
-Pack additional things for Battered Women Charity; pickup scheduled 1/8/09
-Receive the dumpster 1/9/09 to throw out remaining unsalvagable items
-Visit DMV to return Miata plates and understand transfer process of my Honda when I turn the vehicle over to the new owner 1/14/09
-Check out Western Schools for R.N. renewal course for next 2 yrs
-Cancel Netflix once I receive the last couple DVD's
-Roll up my big jar of pennies to redeem $$
-Determine how much cash I want to travel with to start Aussie bank account
I think that is enough for this week
-Booked Qantas flight to Melbourne to depart evening of 1/15/09; my time is truly limited here
-Emailed Tag Gilbert to get the home rental situation going
-Sorted out what to be sold versus trashed; still calling charities for pickups
-Finally received my passport back from PVS International with my African VISA; now I cannot find my diplomas that I set out to copy with my passport for the Aussie immigration process. If it's one thing I can find, I lose something else in this chaos.
-Finalized the Geico car insurance application for my Miata in Florida
-Paid my property tax; completing the year until the next statement for 2009
-Contacted and met my shipping coordinator, Pete, who will find out the cost effective means of my things to be shipped and to arrive when I will be back there post Africa
-Conducted the big house purge sale; completed brain fried from being overstimulated. People swarming all around me and in all my cupboards trying to buy even things I am still using. (Note: I am NOT a garage sale seller or buyer)
-Discontinued my home phone service since my phones were sold in my home sale
-Transferred my reward points from AMEX and Diners to hotel points for free stays, these accounts will be closed soon
-Sold my Honda during the house sale
This photo is the outside of the first day's sale:
Here is another one where my helper friends are exhausted just like me
...and the happy picture after me having a real drink after this chaotic day. I don't think I would have survived without my friends that helped. (Kim David, Betsy, Camille, me and Kim Boone-Nakase) I was completed exhausted in this photo and reflected on how I will not do this again!
Sunday was more subdued with one guy returning from the day before; he made off with my ratchet set hidden in my tool box that he bought from me. Oh well, so much for the professional garage sale buyers. I guess I am in the wrong business. With no beds to sleep on and no living room furniture (except for the monstrous entertainment center) I am definately up to say that this is a point of no return for me. It's all about moving out of here and down under. Last week I was emotional while in Florida with my kitty girls. It was PMS! But then, who would really go through this uprooting life change and trauma anyway?
Things to accomplish this week:
-Pack additional things for Battered Women Charity; pickup scheduled 1/8/09
-Receive the dumpster 1/9/09 to throw out remaining unsalvagable items
-Visit DMV to return Miata plates and understand transfer process of my Honda when I turn the vehicle over to the new owner 1/14/09
-Check out Western Schools for R.N. renewal course for next 2 yrs
-Cancel Netflix once I receive the last couple DVD's
-Roll up my big jar of pennies to redeem $$
-Determine how much cash I want to travel with to start Aussie bank account
I think that is enough for this week
01 January 2009
2009 - Progress Leading to More to Accomplish
Finally home to my nightmare household. Got the word that my Miata has arrived in Florida today as I am arriving home myself and my cats are purring when both my parents are in the room with them, including high-strung Ditto. Only a couple evenings ago I was talking with Flo on the phone and broke down with all that is ahead of me.
Here are photos to catch up on the traumatic cat travels:
12/23 - Night before the big travel.
Ditto receiving comfort from Freckles; first time I saw them that close together as though they are from the same litter.
Freckles getting checked in and security checked before moving on the belt to the plane:
Long ride home from Orlando airport and poor Freckles soiled her cushiony bed during the flight. Both were very hungry when I finally got their food out at my parents home.
Photos of Christmas day feast: Dad carving and nibbling the meat while Mom has all the fixings on the table.
Ditto got dibbs sleeping at the head of the bed this time since Freckles had the head of the bed in my house. At the beginning she was under the bed. Caught her stretched out like a happy bunny at the foot of the bed after eating a large spoonful of Iams Salmon pate.
Freckles was comfortable right away; first had Ragedy Ann as her companion then took on her guardian and hunter duties as normal.
...and here is another rare moment of Zhen before my house sale chaos begins this weekend. No true words can describe the condition of this house other than 'uncomfortable'.
I am pleased to know that there will be several friends driving up from Orange and Santa Barbara Counties to help me Saturday and possibly through Sunday. There is a ray of sunshine around me after all. I am getting emotional more often now with the looming chaos around me. I want this coming weekend to be over quickly. See you all on the flip side!
Here are photos to catch up on the traumatic cat travels:
12/23 - Night before the big travel.
Ditto receiving comfort from Freckles; first time I saw them that close together as though they are from the same litter.
Freckles getting checked in and security checked before moving on the belt to the plane:
Long ride home from Orlando airport and poor Freckles soiled her cushiony bed during the flight. Both were very hungry when I finally got their food out at my parents home.
Photos of Christmas day feast: Dad carving and nibbling the meat while Mom has all the fixings on the table.
Ditto got dibbs sleeping at the head of the bed this time since Freckles had the head of the bed in my house. At the beginning she was under the bed. Caught her stretched out like a happy bunny at the foot of the bed after eating a large spoonful of Iams Salmon pate.
Freckles was comfortable right away; first had Ragedy Ann as her companion then took on her guardian and hunter duties as normal.
...and here is another rare moment of Zhen before my house sale chaos begins this weekend. No true words can describe the condition of this house other than 'uncomfortable'.
I am pleased to know that there will be several friends driving up from Orange and Santa Barbara Counties to help me Saturday and possibly through Sunday. There is a ray of sunshine around me after all. I am getting emotional more often now with the looming chaos around me. I want this coming weekend to be over quickly. See you all on the flip side!
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