88 Macquarie St.

Houston, we've landed.

2009-12-04T20:30:00.001-08:00

More to come.

New address: 32 Grays St., Hamilton, QLD 4007

2009-11-20T21:06:00.000-08:00

We found a house. It has issues but the good ones outweigh the bad so we're happy. There is plenty of room for visitors, a fairy garden and a nice kitchen. I can't wait to move in and finally feel settled. Of course the real move-in won't happen until we're back from the holidays but I'm okay with that. Just glad to know I can stop searching for a house and I can start thinking about other things. Hurray!

Front gate to courtyard entry.

Driveway to parking below and entrance to bottom level.

Front courtyard and front door.

View from the road.

Once we move in I'll post more pics. Lots of space to explore and a great view of the river from the top of the drive. We are near Race Course Rd. which has lots of shops and eateries and Bretts Warf where you can catch a ferry to town or walk over to Portside for movies and more shops and eateries. Plus, we are still close to the airport, New Farm and town. I feel so lucky. See what happens when you finally let go and let the universe take over and think positive...all at the same time.

Remembering friends

2009-11-10T14:39:00.000-08:00

Last year we spent Thanksgiving with the Martinez's in Big Bend. Kim just sent me some pics of Sophia and Mia from that trip and I wanted to share them here. We really miss our friends back home.

Always be prepared.

You never know what you might need.

Love on the land.

Best Friends.

Don't you know it.

We will be back in Texas on December 1st. Looking forward to it!

Who is John Johnston?

2009-11-04T12:40:00.000-08:00

Maybe she means Jack Johnson...???

Miss Haidee

2009-11-03T00:00:00.001-08:00

Sophia wearing a Miss Haidee at Finders Keepers in Brizzy.

Last Sunday we went to the Finders Keepers Market in Brisbane. It's a craft/handmade market by artists around Australia. We know Sophia likes clothes. That's no secret. But even so, it's rare she tells me she really wants something without some kind of prompting. On this day, we were wandering around the market. Sophia was with Carl and she came and got me and said she found something she just had to have and she dragged me over to Miss Haidee's stall. Well, of course we had to get it.

MIss Haidee from susan simmons on Vimeo.

Put your orders in for Christmas!

Eat your heart out Jack Perlutsky

2009-11-03T00:00:00.000-08:00

John Johnston from susan simmons on Vimeo.
Sophia at the Finders Keepers Market in Brisbane

Need I say more?

Play School Australia

2009-11-02T15:48:00.000-08:00

I love this show as does Sophia.

One thing I love about Australia is ABC1 -- their version of PBS. Great children's television with no commercials and always a fantastic documentary about something I'm interested in. Never fails. I love that certain things are free here like programs you'd find on Noggin and sports (for those who love sports). There is a big campaign at the moment to keep all sports free for the "good of Australia." That's not something we say much in America...let's do this because it's good for everybody. I feel that more here...more of a sense of government responsibility as well as civic. Doesn't mean I don't love American optimism and independence any less. Just something I've noticed. Still think America is a great place to live and I miss it (and you) very much.

Halloween Down Under

2009-11-01T15:51:00.000-08:00

Australians are missing the point when it comes to Halloween. I think it's some sort of Hollywood version that got imported and distorted here. They think it's all witches and warlocks. it's too bad because they miss out on the whole alter ego thing and the great creativity that can play a part in Halloween. Nevertheless, when I was here 20+ year ago, there was no such thing as Halloween so in some regards we are lucky.

Sophia, the bad witch and Alex, the pirate at the Bulimba Halloween Festival.

Sophia got to go trick-or-treating on Oxford Street with her friend, Alex. They had fun. As you will see, Angelina Ballerina was soon transformed into the good witch (we had to buy a witches hat when we got there because everyone was a witch or a ghoul...even the babies)! Then, later she became a bad witch (when the face got painted green.) You can't beat free lollies and face painting. So it's all good.

Something other than Australiana

2009-10-27T23:32:00.000-07:00

I needed to take a break from thinking about Australia: what to do here; where to live here; how to live here; what's best here; which school here; which friends; and the why's...the many, many why's. I just couldn't take it any longer, the pain in the ass of it all, so instead I'm posting some images that aren't even mine, of a place I have been near but haven't actually been to, but because of it, I am here now...sort of, because of work and the need for sustenance.

In the beginning there was Tchad or maybe it was in the end. Or maybe the beginning was God but we have since forgotten. And still we wait to see which way the wind blows. From north to south or east to west? And does it matter, the knowing of this?

I saw the earth spin on its axis once when I was a child and could still fly to the heavens in my dreams. The earth flies. The earth spins. And yet we remain in place. Not circular. But in place.

I miss Africa or at least I think I do. Australia does that to you...makes you miss what you don't have. Or makes you miss what's been lost. The animals here are strange. It's not normal to have such big hind legs and such small front paws.

Nothing compares with a lion. Not even a tiger and especially not an emu...a most hideous bird. Although an ostrich is no less strange.

They call this man a camel jockey. I think about that phrase. Who coined it. A man crossing the desert, riding off into the sunset knowing which way to go, which sun to follow.

Yes, I miss Africa. And if you were born there and are not living there anymore, then I suppose you must miss it even more. Woe to you who have left your homeland even if it lives in your heart. It would be better to detest it and forget. But life doesn't work that way, at least not for me.

I miss the dust. The elephants and rhinos. The mud huts and giraffes. I miss the beginning of time sifting through my fingertips. I am hoping to find that same magic in this place...because they say dreamtime began here. And carbon dating agrees.

Here there is no respect for the desert. Just coastlines and ocean. Perhaps therein lies the problem. An interior wasteland they repeatedly tell me is nothing. But all things lie in the nothing. The nothing is everything. The nothing is.

So now we’re in Tchad at least in these photos. A place most politicians would prefer to forget if they haven't already. A place that has largely been erased from our consciousness because there are too many problems to face and too much humanity we would rather forget. All things lie on the surface like an open wound. Festering. Waiting to infect. The disease of Africa.

If you want to simplify your life, go to Africa and you will quickly learn what is important. There are many of you who will disagree. It's not for me to say what's wrong or right. I point my finger in a direction. It's up to you to decide which way to go.

There is much song in Africa. Have you ever wondered why? My favorite lullabies are African. I used to play them for Sophia when she was a baby. I have no idea if she remembers.

My daughter likes to sing. She sings everywhere. I like to believe it's a sign of her happiness. If I am right, then perhaps I’ve done my job well. This mothering thing. But of course, it may have nothing to do with me which is usually the case. The blood of Africa runs through her so melancholy surely cannot be far.

Sophia did not believe me when I told her that in Africa, the women carry things on their heads. She wanted to know if it rained there. She believes all of Africa is like Tchad. It’s all the same. Children without toys. Crops without water. People starving. I tell her that parts of Africa are not much different than here. She tells me she doesn’t believe me. “How can that be true?”

We are all hoping to find our place.

New questions arise. Sophia now wants to know what God we believe in versus other people. And then she wants me to explain all those other religions. And religion in general. What is religion, mom?

I read somewhere that if you want to know what you think, then talk to a five year old. All of the sudden you are answering your own questions about topics you haven’t considered in a long time.

Before having a child I thought I resolved a lot of issues. Now I’m not so sure. I think now, I just have more issues. But I digress…this is supposed to be a poem to Tchad.

Something to take my mind off of me. Just for a minute. An afternoon, while the child naps and I can look out my window and dream, watching the rain dust the roads and the ferries traverse the river in a mist. Rain in Australia is heaven. It is gold. That’s true everywhere. Even in our dreams.

The man sitting here knows the answers. The sight of him, surrounded by shrouded girls, it scares me. Intrigues me. The father of the herd. I wonder what he has to say. I wonder what he could tell me that wouldn't make my skin flinch.

Here's a story for you. A family, walking along the salt flats searches for water. Some kind of water. What if the water makes you sick? Do you drink it?

The family sings songs and tells stories. They find food. Somehow they find water. They play games with sticks and they walk many miles together. They wrap themselves in color.

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Note: The source of the images are from friends of Carl taken while working in Tchad over the past few years. I would list their names but do not know them and am trying to track names. I feel a little weird about this but Carl gave me permission to use the images...so I am. I think they are stunning.

Living Proof that the Universe Listens

2009-10-24T06:01:00.000-07:00

At Crescent Head, NSW.

Just when I asked Teya, "How exactly do I find connection?" The answers start coming. First there is her direction to "air it out" and "speak" and then amongst other "signs" I find this post at Slow Family Living. I'm posting it to my blog not so much for you but so I can catalogue and find it later when I need it. (I have a terrible memory when it comes to the how to's and what for's of intimacy and connection). That's a very good reason to keep a blog, by the way. Blogs are a great way to sort through all those ideas, thoughts and experiences that we soon forget and lose track of. And you thought this blog was just for you.

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Getting Connected from Slow Family Living

Write letters, send postcards every chance you get. Keep stamps in your wallet so that whenever you think of someone, you can jot them a quick note.
Talk it through.
Say sorry. Even times when you’re not really sure what you’re sorry for. Be sorry that there was strife. In the name of peace and love.
Forgive. And forget. And move on.
Give people a second chance. More if they’re family. And if they’re your children, give them endless chances. (Thanks Mom!)
Ask people questions about themselves. Your family and friends and also people you meet on the street. Whether you’re at the grocery counter or the bank or the gas station, talk to people about their life.
Listen to the answers.
Make the connection when you think of making the connection. When you think of calling someone, call them at that moment.
Have extra beds on hand for guests. Or cots. Or sleeping bags. And lots and lots of blankets.
If you have to choose between order and quiet or mess and noise, go for the mess and noise. It might make you a little crazy but there’s plenty of time for order and quiet when you get old.

What to Do if You're Feeling Blue

2009-10-22T05:21:00.000-07:00

Step 3.

Step 1: Read Byron Katie

If you don't know her work, you should check out Byron Katie. Yes, she's New-Agey. But who cares? If the shoe fits...then I say, put it on for Pete's sake. She's got lots of books and plenty of reading guides (and plenty more video clips). If it matters, she was interviewed by Oprah. So if you're looking for inspiration or are getting ready to re-write your New Year's resolutions... again... pick up one of her books, check her website and/or do the work. It's been one of those golden kernels I stumbled upon recently, much like discovering Pema Chodron. More tools for the tool box.

Now that I think of it, Byron Katie might be Step 2.

Okay, Step 1 - Call Teya or get yourself a life coach.

Step 2 - Read Byron Katie (or Pema Chodron).

Step 3 - Go for a walk.

Step 4 - Meet up with a friend.

Step 5 - Browse through Facebook and then visit all your favorite blogs.

Step 6 - Make a painting or two or three...

Step 7 - Write something and maybe even post it on your blog.

Step 8 - Take your daughter to the movie store and rent whatever she wants.

~~Step 9 - Clean and organize your house.~~

Step 10 - Ride the ferry up and down the river or to the museum.

Well, that should get you started.

Crescent Heads, NSW

2009-10-21T01:00:00.000-07:00

This place was just beautiful so I had to post some pics. Five or six hours south of Brisbane, we stopped here on our way north, heading home from Victoria. The Australian coast. You can see why so many Aussies are beach bums. Amazing.

Echuca, Real Estate and Ears

2009-10-20T04:48:00.000-07:00

Cruising the Murray on the old steamboat, Emmylou in Echuca, Victoria. Tea and scones, anyone?

The plan is to drop little pics here and there from our trip south. Just read the captions for details and maybe I'll fill in a detail here or there if I think of it. All I can say is Victoria is a long way away. Just like most things in Australia. Partly because you may be cruising on the Interstate one minute and the next minute you are at a roundabout in the middle of some small town like Dubbo, for instance. Which isn't that small, comparatively speaking. I just couldn't think of another podunk village off the top of my head and I'm too lazy to reach for a map. Anyhow, we've moved on from Victoria and now back in Queensland we continue our search for a house. I'm feeling more hopeful as I see more and more houses added to the real estate website. Of course, we had to get a new perspective on the cost of rent in Brisbane....$600/wk seems to be a good rate but then there are limitations. I know, I too was aghast. Most suitable houses go for around $1000/wk and these aren't even the luxury houses. Buying a house is even worse. If you want something livable, it's going to be a cool million to start. A tear-down is 600k. So if you think you've got it bad in Houston, think again.

By the way for those of you keeping up...Sophia's visit to the ENT went great. Her ear is fine. Just a lovely fungal infection. She was thrilled to have it vacuumed out. Seriously. The doctor couldn't believe it. She's had goop in her for a month so I don't blame her for wanting it out. Total visit was $200. I'm waiting to see how much I get back from the insurance company. Ear drops were $21. Back in the States, our trip the ENT was over $1000 (and that was just for lab work). So although real estate is high priced...at least medical costs are more normal here. And if I were a permanent resident it would be even less because of medicare which makes medical costs mostly negligable.

Life's Lessons by Regina Brett

2009-10-19T02:52:00.000-07:00

Sophia and Carl at Apollo Bay, Victoria.

Apollo Bay, Victoria.

Someone e-mailed me this list of Life's Lessons written By Regina Brett, 90 years old, of The Plain Dealer, Cleveland, Ohio. I liked it so I'm sharing it here. It's always good to be reminded of the obvious and the not so obvious. So here it is.

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To celebrate growing older, I once wrote the 45 lessons life taught to me. It is the most-requested column I've ever written. My odometer rolled over to 90 in August, so here is the column once more:"

1. Life isn't fair, but it's still good.
2. When in doubt, just take the next small step.
3. Life is too short to waste time hating anyone.
4. Your job won't take care of you when you are sick. Your friends and parents will. Stay in touch.
5. Pay off your credit cards every month.
6. You don't have to win every argument. Agree to disagree.
7. Cry with someone. It's more healing than crying alone.
8. It's OK to get angry with God. He can take it.
9. Save for retirement starting with your first paycheck.
10. When it comes to chocolate, resistance is futile.
11. Make peace with your past so it won't screw up the present.
12. It's OK to let your children see you cry.
13. Don't compare your life to others. You have no idea what their journey is all about.
14. If a relationship has to be a secret, you shouldn't be in it.
15. Everything can change in the blink of an eye. But don't worry; God never blinks.
16. Take a deep breath. It calms the mind.
17. Get rid of anything that isn't useful, beautiful or joyful.
18. Whatever doesn't kill you really does make you stronger.
19. It's never too late to have a happy childhood. But the second one i s up to you and no one else.
20. When it comes to going after what you love in life, don't take no for an answer.
21. Burn the candles, use the nice sheets, wear the fancy lingerie. Don't save it for a special occasion. Today is special.
22. Over prepare, then go with the flow.
23. Be eccentric now. Don't wait for old age to wear purple.
24. No one is in charge of your happiness but you.
25. Frame every so-called disaster with these words ''In five years, will this matter?".
26. Always choose life.
27. Forgive everyone everything.
28. What other people think of you is none of your business.
29. Time heals almost everything. Give time, time.
30. However good or bad a situation is, it will change.
31. Don't take yourself so seriously. No one else does.
32. Believe in miracles.
33. God loves you because of who God is, not because of anything you did or didn't do..
34. Don't audit life. Show up and make the most of it now.
35. Growing old beats the alternative -- dying young.
36. Your children get only one childhood.
37. All that truly matters in the end is that you loved.
38. Get outside every day. Miracles are waiting everywhere.
39. If we all threw our problems in a pile and saw everyone else's, we'd grab ours back.
40. Envy is a waste of time. You already have all you need.
41. The best is yet to come.
42. No matter how you feel, get up, dress up and show up.
43. Yield.
44. Life isn't tied with a bow, but it's still a gift.

Thoughts Along the Great Ocean Road

2009-10-18T21:23:00.000-07:00

12 Apostles

Sorry I haven't been keeping up with this here blog. Firstly, we went on a two week road trip down to Victoria (4800 km return -- what was I thinking?) And then we got back and to a plague of homesickness. Just not wanting to write. Just not wanting to be here. And I don't think this blog is a place for my groveling. Not sure what to do about that yet. On top of all that, Sophia's ear thing has returned so after 3 visits to the GP we're off to the ENT tomorrow.

Here's a little bit from our trip to Victoria. I'll post some more pics later.

The Great Ocean Road is one of my favorite parts of Australia. It's along the bottom coast of Victoria from Port Fairy to Torquay. It is uninterrupted coastline dotted with sheep and valleys, an occasional koala, and plenty of blue ocean. Ahhh. It was cold in Victoria. So nice for me, because my body clock is telling me it's supposed to be fall even though every day is glorious and cool in Brisbane.

How far do we have to go?

Can you find the koala?

The coastline is dripping with vegetation.

London Bridge fell down.

A cold, blustery day. I love my wool hat.

Succulents ready for spring.

In case you missed it...

Monkey Dance on the Great Ocean Road, Victoria from susan simmons on Vimeo.

Talking about the Grampians

2009-10-06T02:15:00.000-07:00

I'm starting to compile pics from our trip. In the meantime, here is our family reporter giving us the low down on the weather in the Grampians. I think we have the makings of a television personality.

Talking about the Grampians from susan simmons on Vimeo.

We met Catherine and her family at Rachel's house in Stawell which is near the Grampians National Park. After Stawell, we stayed at the Halls Gap Eco Hostel. The weather was cold and rainy. For me, a nice change from beautiful Brisbane. My body clock must be ready for winter...or at least Fall. I loved the Grampians. They reminded me of Big Bend although not so dramatic as that high and low desert in West Texas. Nonetheless, the walking and views were lovely.

Sophia got hold of the camera. This is Jasmine.

Now Jasmine's turn.

Entrance to Eco Hostel in Halls Gap.

Back patio.

I love the bike rack and the free bike use. We had a great ride in the rain.

Sophia getting ready to ride.

How to break in a new dress

2009-09-14T18:02:00.000-07:00

Thanks Grammy for the new dress.

Thought you might like to see how the new dress got broken in. Sophia and I went on an outing the Queensland Art Gallery. We mostly stayed in the Children's area, drawing film clips and watching cartoons from the 30's. Somehow this was related to the American Impressionist exhibit from the Met. We did read some nice books in the reading nook about children growing up in New York during the late 19th and early 20th centuries. I was hoping to share some new information about New York since we're heading there in December. We had a lovely afternoon first taking the ferry to the city and meeting Carl for lunch at the museum. But after much intellectual stimulation, it was time for a tea break and a proper romp on the hill. The gardens and lawns around the museums are lovely and I think they are well suited for little girls to run up down and, of course, roll. So the dress was well loved and well worn.

View of the Gallery of Modern Art.

Lawn overlooking the river.

Another view of GoMA.

Me and the munchkin.

Parting shot.

Little Ballerina

2009-09-13T16:48:00.000-07:00

Sophia after ballet class. She loves the standard issue purple and she gets to wear ballet shoes!

Picture this

2009-09-07T02:24:00.000-07:00

I love opening my notebook and finding surprise pages of Sophia's drawings. Here she drew me, Carl and herself and me again, (I think). I can see her work is becoming more and more detailed with high heels (she keeps hoping I will wear them), ear rings, hats and bracelets. She has also developed a real interest in reading and learning her letters and numbers. Because she is now one of the oldest in her class, I notice she likes to show off to her friends how well she writes and draws. She used to be frustrated about her writing and I'm happy to see her excited about learning and feeling confident about school.

Recently I upgraded Blogger and now the formatting is all wrong and I'm frustrated with uploading pictures and editing text. Why did I bother? Now I have to figure it all out again. Bloody hell.

Princess Lea comes for Father's Day

2009-09-06T02:21:00.000-07:00

Princess Lea

Sophia styled her hair the other day and I had to take a picture. It was so cute. When we got to Sea World she wanted me to take the buns out but I couldn't without scissors, she had so many rubber bands in them...so she wore her hair like this all day. I love her spunk. I really do. I just wonder how Clayfield will like it. Is hair a part of the uniform I wonder? We'll find out. Information night and conferences are coming up soon.

I really hate to admit going to Sea World to celebrate Australia's Father's Day. You know my feelings about theme parks. Ugh. The lure for me was the polar bears, which unfortunately, I did not photograph. I was too enthralled watching one swim back and forth, doing flips, and blowing bubbles under water while his mate looked completely bored by all the antics. We could watch from above or below the water. I have never seen a live polar bear before, so one point for Sea World. (Or maybe two, because of this huge sea turtle (below). Plus, the penguins were pretty cool. Oh, and the dolphins. I love dolphins no matter what. So maybe that's four points.)

Tortoise at Sea World

Father's Day at Seworld's Sesame Street attraction.

Springbok Supporter

2009-09-05T01:41:00.000-07:00

On Saturday we took the bus to Suncorp Stadium to watch the Australian Wallabies wallop the "number 1" rugby team, the South African Springboks in the Tri Nations Tournament. Sophia was so excited to go to her first rugby match with her dad, she made a sign (unprompted) to wave in the stands. So in case you are wondering, she wrote hieroglyphics. On the left is her dad, the fan. That's a Springbok in the middle. "#1" on the right. And of course, the artist's signature. As South Africa trailed behind, the sign was stuffed into the backpack and new allegiances were made. We are truly becoming a Tri Nations household: Carl/Springbok; Sophia/Wallabies (as long as they are winning); Me/All Blacks (in lieu of America and the haka).

Things Aren't Always Bigger in Texas

2009-09-03T01:31:00.000-07:00

This lizard is bigger than my shoe and they run around like gekkos.
I've been told they can bite but I haven't verified that information yet.

Everyday is like Sunday

2009-09-02T01:50:00.000-07:00

At the cafe at the State Library.

The library has little nooks and crannies like this one. Places to hang out, study, read, whatever. You can sit inside or out. I love it. It's the definition of Public Architecture.
The riverwalk on the south side of the river connects all the museums, library and performing arts center.
It is on both the north and south side of the river and goes for over 20 kilometers (maybe more?
I'm trying to find out exactly how far it really goes.)

For us, Monday is like Sunday minus the people. Last Monday, Sophia and I had an awesome day at the Gallery of Modern Art and the Queensland State Library. After an hour of computer time in the children's corner of the Library, Sophia and I ventured back to GoMA for more paper dolls. (I did make a promise that we'd go back!) I swear we made paper dolls for over two hours, maybe three. I have no idea. Sophia made at least seven dolls. Eventually I lost count. After the paper dolls we perused some of the galleries. Sophia enjoyed a giant size sculpture of a woman sitting up in bed with a pensive look on her face. Try explaining to a five year old why someone would make an object like this...even as an artist, I don't really have an answer to explain the curiosity of it. Face it, it's certainly more interesting than the usual paintings you find in a gallery.

Sophia chasing pigeons at GoMA.

Our day started with a quick drive to New Farm park so we could take the Citycat to Southbank. I love taking the ferries. It's just so relaxing to get on a boat and float on a river, passing houses and buildings, and going under bridges. It was cold and rainy Monday morning so we didn't sit outside on the bow (my favorite place). But that's okay. It's nice inside the boat too. Warm, comfy seats. Sophia was so happy to see rain and I was really glad we drove to New Farm park, because we got back around 4 and we were wiped. A walk home or to the bus stop would have been the end of us. Sometimes it's so nice to hop in the car and just go home. But of course we didn't just go home, we had to segue to the local family fish shop and grab an early dinner of steamed rice and grilled fish. Perfect ending to an otherwise perfect day. And asleep by 7:30...all the better.

Just for fun: Here's a family crossing the river from New Farm Park on Sunday. I thought this was hilarious. I think we need to get a dingy so we can easily visit our friends across the river without paying for a ferry. That's thinking, mate!

Have we turned a corner?

2009-09-01T18:51:00.000-07:00

Light at the end of the tunnel.

After the birthday party on Saturday, Sophia came home and immediately went to work on party invitations. She wants to have a party and she wants her American friends and Australian friends to come. I told her we could perhaps have two parties, one for each group. She's not completely satisfied with that answer but it's hard to explain how far we really are from Texas. Airplanes erase distances but not costs. Australia has always been a complicated place because of it's distance to everything. The time change makes it difficult too. Who wants to have a big chat at 6 in the morning? Maybe it's difficult for me because I've never been a morning person. I don't like my thoughts interrupted when I wake up. I think this personality trait has made morning parenting a challenge for me (and perhaps most people). Once they wake up, there is no peace. So when you drop your child off at school, the peace and quiet can be such a mixed blessing. I really love it and I really miss the inquistion too.

Today when I dropped Sophia at school all the little girls ran up to her, excited to see her. I think she's amazed by this attention and is starting to enjoy it. Sophia has made some friends and starting to feel a little bit at home here. Now if only she had a window in her room.

Yes, it's true we live in box. It's interesting to go from a house to an apartment, even if that apartment is a loft. Sophia has lost the freedom of living in a house but has found new freedoms like going up and down the elevator by herself and swiping her own bus pass like a big kid. She is looking forward to the day she can ride the bus to school by herself. I remember living in Melbourne in High School and taking the train into the city to go to school. It really was an amazing freedom to travel that far by myself (without a mom but with friends) each day. Sophia is counting the days already.

Sophia telling me my shoes are ugly.

GoMA

2009-08-30T02:25:00.000-07:00

Sophia at GoMA making a fashionista paper doll.

On Friday Sophia and I took the bus to the Gallery of Modern Art. It was late so we went directly to the Children's Art Room. Wow, what a treat! Currently there is a fashion exhibition of a local Brisbane duo, Easton Pearson; so the children's area was a fashion parade of paper doll making using designs and patterns from the exhibition. Sophia loved it. As soon as we walked in she got down to business. She only had time to finish one doll so we took some materials home to add to Sophia's design collection later. In the meantime, here's a sample of her first design.

Sophia designed the handbag herself.

Fashion parade of paper dolls.

There is nothing better than finding awesome activities for Sophia in places that I like to visit too. Next on our list, the Queensland State Library.

Bulimba Again: WeeMusic with the Wee One

2009-08-29T01:24:00.000-07:00

Sophia on the ferry to Bulimba.

On the way to WeeMusic.

On Fridays Sophia and I take the ferry across the river to Bulimba for WeeMusic. (Same for ballet.) It's a short walk to the ferry crossing and a short ride across the river. It's so nice to ride the ferry to class. The water is calming and relaxing and the stroll up Oxford St. is always interesting with it's array of little shops and cafes.

Sophia loves Weemusic. She only wishes her Grammy or Ouma could take her because the other two students are there with their Granny's. **Big Sigh** Sophia is learning how to play some instruments and how to sing with an Australian accent. She plays the glokenspiel, cymbals, drums and a triangle. It's challenging but she's learning about pitch and rhythm. She likes to correct me and Carl all the time, rightly so.

Me. Taken by my assistant.

We can see Bulimba from our apartment and looking out our window is like looking peering into the fish bowl of another world. Life seems slower paced over there. The streets are wider and the houses and lots are bigger. I love Bulimba. It reminds me of the Heights except it's on the river. Bulimba is so close and yet so far away. To get there by car is probably a 20 minute drive. If we could drive across the river it would be 2 minutes.

The crazy river.

My chagrin with this is that Bulimba is a lovely, funky family suburb and Sophia's school is on the other side of the river. What to do, what to do.

Ballet in Bulimba

2009-08-28T15:30:00.000-07:00

Yesterday I had to race up Oxford St. with Sophia on my shoulders. We were late. Ferries were late. No buses in Bulimba. (20 minutes apart.) Wish we had a bike.

With architecture like this who wouldn't want to go the library?

2009-08-27T15:18:00.000-07:00

Queensland State Library entryway.

Yesterday I took the Citycat to Southbank...over to the museum area and library. I was fantastically surprised to find such stunning architecture, not just the libary but the museums as well. (I'll post pictures of the museums later. I wasn't in a picture taking mood that day.) What I love best about the architecture is the public spaces: magnificent courtyards with pools, ponds and waterfalls mixed with sculpture and of course, the cafés and coffee shops. Australian's take their tea breaks seriously and why not? So this idea of tea time is built into all their public spaces. I didn't have much time at the library but I noticed two alfresco dining areas at the front, one up, one down. Maybe there were more at the back. At the museums there were several places to stop and have a bite to eat and a coffee. All of them lovely places to take a break.

What every library needs is a good outdoor cafe.

The kiddie corner from the outside.

Traffic in Brisbane?

2009-08-26T23:11:00.000-07:00

Stuck.

If Australia has so few people, then why do they have California size traffic? I figure most of the Australian population lives in one of the five major cities...and the way the rivers snake and turn ox bows, well, there's no wonder city planning seems so unplanned. But still, you can't imagine the bumper to bumper traffic we've experienced each Sunday we return from a weekend at the coast. So here's a little video to give you the real essence of our dilemma. It's boring, just like sitting in traffic.

Traffic to Brizzy from susan simmons on Vimeo.

Traffic to Brizzy from the Sunshine Coast.

This is what I do when I'm bored in traffic.

I practice taking blurry photos and play with my camera settings.

I've been Everywhere

2009-08-23T16:44:00.000-07:00

This gives you an idea of what it's like to try to read a map. Our plan is to go everywhere.

Australian 101

2009-08-22T19:01:00.000-07:00

Me: What did you have for snack today? Sophia: It's not snack, Mom. It's morning tea. Except we don't have tea. Me: So what did you have for morning tea, then? Sophia: Yummy fruit and cheese.

Today's Farmers' Market Finds

2009-08-21T18:16:00.000-07:00

This morning we went to the Jan Powers Farmers' Market. I love buying directly from the farmer or the artist. Here are some items found in our shopping cart: homemade yogurt with fresh passion fruit mixed-in; cheese from Maleny: Brie & Parmesagn; mixed lettuce, carrots, green beans, pumpkin, apples, lemonade fruit (like an orange and lemon combined), lattes for breakfast, hot choc for Sophia, sausage rolls and sausages from a Scottish baker...Carole, they even had scotch eggs, didn't try though...the best strawberries ever, bananas, gerber daisies, some handmade stationery, barrettes and a cute applique shirt for Sophia, a beach basket for me, tea tree oil, big container of honey. I think that's it. Total cost: $150 (Australian Dollars). Not super cheap but it would be more in the grocery store and not as fresh. Not at all. The strawberries will last two weeks in my fridge. Can't wait for the next one.

Back-to-School Blues

2009-08-20T18:08:00.001-07:00

At times like these, we wish the Grandparents were near because we all need a break!

Everyone in Texas is heading back to school and excitement is in the air. Had we stayed, Sophia would be starting Kindergarten now at Big Poe with all her Poe Co. buddies. I'm excited and happy for everyone, and I'm also a little sad. Sophia misses her friends so much. The adjustment to Australia has been difficult. At first it was fun, but the novelty has worn thin and Sophia is ready to get back home. I feel like I'm living with a teenager who yells at her parents and tells them how much she hates them. Yes, this is the same Sophia who before arriving here was easy going and got along with everybody. I don't blame her for feeling the way she does. She had a pretty good life there on Banks St. and now she's in an apartment, in a new country, not old enough for proper school and all the preschool's are full because it's late in the term. She's been stuck with mommy and face it, I don't hold a candle to her mates. That's one of the reasons we changed our plans and are not heading back to Texas until Christmas. If we went back now, there's no way I'd get her on a plane again. She's already decided she'd rather live with Mia and not come back here anyway. So after much agonizing and research we found a temporary solution until school starts in January: C&K Kindy.

The front of City Hall and the home of C&K Kindy on the third floor. The Brisbane Museum is on the ground floor and the Mayor's office is housed here too. Entry at C&K Kindy. Part of Sophia's classroom.

It's much like Poe Co. (similar curriculum and philosophy) but it's in the city. The only reason we got a spot is because they are closing the school (after 60+ years) at the end of the year for building renovations and many people have moved their children somewhere else in anticipation. Thank God for C&K Kindy. It's been a stressful transition but when Sophia came home elated and with an invitation to a birthday party, I knew we made the right decision. Her school is on the top floor of City Hall. We take the city bus to school and then ride a very cool elevator up. Believe it or not, there is lots of outdoor play space up there on the roof.

One of the playground areas.

It's crazy, I know. Who would've thought I'd put my kid in a downtown school, but there you go. You know how we sometimes wonder "what if"...what if I did it this way instead of that way. Well, that's what Australia has been for me. I'm doing everything differently — everything opposite to what I did before. It's like a parallel life but I get to live them both. I'm not sure how I feel about all this but it is what it is and I'm just trying to roll with the punches. (More like a kick in the pants.) After this, we may never move again. I'm not sure I could handle it without becoming a serious alcoholic. In fact, I wouldn't mind a drink right now.

Macquarie Street and The Mistress

2009-08-15T22:30:00.000-07:00

View from our living room. The River is behind those first row of houses.

We are staying in a loft apartment on Macquarie Street. I wanted to show you some pics of our place. It's fine for now, but we need to start looking for a house with a yard. I think Sophia is getting tired of riding her bike around the kitchen island.

"Don't bother me, Mom."

Closer view, same window.

My blogspot. Notice the pink and orange beenbag on the left. A great find at the Byron Market. Carl and I fought about it...I wanted it, he didn't. And now we fight over who gets to sit in it.

View to the kitchen and study alcove.

The queen's servant.

Concentration over the Wiggles.

Sophia riding her bike aournd the house.

The queen at work and the regular state of my living room (her art studio).

Me playing with my iPhone whule the queen gives me orders.

88 Macquarie St. is a converted woolstore that sits on the north? side of the river. Basically we're on the same side of the river and the northern suburbs.The way the river snakes you never know which side you're on. That's why we have a GPS to tell us which direction to go. (Yes, it talks in an Australian accent.) I call her the Mistress. I think it says a lot that the locals use GPS's. I mean if an Australian can't find their way around here, then how should anyone else? What did they do before satellites? Everyone is lost, not just me.

The Mistress.

The hubby is a nomad, the hubby is a freak.

2009-08-12T02:29:00.000-07:00

The nomad holding a Castle lager. Liquid gold shipped directly from ZA.

Yes, it's true. I married a nomad from South Africa. There are many gypsies like him, and they are all the same. Each is on a quest to find the best wors outside the motherland. They always find it, and each other. Here he is at Springbok Foods in Oxenford, QLD. I must say, the place was busy.

Tagged. Do you really think he'll wear that Springbok cricket hat?

I cannot say too much because I gave birth to one of these nomads and she eats biltong like chocolate.

Mail bag

2009-08-10T18:19:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for your letters, gifts and packages. We have M&M's in Australia and all kinds of other things...but what we don't have much choice in is Band-Aids! So feel free to post some fancy Band-Aids in your next package! They would be much appreciated!

I did not choose Australia, It chose me.

2009-08-09T02:07:00.000-07:00

Hint: The name of my next project. Maybe something by the end of the year. I'm adding it to my endgame. (You know who you are.)

Weemusic in Bulimba

2009-08-06T22:33:00.000-07:00

An Australian pelican takes flight.

Today we took the ferry across the river from Teneriffe to Bulimba for a music class. It's acutally closer for us to go across the river than to get to other parts of New Farm, especially on foot. I thought it would be fun to have a Friday outing, taking the ferry and walk up Oxford Street. The music class was great. Sophia is learning notes and playing different instruments. We are not a musical family, but maybe Sophia will take after Ouma and surprise us all!

Often waiting for the ferry takes longer than the actual time it takes the ferry to get across the river. About a 2 minute ride!

Ferry from Teneriffe to Bulimba

Bulimba reminds me of The Heights. Lovely trees, a big park, lots of families and then there is Oxford Street, a street lined with shops, cafes, bakeries and a very cool vintage movie theater. The first time we ventured across the ferry to Bulimba, it immediately felt familiar. If we can figure out how to get to Clayfield College from Bulimba, don't be surprised if our address changes to the other side of the river. Of course there is the other option of sending Sophia to the Bulimba state school. So is it the simple life in Bulimba and walk to a state school, or do we drive all over the place in order to attend private school? Ugh. Any thoughts?

88 Maquarie Street is the red brick building behind the riverfront houses.

View from Bulimba towards Teneriffe with the City center in the background. Carl works in the middle, white building (to the left of the tallest building).

I don't have photoshop at the moment so I can't draw on my pictures or else I would. Time for dinner so gotta run along now. Queensland's version of the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo is this weekend and next week...so will be posting on Ekka soon. The difference? Ekka is livestock shows and fashion shows, all in one. Afterall, livestock is livestock, mate.

James Street & Lucky 88

2009-08-05T22:14:00.000-07:00

Sophia waiting for breakfast at James Street Market. **88 seems to be our lucky number lately. And yes it's true, I love Kill Bill which means more 88's.**

One of the first places Carl took me and Sophia was the James Street market in New Farm. He didn't take any chances and made sure I saw the best of Brisbane before I hightailed it back to the States. Well, he succeeded to impress by bringing me to James Street and its fancy nook of trendy shops, markets and eateries. It feels a lot like Whole Foods combined with Highland Village and a little bit of Australian flare. Now and then we come here for a weekend breakfast and to poke around the neighborhood a bit. If Sophia's lucky she might even get a small cup of gellato. I like to hang out here especially if I'm missing the slick part of my life in Houston.

Australians go barefoot everywhere. Even James Street. Oh, that's Sophia.

Yum, yum. Sitting in the window.

Part of the James Street Market.

The photographer and blogger.

Light, oh beautiful light.

2009-08-04T01:43:00.000-07:00

Shooting in Texas, especially West Texas, I can alway count on that cool evening light...kind of warm blues and pinky orange skies. Here I just have minutes before I catch it. I'm playing with the light settings, overexposing some shots so it's not so shadowy and working to figure out the Queensland color pallette.

West Texas sunset.

The greens in Brisbane feel really black and at the coast, the sky is royal and the sand yellow.

Sophia taking the Citycat on the Brisbane River.

A light pink sunset at Broadbeach.

Before we left the Gold Coast I caught a sunset on our way to have "tea" (Australian for "dinner" or any meal for that matter) at the Surf Club. Many of the surf clubs have restaurants, bars and even "pokies" (slot machines) as a way to raise money for the life savers. We like these clubs because the food is good and it's very kid friendly, not to mention a local hang out.

Sophia and Papa.

Broadbeach at dusk. She walks along the sand.

Happy camper.

Walking to the beach.

You can see Surfer's Paradise in the distance. All of the Gold Coast looks like that...tall buildings and skyscrapers.

Family.

Boradbeach and Surfer's

2009-08-02T20:54:00.001-07:00

Sophia, Jasmine and Sam at Broadbeach.

Sophia and Jasmine making a birthday cake.

This weekend we went to the Gold Coast to meet friends from Melbourne. As many of you know I was an exchange student to Australia back in High School and stayed with the Franks' in Melbourne. Catherine is one of the Franks' and is now married to Paul. They have two kids, Sam (6) and Jasmine (3 going on 13). It was great for Sophia to meet her Aussie cousins (and good for me too). I think it's been over 13 years since I was last in Australia for Cath and Paul's wedding. We had a great reunion and enjoyed beeing at Broadbeach even if the Gold Coast is more commercial than we're used to. It was only an hour and half drive south, so who's complaining? One night we went up the coast a few kilometers to Surfer's Paradise. Here I got some great arial shots from the Q-Deck which is atop the tallest building in Australia. (I'll have to google that to be sure.) Awesome.

Gold Coast, looking south from Q-Deck at Surfer's Paradise.

Looking down facing east.

Sophia and Jasmine, glow in the dark.

Miles of ocean.

Gold Coast, to the North. Having a beverage at Q-Deck. Paul, Catherine, Sam and Jasmine. Facing west, you can see the sunset and the river that snakes along the coast.

Later we went to the strip at Surfer's Paradise, and it was just that — a strip of tourists and tourists shops. The sleezier the better. I wish I took photos of us walking the mall because there is nothing more strange than to see women in burkha's (yes, muslim women) next to women in gold lamé bikini shorts with cowboy hats (meter maids). Not kidding. We didn't even make it to the real sleezy area (so I am told) of tit bars and strip joints. Even the real estate signs were in Arabic, not to mention Japanese, Korean and Chinese.

Hanging out at the Surfclub and Park at Broadbeach

2009-08-01T21:28:00.000-07:00

My little beach bum.

On this day we went into to town for breakfast then headed home via the beach. The tide was still out so the beach was really wide. You can't tell from these pics but Sophia is kind of half-way up the hill. In Australia, most of the dune are covered in tall vegetation. Rarely are there building built on the beach, not like in the states. Also, no roads along the beach. This freaks me out a a bit because being the American I am I like to drive, and I like to drive along the coast, looking at the coast. Think Pacific Coast Highway, or the road along the Outerbanks. Here you can't see the coast for the vegetation. You drive and drive through towns and farmlands, never knowing the coast is but a few kilometers to your west (depending on where you are driving). Until you reach a little pocket park, you can't really see the beach or unless you are in a high rise or up on a cliff (like Byron Bay). I understand the need to preserve the dunes due to erosion, but I really hate this aspect. I have only seen a small part so maybe there are other places where you can see wide expanses of the coast from the road. Another thing that makes it tricky are the multitude of lakes and rivers that follow the coast line in an snake patter. I suppose this would make building roads near the coast next to impossible. Just another example of landscape informing architecture and culture.

She loves the beach.

And her pink pants.

Bicycle train at the Broadbeach esplanade with Carl as the caboose.

This park is between the beach and the road. The beach is to the left, behind the trees. Also, there is a bike/walking path that follows the line of the trees. Everywhere you go, you can be sure you'll find a place to run, walk or bike and many, many parks like this one (not to mention to skate parks).

Enough pedaling for Dad.

Ma petite artiste å Cafe Bouqiniste

2009-07-28T00:39:00.001-07:00

My biggest fans are Ouma, Oupa, Grammy and Poppy, so today I'm catering to my readers. Okay, so it's not just today...but today I'm admitting it. I'ma braggin'.

Sophia at Cafe Bouqiniste photographing magazines for her paintings.

Yesterday at Cafe Bouqiniste Sophia was flipping through some french magazines and asked if she could take the magazine home because she wanted to use some of the pictures for painting ideas. When I said no she came up with the idea of photographing the pages and using those images for her paintings. I have friends who do that!

The feeling of Bouqiniste.

I can't wait to see the paintings. Here's a sampling of her images.

It started with this.

And then this one among other fascinations with the Medieval period.

Next she went for something more abstract.

But of course she had to include some fashion.

And something to do with a bag. Never enough bags.

The verdict is in

2009-07-27T22:31:00.001-07:00

We have decided on Clayfield College. What a relief to have that decided. Now we can make plans. Sophia will start prep on January 27. Until then she'll be going to a little preschool nearby a few days a week...unless she's hanging out at Byron Bay with mom. At first I was upset we couldn't get Sophia into a school right away and now I think it's a blessing. We get to hang out together longer and practice our Aussie accents. It's like an endless summer! Clayfield has been wonderful in helping us find our feet here. We are being introduced to other families and invited to different Clayfield events. By the time January gets here, Sophia will be dressed in green and ready to roll. (I think Carl voted for Clayfield because of the SA colors.) So for planning purposes...here's the school calendar for next year so you can plan your visit accordingly. Of course it doesn't matter when you come, but we will have lots of flexibility between terms. 2010 TERM DATES Term 1: Wednesday 27 January – Friday 26 March Term 2: Monday 12 April – Friday 18 June Term 3: Monday 12 July – Friday 17 September Term 4: Monday 4 October – Friday 3 December We actually picked Clayfield because the Prep classrooms reminded us most of Poe Co. Plus there are boys...believe it or not, we missed that boy energy at St. Margaret's. A very weird phenomenon without it. There are other reasons too like the people. Clayfield has made us feel special and welcome and it's a bit tattered around the edges, kind of like us. Yay! (The pictures may be slick but the place is not.)

Sophia having a beverage at Hutch. A corner cafe near Macquarie St.

So what about that uniform? you ask. Well, being the fashionista she is, the Clayfield uniform is actually a selling point because it's so much better than Poe's. At least the girls can choose between dresses, skirts or shorts. And there is no khaki involved...just ask Roberta about that (yes, Anna Grace's mom). Of course, my opinion of green isn't much better than khaki but there's no need to mention that. :-)

A day at Southbank

2009-07-26T16:49:00.000-07:00

In an attempt to assuage some complaints about my delayed blogging, I am writing a short post and giving you lots of pics instead. We are busy interviewing schools and going crazy with all these decisions. I am sure my next post will be on what school Sophia is going to, but first, we have to make a decision. Is it St. Margaret's or Clayfield College? Ugh. How I miss Poe Co. In the meantime here's the latest weekend update. This weekend we stayed in Brisbane and took care of some business and looked around town. Yesterday we went to Southbank which is an area south of the CBD and is home to the performing and visual arts venues of Brisbane. There are also lots of markets at Southbank and plenty of coffee shops, small eateries and this GIANT ferris wheel. Of course we had to go on it.

Before heading to Southbank we did a little shoe shopping on Queen's St. We splurged on a pair of Birkenstoks for Sophia because flip flops just weren't working and she has started to get blisters from her other shoes. I love how she continues to be surprised when her shoes don't fit anymore.

Our day actually started with a bike (Sophia & Carl)/run (Me) to Powerhouse for breakfast and a quick ride along the river. Then we took the bus to town to shop a bit, then walked through town and went across a really long bridge over the river to Southbank. Then later, the Citycat back to Bulima where we caught a ferry back across the river to Teneriffe and then the bus home (because we couldn't walk anymore and the driver laughed at us because it was like two stops.) The only thing we left out was the train.

Climbing at the Powerhouse & New Farm Park

2009-07-24T21:08:00.000-07:00

Sophia couldn't make it to the top a week ago. Even though we're not in Africa she's turning into a real monkey. We spend many afternoons at New Farm park climbing the ropes or the big Moreton Bay Fig.; or we hang out at the Powerhouse next door climbing the "Flood" sculpture while mum watches on from the cafe. These places are essential to our existence as we currently do not have a yard or balcony. I admit it, I miss the comfort of Banks St. Sometimes I have to argue with Sophia to go outside and I don't blame her for wanting to veg at home. It's me, who needs to get out. Ice cream sometimes helps with negotiations but not always.

Exotic pests

2009-07-22T16:37:00.000-07:00

You find these everywhere, usually around parks and cafes. Just another strange bird, one of many.

Dicky Beach

2009-07-20T05:48:00.000-07:00

Last Sunday we sauntered up the Sunshine Coast to Dicky Beach, named for a shipwreck who's hull still rusts away on the beach. It was a warmish winter day. Being the wimp that I am, I sat on the beach in a polar fleece while Sophia and Carl took the long board out for a test spin. As Sophia came in from the waves blue lips and shaking, she said, "I should never have listened to him. I should never have listened to him.""What do you mean?" I ask. "Daddy was wrong, it's cold." Looking around I notice everyone else surfing in wetsuits. She's tough but I'm not sure Carl will get her in the ocean again without that wetsuit. As the Australian's say, "It was fresh."

Dicky Beach in motion

2009-07-20T02:00:00.000-07:00

Dicky Beach, QLD Australia from susan simmons on Vimeo.

Cutie Pie

2009-07-19T02:28:00.000-07:00

I just had to include these two photos. The first one is of Sophia at La Bouqiniste eating a homemade strawberry marshmallow that came with that delectable hot chocolate sitting there in front of her. I did taste it and I must say, it was divine in that Fancy Nancy sort of way. Anything to make a 5 yr. old happy so mom can have 5 minutes at her local and a cuppa joe, which here is called a "long black" (not kidding). If you think Starbucks has complicated coffee orders, Australia tops them. Okay, I'll have to do some research because I can't remember them all right now. Will get back to you on that so when you visit you can at least order a cup of coffee the way you like it. This next photo is of a mamma Australian possom. My assistant took this photo while we were walking around New Farm checking out some schools and the neighborhood in general. Which brings me to the issue of finding a school...a daunting enterprise to say the least. Sophia misses the enrollment date by two weeks, which means if I can't finagle her into Class 1 (equal to U.S. Kindergarten) in January then she will be 18 months behind her U.S. classmates. Total bummer. I had really hoped to get her into a school right away so she could be in a routine and make friends seamlessly. It's turning into a whole other matter. Now we're researching lonnie private schools, which some of you may think is not such a bad thing...but think St. John's and all the posturing that is required to get your little angel through the door. Do my credentials cut the mustard? I don't know. I'm even having Carl make the calls to set up interviews, banking on his male charisma and the perception of a serious father who can bankroll this expedition. Pathetic, I know. And then, there is the whole problem of neighborhood. Love New Farm. Very arty and hip, awesome riverwalk and one of the best parks in Brisbane, but not lots of families. I think families are mostly in the burbs. Which spells death for me, right? So now what? Sophia and I may pack it in, move to Byron Bay (see below), attend a Waldorf school and make Carl commute on weekends while we're selling quilts at the market and perfecting our surf technique. You'll just have to check back and see what we decide. In the meantime, it's mental meltdown for mom as I struggle to find not just my community but also Sophia's. Oh yeah, this is supposed to be an adventure. Cheer up. Ha! So in the spririt of Byron Katie (I don't care if she is New Agey...her stuff works!) I turn it around and say, I look forward to setting up a community again and finding my way. Everything I need, I have. And so, I am having a birthday breakfast with new friends. For real.

We're not in Kansas anymore...

2009-07-17T03:14:00.000-07:00

New Farm park is huge. 15 hectares or something. There are open fields and rows of rose gardens. Football fields, tennis courts and of course, a playground. I am amazed at some of the differences found in the playgrounds, and here is one. I'm sorry I didn't get a better photo of it because you can't really see how big this climbing aparatus is. To reach the top is really high. I don't know, 20 feet maybe. I like that this type of athleticism is encouraged. Here are some more pics of the playground. Check out this Morton Bay fig tree also known as a banyan tree, and this massive treehouse they built into it. This is only one small portion of it.

2 mile radius

2009-07-14T00:02:00.000-07:00

It's funny how we replicate our lives no matter where we are. All I need is a good coffee shop, book store and yoga studio and life is good. Doesn't matter where I am. I found my coffee shop..."La Bouqiniste." I have no idea what that means or if it means anything but I love it. It's tiny, full of rustic furniture and shelves of books to look at or buy. They have Corman McCarthy's, "The Road" in french. The french version is called "La Route." Personally, I think that's a mistranslation because it's not a route, it's a road to nowhere. But I digress...Sophia loves digging through the basket of kiddie books that sell for $1. Hence, we are amassing a new collection of Australian literature. My new assistant took this picture of me sitting out front. All I need now are some friends to loiter with at La Bouqiniste. 5 yr olds are fun to hang out with, and they sometimes make great assistants, but they never sit still long enough to really loiter properly. Any takers?

How to go shopping with a man (& a 5 yr. old.)

2009-07-13T22:09:00.000-07:00

Can you believe it? Carl is dragging me shopping on the weekends. Well, maybe he doesn't need to drag me, but it's his idea to go and not just mine. Apparently he loves the local markets and so do I. Last weekend we went to the Jan Powers Market here in New Farm. We bought tons of organic groceries and meat. It was awesome. Sophia loved the Peruvian music so we hung out and had some lunch and listened to the music and people watched. Makes me think how hard everyone is trying to get the Farmer's markets to go in Houston. I think it works here is because it's almost more convenient than going to the grocery store plus the produce is way better. Face it, Whole Foods and Central Market are awesome. Here, everyone goes to the market on Saturdays. They are from 6-12 in the morning and it's everyone's family outing. Afterwards you meet at the park for "tea," meaning a mid-day meal. Last weekend, I was hoping to see some local knitters because I wanted to buy a scarf I had seen a couple of weeks ago. I couldn't find them but did find Sophia a cute beanie instead at a different stall. Sophia left her fabulous pink beanie that Ouma made back in the states. She was wearing the pink one the day we were packing and getting ready to leave for Australia but somehow she didn't bring it. Maybe it was the 100º heat in Houston that made her forget. Anyhow, I can't wait for this weekend's market in the West End. It's supposed to be a bohemian part of the city with more hippies and more stuff, not just fruit & veg. I'm still looking for a scarf and of course, I need another bag. I will let you know what I find.

Design in Life

2009-07-13T21:55:00.000-07:00

This is a water fountain found in one the many shopping areas here in Brisbane. There are many cool water fountains. So many I could probably do a blog just on the cool water fountains found here. Just wanted to share a simple example of typical Australian design in life.

You too can join the circus!

2009-07-10T01:20:00.001-07:00

I signed Sophia up for the circus. I'm serious. You can take circus classes here. She starts next Wednesday on her "real" birthday. She's going to love the trapeze and the tumbling. Maybe Cirque du Soleil is in her future. Plus, I'm happy it's not a bunch of anorexic gymnasts prancing around. No, just hulu hoopers and fire-breathing oddballs. Only in Australia, right? In the meantime, she's been practicing rock wall climbing. There is also a woman's circus group called Vulcana. You can take classes and train in their space. Who knows, I might join the circus too but don't expect to see any proof of that here. I won't be posting any pics of me on the trapeze or whatever. Not unless I'm desperate for more material so I'll make sure to keep life interesting.

Public Transport = New Shoes and Ice Cream

2009-07-09T14:42:00.000-07:00

We haven't been in a car since last weekend. This no car life may change but for now it works for us. Sophia's feet are fine, but she seems to need lots of ice cream for extra sustenance. So far, we've had ice cream everyday....maybe it's the taste of the gelati here but she never wanted ice cream this much before. Even though we walk to school and walk to the park in Houston, it must be nothing compared to here because my feet have been killing me. Sophia and I were downtown heading to the bus stop when I saw a sign in the window that said "No stilletos here!" so I went in, tried on a pair of awesome purple clogs by El Naturalista and $150A later I walked them out the store. At that point, I didn't care what they cost as long as my feet felt good. And they still do!

Short Days of Winter at 27 degrees South.

2009-07-08T02:26:00.000-07:00

Winter means shorter days so if we want to do a bike ride with Carl after he gets home, it's dark. Here's a look at New Farm at night along the the riverwalk. You can see the lights along the river mostly of people's homes. If you kept going you'd end up in the CBD of Brisbane which, to me, looks larger than Houston. It's hard to say because right now everything feels big and complicated. I'm in Dr. Suess land. Nothing is "normal." I can totally understand why Carole didn't drive in Houston for two years. I think I might follow suit here in Brisbane. Buses, ferries and feet are just fine.

Children's Festival at the Brisbane Powerhouse

2009-07-07T18:14:00.001-07:00

(Note: Please excuse my first post. I have spent most of my time setting up this silly blog's layout and just trying to make all the parts work. And now I just want to post something already!) Yesterday was drizzling so Sophia and I went to the Brisbane Powerhouse for the children's festival. Of course, the drizzle didn't stop her from riding her bike there (me running beside her) along the riverwalk. The Powerhouse is a contemporary art space here in New Farm, next to the Brisbane River. They are having a children's festival for two weeks during the winter school holidays. It was awesome. They basically created a children's museum within their walls. There was a great live performance by some TV show called "little frog." And there was a dress up center next to the coffee bar so mums could sip coffee while the little ones went wild in the wardrobe. Every children's museum should have a coffee bar like this... And then there was a painting wall. I thought it was really smart the way they organized that. They painted huge shapes on mural size paper and each kid got to paint in a shape. It was nice to be around some Aussie mums and their children. I almost felt at home in the chaos. Everyone just looks so "cool" here. It was enough to sip coffee and watch the parade. Someone asked me what my favorite thing was so far...I have to say it's the creativity that is woven into everyday life especially in the way people dress and style themselves. Sophia fits right in naturally! It's not a hard transition for me either...in fact, I need to take it further. A little more crazy. The best was when someone asked me for directions. As soon as I opened my mouth, they realized their mistake. That was a laugh. It's a little chilly here and we didn't bring enough cozy pants for Sophia...only a black velour pair she stole from Mia. We had to search for these at the Byron Market. I love the pink fur at the bottom and I love that they were made by a local seamstress who was there selling them herself. We also bought a bright red fuzzy pair with electric blue fur on the bottom...they kind of remind me of Elmo but Sophia loves them. Now she has a shoulder bag for her money and bus pass. We're all set.