Uncertainty

Uncertainty

The experience of cultural transition has its ups and downs, as I well know from living in four different countries. I will feel a lot better when I locate a professional job. Even in Holland being at home for months at a time was not healthy for me.

I am forcing myself to go out every single day and do something, even if it just going to the post office or an exercise class. I make myself take the train, buy something at a store and use my EFTPOS card, call someone and ask a question, or engage in some other way. I have become more shy as I get older, but I still try to challenge myself and grow.

I’ve applied to one job and about to apply to another. I would like to apply to at least 15-20 jobs if I can locate enough of them. Surely something will come back with my experience. It will be great to have a professional income, and I need the routine of using my talents. It will also help me engage with the culture and meet people.

When the sun comes out here, it is truly magical with all the tropical and native plants. Holy cow, I have to remind myself to look up when I go running or walking! I really have to plan out my runs with the weather, which can change within seconds.

Today I found a duvet for an excellent price. I have been so cold at night. If we ever get settled and buy a house here, I want to definitely have insulation placed in the walls. However, the walls here are not vented for insulation like those in the US. You really have to be well-aware of what you are doing. It makes no sense to me to run heating without insulation, although this is what they did with our Michigan house for almost 60 years.

Our lounge set arrived today! I am reminded that in Australia they say “settee.” And a duvet is called a “doona.” It is nice to have some furniture to sit on. This place is very cozy and Timothy did a fantastic job of finding it. It would be nice if the person in the adjoining flat would be neighborly and introduce himself. I am used to living in a neighborhood, but I know renters are not typically like this.