Days 9 thru 11 - Living the Life of an Aussie: Wollongong Edition

Adayna and I both awoke around 7 a.m. in Trez’s hometown of Wollongong, a beachfront city located 40 minutes south of Sydney. Trez had to work so Adayna and I had some time to ourselves. We managed to secure an internet connection (clearly not long enough to blog, sorry guys) to check email and upcoming itineraries/activities. For the next couple of days we did the small town thing. Grocery shopped, bar-hopped, sat on the couch (my least favorite activity), walked to the beach and caught up with Trez. I enjoyed just relaxing and doing nothing. It doesn’t take much for me to enjoy myself whether it is going hard for days or doing nothing for days. I am content. Unfortunately, I am traveling with someone who thinks a vacation means days filled with activities. I’m sure we are to have issues over the coming years with this one.

I can appreciate laying low, but sitting in front of the TV while in Australia was just not for me. I can understand the occasional TV-watching when you are in a hotel, but to make a day out of watching TV is not the first thing I’d choose to do when I have Australia in my backyard. So, while Travis and Trez caught up on American sports, I ventured out into Wollongong, walking into town and hitting the beach as much as I could. Don’t get me wrong, I enjoyed some of the other activities held at the Chez Trez premises, like the occasional barbecue and hanging out sessions.

For some reason I was not excited about the beach during this trip. From my days of beach vacations to living in Myrtle Beach, I wasn’t very interested in spending much time on the sand. Still unsure why. Perhaps my 7-year stint in the rain has made me allergic. I’ll have to rid myself of that illness soon. Word. Start medicating. :)

While in the Gong, we hit a couple of watering holes which are nothing like the ones back home. The music, crowd and expensive-ass drinks made for short stints at these places. I asked for a Manhattan at one spot and they had the nerve to want to charge me $14. Crazy! I settled for cheap vodka and don't ask me what kind. All I know is that Captain Cook was on the bottle. (Fun Fact: Captain James Cook was the first to land in Eastern Australia and claimed the land for Great Britain.) When not checking out the food and bar scene, we took in local sights like Mt. Keira. And, no Aussie vacation is complete without a game of Rugby at the beach. I tried to do my thing. Although, rushing to get in 6 tags way before reaching the end zone didn't seem like an ideal strategy, but what do I know. I must say Adayna did well in her international Rugby debut.

Getting to know Trez and Travis through Trez has been a trip. These two are non-stop comedy sometimes. Doing so from Wollongong and not from Sydney or Melbourne afforded me a true Australian experience. Thank you Trez! We are still thinking about where to go next. Will it be New Zealand, Melbourne or back to Queensland? Stay tuned.

Day 8 - Departing Queensland so reFRESHed and so CLEAN...

The next morning Adayna and I ate breakfast and were picked up by her former colleague and friend during her American Express days - Mike. Mike and I go way back. I worked at Amex for 3 years after undergrad and it was during that time I worked with Mike who was based out of Phoenix, Arizona. I remember our many work calls. They were so easy going. I was quite the newbie and so there was much to learn from Mike given his time with Amex. Our working relationship transitioned to a friendship after my many trips to Phoenix.

Our first stop on the agenda was Kuranda. Kuranda is a village high in the hills in the midst of a rainforest. I think it’s part of the Daintree Rainforest but I can’t remember. As we drove up this long windy road, I didn’t say (umm, you did tell us) but I was hoping to a spot a kangaroo, koala and/or a cassowary dangle from a tree or dart past the car. (Note to Travis only koala’s dangle from trees.) It is so hard to narrate when you have your own spokesperson sitting next to you. I digress, it’s been a few days now and I’m itching to see these exotic threesome. Once reaching the top, there was a collection of farmers market-like stands and aboriginal boutiques filled with arts and crafts and native artifacts. I fortunately found a couple of mementos during this stop. Though it was quite muggy, I enjoyed the visit in Kuranda and looked forward to the rest of the day.

Kuranda is a dream for people who love shopping in small villages and walking through different markets. I sure contributed to its prosperity by grabbing what looked to be an aboriginal dress, some jewelry and a few other knick knacks at the aboriginal arts store. Folks, I’m saddened to say that my dress was made in India so there goes that. No village shopping spree is complete without a bit of homemade ice cream which Mike so kindly treated us too. After some Kuranda strolling, we headed out to Palm Cove for some lunch and a couples massage!

Palm Cove was what I envisioned - a beachfront getaway filled with spas, restaurants and boutique hotels. It reminded me of a private Miami beach strip, but on a much smaller scale and with more picturesque views. We had lunch at one of the outdoor establishments and talked before the much awaited spa appointment. Mike left us for a couple of hours while we went on our mission to rejuvenate.

Palm Cove is truly beautiful and Travis and I knew we wanted to hit it up given it’s status as Spa Capital of Australia. I didn’t get a chance to take a dip in the water - something that is always top of mind for me - but I enjoyed it nonetheless. After lunch, we headed to the Reef Sebel where 2 young ladies greeted us. We slipped into spa robes and patiently waited for the commencement of our 45-minute couples massage. Our massage was part Swedish, part Deep Tissue and part some Aboriginal-thing that I cannot remember. I think the technique was called kodo. Either way, they worked us out well. So well Travis fell asleep during his massage. I think we all know that’s a good sign given that massages are meant to relax you. Although we are talking about Travis now...he loves his sleep! The spa, massages and Palm Cove trio was a great way to finish off our stay in Queensland. Of course, spending some time with an old friend in what I’ve deemed to be the furthest place on earth (Australia) did the job too.

After the spa, Mike showed us the area; passing through the town of Port Douglas, stopping in a field to take pictures of dozens of wallabies lounging in an open field during the early evening hours, (Wallabies and kangaroos come out to play during this time because the temperature cools) and showing us his home; And it was a very nice pad may I add. I could tell Adayna was impressed with the landscape. I’m hopeful she’ll want a home with a big backyard too instead of the big city. We shall see... Thankfully the NYC-metro area is so diverse that you could own a home with a big backyard but near the big city. He’ll see in due time.

From there, Mike dropped us off at the Cairns airport. I was sad to leave the land of Queens behind us, but off to New South Wales we went.

Day 7 - Our Tropical Paradise

For those of you wondering, I feel much better today, but I do regret not witnessing my baby girl snorkel yesterday. Nevertheless today is a new day and I am looking forward to our day in the rainforest. The day began at 6:30 a.m.. We packed for the day’s activities, ate breakfast and were then picked up by our tour guide. Finn, a hippie Aussie, ushered us onto his 4WD outback tour bus and we were on our way.

Our Billy Tea Rainforest Safari tour consisted of several stops. There was the Daintree River Cruise where high-tide kept us from seeing some friendly crocodiles. Then, our walk through the Daintree Rainforest where probability was not on our side keeping us from the infamous Cassowaries, an almost extinct bird that can match my height and kick butt if it feels threatened. Afterwards, we were taken to our own little private BBQ at a place in the rainforest with wallaby’s and kangaroos for pets. I managed to pet my hopping friends and even fed a wallaby.

After our BBQ, Finn took us to Emmagen Creek where we tasted tropical fruits, like the Black Zapote, and dipped into its fresh waters. I can’t remember the other fruits by name, but I remember the tastes and colors. There was one with a deep purple hue and another that looked like a pineapple but tasted like apple custard. Our stay at Emmagen Creek culminated with a tasty cup of Billy’s Tea, brewed at the creek in an iron casket and given an Aboriginal-style sifting (imagine your arm moving in a large circular motion with a 40lbs iron cast attached.)

Next up was Cape Tribulation, where the Daintree Rainforest meets the Great Barrier Reef. It is absolutely beautiful. The water is crystal clear, blue as can be and still. Of course, the stupid jellyfish situation prevented me from going for a swim so I could only appreciate the water from my ankles down. All in all, Finn did a great job teaching us about different birds and plant life. I can just picture him living in nature, smoking up a joint with his Congolese wife, listening to Bob Marley and eating off of the land. I really liked Finn. On several occasions, he would separate from the others to chat with us and give a more descriptive narrative of the terrain. I think he was really feeling his “brown” tourist. The topics ranged from Aboriginal history, botany, and opinions regarding the current state of our world. I could tell his time in this tropical paradise has greatly influenced his perspective. Though I prefer a slightly more positive forecast, I can appreciate his passion for nature preservation, world peace, and a return to communal care and responsibility. The idea that I could live off the land, be void of global strife, and absent of fear mongers is very appealing. Perhaps one day I, too, will find that paradise. Hint hint..Adayna :)

After our nature fun-filled day we headed back to Cairns and geared up for our own little BBQ at the Esplanade. We just couldn’t pass up grilling under the open sky while enjoying the sea breeze and occasional visit from feathered-friends. Don’t let Adayna fool you. She was scared and ran the birds away. We picked up some steak, potatoes and Barramundi fish and headed for the beach. Our BBQ station was surrounded by backpackers from around the world. France, Ukraine, Japan and Canada to name a few. I kind of wish I backpacked the world right after college. Our night of barbecuing and chatting up the backpackers was lovely. Reminded me that there is little one needs to be truly happy and to survive. A good meal, a loving companion, a place to lay your head, open sky and let’s not forget a warm summer night, are all you truly need to smile inside and out. Like I said before, I am in love with Queensland.

Tonight was a fitting end to an amazing day. It couldn’t have been better. Now off to bed.

Days 5 & 6 - Finding Nemo

Today was less action packed. We had a 3 p.m. flight out of Sydney to Cairns which precluded us from any real sightseeing or touring before departing. (Yes folks that means still no Bondi.) We packed, went to the Queen Victoria Building (aka the Mall), talked with a travel agent about New Zealand and still didn’t book our trip to New Zealand. We were frustrated, each needing some air space from the other, but were looking forward to Cairns.

Our flight to Cairns was mostly smooth. I wasn’t fond of the descent; the plane twisted and turned, setting itself up for the landing. (Ooh, there’s land! Wait, land where are you going? Ocean and more ocean. Where is this plane landing exactly?) Basically what happened was that the plane approached its landing from the ocean lending us this spectacular view of mountains and the Coral Sea. While I was uneasy, I think Adayna liked it. Once safe and on the ground we grabbed our bags and awaited the Bay Village Tropical Resort shuttle.

Our hotel was quaint and a great deal. It’s courtyard was full of tropical trees. I think there were even platanos growing there. It’s been confirmed they do grow in Oz land. We checked in and headed straight to Cairns’ Esplanade. The Esplanade hugged the coast and led to Cairns’ Lagoon Swimming Pool. You see the coast in Cairns is an inviting sight, but the crocodiles in it are not so inviting. You can swim in the northern Cairns’ beaches and south of Cairns, but signs discourage swimming along the Esplanade. Perhaps the Aboriginal people know something I don’t because I saw small children playing off shore and no crocodiles in sight. The Lagoon Swimming Pool is very nice and solves the need for a quick swim and sun kissed tan. Restaurants and shops are lined up across the Esplanade. Picture Miami with more lush trees and exotic birds, but minus the fake people and the high rises. I was in love. It wasn’t Myrtle Beach either. :)

I was set on hitting one of the world’s 7 wonders - the Great Barrier Reef - while in Queensland (the territory in which Cairns sits). Travis had previously suggested he’d accompany me on the boat, but not snorkel. I was okay with that. I’m uncomfortable every time I snorkel and this wasn’t just any coral reef, this was the greatest there is. Long story short, Travis ended up nursing his handgliding induced cold and his wussy self while I braved the seas to find Nemo. I really wanted to go. Such a lie. But, handgliding is a dangerous sport. To come out of it with only a cold was a miracle. Besides, I’ve never seen Finding Nemo anyways. At 7 a.m., I left Mr. Sniffleapagus back at the hotel and headed to the marina. I was ready for a good day. I boarded the Reef Quest and enjoyed my 1.5 hour ride out to sea while reading and trying to discern what the Danish couple to my left and the French couple to my right spoke of. Once out at the reef, I donned my wet suit, my flippers and one of those reliable floating donuts. I’m brave, but not stupid. Actually, I was brave right up until reaching the platform from which I was to launch my reef-ploration. I knew right away I’d be climbing down the ladder and not diving like the locos beside me. They weren’t all locos though. Among them was Simon, my English snorkel-saviour/Reef Quest guide. I expressed my desire to find Nemo, but also my concern of drowning. He did what any snorkel-saviour would do. He passed me a floating device which I held on to and he tied to his waist. There was no way these waters were going to pull me away from Simon and so we went. Simon took me here and there pointing out all kinds of fish. I snapped picture after picture of the most amazing coral. The textures and colors are indescribable. There were dotted fish and striped fish. Truly the most intense snorkeling experience I’ve ever had. I even saw 2 sea turtles! Only finding Nemo could have matched this mermaid’s dream. We’ll just by one for the tank.

I eventually swam back to the boat and then proceeded to hurl. I hadn’t felt seasick or anything before snorkeling. I believe it was my nerves. I just snorkeled the mighty Great Barrier Reef! I may have been nervous, intimidated and queasy, but I did it! That checks off another world wonder.

Day 4 - Cancel All Plans. I Believe I Can Fly!!

Today I awakened to the sounds of Rugby and a phone call that set the stage for my day. On the other end was a gentleman I met 3 weeks ago in Seattle during his visit with an Aussie Inlandboatmen Delegation. Gavin called the day before to touch base and inform me of a flight festival that was taking place in Stanwell Park, 45 minutes south of Sydney. It was at this time I learned that today was the best day to join him and his mates for a day in the sky. Unaware about where I was going, how I would get there, how long it would take, and if Adayna and Trez would oblige, I decided to make my pitch. Upon consultation, mixed with a little persuasion, those two came on board. Yes, we were on our way.

I awakened before 7am (like clockwork) and immediately started to think about what Sydney had in store for us today. It seemed only logical that this day we’d venture into Sydney’s waters. I had heard double T whisper about a jet boat trip days before. Also, fellow Aussies and my trusty Lonely Planet suggested a day trip to either Bondi or Manly beaches, two of the more renowned in the Sydney area. We were all game, until the phone call and so just like that we were on our way to Stanwell Park. I will admit I was a bit bummed that my beach day had dissipated into thin air, but the boy had a dream and I was surely going to support him. Little did I know his desire to handglide off of Bald Hill would lead to a great time for me too.

During the 1-hour train ride, I had mixed emotions. I was excited about the mission, but also tempered because of a potential weather change and my self-induced fear. Gavin’s fiancee awaited our arrival. She seemed very nice. We arrived at Bald Hill, one of the most picturesque locales I’ve ever seen. Blue skies, blue water, high cliffs, white sand and happy people (except for me). Upon greeting Gavin, I then knew that this was for real. Approximately 20 minutes later, I met my tandem guide, Chris. He has over 30 years of handgliding experience and is Gavin’s instructor. I figured if Gavin was a pro, then his instructor was an all-star. From the time I arrived to just moments before take-off (aka diving off a cliff!), I was void of any nervousness. I was only concerned that Adayna would pass out while amongst complete strangers. Chris gave me simple do’s and dont’s and we were ready for take off.

Those final 4 steps approaching the edge of the cliff felt as if they were happening in slow-motion. To see the massive cliff, ocean, beach and tiny people below was an experience I’ll never forget. We were quickly lifted into the sky and were on our way. To be strapped onto a kite, feeling small bumps of turbulence, with an expert in tow was so reminiscent of those dreams I had about flying. It seemed so simple. Engaged in conversation throughout this 30-minute flight I flew over forest, beach and an ocean-front highway. To experience such a beautiful place from so high above gave me an even greater appreciation for earth’s beauty and man’s innovation. To have taken my first flight at Bald Hill, the world’s most popular handgliding destination had me floating on Cloud 9.

While Travis took to the skies, I cried. I cried a good “God please let him float up into the sky and land smoothly feet first” kind-of-cry. I thought I’d cry for the entire duration of his flight, but once I saw he was up, up and away I stopped. While he flew, I waited like a proud mama down below. I wanted to make sure I captured this once-in-a-lifetime landing. I beamed as greatly as he did for I could not believe the sight before my eyes. Before his takeoff, I took picture after picture, ensuring no Kodak moment was missed. What was supposed to be a Bondi-beach day turned into Travis living out a lifelong dream. We created memories with new Aussie friends and enjoyed beautiful Aussie sights. Flying, picnicking and dining while overlooking the ocean in Scarborough. Even the dolphins came out to greet us from afar. Can’t get any better than this. I second that.

Day 3 - Gardens, Chairs and Schnitzels

Today started with a sorry ass attempt to get some fitness in. After learning that the treadmill at my apart-hotel was out of order I decided to go for a quick run outside. I walked out and was greeted by warmth and beautiful sunshine - as well as a butterfly that smacked right into my leg. I got my short run in and then readied for our visit to Bodhi a restaurant specializing in Yum Cha (dim sum I'm told). It was as leafy as described in Lonely Planet, sitting right in Cook Park. And the food, well...

Adayna is something else. She tried the first 3 dishes, frowned at each one and proceeded to gag while eating a tasty Sweet Potato and Corn wrap. If you saw her you would have thought she was a contestant in Fear Factor. To all her family and friends: you all know the difficulties associated with Adayna befriending food, but I continue to encourager her. It wasn’t as much a variety as I’m accustomed to in Seattle, but I enjoyed it. The Hum Bow-like buns with barbecued pork were special. I think I had about 6 with a soothing Green Tea to top it off.

Okay, so I stopped tasting anything new after the gag action. Trez and Travis enjoyed dish after dish while I sat there looking pretty and enjoying the sun. Bean curd this, tofu that, spinach this and lettuce wrap that. I kept waiting for the platano wrap, but it just never came. Girl loves her platanos. Must be a Latin thing. After yum-chawing it, we headed to the Royal Botanical Gardens. On our way there, down Macquarie St., we passed by the Sydney Hospital, a majestic compound absent of any patients. Guess national healthcare systems are that good - hint hint to you universal healthcare haters.

The Royal Botanical Garden is amazingly beautiful. Makes the botanical gardens in Brooklyn and the Bronx so junior high. You literally want to snap a picture at every tree, flower and bird. I must admit I kind of wanted to just frolic and skip through the park in its entirety. We strolled through the park amazed at what was in the trees. Colorful parrots, “plubbers”, crows that go “Bah” like sheep and white-as-can be cockatoos. The pictures will speak for themselves. This botanical garden will make any guy stop and smell the roses. It inspired Travis to coordinate couple shots by the Rose Garden.

I was fascinated by how extensive and beautiful the Garden was. Those of you who know me know that I have a sincere appreciation for natural beauty but still beauty alone does not capture my full attention. I needed to see and do things while there. I directed photo shoots, took lots of candid shots and jokingly complained about getting to what turned out to be my most memorable location in the Garden - Macquarie’s Chair. I forgot to mention how hard we laughed at the Garden. Travis and Trez are a constant riot and Macquarie’s Chair was the joke of the day. Trez was intent on taking us to Macquarie’s Chair which sits at the furthest point in the Garden and overlooks the Harbour Bridge and The Sydney Opera House. As we approached the harbour point, I knew Macquarie’s Chair was worth the wait. The chair has 3-steps and was ordered to be cut of stone by Governor Macquarie as a gift to his wife. The hands responsible for this landmark were convicts who were housed in an under-water prison strategically placed in the middle of the harbour. If you could picture a mini-Alcatraz you’d get my view. Any prisoner attempting to escape met a fate of cold water and sharks. While enjoying this view we met a really cool Ozzie who gave recommendations and spoke of his experience in our states - visiting Philly, NY and LA. For those of you inquring, Philly was his favorite and NY was too crazy. I wonder what I’m getting into.

Our mission after the garden was to find a local watering hole. We hit The Rocks and contemplated 2 options - the Lowenbrau bar and an Australian Pub. We chose the former, a sizable Bavarian establishment. We sipped pints of the German classic - Lowenbrau - and talked to the Audio Visual / bus boy / everything man. He’s got us thinking about New Zealand again and encouraged us to do a crocodile hunt while in Cairns. Those beers hit the spot but had us desperate for food. We’d gone all day thinking we’d finish up with some yummy Oporto chicken, but instead we were left standing on the KFC line. Oporto was closed! Now I haven’t had KFC in a million years, but this hunger was something else.

I was not happy. I wasn’t mad, but I wasn’t happy. These 2 talked Oporto all day and here it is we get to the door and they are closed. I saw a Subway on the corner, but I didn’t want any sandwich from “Jared”. I didn’t want any more Asian food given my good (Sydney) and bad (Santa Monica) experiences in the last couple of days. This Southern boy wanted some chicken. So these two settle on KFC. Out of protest, I said I wasn’t hungry. While they were ordering I’m looking up at the menu and I see chicken sandwiches, but I also see an unfamiliar word associated with the KFC I know - “Schnitzel”. Never had one and didn’t want one. It sounded so harsh - “Schnitzel”. Why would anyone go to KFC and order a “Schnitzel”? Adayna asked me one final time if I wanted anything and I said “No”. I looked around to see people eating and I knew this would be my last chance for food. I ran up to Adayna’s cashier and said “Look, I only want a chicken sandwich with lettuce and tomato”. And she said “Oh, a Schnitzel.” “Yes, a Schitznel”.

Day 2 - Arriving In Sydney

When notified of our 2 hour flight delay, I was instantly thrown off my intended sleep schedule. I still couldn't get upset, after all they were fixing my plane. I never understood while people get angry when a flight is delayed because of required maintenance. I was fearful this flight would make me delirious, but I proceeded to sleep 7 of the 14 hours. Watching a Pixar flick and The Underworld's Hoover Dam and Sicilian Mafia episodes, I managed to avoid delirium. For that I am proud. Who would have thought being delayed and flying from LA to Sydney could be so calming? Maybe the Pacific Ocean makes for a smooth ride up above. I slept 9 hours despite being advised that I should stay up for the first half of the flight. Guess I wasn't worried. I was worried for him though. Earlier that day Mr. TC himself decided to enjoy a bowlful of hot sauce. Oh wait, I meant what should have been a bowlful of wonton soup with a dash of hot sauce. He depleted the plane's supply of ginger ale and I imagine he blessed one or two of the bum facilities on the plane. I was just thankful they had enough Ginger Ale and then Sprite to calm his tummy. I mean we were headed to Sydney! The last thing we needed were tummy issues. Thankfully he was rescued and everything thereafter continued to go smoothly. Luggage - check. Customs in record time - check. Trez (his Oz-residing friend from Alabama) at airport to welcome us - check. Guess love does conquer all :)

Upon exiting baggage claim, there stood Trez aka LeVar Burton from Reading Rainbow, my friend from college who I hadn't seen in 9 years. He looks the same. We hailed a cab towards Sydney CBD. I guess for my fellow Aussies and Brits this ride would be a normal 15-minute trip, but for Adayna and I this was quite the experience. Our cabbie sat on the right side and drove on the left. Very cool. I absorbed the scenery as much as I could, but was mesmerized (by Adayna's beautiful face) by the traffic flow. Our cabbie, who looked like Hiro from Heroes, dropped us off safely at our destination. I really wasn't expecting to do much touring on my first day, but we got it in. We walked the CBD (Central Business District for you up in the northern hemisphere), strolled to Darling Harbour and made our way to one of the world's most recognizable attractions - The Sydney Opera House. What an amazing sight. The sun was out (this is a big deal for his Seattle-living self). The Sydney Harbour Bridge stood proudly to my Northwest and the Opera House occupied my lens to the Northeast. We briefly entered the Opera House and made a quick pit stop at the gift store.

The sights were beautiful. The city reminded me a lot of Vancouver which my love so kindly took me to during my last visit to the big Sea. It has a different feeling though. People are everywhere, the sky seems wider and everywhere you look there seems to be water. Makes you feel like you are floating. Of course, sipping beers by The Sydney Opera House helps create that feeling as well :) It was Friday afternoon and people were hanging outdoors with drink in hand. Seriously, everywhere you turned there were people having a good time. My kind of city. If only America was this relaxed. After catching some amazing sights, we headed back to our place and gave in to a bit of jet lag. What was supposed to be an hour nap was a 3-hour nap. It was all good though because Sydney is on blast until the wee hours. We hit the strip at Kings Cross - think bars, strip clubs, drunken folk and that same open sky I spoke of earlier. We are so hip we managed to be there for the Grand Opening of The Bank a nice little spot which could be a hit if the Dee Jay knew a little something and the promoter didn't feel the need to MC over every freaking song :) I honestly think this guy was trying to impress the Americans in the room - aka Us. We did our thing as best we could and closed the night out at 4ish.

Day 1 - City of Angels

Today's mission was simple - get to L.A. and reunite with my love after a long 21 days apart. Morning started off a bit rough given I went to bed at 5:45AM and hurried out the house at 7:30AM. Yes, this is Adayna-typical the night before a long vacation. I wish I could say everything went smoothly. Where should I start? The lovely dry-cleaning lady lost the belt to my dress making her not so lovely anymore. My attempt to do last minute work failed thanks to the clearly not so helpful computer technician at work. And, to top it off, I overpacked so bad my brand new pretty purple luggage was 15lbs overweight. Thankfully, all of the frustration and exhaustion disappeared once I saw him. He stood, with my luggage already in hand, waiting for his girl ;) The butterflies in my stomach and ear-to-ear grin never fail me. Just can't help it - all comes rushing in at first sight of him. We hugged, kissed, and I did my usual - touch his face, his head...makes the moment feel real.

After a bittersweet final 2 weeks in Seattle, I knew this international excursion would be timely. I decided to arrive in El Lay a day early to sightsee, get some sun and catch up with friends. Umm, the latter didn't go too well. Yesterday was quiet. I frequented public transit. His favorite. I swear for our 1-year anniversary I plan to take him on a tour of the nation's most popular transit systems. It's much cheaper than taking a cab :) Took an extended nap. Strolled the beach and found a $4.95 all-you-can-eat Taco happy-hour. He doesn't even like Mexican food, but for $4.95 - heck yeah. After which I returned to the hotel and called it an early night. I awakened excited yet poised - aware that today would officially mark the end of our bi-coastal separation. Upon arriving at the airport, I found a nice place to hide near baggage claim. Something I often do when picking her up. Then she appeared. Then disappeared. Not knowing where she was going I decided to grab her bag and summon her to the exit. Her bag felt twice the size as mine. I told her not to pack so much stuff. It was as though she was one of the dancers on the "This Is It" tour. I am sure she had to pay more money for this bag. Ridiculous. It was a pleasant sight to see her again. And once we exchanged a kiss - we were on our way.

Nice lunch on 3rd Street Promenade, a musical interlude with Michael (This Is It!) and then a trip to Apple where I gifted her with a shiny gold iPod. Yes, he gets mad props for all of it - especially my shiny new GoldenPod! And, we return to the airport. 10ish flight now scheduled for 1AM, yet we didn't even wince. Good company, a cold drink and a good spot by an outlet - all good stuff.

This is only the beginning.