Just settled in Bundy and Bargara!

Hi kids!

For whatever reason, this computer is not allowing me to upload some images. This is the only map I could find giving you an idea of where Bundaberg is - near the bottom, by the big "14".

Anyhoo, things are great Down Under. I arrived January 4, 2006 and Phil and I spent the first few days in Sydney. We caught up with his cousin, Jude, and hung out at Coogie beach and in Clovelly where Jude lives and where we were staying. I also got to meet Phil's aunt and uncle who were fabulous! It was really nice meeting some more of his family - it gives me a bit of practice as his parents are coming out sometime this year. I can't wait!

We left Sydney Jan 6 and started our 1300 km (approx) drive up to Bundaberg. We took a quick nip inland to see some gorgeous interior sights (for those who have been to Aus, we went to the weird hippy town of Nimbin) and got to Bundy on the morning of the 9th, only to find that no accomodation had been set up. We wanted to stay out in the little beach town of Bargara, about 12 km out of town. We spent a good two days getting a place sorted out, finally finding Sapphires on Miller where we're staying. I forgot my digital camera back at home, but I will come and upload a bunch of pictures of the place, giving you all a "virtual tour" of our new home. It is wonderful - big enough for the two of us, plenty of storage and right on the beach. The water is literally 6 m from our patio door - how can you beat that?!? Also, I would like to mention that there is a lack of both sharks and stingy jellyfish, let's hope that continues.

There is a nice little dive shop in town and apparently you can do some nice dives right off the rocks on the shore! Also, there is a manufactured dive sight with some boats and planes sunk just 3 miles out to sea. I am very excited about getting back in the water and getting a bit more experienced.

Phil started back at work yesterday in relatively good spirits. I won't say he sprang out of bed, but I didn't have to drag him out, either. His first day and a half have been good, no one passing out in his chair yet.

As for me, I am supposed to be updating my resume as we speak - I should really get on that. I will start looking in earnest next week, hopefully something will come along before too long.

I hope you are all really well - those in Canada, I miss you already.

Andrea