Adjustment Layer

2012-02-12T23:18:00.003+11:00

Finally I had 2 minutes to take these shots on Friday after the home- time bell. I am not proud of my room yet because I have had no time to decorate it, but it is getting there. I wish I had an aide to help me put things up just as I, in my aide role, helped other teachers do it for years. As per Friday I have the classroom rules up, the houses, the table points, the calendar, the coming events, the daily schedule, their names, birthdays and a couple of extra things, oh yes and their photos. Everyday I add to it and one day, hopefully before Christmas, it will be just as I want it. Enjoying my job very much.

Finalmente tuve dos minutos para sacar estas fotos de mi aula el viernes pasado bastante despues de la campana del fin del dia. No estoy todavia muy orgullosa de mi aula porque no tuve mucho tiempo para decorarla, pero de a poquito lo estoy haciendo. Me gustaria tener una ayudante que me de una mano para decorar el aula tal como yo he ayudado a maestras por anos. Desde el viernes ya tengo las reglas de la classe, puntaje para las mesas, el calendario, los eventos que estan por venir, el programa diario, los nombres, los cumpleanos y un para de cosas mas, ah si y las fotos de los chicos en display. Todos los dias agrego algo y con suerte, espero que antes de Navidad, estara linda como me gusta a mi. Estoy disfrutando mi trabajo mucho.

Why didn't anybody stop me?

2012-02-02T22:51:00.002+11:00

What a day! I had such a busy day today, but luckily it was a good day. Started with a small number of introductions to parents and new students and followed by a blur of which I remember a time where my head started to throb and my desk became a pile of paper. I loved it though and I suppose that the reason why nobody stopped me from becoming a teacher is because they love it too, despite the incredible amount of work and stress!!

My grade is quite good, a few chatter boxes with lots of things to say, a set of twins, a few very quiet students and a lot of enthusiastic little faces. I am looking forward to the coming weeks and to getting to know them all well. I am soooooooooooooo tired! Photos coming soon.

Que dia! Tuve un dia tan pero tan atareado hoy, pero por suerte fue un buen dia. Empezo con un pequeno numero de presentaciones de padres y nuevos alumnos seguido por una imagen borrosa de la que recuerdo un momento cuando me di cuenta que me explotaba la cabeza y otro donde vi que mi escritorio era una pila de papeles. Asi y todo me encanto y supongo que la razon por la que nadie me aconsejo no dedicarme a esta profesion es porque a ellos les encanta tambien, a pesar de la cantidad desmersurada de trabajo y el estres!!

Mi grado esta bastante bueno, unos cuantos charlatanes con muchas cosas que decir, un par de mellizas, un par de estudiantes super callados y un monton de caritas entusiasmadas. Tengo muchas ganas de ver como las proximas semanas se desenvuelven y de conocer a mis alumnos mucho mas. Estoy taaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaan cansada!!!!! Fotos pronto.

To new beginnings

2012-02-01T07:35:00.003+11:00

Well the day has finally come. Today I start my new job of my brand new teaching career. I am excited, nervous and still in disbelief. I should be a bit upset that my holidays are over, but unlike other years (particularly the last few, where I felt things at my other job were going downhill for me) I don't feel that anguish at all. I have been easing into it getting things ready at school and working for hours at home organising things, cutting, laminating, planning and trying to be organised and ready. I don't feel organised enough and even less ready, but I think it is a normal feeling and that eventually things will be ok. I feel a bit sad that I won't be laughing with my friend at school but I'm sure I will be laughing again in no time. I am anxious to meet my students and see what they are like, what they are capable of doing and I hope I will be able to help them learn. Well I better go and brush my teeth and get going. Wish me luck!

Finalmente el dia ha llegado. Hoy empiezo mi nuevo trabajo de maestra. Estoy ansiosa, nerviosa, contenta y todavia no puedo creerlo. Deberia estar un poco triste que se me terminaron las vacaciones, pero no me siento asi, como me sentia estos ultimos anos. Estuve trabajando de a poquito estas dos ultimas semanas tratando de organizar todo y de que este todo listo. No me siento todavia ni muy organizada ni muy lista, pero supongo que es normal sentirme asi y que eventualmente las cosas mejoraran. Me da un poco de lastima que no me voy a matar de risa con mi amiga, pero seguro ya me empezare a reir de otras cosas y con otra gente pronto. Estoy ansiosa de conocer a mis alumnos y de ver como son, que son capaces de hacer y espero poder ayudarlos a aprender. Bueno mejor me voy a lavar los dientes y al auto! Deseenme suerte!

Last beach day of the holidays

2012-01-29T14:06:00.002+11:00

How amazing were the colours at the beach yesterday. Everything was so blue it was like looking through a filter. We escaped the Melbourne heat and drove to the Great Ocean Road once again to enjoy a day at the beach, only to find that it wasn't as hot in Lorne and the thick layers of clouds covered the sky completely. I finished my book "You'll be sorry when I'm dead"by Marieke Hardy and I had a cappuccino at the beach. Later at night we had dinner at Cuda Bar and had a toss to new beginnings (at least for me).

Que increible los colores en la playa ayer. Todo estaba tan celeste parecia que miraba a traves de algun filtro. Nos escapamos del calor de Melbourne y manejamos por la Gran Ruta Oceanica otra vez para disfrutar un dia en la playa, solo para encontrar que no hacia calor en Lorne y que las capas gruesas de nubes cubrian el cielo completamente. Termine mi libro "Se apenaran cuando este muerta" de Marieke Hardy y tome un cappuccino en la playa. Mas tarde a la noche cenamos en Cuda Bar y brindamos por nuevos comienzos (al menos para mi).

I really enjoyed my drive there with The Shins sounding loud. It is interesting how when the sun is hiding behind the clouds our focus changes. The sun is in a sense like a spot light than when off, it forces our eyes in new directions. On the road yesterday I noticed this funky looking plants or shrubs on the hillside. They were mostly dry and unevenly sticking out here and there. They made the hill look like it has had a really bad haircut and they were hairs sticking out everywhere oddly. It made me laugh.

Realmente disfrute el viaje ayer con The Shins sonando fuerte en el auto. Es interesante como cuando el sol se esconde detras de las nubes nuestro foco visual cambia. Es sol, de alguna manera, es un reflector directional gigante que cuando esta apagado nos fuerza a mirar en nuevas direcciones. En el camino ayer note estas plantas graciosas en las colinas. Estaban secas y se destacaban desprolijamente aqui y alla. Parecia que la montana habia tenido un corte de pelo malisimo y tenia pelitos parados por todos lados. Me hizo reir.

Glorious Day at the Beach

2012-01-28T00:56:00.002+11:00

Last Tuesday we went to Lorne and finally hit a glorious day at the beach. Perfect weather, perfect surf and great food. Went for a walk around town, shop a little, ate some ice-cream and swam a lot! It will be repeated before the end of the holidays.

El martes pasado fuimos a Lorne y finalmente fue un dia glorioso en la playa. Temperatura perfecta, olas alucinantes y comida rica. Caminamos, compramos algunas boludeces, tomamos helado y nade un monton! Sera repetido antes que terminen las vacaciones.

Cuddles

2012-01-26T23:37:00.003+11:00

Just one of the many times that I have to do things with Oliverio resting on my shoulders like a baby. He is so gorgeous!

Una de las tantas veces que tengo que hacer cosas con Oliverio colgando en mis hombros como un bebe. Si no lo levanto llora. Es tan hermoso!

Una merienda en Chocolateria San Churro

2012-01-26T23:30:00.002+11:00

How yummy it was this afternoon tea at San Churro in Fitzroy. The drink was a classic Spanish but cold. The chocolate was so thick that it was more like a dessert and it tasted like the Cindor classic from Argentina! The churros were really nice and I chose dark chocolate as a dipping sauce. I felt so full afterwards. How am I going to burn all this fat?

Que rica la merienda en San Churro en Fitzroy. La bebida era un clasico chocolate espanol pero frio. El chocolate era super espeso parecia mas un postre y tenia gusto a Cindor! Los churros eran tan ricos. Yo elegi chocolate negro para mojarlos pero tambien hay de leche y blanco. Me senti tan llena cuando termine. Como voy a hacer para quemar todas estas calorias?

Stonefield at Federation Square

2012-01-20T21:14:00.004+11:00

Last night at Federation Square free concerts was another treat. Rockers Stonefield played her neat sound for an excited audience. They are a band of sisters from rural Victoria, the oldest (drummer and singer) is 19 years old and the youngest (bass player) is 13! They sounded amazing and they really know how to work the stage. They have already played at Glastonbury and played in L.A. to support the Foo Fighters.

I really like that they are still kids and can really rock it! There are really some amazing music brewing in Australia at the moment.

Anoche fue otro exitoso concierto gratuito en Federation Square. Las rockeras Stonefield tocaron y llevaron su sonido prolijo a una audiencia exitada! Son una banda formada de hermanas de un pueblo rural en Victoria. La mayor (baterista y cantante, 19 anos) y la menor (bajista, 13)! Sonaron re bien y realmente la tienen clara como trabajar el escenario. Ya tocaron en Glastonbury y en LA como grupo soporte de los Foo Fighters.

Me encanta que sean tan chicas y que realmente disfrutan lo que hacen y la verdad que se rockean todo! Ultimamente hay mucha musica que vale la pena cocinandose en Australia.

Antes de esuchar bajen el volumen porque yo estaba al lado del parlante y el telefono saturo el sonido.

Before you play lower your volume, cause I was next to the speaker and my phone screw up the sound. They did this cover of A whole lotta love (Led Zeppelin).

Pizza "thank you" night

2012-01-19T22:49:00.002+11:00

Last night my friends Nikki, Wendy and Linda (represented here by the Oscar as she had already left when I took the photo) came home for dinner. It was a thank you from me to them for being supportive and understanding during the last 4 and 1/2 years when I decided to start uni. Nikki and I worked close together on our assignments, brainstorming, checking each other's work, trying to make sense of it all. We spent hours on the phone working things out, helping each other, cursing and more. I wish her all the best for this, her last year at UTAS. I wish I could work with her. We would make a great team! Thanks Nikki.

Anoche vinieron a cenar mis amigas Nikki, Wendy y Linda (representada por el Oscar en la foto porque ya se habia ido cuando me acorde de sacar la foto). La cena fue para agradecerles por su apoyo y entendimiento durante los ultimos 4 anos y medio cuando decide empezar a estudiar. Nikki y yo trabajamos juntas en nuestros estudios, brainstorming, chequeando los trabajos de cada una, tratando de que todo esto tenga sentido. Pasamos horas en el telefono estudiando juntas, analizando problemas, ayudandonos mutuamente, puteando y mas. Le deseo todo lo mejor para este su ultimo ano en UTAS. Me encantaria poder trabajar con ella hariamos un equipo fantastico. Gracias Nikki!

Wendy has been there for me always, supporting me and understanding my rants, listening to my frustration, giving me positive feedback and encouraging me through every step. She has been a great friend, understood why I didn't have time for her without getting upset. She has been patient through this all and has shown me true friendship. Thank you Wendy!

Wendy siempre me apoyo y me banco despotricando contra todo, se aguanto mis frustraciones, siempre dandome feedback positivo y alentandomeen cada paso. Wendy ha sido una amiga fantastica, siempre entendiendo porque no tenia tiempo para ella sin enojarse. Ha sido paciente durante todo este tiempo y me ha demostrado amistad verdadera. Gracias Wendy!

Linda has been a fantastic support and fountain of knowledge and information. I thank her for reading all my assignments and giving me feedback, checking for spelling and making sure that what I handed in made sense. She has put up with every single one of them and never turned me down, despite her busy life. She has given support in times of frustration and has always encouraged me to keep going and work hard. She has been an example for me, a great role model and a friend. Thanks Linda.

Linda ha sido un apoyo fenomenal y una fuente de conocimiento e informacion. Le agradezco por haber leido todos mis trabajos, monografias y ensayos y darme feedback, chequear por ortografia y significado. Se banco leer absolutamente todos mis trabajos y nunca me dijo que no, a pesar de su laburo estresante y atareado. Linda me ha dado apoyo en momentos de angustia y frustracion y siempre me alento a seguir y a trabajar duro. Linda ha sido un ejemplo para mi, un modelo a seguir y una amiga. Gracias Linda

We had pizza, beer and tiramisu and enjoyed each other's company. Thank you girls again and I hope that we will do it again soon.

Anoche celebramos con pizza, cerveza y tiramisu y disfrutamos en nuestra compania. Gracias chicas otra vez y espero que lo hagamos de vuelta pronto.

Cuda Bar at Lorne

2012-01-17T22:55:00.002+11:00

Yesterday Ric and I went to Lorne. It was very hot again and it made me enjoy the beach a lot less than I would normally do. I think it's the hot north wind that I hate so much, it makes everything uncomfortable. The water was nice and cooling but the sea was messy and choppy. There weren't nice waves and it wasn't fully flat either, so the in-between kind of washing machine effect was not to my liking. We got there at lunch time and I stayed at the beach until 6ish reading my book "You'll be Sorry When I'm Dead" by Marieke Hardy, then we had a drink at the beach bar and I got so hot sitting there that decided to go back in the water. By the time I came out it was past 7 pm. I had a nice fresh and clean shower and went straight to Cuda Bar.

Ayer Ricky y yo fuimos a Lorne. Hacia mucho calor otra vez y me hizo disfrutar la playa mucho menos que lo que la disfrutaria normalmente. Creo que es el viento caliente del norte lo que odio tanto, porque incomoda todo. El agua estaba linda y refrescante pero el mar estaba revuelto. No habia olas lindas y no estaba pileta tampoco, asique ese efecto lavarropa que habia no me gusta mucho. Llegamos despues del mediodia y nos quedamos en la playa hasta las 6. Yo lei mi libro y despues tomamos algo en el bar de la playa. Sentada ahi en el bar me agarro tanto calor que me tuve que volver a meter al agua. Para cuando sali ya eran mas de las 7. Me bane y nos fuimos directamente a Cuda Bar.

Cuda Bar is really nice, it has a nice decking to sit and eat or drink with a nice sea view, or you can sit inside and listen to the live band of the night. The service there is great and everyone is so friendly. Raquel (I think she is the manager) is from Brazil, she is such a nice person, she remembered us from last year and came to say hello and have a chat about her holidays to Brazil and Buenos Aires. We also talked about Martin, the Uruguayan waiter we met there last year. He was such a free soul and was living the life. We had the fish and chips. The fish was so fresh and the chips were delicious! Raquel gave us a complimentary entree of spring rolls that were very nice. Cuda Bar has the friendliest atmosphere in Lorne, great food, fantastic ambience and it's open till late.

Cuda Bar es hermoso, tiene un lindo patio afuera para comer o beber mirando el mar o podes sentarte adentro y escuchar a la banda en vivo del dia. El servicio es fantastico y todos ahi son super amistosos. Raquel (la manager) es de Brazil, es tan macanuda, se acordaba de nosotros del ano pasado y nos vino a saludar y a contarnos de sus vacaciones en Brazil y Buenos Aires. Tambien hablamos de Martin, el mozo uruguayo que conocimos el ano pasado. Martin era tan espiritu libre, estaba ahi en Lorne viviendo la vida loca ahora esta en Europa. Cenamos ahi, pesado del dia y papas fritas. El pescado era fresquisimo y las papas super crocantes. Raquel nos regalo una entrada de spring rolls que estaban riquisimos. Cuda Bar tiene la atmosfera mas agradable de Lorne, comida buenisima, un ambiente fantastico y esta abierto hasta tarde.

Today I missed the sea and the washing machine effect...hot weather in the house is not at all enjoyable. Summer sucks if not near the beach. That has been my statement for the last 30 years and I am sticking to it.

Hoy extrane el mar y su efecto lavaropa...el calor en la casa no es para nada disfrutable. El verano es un asco si uno no esta en la playa. Este ha sido mi moto desde hace 30 anos y aun los sostengo.

Happy 4th Birthday Oliverio

2012-01-17T00:29:00.003+11:00

Oli turned 4 today. We gave him a good breakfast of his favourite food and then we opened his new toy (his favourite toy of all time). He was super excited, yet he didn't growl at it like he used to when he was younger. I think that the heat made him a little lethargic. We will test it again when it's less hot. Oliverio you are so loved...I hope you know it! Happy 4th Birthday. Love, your humans.

Varenikes

2012-01-16T00:02:00.003+11:00

Last night Ric made some delicious Ukranian Varenikes (only that I spelled it wrong on my fridge). They are like a dampling filled with mashed potato, cheese and bacon and served with cream and melted butter...yummy!

We don't eat them very often and it probably is more of a Winter food, but since this Summer hasn't been hot and we had the time, we decided to go ahead and treat ourselves. There is an unspoken tradition between varenike makers that males do them and they must compete to see who eats the most. I was never able to eat more than 5 (if they are small). I still remember a night at my father in law's house when Ric and Ale (his brother) were competing, Ric was up to number 14 and Ale was trying to impress his girlfriend and went over his limit...it didn't end well let me tell you.

Anoche Ricky hizo unos deliciosos varenikes ucranianos (yo lo escribi mal con los imanes en la heladera). Varenikes son una especie de pasta rellena con pure, queso y panceta y servidos con crema y manteca...riquisimos!

No los comemos muy seguido y probablemente es una comida mas invernal, pero como ese verano no ha sido muy caluroso y estabamos con tiempo, decidimos hacerlos. Hay una tradicion entre los hacedores de varenikes que son los hombres los que los preparan y ellos deben competir a ver quien come mas. Yo nunca pude comer mas de 5 y si son chiquitos. Todavia recuerdo una noche en la casa de mi suegro cuando Ricky y su hermano Ale estaban compitiendo y Ricky iba por el 14 y Ale estaba tratando de impresionar a su entonces novia y se paso de su limite para ganarle a Ricky...no termino muy bien que digamos.

Oliverio and his string

2012-01-14T00:26:00.002+11:00

Oli loves his long string. He sits next to it guarding it for hours. Sometimes he falls asleep next to it. In the morning he drags it to where we are having breakfast and taps you with his paw calling you to play with him. He loves it when you throw the string in its full length, unravelling it completely along the floor. He learnt to step on it with both paws to stop you from dragging it back towards you. He knows where we keep his toy and when he wants to play he pushes the draw open from the back. He is so adorable. Oli will be 4 on Monday.

Oli ama su hilito largo. Se sienta al lado de el, protegiendolo por horas. A veces se duerme con el hilito al lado. A la manana lo arrastra hasta la mesa y te llama con la patita para que le juegues. Le encanta cuando lo tiras desenrollandolo todo a lo largo del piso. Aprendio a pararse encima con las dos patitas para prevenir que lo enrosques de vuelta hacia vos. Sabe donde lo guardamos el hilito cuando no esta jugando y cuando no lo ve por la casa, va hasta el cajon y lo empuja de atras hasta que lo abre. Es hermoso. Oli va a cumplir 4 anos el lunes.

Free concerts at Federation Square

2012-01-13T22:32:00.001+11:00

Yesterday we stopped at Federation Square to see a free concert. Before the concert we had a jug of beer for only $10 at a cafe/bar called Chinotto. The concert wasn't the best...but it was free and we had a bit of a laugh particularly with Bleeding Knees Club, a punky band. The guys were super energetic and kind of make you want to dance. The other band was Snakadaktal, which were the winners of this year's Triple J Unearthed competition. They are still a very young band and learning. It was nice to see the atmosphere there though. It made me feel relaxed at all times. Next Thursday there will be another free concert at Federation Square.

Ayer paramos en Fed Square para ver un concierto gratuito. Antes del concierto tomamos una cerveza en un bar/cafe llamado Chinotto, por solo $10 super barato! El concierto no fue el mejor...pero era gratis y nos divertimos un poco especialmente con Bleeding Knees Club, una banda medio punk. Los musicos tenia super energia y te daban ganas de bailar. La otra banda que toco fue Snakadaktal, que son los que ganaron el concurso de la Triple J Unearthed el 2011. Son una banda super joven (de la secundaria) y todavia aprendiendo. Me gusto ver que la atmosfera era super sana y me hizo sentir tranquila en todo momento. El proximo Jueves va a ver otro concierto gratis en Fed Square.

Somebody that I used to Know (Gotye)

2012-01-11T16:03:00.003+11:00

This is the original video of the song composed by Gotye (Mebourne composer) that was one of the most popular songs of 2011. I wanted to put the original here because last night I saw a cover by Walk of the Earth on youtube and thought it was spectacular, so I wanted to put both of them here to share with all of you.

Este es el video original del tema de Gotye (musico nativo de Melbourne) que fue uno de los temas mas populares del 2011. Quise poner el original para que puedan compararlo con la cover que encontre en youtube hecha por esta banda Walk of the Earth y me parecio espectacular. Quise poner los dos temas juntos para que puedan compararlos. Disfruten.

French Crepes

2012-01-10T22:46:00.003+11:00

Mmmmmm.... French crepes....yummy! After the Gold class movie today in Crown (which is not worth it at all= the Gold class experience that is!) we headed to Fitzroy to a place near Brunswick Street called Breizoz French Creperies. We had wanted to go there for a long time but every time we went it was closed. Today finally we could taste the delicious crepes. We shared two, a savoury one (cheese and ham) and this sweet one with strawberries, mango sorbet, almonds and chocolate. I really enjoyed both of them and they were filling! I liked the place too perhaps because it wasn't very crowded, it is kind of a small so I imagine it wouldn't be very pleasant when it is full. Follow this link if you decide to venture into this little corner to experience something French: http://www.breizoz.com.au/

Looking at buildings

2012-01-10T21:59:00.002+11:00

We had tickets for a Gold Class movie and decided to use it today at Crown in the middle of the city. We caught the bus and walked along Queen Street towards Southbank. I don't walk in this part of the city too often. It is a bit different from other parts in that it is more business related banks, offices, people in suits and women in high uncomfortable shoes smoking outside the buildings' glass doors. In my walk I noticed some interesting architecture, like this old safe deposit building that looks like a cut out against the modern high raise buildings in the background. It is like it almost doesn't belong and it is being swallowed by the new era. I thought it was really pretty and had intricate designs on the windows.

Teniamos tickets para una funcion en la Clase Dorada de los Village cinemas y decidimos usarlos hoy en el medio de la city. Nos tomamos el colectivo y caminamos por la calle Queen hacia Southbank. No camino muy seguido por esta parte de la ciudad. Es un poco diferente al resto ya que se nota que es un area mas de negocios, bancos y oficinas. Abundan la gente en traje y mujeres en zapatos de tacones incomodos fumando en las puertas de vidrio de los edificios. En mi caminata note arquitectura interesante como este viejo edificio que parace recortado y pegado delante de los otros edificios modernos. Es casi como que no pertece ahi y esta siendo tragado por la nueva era. Para mi era hermoso, lleno de disenos intricados en las ventanas.

Home made pizza

2012-01-08T21:21:00.002+11:00

I made home made pizza on Saturday night. I love the way the house smells on home made pizza nights. Anton wasn't home on the night so it was only for us two. We watched a movie and went out for ice-cream afterwards. We were caught in the rain but didn't matter cause it was a hot night!

Pizza dough recipe:

1.2 kg of plain flour

3 sachets of dry yeast

1 tablespoon olive oil

5 teaspoons of salt

warm water

Method:

1- In a bowl sift flour and mix in salt.

2- In a cup pour in the dry yeast and add warm water to dissolve, add 1 teaspoon of sugar and mix. Put on stove to keep warm (next to an on burner). When it starts to bubble and raise, pour into the bowl.

3- Mix in the oil with extra warm water and add to the mixture stirring in well with a wooden spoon.

4- Keep adding warm water until all the flour is mixed. The dough should feel soft and moist.

5- Roll into a ball and put into a previously oiled big container (I use a big saucepan). Put a lid on and bring to the stove, again I leave a burner on and place the saucepan nearby to keep warm.

6- Leave there until the dough has doubled or tripled in size.

I felt like a tourist

2012-01-06T23:40:00.003+11:00

Today I felt like a tourist walking around Fitzroy Gardens and Federation Square and taking pictures of the beautiful things we found around. We saw an exhibition at ACMI (Australian Centre of the Moving Image) called Screen Worlds, which tells the story of the moving image through a series of interactive displays, screens and collections of items. It was sensational! I urge everyone to go and see it. It is amazing to see how it all changed in so little time. From movement executed by a spindle and handle to today's social networks.

Anton met some friends in the city and we walked to Fitzroy for a coffee and chocolate that promised to be "dulce de leche" but tasted like chocolate.

Hoy me senti un poco como una turista caminando por los Jardines de Fitzroy y Federation Square y sacando fotos de las cosas lindas e historicas que veiamos. Fuimos a una exhibicion en el Centro Australiano de la Imagen en Movimiento llamada Mundos de Pantallas, la cual contaba la historia de la imagen a traves de una serie de displays interactivos, pantallas y colecciones. Estuvo sensasional! Recomiendo que la vayan a ver. Es increible ver como todo cambio tanto en tan poco tiempo. Desde imagenes que se movian al mover una manijita hasta los networks sociales de hoy.

Anton se encontro con unos amigos en la city y nosotros caminamos hasta Fitzroy por un cafe y un bombon que prometia ser de dulce de leche pero tenia gusto a chocolate.

Sherlock Holmes: A Game of Shadows

2012-01-06T12:14:00.002+11:00

Last night we went to the Palace Cinemas in Balwyn to see the new Sherlock Holmes movie. I don't fancy myself as a very insightful movie critic. I know that I like movies or dislike them for reasons that make sense to me. Sometimes though it is nice to know what somebody else thinks of a movie before paying the ridiculous expensive movie ticket price to go and see something worth the bucks.

The new Sherlock Holmes movie it's not very different from its predecessor, it is perhaps a little more incongruous with what one would expect, particularly about things that are done over the top and only serve to remind us that we are watching a Hollywood movie.

Robert Downy Jr. has really made this character his own and I have to admit that he does it well, even though it is hard to relate it to the original Arthur Conan Doyle's character.

The absence of a good female character is clearly noted as it is the overuse of the "how Sherlock can predict what will happen based on his calculations" effect.

I enjoyed the movie because it is fun, fast paced and entertaining. If you see it don't expect an improvement from the previous one or even a more cerebral script.

I do love the Palace Cinemas though. Old fashion, kind of quiet and close to home.

Una charla con mi abuelo. A talk with Grandad.

2012-01-04T23:26:00.004+11:00

Today the weather in Melbourne was just perfect. After a few days of intolerable heat we were blessed with a 24 degrees day and sea breezes. I had a very productive and special holiday day.

In the morning I had a chat with my recently turned 90 years old grandfather using Skype. I was so happy! It has been years since I can talk to him because he has lost most of his hearing and our phone communication has obviously been hindered by this. I used to call and scream to the top of my lungs, so much so that my son would wake up scared not knowing why I was screaming so much! I have given up for years and had to be content with my mum mediating my hellos and happy birthdays. Today she was there to mediate too, but after the initial shock I think he finally understood or at least accepted that I was not really a photo on the screen or an old video. I was actually talking to him "live". He still couldn't hear me very well, but my mum translated and he could answer my questions. He really came alive when he started telling me again about his ox steering job after he came back from the army to Spain. He must have told me that story about 100 times, but I listen to it with joy knowing that it must mean something very important to him. I love my grandad. He looked older and not all there, but he is 90 years old and he was still snacking on Spanish chorizo. Thank you mum for helping me make this possible and thank you technology for letting me talk to him today after such a long time.

Hoy el tiempo en Melbourne fue simplemente perfecto. Despues de unos dias de calor intolerable fuimos bendecidos con 24 grados y brisas del mar. Tuve un dia muy productivo y especial.

Por la manana tuve una charla con mi abuelo, quien recientemente cumplio 90 anos a traves de Skype. Me puso tan contenta! Hace anos que no puedo hablar con el porque ha perdido la mayoria de su audicion y nuestra comunicacion ha sido obviamente afectada for esto. Yo solia llamar y gritar a todo lo que da, tanto que mi hijo se despertaba aterrorizado no sabiendo porque yo gritaba tanto. Hasta que me di por vencida y por anos mi mama fue la mediadora de saludos y feliz cumpleanos. Hoy mi mama estaba ahi para mediar tambien pero despues del shock inicial creo que mi abuelo se dio cuenta o al menos acepto que yo no era una foto en la pantalla o una pelicula vieja, sino que estaba ahi hablando con el en vivo. Igual no me escuchaba bien, pero mi mama le traducia y el pudo contestarme algunas preguntas o comentarios. El realmente se entusiasmo cuanto me empezo a contar otra vez sobre su trabajo llevando la junta de bueyes cargada al mango con madera al mercado cuando volvio a Espana despues de la conscripcion en Africa. Me habra contando esa histora como 100 veces, pero yo igual la escucho con alegria sabiendo que debe significar algo importante para el. Amo a mi abuelo. Lo vi mas viejito y no del todo ahi, pero tiene 90 anos y estaba merendando rodajas de chorizo espanol. Gracias ma, por haber hecho esto posible y gracias technologia por dejarme hablar con el hoy otra vez, despues de tanto tiempo.

After this beautiful morning I was happy all day, and I did some work and later I went with my family for a nice coffee to Camberwell and from there I walked to the city with Ric for the first time in 2012. It was such a great day for it. I enjoyed every minute of it.

Despues de esta manana hermosa quede feliz para todo el dia, despues trabaje un rato y a la tarde nos fuimos a tomar un cafe a Camberwell y de ahi Ricky y yo nos fuimos caminando a la city por primera vez en el 2012. Fue un dia perfecto para hacerlo y lo disfrute mucho.

Welcome 2012

2012-01-01T23:37:00.002+11:00

Finally 2011 is behind us, with all its good and bad. It has closed its doors to open 2012 gates. We walked through them with a sense of hope and high expectations for a great year. For me 2011 was a very difficult year but a rewarding one, with a healed hip and a new career. 2012 will be a challenging one, but I am looking forward to the opportunities and hard work that is ahead of me. I am hoping to enjoy my first class and the new school and I hope 2011 will also bring a healthier me (both physically and mentally= less stressed) and a more family oriented one. I hope 2012 brings everything you all desire.

Finalmente 2011 esta detras nuestro, con todo lo bueno y lo malo. Ha cerrado las puertas para abrir los portones del 2012. Caminamos por ellos con esperanzas y altas expectativas para un buen ano. Para mi 2011 fue un ano muy dificil pero uno con mucha gratificacion personal, con una cadera curada y una carrera nueva por delante. El 2012 tambien sera dificil, pero estoy ansiosa de aprovechar las oportunidades y el trabajo fuerte que esta por delante. Espero disfrutar de mi primer clase y de la nueva escuela y espero que el 2012 sea mas saludable para mi y que pueda disfrutar mas tiempo con mi familia. Espero que este ano les traiga todo lo que ustedes desean tambien.

Frapee at Max Brenner

2012-01-01T23:35:00.001+11:00

Having a rewarding frapee at Max Brenner in the city after a 2 hour walk from Camberwell. It was awesome to walk that long again, but I was sore and tired after. We sat there at HQ and have a delicious frapee (the best in Melbourne).

The funniest Xmas Present

2011-12-31T02:58:00.003+11:00

El regalo mas gracioso este ano fue este par de anteojos nerdy. Nos hizo reir mucho, todos los usamos por un rato y nos hicieron sentir mas inteligente.

Christmas 2011

2011-12-31T02:50:00.002+11:00

Christmas was a night of celebrating at the Zalewski's house. Food, drink and music animated the party and we were all very excited to open our presents after the clock struck 12. I had excellent presents so I guess Santa must have thought I was a good girl this year. Unfortunately Christmas also passed too quickly. I guess it was hard finishing work so late this year (22nd) and with everything we did this year it just seems that no amount of holidays are going to be enough to rest.

More of Cradle Mountain

2011-12-31T02:27:00.005+11:00

Looking at these photos makes me want to be there again, it was so beautiful but it passed so quickly that it now feels like a blur. The echidna was so cute! She waddled around in search for food and didn't even care about us.

Mirando estas fotos me dan ganas de estar ahi otra vez, pero con mas tiempo, fue tan lindo! Paso tan rapido! la echidna era tan simpatica, caminaba por alrededor buscando comida y ni le importaba que estabamos todos ahi sacandoles fotos.

Ultima cuota de Tassie: Cradle Mountain

2011-12-31T02:17:00.002+11:00

Camino a Cradle Mountain: todo un camino de montana hermoso para donde mirabamos y a cada curva teniamos una nueva vista. Estuvimos cortos de tiempo para recorrer a pie los diferentes caminos una vez ahi, pero lo poco que hicimos me mato. Unas subidas empinadisimas y de interminables escaleras....precioso!

Cradle Mountain: the road there was beautiful in every turn. A new postcard greeted us from every new angle. We didn't have enough time to do all the bush walks there, but the few we did killed me, so steep!

Dining at the Wharf

2011-12-27T18:05:00.003+11:00

At night we had a nice fish and chips dinner at the Wharf, the best place to eat fish and chips apparently (according to a Hobart girl). After dinner we had a stroll around the wharf to say goodbye to Hobart and started our careful drive back to Launceston. One thing that amazed us on the road was the amount of road-kill. We were so scared to run over a little creature that drove way below the speed limit.

A la noche cenamos pescado y papas fritas en el Puerto, el mejor lugar para comer pesacado en Hobart aparentemente. Despues de cenar caminamos por los alrededores del puerto para despedirnos de Hobart y emprendimos la vuelta a Launceston. Una cosa que nos sorprendio de andar en la ruta en Tasmania fue la cantidad de animalitos muertos en la ruta. Teniamos tanto miedo de atropellar a algun cangurito que volvimos por debajo de la velocidad permitida.

Pretty Salamanca Garden

2011-12-27T17:47:00.002+11:00

What a beautiful yet simple garden in the heart of Salamanca Place in Hobart. The crimson red of the cherry trees contrasted against the grey stones of the walls and brownish grey of the pebble floor. It had a winter feeling yet one can't help but feel optimistic when looking at it.

Que hermoso y simple era este jardin en el corazon de Salamanca Place in Hobart. El rojo fuerte de los arboles de cherries contrastaba contra las paredes de piedra gris y las piedritas amarronadas del piso. Tenia un poco de sensacion de Invierno este jardin pero asi y todo uno no puede dejar de sentirse optimista al mirarlo.

In and around Salamanca Place

2011-12-26T22:06:00.004+11:00

Salamanca Place is a beautiful area in Hobart where you can find restaurants, bars, cafes, shops, art galleries, live music and lots more! Full of night live and people, Salamanca is really alive and worth every square inch. We walked in and around, bought some souvenirs and enjoyed a live performance for free! Everyone was there laughing, eating and drinking the year away.

Salamanca Place es un lugar en Hobart donde uno puede encontrar restaurantes, bars, cafes, negocios, galerias de arte, musica en vivo y mucho mas! Lleno de vida nocturna y gente, Salamanca esta realmente viva y vale la pena cada metro cuadrado. Caminamos por la calle principal y las de atras, compramos unos souvenirs y disfrutamos una banda en vivo gratis! Todo el mundo esta riendo, comiendo y bebiendo despidiendo el ano.

The view from the top of Mount Wellington

2011-12-26T16:30:00.003+11:00

La vista de Hobart desde la cima de Mount Wellington es espectacular.

The summit

2011-12-26T16:24:00.003+11:00

Ricky y Anton en la cima de Mount Wellington.

Mount Wellington

2011-12-26T15:45:00.003+11:00

Mount Wellington's summit is about 21 km from Hobart CBD and the road there is simply beautiful. From city scape to rainforest to alpine flora to glacial rock formations. The summit was enveloped in clouds and we can barely see 10 m in front, the wind up there was icy and the peace was spectacular. It was so cool to be there, nothing but the the rocky formations and nothing there above us but the sky. Below was the city and bay views, but we couldn't see it from here as the clouds covered the city like a blanket. We descended a couple of km and from there we could see the most amazing view of Hobart.

La cima del monte Wellington queda a 21 km del centro de Hobart y la ruta hasta ahi es simplemente espectacular. De ciudad pasa a selva tropical y culmina con flora alpina y formaciones rocosas de glaciares. La cima estaba envuelta en nubes y apenas podiamos ver 10 metros delante nuestro, el viento era congelado y la paz era espectacular. Estaba re bueno estar ahi arriba, nada excepto las formaciones rocosas y nada mas que el cielo hacia arriba. Abajo estaba la ciudad y la vista de la bahia, pero no se veia nada desde ahi porque las nubes cubrian todo como una frazada. Descendimos un par de km y desde ahi pudimos ver la vista mas espectacular de Hobart.

The city of Hobart

2011-12-26T15:26:00.003+11:00

Arriving into Hobart was kind of special. Driving on the road with water on both sides and in the far distance the mountains. It was a really nice sight. On the other side of the bridge we drove straight into the heart of the city. We parked near the wharf and walk around in the bustle of the pre Christmas shopping madness. We found a nice cafe, had something to eat and drink and asked the guys at the cafe where would you go in Hobart if you only had 6 hours. They told us Salamanca Market and Mount Wellington. We liked Hobart, it had the feel of a miniature Melbourne, cosmopolitan, yet clean and pretty. We found a map and started the climb to Mount Wellington.

La llegada a Hobart fue especial, manejando por la ruta y de los dos lados el agua y en la distancia, las montanas. Una vista espectacular. Una vez cruzado el puente estabamos en el centro de la ciudad. Estacionamos en el puerto y caminamos por la peatonal en el medio de las compras pre-Navidenas. Encontramos un lindo cafecito para comer y tomar algo y les preguntamos a los chicos de ahi, a donde irian en Hobart si tuvieran solo 6 horas? Nos dijeron: Salamanca Market y Mount Wellington. Hobart nos encanto, tenia la onda de una Melbourne miniatura, cosmopolitan pero limpia y linda. Conseguimos un mapa y comenzamos la subida a la montana Wellington.

Tasmanian East Coast

2011-12-23T23:22:00.002+11:00

On Friday we travelled to Hobart (which is at the South of the Island) via the East Coast and saw some stunning sights, like this one of Swansea, a small beach town. In the horizon you can see Coles Bay, Fraycinet and Wine Glass Bay. Unfortunatelly we didn't have time to visit there but it's on the list for our next visit to Tasmania.

El viernes fuimos a Hobart (la cuidad que esta al sur de la isla) via la costa este y vimos unos paisajes impresionantes como este en Swansea, un pueblo costero pequenisimo pero adorable. En el horizonte se ven la bahia de Coles, Fraycinet y la bahia de Wine Glass. Lamentablemente no tuvimos tiempo de visitar esos lugares bellisimos, pero esta en la lista para nuestra visita proxima a Tasmania.

More of Launceston

2011-12-23T23:07:00.002+11:00

It was funny how after studying 4 and 1/3 years at UTAS on Thursday was the first day that I actually visited the site! This last photo was taken by Anton when I went to pick up my academic dress.

Fue gracioso que despues de estudiar 4 anos y medio en la facultad, el jueves pasado fue el primer dia que pise el campo. Esta ultima foto me la saco Anton cuando fui a buscar mi vestimenta academica.

My Graduation

2011-12-23T22:17:00.002+11:00

Graduation Day was great. The ceremony took place in Albert Hall in Launceston's CBD. Wearing that gown and mortar made me extremely proud and gave me a sense of achievement. I am so glad I made the effort to attend because I now have a sense of closure and can feel the conclusion of a 4 and 1/2 years hard work. This milestone was an important moment in my life and being there with my family was pretty special too. They have been so supportive and understanding during these long years that I wanted to thank them for giving me the courage to keep going. They were there for me when I cried during stressful times, they cooked meals, cleaned the house, did the laundry and they also brainstorm with me during assignment times. I wish my family overseas could have been there too to share the glamour of the moment. A new chapter now begins and I am so excited about it!

El dia de la graduacion fue genial. La ceremonia fue en el Albert Hall en el distrito central de Lunceston, Tasmania. Con la toga y el birrete me senti extremadamente orgullosa y me hizo sentir el logro. Estoy tan contenta de haber hecho el esfuerzo de ir porque la ceremonia me dio una sensacion de conclusion. Este hito fue un momento muy importante en mi vida y poder compartirlo con mi familia fue muy especial tambien. Mi marido y mi hijo me dieron su ayuda durante los arduos anos que este cuerso llevo, fueron comprensivos cuando no podia salir con ellos un sabado o un domingo. Me apoyaron cuando yo lloraba durante momentos de examenes, estress, cocinaron cenas, limpiaron la casa, lavaron la ropa y me ayudaron a pensar y planear mis trabajos. Quiero agradecerles por su paciencia, amor y entendimiento.

Ojala el resto de mi familia, que vive en Argentina hubiera podido venir para compartir el glamour del momento. Un nuevo capitulo ahora comienza en mi vida y no veo la hora!

Launceston Day I and II

2011-12-20T23:02:00.003+11:00

Que lindo que fue este viaje! Lleno de emocion y descubrimientos de paisajes hermosos y diferentes. Este lugar en Launceston era hermoso. Cruzamos la entrada al parque y nos encontramos con un parque con pasto verde rodeando el rio y a la orilla una pileta de natacion enorme (100 mts de largo mas o menos) gratis para el publico. Este lugar bordeado por sierras pedregosas y vegetacion salvaje, un puente colgante, rapidos, y lleno de fauna nativa, canguritos, echidnas, pajaros y demas. Para completar habia caminos y miradores que subian las sierras y una aerosilla.

What a beautiful trip this was! Full of emotions and discovery of new scenery. This place "The Cataract Gorge" in Launceston was beautiful. After the gate we found ourselves overlooking a perfectly manicured lawn with a huge swimming pool at the edge of the river basin. The pool was free for everyone to use. Beyond this area there were the hills, the bushwalks, the rapids, the suspension bridge and the native flora and fauna.

Tasmania around the corner

2011-12-11T23:51:00.004+11:00

The big day is approaching where I would wear a gown and mortar and walk to the Chancellor and receive my Bachelor of Education certificate in Launceston, Tasmania. I can't wait. I am also very excited about the trip, finally crossing Bass Strait (only up in the sky with Jet Star) and landing in a completely different place. It will be awesome walking in unknown directions and finding amazing new places. Five days in Tassie will do me good, fresh air, new town and lots of photo opportunities.

El gran dia se esta acercando cuando con toga y birrete ire a recibir mi certificado de Lincenciatura en Educacion en Launceston, Tasmania. No veo la hora. Estoy muy entusiasmada por el viaje en si, finalmente cruzar el Estrecho de Bass (solo que por el aire con Jet Star) y aterrizar en un lugar completamente desconocido. Va a estar buenisimo caminar en direcciones desconocidas y encontrar lugares completamente nuevos. Cinco dias en Tassie me va a hacer re bien, aire fresco, nueva ciudad y muchas oportunidades fotograficas.

Photo obtained from:

http://www.examiner.com.au/news/local/news/general/top-day-for-graduates/2264878.aspx

Xmas Forest at Fed Sqare

2011-12-08T21:14:00.002+11:00

On Sunday we walked to the city from Camberwell again. When we arrived to Federation Square we found ourselves in the middle of a Xmas forest. The cold air made it feel a little more real. We met Andrea there and had a coffee. I took the tram back to Camberwell, pick the car up and drove back home. It is great not to worry about assignments and have a little bit of time for long walks, talks and enjoyment.

El domingo caminamos hasta la city otra vez desde Camberwell. Cuando llegamos a Federation Square nos econtramos en el medio de un bosque Navideno. El aire frio lo hacia parecer un poquito mas real. Ahi nos econtramos con Andrea y tomamos un cafe. Me tome el tranvia para volver a Camberwell, agarrar el auto y manejar hasta casa. Que lindo que es no preocuparse del estudio y tener un poquito de tiempo libre para caminatas largas, charlas y para disfurtar de la tarde de domingo.

End of year concert

2011-12-05T22:23:00.002+11:00

Docklands

2011-12-05T09:08:00.003+11:00

Another city walk on Friday night. After a long week Ric and I took the bus to Southern Cross Station and walked to Docklands. The excuse was to feed Andrea's cats (as she was in Darwin), but it was a fantastic way to end another tiring week. The sunset added an extra warmth to the evening. The air was fresh and crisp and people were partying everywhere...end of year celebrations. Music and people in high heels adorned the cityscape. In the distance I could hear the holidays calling for me.

Otra caminata larga el viernes. Despues de una semana larga Ricky y yo tomamos el bus hasta la city y caminamos hasta Docklands. La excusa fue ir a darle de comer a los gatos de Andrea pero fue una forma fantastica de terminar otra semana. El atardercer le dio extra calidez a la tarde. El aire estaba fresco y la gente celebraba por todos lados...el fin de ano esta tan cerca! Musica y gente en tacos altos adornaban la cuidad. En la distancia yo podia escuchar las vacaciones llamandome.

Under the Bridge Downtown

2011-12-04T23:25:00.002+11:00

Finally some free time to do some nice things with Ric. Last Sunday we walked from Camberwell to Federation Square together. He has been doing it for a long time, but this was my first time! I couldn't believe that my own legs took me so far. I was tired but enjoying the moment.

Finalmente algo de tiempo libre para hacer cosas lindas con Ricky. El domingo pasado caminamos desde Camberwell hasta Federation Square. El lo viene haciendo desde hace rato, pero fue mi primera vez! No podia creer que mis propias piernes me llevaron tan lejos. Estaba cansada pero disfrutando de este momento.

From this spot, under the bridge, one can see the city buildings standing majestic on the other side, edged by their own reflection on the Yarra river. A beautiful way to walk or cycle into Melbourne city. It took us 2 hours to get there.

Desde este punto, debajo del puente, uno puede ver los edificios como parados maestuosamente, bordeados por su propio reflejo en el rio. Una hermosa forma de entrar caminando o en bici a la cuidad de Melbourne. Nos llevo 2 horas llegar.

New Job (now censored by the author)

2011-11-18T22:41:00.005+11:00

Very excited about my new job for 2012. After weeks of excruciating applications and interviews finally got appointed at Beverley Hills Primary School in East Doncaster, a small but highly academic school in Victoria, where people are lovely.

These past weeks have been awful. I don't know what the process is in other countries or places or jobs, but trying to get a teaching position is a long, tedious and morally crashing exercise. As an applicant you have to contend with writing 5 pages long applications that probably don't get read and sit for interviews (if your are lucky to get one). I am glad it is over now and I can turn the page.

Anyway, I will miss the children and the parents who supported me and encouraged me during this difficult time, a couple of people and ...that's about it. Now to look ahead, to think about next year, my room, my future students and my planning. I am so excited and I won't lie kind of terrified.

Finally

2011-11-13T21:28:00.003+11:00

Finally after so much hard work, so many hours in front of the computer, so many readings, listening to lectures, typing, researching, writing, editing, posting, thinking, planning and studying I have completed my Bachelor in Education degree and I will be graduating on the 17 th December in a ceremony held in Launceston, Tasmania. I also have the pleasure of graduating before other people who started with me and have tried lying and cheating their way through. It is a victory not only to hard work but to honesty. So if I say so myself, congratulations!

Lorne Trip

2011-11-13T20:02:00.003+11:00

Last weekend we took a trip to Lorne to celebrate the first hot day. It was so beautiful down there. Sitting in the sand if felt like a hot Summer day. I even had a swim in the cool but always refreshing and crystalline water. It was too cold at first, but I pushed in and tried thinking of all those assignments, late nights, online posts, Summer school, lack of sleep and with every thought I found myself deeper into the ocean, washing away all the struggle and sacrifice. After a while it didn't feel cold any more and I swayed up and down with the waves, feeling for the first time the full weight of my achievement.

El fin de semana pasado fuimos a Lorne para celebrar el primer dia caluroso. Estuvo tan lindo ahi. Sentada en la arena me senti como en un dia de verano. Incluso me meti al helado pero siempre refrescante y cristalino oceano. Estaba re frio al principio, pero igual yo perisisti. Con cada paso pensaba en todos esos trabajos que tuve que escribir, las noches tardias, los post online, universidad en verano, falta de sueno y con cada pensamiento me encontraba mas adentro del mar, lavandome de todo ese esfuerzo y sacrificio. Despues de un rato el agua no se sentia mas fria y flotaba de arriba a abajo con las olas, sientiendo por primera vez el peso real de mi logro.

Welcome Lorenzo

2011-11-13T19:37:00.002+11:00

Look at Simona's sweet happy face looking over her newborn baby brother Lorenzo. I think this image summarises the word wonder. I simply adore this photo for many reasons. First because a baby in the family always brings so much joy and hope. Secondly because I just think it is a beautiful image of Simona, an expression that it's captured forever and thirdly because my older niece Sofi is holding the baby and for the first time I see her so grown up. I remember when she was that tiny too. Only Indiana is missing here to complete the photo.

My nephew was born on the 2nd of November 2011, he is gorgeous, healthy and very good for what I hear. I can't wait to meet him in person. I love you all!

Miren la carita de Simona mirando a su hermanito recien nacido, Lorenzo. Creo que esta imagen simboliza la palabra "curiosidad". Simplemente adoro esta foto por muchas razones. Primero porque un bebe en la familia siempre trae tanta alegria y esperanzas. Segundo porque creo que es una imagen hermosa de mi sobrina Simona, esa expresion de curiosidad y alegria para siempre estampada en la camara y tercero, porque mi sobrina Sofi es la que esta sosteniendo al bebe y por primera vez la veo tan crecida. Todavia recuerdo imagenes de ella asi de pequenita. Solo falta Indiana en la foto para completarla.

My sobrino nacio el 2do de Noviembre del 2001, es adorable, saludable y muy buenito por lo que escucho. No veo la hora de conocerlo en persona. Los amo!

The Orbweavers

2011-10-30T23:07:00.004+11:00

A very Melbournian band, really sweet melodies and nice lyrics. I enjoyed the launch of their cd "Loom" today at the Northcote Social Club, particularly the stories behind each song. Their songs are environmentally and locally focused. The only annoying thing was this guy behind us that seemed to think that everything that crossed his mind was worth commenting.

http://www.theorbweavers.com/

Green

2011-10-29T18:51:00.002+11:00

I have been a bit lazy lately. I guess I deserve it. The fact is that I have been busy applying for jobs (it takes forever) and organising my portfolio. In addition I have been preparing lessons for my teaching rounds, so really now that I think about it I haven't really been that lazy. I simply felt uninspired to blog.

Estuve un poquito vaga ultimamente. Supongo que me lo merezco. La verdad es que estuve muy ocupada postulando por trabajos (que lleva muchisimo tiempo) y organizando mi portfolio. Tambien estuve preparando lecciones para mis practicas, asique en realidad no es que estoy vaga para escribir, Me parece que simplemente estoy sin inspiracion para blogear.

I guess a lot of things are going through my mind at the moment. The fact that no matter how much you think you know people, or how much of your heart you leave in a place, people still disappoint you and let you down. I think it is a sad reality and I must learn to leave with it, without tears. I have enough strength left in me to find my new path and I am confident it will be an improvement, that it all be worth it.

Muchas cosas estan pasando por mi mente en este momento. El hecho de que no importa cuanto uno piensa que conoce a la gente, o cuanto de tu alma dejas en un lugar, la gente igual de desilusiona y te deja pagando. Me parece que es una realidad con la que tengo que aprender a vivir y sin lagrimas. Despues de las que pase todavia tengo fuerza en mi para abrirme caminos nuevos y tengo la confianza de que seran mejores y todo habra valido la pena.

Lots of things to organise: job applications, lessons, interview preparations, VIT certification and a trip to Tasmania to receive my well deserved diploma, which is at the top of the list at the moment. I am so excited, I feel like I have grown a little more....not enough to be tall though :)

Muchas cosas que organizar: postulaciones para trabajos, lecciones, preparame para entrevistas, certificacion profesional y un viaje a Tasmania para recibir my bien merecido diploma, que esta a la cabeza de la lista en este momento. Estoy contenta, siento que creci un poquito mas...aunque no suficiente para ser alta :)

I love to see how everything is turning bright green at the moment, we had so much rain this Winter that everything looks so luscious. I am starting to feel the itch for trips to the beach and sleeping ins. I am going to enjoy my holidays so much!

Finally my final finale

2011-10-08T01:28:00.002+11:00

This is the moment I was waiting for so long. See the cursor on the submit button? After I clicked it my study load dropped to 0. What a moment! My last assignment!!!!!! I am so happy I can barely stop smiling. I nearly have my life back again. Now rounds for 7 weeks and then I will be qualified. The light is shinning bright.

Este es el momento que estoy esperando desde hace tanto. Ven el cursor en el botton "Submit?" (Enviar). Despues de clickearla my carga de estudio bajo a cero. Que momento! My ultimo trabajo entregado!!!!! Estoy tan contenta que apenas pude parar de sonreir. Casi puedo decir que voy a tener mi vida de vuelta. Ahora practicas por 7 semanas y despues estare graduada. La luz del tunel esta brillando fuertemente.

Visit from my friend

2011-10-08T01:21:00.003+11:00

How nice to see my friend Linda today after two weeks. We enjoyed a chat, nice food, coffee and a few laughs. But because we are workaholics we did a bit of work too. As you can see we not only had pastries we also had some healthy grapes...or did we? I think the only one who ate a couple of them was Ric. I am going to miss my friend in the next 7 weeks as I will be doing my last teaching rounds. Who is going to make me laugh?

Fue muy lindo ver a mi amiga Linda hoy despues de dos semanas. Disfrutamos una charla, buena comida, cafe y algunas carcajadas. Pero porque somos trabajolicas hicimos un poquito de trabajo tambien. Como pueden ver no solo comimos facturas sino que tambien comimos uvitas saludables....o no? Me parece que el unico que pico un par fue Ricky. La voy a extranar mucho a mi amiga en las proximas 7 semanas ya que yo no vuelvo al trabajo porque voy a otro colegio a hacer mis ultimas practicas...quien va a hacerme reir?

Assembling IKEA puzzles

2011-10-08T01:06:00.002+11:00

On Thursday, once the weight of the assignments had been lifted off my shoulders we went to IKEA and bought a few things for our family room. I spent 2 hours putting together a little table for the kitchen together. It was fun though not having things in my mind pressing on. I still had to edit and re-read but most of it was done. Nearly there.

El jueves, una vez que el peso de mis hombros fue aliviando fuimos a IKEA y compramos unas cosas para el living. Me tomo 2 horas armar una mesita para la cocina. Fue entretenido sobretodo pensando que no tenia que escribir mas. Todavia me faltaba editar el utlimo trabajo pero ya lo peor habia pasado. Casi...

In need of a change

2011-10-08T00:43:00.002+11:00

After Lorne I got up at 7 am and continued my work. No rest for the wicked, except for a trip to the hairdresser to get a refreshing change in my look at lunch time. It revitalised me! It is now short, lighter and I have a fringe! On the way back I studied some more and stayed till 1.30 am until my last assignment's draft was finished.

Despues de Lorne me levante a las 7 de la manana y segui estudiando. No hay descanso para los malvados, excepto por un viaje a la peluqueria para cambiarme el look y refrescarme un poco. Me revitalizo! Ahora lo tengo corto, mas claro y tengo un flequillo! A la vuelta estudie hasta la una y media de la manana pero termine mi boceto de mi ultimo trabajo.

A one day escapee

2011-10-08T00:13:00.002+11:00

I know I haven't been keeping up with the blog for the last couple of weeks, but I had a good reason. I have had the worst holidays ever from the first Saturday. My friend Nikki came over to do some uni work and that signalled the beginning of my last long four assignments. Two of which were due on the 4th (done in conjuction with Nikki) and the other 2 on the 10th. I had practically no holidays, no sleep ins, no movie watching or re-run of Buffy, Angel, Star Trek, The Wire or Battlestar Galactica. Simply studying every day, every day, every single day.

Last Tuesday (even though my last assignment hadn't been started) I took the day off and Ric and I went to Lorne. Anton had to say in Melbourne to go to uni. I think that if you look at my face in this photo you can see my mental exhaustion for which only that landscape could heal. Getting there wasn't easy since we did it on foot and had to walk up the steep hill. If you look at the photo of the road you can see the incline of the power cables. See them disappear down the abyss? I huffed and puffed but happily made it to the top.

Ya se que no estuve manteniendo el blog por las ultimas dos semanas, pero tengo una buena excusa. Tuve las peores vacaciones desde el pirmer Sabado cuando mi amiga Nikki vino a casa a estudiar y eso marco el comienzo de dos semanas de estudio incesante. Tuve dos trabajos finales que presentar en equipo con Nikki para el 2/10 y los otros dos por mi cuenta para persentar el 10/10. Asique practicamente no tuve descanso ni vacaciones, no dormilonas, no mirar peliculas o capitulos repetidos de Buffy, Angel, Star Trek, The Wire o Battlestar Galactica. Simplemente estudiar todos los dias, todos los dias, cada maladito dia. El martes pasado (a pesar de no haber ni empezado mi ultimo trabajo) me harte y me tome un dia de descanso y Ricky y yo nos fuimos a Lorne. Anton se quedo porque tenia que ir a la facultad. Creo que si me miran la cara en esta foto se me nota el agotamiento mental que solo ese paisaje podia curar. Llegar ahi no fue facil, ya que lo hicimos caminando y tuvimos que subir la montana empinada. Si miran la foto de la calle y siguen los cables de luz pueden ver la inclinacion espeluznante de esa subida...los ven desaparecer en el abismo alla abajo? LLegue contenta a pasear del respiro agitado.

Anton's 19th birthday

2011-09-27T23:03:00.002+10:00

Los 19 de Anton los celebramos pasando un dia juntos y dandole muchos abrazos y palmaditas y todo lo que se nos ocurria darle ese dia. Como le puse en la tarjeta nunca ningun regalo parece suficiente, ya que el se merece el mundo entero. Mi hijo es el mejor hijo del mundo y verlo crecer tan rapido me da como nostalgia. Fue un dia lindo, empezo con regalitos, donuts y factura, despues salimos a pasear, merendamos en Choclatte y compramos otros regalitos y termino con fiesta en casa, torta y mini concierto de guitarra y violin. Hijo solo deseo que seas muy feliz, te mereces nada menos. Te amo!

We spent Anton's 19th birthday celebrating together giving him lots of cuddles and pats on the back and everything that we could think of to give him. Like I said in his card no gift is enough, he deserves the world. My son is the best son in the world and seeing him grow up so quickly makes me feel nostalgic. It was a very nice day, started with presents, donuts and pastries, followed by a trip to the shops, more presents, afternoon tea at Choclatte and ended up at home with dinner with friends, cousins and a mini guitar and violin concert. Son I only wish you happiness, you deserve nothing less. I love you!

Too bright

2011-09-26T00:01:00.002+10:00

My cats don't like the light in the morning. I must admit I feel like them when my alarm goes off and I realise it is time to get up. Oli is really funny because he only opens one eye, he likes the idea of being only half asleep (literally), but still see what is going on around him.

It was Felipe's birthday on Saturday and we forgot to celebrate so he will have to share Anton's birthday celebrations. Sorry Felipe your humans are too busy and are not being very good, but don't worry not long now before things start to change. We love you so much!

A mis gatos no les gusta la luz a la manana. Debo admitir que yo me siento como ellos cuando suena mi alarma y me doy cuenta que es hora de levantarse. Oli es re gracioso porque abre un ojo solo, le gusta la idea de seguir medio dormido, literalmente, pero todavia poder ver que es lo pasa a su alrededor.

Fue el cumple de Felipe el sabada y otra vez paso desapercibido, asique manana tendra que compartir la celebracion con su hermano Anton. Perdon Felipe tus humanos estan muy ocupados y no te estan dando mucha bola, pero no te preocupes que falta poquito para que las cosas empiecen a cambiar (para mejor). Te amamos tanto!

Ethiopian Food

2011-09-10T18:21:00.002+10:00

I have never had Ethiopian food before and I think I will never have it again. Not that the flavours weren't nice or interesting, it's more the way it was all so meaty and cooked like a puree. The meat dishes looked like meat puree, the pieces so small that it was almost like a paste with nothing more than three pieces of lettuce to accompany it.

The food was spicy and quite hot and there was no cutlery to eat with. The food came with this pancake like bread that you had to brake into pieces and use to pick your food up with it. I couldn't eat more than 4 mouthfuls and I was really sick of the intense flavour. I thought if at least there was some rice or vegetables to mix the flavours with then it wouldn't have been so bad, but there wasn't and the lettuce leaves were running out, so I got up washed my hands off the oily substance that impregnated them and considered the meal finished.

Father's Day

2011-09-10T15:17:00.003+10:00

Father's Day last week, we accompanied Ricardo to Fitzroy Gardens to visit the possums that live there. They are so friendly that they would just come and sit next to us on the park bench. Anton could even pat them. They are so cute!!! On our walk we crossed a few nice buildings like St. Peter's Cathedral and Bionic Ear Lane...! What a name for a street. If you live there you have to be very quiet or everyone else will know what you are saying or doing. We ended the night at The Horn, an Ethiopian restaurant on Jhonston Street. I will write about this experience in my next blog entry.

A night of music

2011-09-04T12:31:00.003+10:00

I nearly cried when I heard the first chords of the Amadeus film opening theme played by my son's orchestra on Saturday night. One of my favourite movies and my favoruite composer played by my beloved son. I couldn't have asked for a better way to end an otherwise dull day (only that Ricardo could have come).

The concert took place at a church and even though the view was hindered by big headed people (they always seem big headed when you are stuck behind their disproportioned heads trying to see at a dot in the distance) it had the right atmosphere for such sublime music. I enjoyed the concert but missed my husband who was unable to come as he was helping his sister move house.

I am feeling very emotional lately, tired, sick of it all and just struggling to make it to the finishing line. I better let my nails grow so they can hold me when I am falling. I think that November can't come soon enough.

Casi lloro anoche cuando escuche los primeros acordes del tema inicial de la pelicula Amadeus (Mozart, A.W.) tocados por la orchesta donde toca mi hijo. Una de mis peliculas favoritas, mi compositor favorito y tocada por mi hijo. No puedo pedir por una forma mejor de concluir un dia que de otra manera fue opaco (solo lo hubiera hecho mejor que Ricky pudiera venir).

El concierto fue en una iglesia y a pesar de que la vision fue obstruida por gente cabezona (siempre parecen cabezones cuando te sentas detras de otros y tratas de ver entre las medidas desproporcionadas un puntito un la distancia) tuvo la atmosfera perfecta para musica tan sublime. Disfrute el concierto pero extrane a mi marido que no pudo venir porque estaba ayudando a su hermana a mudarse.

Me siento muy emocional utlimamente, cansada, podrida de todo y simplemente peleando para llegar a la meta final. Mejor que me deje crecer las unas asi me sostienen cuando me este resbalando. Noviembre no pude llegar mas rapido...

Bike Ride to Heidelberg

2011-08-27T19:32:00.003+10:00

I had to push myself very hard today to get off the couch and onto the bike, but in the end it was worth it. My energy levels are at its lowest. I wake up with no energy, even after a Saturday sleep in. I am absolutely exhausted. I also had a headache today, lingering all day and pushing my mood down to the bottom of the barrel. I wish it was the Summer holidays, as I am predicting a good rested break after finishing uni, rounds and everything else that is draining me at the moment.

Me tuve que empujar fuerte hoy para levantarme del sillon y subirme a la bicicleta, pero al final valio la pena. Mis niveles de energia estan super bajos. Me levanto sin energia, incluso despues de dormir de mas un Sabado. Estoy totalmente exahusta. Hoy tambien me dolia la cabeza y todo el dia me molesto empujando mi humor bien al fondo del barril. Deseo que sean las vacaciones de verano, ya que me imagino un verano de descanso despues de haber terminado la universidad, las practicas y todo lo demas que me esta quitando la energia en este momento.

We took the Yarra Trail today on our bikes on the other side of the Finns Reserve bridge and turned towards Heidelberg. We have done this path many times before, but haven't in a long while. Riding it today it was nice to see everything the same, but different as the vegetation grows and changes the scenery. Two years ago during the 2009 draught the Banyule Flats were completely dry. Not a single drop laid there. It is nice to see the water there today.

Hoy tomamos la bicisenda Yarra Trail en las bicis del otro lado del puento en Finns Reserve y doblamos para Heidelberg. Hicimos este camino muchas veces, pero no por un buen tiempo. Andando por ahi tambien, fue lindo e interesante ver todo igual pero a la vez diferente ya que la vegetacion crece y cambia alterando el paisaje. Dos anos atras, durante la sequia del 2009, no habia ni una gota de agua en esta laguna. Podias cruzar de lado a lado caminando. Es lindo ver agua de vuelta.

Congratulations and Welcome back

2011-08-21T22:58:00.002+10:00

Saturday night was a night of celebrations. Congratulating Andrea for becoming a flight attendant, I am so happy for her, finally will be enjoying a change in career and lifestyle. Well done Andrea! On another note welcome back Miriam and Horacio to Melbourne. Home made pizza and cheese cakes of sorts made the night complete. Lots of chatter and laughs, as always makes the night warm and friendly. It is so nice to see our old friends again!

El sabado a la noche fue una noche de celebraciones. Felicitando a Andrea por lograr su sueno de ser azafata, estoy muy contenta por ella, finalmente estara disfrutando de un cambio en su carrera y en su estilo de vida. Muy bien Andrea! En otra nota, le dimos la bienvenida a Miriam y Horacio a Melbourne. Pizza casera y tortas de queso variadas hicieron la noche completa. Mucha charla y risas como siempre hacen la noche calida y amistosa. Que bueno ver a estos viejos amigos otra vez!

Another weekend indoors

2011-08-07T22:08:00.002+10:00

Another weekend spent indoors writing assignments and studying hard...I am so over it that I have to do a lot of self-talk to push myself hard and not give up. I am tired, stressed, overworked and don't have enough hours in the day to do everything I have to do. Added to the normal uni load I now have to prepare a portfolio, write a job application, answer selection criteria and prepare for interviews. My oh my! I think that all this stress is actually working in my favour as I finished two assignments one week before they are due. I am learning about design for learning spaces where I learn about creating environments that will positively affect learning. That is why I have lit a candle whilst I was studying because research shows that smelling certain smells aids concentration....I think it worked or was it the placebo effect? :) and so I rewarded myself with a latte in Camberwell.

Otro fin de semana encerrada escribiendo y estudiando fuerte...estoy tan harta que tengo que darme mucha charla a mi misma para darme fuerza y empujarme a no tirar la toalla. Estoy cansada, estresada y sobrecargada de laburo. No tengo suficiente horas en el dia para hacer todo lo que tengo que hacer. Sumado a la carga universitaria que tengo ahora se le suma prepararme un folio, escribir una postulacion para laburos, contestar criterios de seleccion y prepararme para entrevistas, mi dios! Creo que todo este estres esta actuando a mi favor ya que termine dos laburos para la facultad una semana antes de la fecha de entrega. En una de mis materias estoy aprendiendo diseno de espacios de ensenanza, se trata de crear espacios que afecten la ensenanza y el aprendizaje positivamente. Por eso me prendi una vela mientras estudiaba porque las investigaciones indican que ciertos olores ayudan a la concentracion...me parece que me funciono...o habra sido placebo? Asique hoy al final de tanto laburo me recomponse con un cafelatte en Camberwell.

For a bit of Inspiration

2011-08-05T22:02:00.002+10:00

Fairy Tree

2011-07-16T00:30:00.003+10:00

This tree was awesome. I imagine fairies living inside...we didn't realise the hole went all the way through until we saw it from the other side.

Este arbol estaba buenisimo. Me imagino hadas viviendo adentro...nos nos dimos cuenta de que el agujero iba de lado a lado hasta que lo vimos del otro lado.

Moss

2011-07-16T00:25:00.002+10:00

Nunca me imagine que el musgo podia ser tan copado.

I never knew that moss could be so interesting.

A trip through the moss: Ereskine Trail (Lorne, VIC)

2011-07-16T00:02:00.003+10:00

Today Ric and I went to Lorne for a different kind of trip...we went with the intention of starting the Ereskine Trail Walk (part of the Otway National Park) that runs from the center of town 8 km uphill to the Ereskine Falls. The idea was to take it easy and walk 1 hour uphill and 1 hour down.

The path was beautiful and so different from the other paths that we did in NSW. The vegetation was rain-forest and everything was wet, so wet! There was moss growing everywhere, ferns and mud puddles to walk over. It was great fun and we ended up walking 2 and 1/2 hrs uphill and it took us a little less than one hour to come down. I was so tired after the 2 and 1/2 hrs walk than I was laughing at everything. It is quite a strange brain chemistry of mine but when I am really really tired I laugh at anything and can't stop.

Hoy Ricky y yo fuimos a Lorne con la intencion de empezar la caminata del Ereskine Trail (que es parte del Otway Parque Nacional). La caminata empieza en el centro del pueblo y sube 8 km hasta las cataratitas. La idea era tomarselo con calma y subir una hora y despues pegar la vuelta y bajar. Hay que empezarla de a poquito.

El camino no era muy dificil pero si resbaladizo porque todo estaba mojadisimo y la vegetacion es asi de selva llena de helechos y musgo y charcos de barro para cruzar. La pasamos re bien y terminamos caminando una hora y media para arriba antes de pegar la vuelta que nos llevo menos de una hora. Estaba tan cansada cuando volvimos que me reia de todo. Es algo que me pasa a mi en el cerebro que cuando estoy super cansada me rio de todo y no puedo parar.

The other face of Lorne

2011-07-15T23:51:00.001+10:00

Scones

2011-07-11T17:22:00.002+10:00

Today as I was having visitors I made scones. I used a simple recipe that it's so easy and they turn out delicious. Here it goes:

3 cups of self-raising flour

1 cup of cream

1 cup of lemonade

Mix well and bake in a moderate oven until golden. Eat with cream and jam. Enjoy!

Hoy como recibia visitas hice escones. Use una receta super facil y salen deliciosos! Aqui va:

3 tazas de harina leudante

1 taza de crema de leche

1 taza de limonada (gaseosa)

Mezclar bien y cortar con algo circular...cocinar en horno moderado hasta que esten doraditos. Servir tibios con crema y mermelada. Riquisimos!!!

Volver

2011-07-11T17:06:00.002+10:00

Even on the way back the scenery was beautiful. It was really interesting how the road signage improved as soon as we entered the state of Victoria. The road lines looked freshly painted and there were signs everywhere. New South Wales your road safety pails in comparison with Victoria! The other noticeable thing as we entered Victoria was the shift in the weather...from sunny NSW to rain and cold!

These photos were taken along the Princes Highway as we crossed a National Park of which I don't remember the name. The road there didn't stretch ahead, it just twisted around the forest and the trees seem to grow taller around the road containing it. They seemed to be leaving just enough room for us to get through.

Incluso el camino de vuelta fue hermoso. Fue interesante ver como la senalizacion mejoro tan pronto como entramos en el estado de Victoria. Las lineas parecian recien pintadas y se veian senales por todos lados. New South Wales tu seguridad en la ruta deja mucho que desear en comparacion con Victoria! Lo otro que notamos fue como cambio el clima...de soleado NSW a frio y lluvioso Victoria.

Estas fotos las tomamos a lo largo de la Prices Highway (ruta) al cruzar un parque nacional que no me acuerdo el nombre. La ruta no se extendia por delante sino que se retorcia alrededor del bosque y los arboles parecian crecer en altura conteniendo la ruta. Crecian y solo dejaban lugar para que nosotros pasemos.

Last Suset in Tathra

2011-07-08T19:48:00.005+10:00

Being the last afternoon in Tathra we went to the beach to see the sunset. Everything looks so beautiful bathed with soft oranges and reds from the setting sun. Anton and I had a bit of fun with the sand and the camera. I love how the sun made the sand shimmer...and those waves they are just perfect.

There were these vines that hid underneath the sand and all you could see were these little leaves sticking up like butterflies. It was so enjoyable to look at things with the fading light of another day.

Siendo la ultima tarde en Tathra fuimos a la playa a ver el atardecer. Todo se veia hermoso banado por los suaves tonos anarnjados y rojizos del sol poniente. Anton y yo nos divertimos un poco con la arena y la camara. Me encanta como el sol hacia brillar pedacitos de arena...y esas olas eran simplemente perfectas.

En la playa habia unas enredaderas escondidas bajo la arena que lo unico que dejaban ver eran unas pequenas hojitas redondeadas como alas de mariposas. Fue re lindo mirar las cosas con la luz menguante de otro dia.

Moon Bay

2011-07-07T23:13:00.003+10:00

Another long bush-walk took us to Moon Bay. It looked amazing on Google Earth so we decided to take the challenge and try to find this secluded beach. More steps to climb (lots of them) and pathways in the midst of a rain-forest type of track. The beach was simply spectacular, huge blue waves crushing against the rock formations. Weird patterns on the rocks, squeaky sand and more amazing views from the top.

Otra larga caminata nos llevo hasta la Bahia de la Luna. Se veia espectacular en Google Earth asique decidimos tomar el desafio y tratar de encontrar esta playa retirada y secluida. Mas escalones (un monton!) y caminos entre vegetacion del tipo bosque tropical. La bahia de la Luna es simplemente espectacular, olas enormes y azules rompiendo contra las formaciones rocosas. Raros dibujos en las rocas, arena chillona y mas vistas espectaculares desde la cima.

Day 3: A visit to Bega

2011-07-07T20:34:00.003+10:00

The morning started with a visit to Bega, the country town where the cheese comes from. The drive there was quite nice. Lovely countryside and smooth hills dominated the scenery. The centre of town was quite disappointing with uninteresting stores and no style. We couldn't even find a nice coffee shop to make a stop. So we headed straight to the Bega Cheese Heritage Centre only to be disappointed again. The place was nice enough, it had a museum and a 'crafts' store on the top floor that looked more like an op shop and a cafe and shop in the ground floor.

The cheese was nowhere to be seen, except in the fridge, just like you see in the supermarket. What's the point? I might as well go to Coles and buy it from there...I wanted to experience cheese...to see huge cheese wheels everywhere and samples....so after a quick look around we left town back to Tathra for another bushwalk under the warm sun.

La manana empezo con una visita a Bega, el pueblo de donde viene el queso. El camino fue bastante lindo. Campo y sierras suaves dominaban el paisaje. El centro del pueblo fue bastante decepcionante con negocios aburridos y nada de estilo. Ni siquiera encontramos un lindo cafecito para parar. Aique nos fuimos directamente a la fabrica de queso solo para decepcionarnos otra vez. El lugar era lindo, tenia un museito y un negocio de adornos en el piso de arriba y un cafe y un negocio de quesos abajo.

El queso no se veia por ningun lado exepto en la heladera, exactamente como se ve en el supermercado, empacadito y todo. Cual es el punto? Para eso voy al Coles y lo compro ahi...yo queria vivir la experiencia del queso...ver hormas redondas por todos lados y muestras para probar....asique despues de una miradita rapida nos volimos a Tathra para hacer otra caminata bajo el sol.

Bush walking in Tathra: Kangarutha Trail

2011-07-06T18:08:00.006+10:00

What a walk! Loved every minute of it, even the pain in my legs as the steps steeped up into endless succession. It was just amazing how the scenery changed from tunnels of ghostly grey trees to steep descent of fluorescent green vegetation. Up above the trees swayed with the precipitous gusts of wind and the wallabies leaped away from us as we approached. The long walk and painful joints were worth the effort as we arrived at Boulder Bay. Our eyes widened in awe at the beauty of this place. Crystal clear still waters surrounded by cliffs and meeting the coast on a beach of pebbles. We sat there and just enjoyed it. I took my shoes off, put my pants up and dip my feet in the cool water just to feel that place a little closer. The indescribable beauty of this place seemed untouched, ancient and just reminded me how powerful nature is.

Que caminata! Me encanto cada minuto, incluso el dolor en mis piernas al elevarse los escalones en sucesion sin fin. Era increible como el paisaje cambiaba de tuneles de arboles grisaceos fantasmagoricos a bajadas vertiginosas de vegetacion verde fosforescente. Arriba nuesto los arboles se mecian en las rafagas precipitosas de viento y los canguritos se escapaban al sentir nuestros pasos. La larga caminata y los dolores de articulaciones valieron la pena cuando llegamos a Boulder Bay. Nuestros ojos se abrieron en asombro a la belleza de este lugar. Aguas quietas y cristalinas rodeadas de acantilados encontrando la costa en una playa de piedras redondeadas. Nos sentamos ahi y simplemente lo disfrutamos. Me saque mis zapatillas, me arremangue los pantalones y meti mis pies en el agua congelada solo para acercarme un poco mas a este lugar. La belleza indescriptible de este lugar parecia ser intocable, antigua y parecia demostrar lo poderosa que es la naturaleza.

Morning walk in Tathra

2011-07-06T17:46:00.005+10:00

Nothing better than waking up and going for an energising walk along the beach before breakfast. During my 1 hour walk I did not come across a single soul, only mine breathing in and out, listening to the squeaky sounds of the sand under my feet and gazing into the sapphire blue ocean. Only my footsteps undid the perfectly smooth surface of the sand, the breeze was fighting against me trying to delete my footprints as I left them behind. It was another perfect moment...just me and my thoughts taking in this amazing view and being glad to be alive and well. Back in the beach hut I filled up on coffee and toast with the family before embarking on a bush-walking adventure.

Nada mejor que despertarse y salir a pegarse una caminata energizante en la playa antes de desayunar. Durante una hora no me cruce con ninguna otra alma, solo la mia inhalando y exhalando, escuchando el chillido de la arena bajo mis pies y perdiendo la vista en el agua azul zafiro. Solo mis pasos desdibujaban la superficie perfecta de la arena, la brisa peleaba contra mi tratando de borrar mis huellas mientras yo las iba dejando detras. Fue otro momento perfecto...yo en soledad con mis pensamientos absorviendo esta vista espectacular y sintiendome feliz de estar viva y bien. De vuelta en la casita con la familia, cargue energias en forma de desayuno de mate y tostadas antes de embarcarnos en una aventura de caminata por los morros.

Holidaying in Tathra, NSW

2011-07-04T19:48:00.003+10:00

First day of the holidays took us to Tathra, NSW, around 25 km from Merimbula. It is so beautiful and peaceful. From the window of our cabin we look straight into the blue ocean and can hear the waves crushing against the shore. The desolated beach was so warm today, that I took my towel and laid down to snooze in the sunshine.

We traveled all night in and out of patches of fog that were so thick that the high beams reflected back all the light and made it even harder to see. We took a wrong turn or two, but managed to have a feeling that we were not going in the right direction and turn back quickly. We arrived safely and with a bright and yellow sunshine. We walked, drove and even shared some time with a couple of kangaroos at a very desolated beach. Finding new places at every turn and enjoying the rest. I feel finally disconnected with the world...it's a fantastic feeling. I miss my cats though.

Feliz Cumpleanos para mi

2011-06-27T22:52:00.003+10:00

Today I woke up to a beautiful breakfast prepared by my son who set it up on the kitchen table with lit candles, birthday cards and wrapped up presents. Through the window the Winter sunshine showed me that sometimes perfect moments exist. I have always loved days like this in Winter...cold but with blue skies and warm rays of sunshine. We had a great breakfast, afternoon coffee in Camberwell, movie (Super 8), dinner at De Los Santos with flamenco music and to conclude dessert at home (apple crumble) and delicious birthday cake made by Ric.

Hoy me levante con un desayuno riquisimo preparado por mi hijito quien lo presento en la mesa de la cocina con velas encendidas, tarjetas y regalitos. Por la ventana el sol invernal me mostro que a veces existen los dias perfectos. Toda la vida me gustaron los dias asi en Invierno...frios pero con cielos azules y calidos rayos de sol. Tuvimos un desayuno perfecto, merienda en Camberwell, pelicula buenisima (Super 8), cena en De Los Santos con flamenco de fondo y para concluir postre en casa preparado por Anton y torta de cumpeanos deliciosa hecha por Ricky.

I had beautiful presents and lovely messages and phone calls from family and friends. I had cat cuddles and a whole lot of love. What a shame that perfect days have to end.

Tuve regalitos hermosos y lindos mensajes y llamados de telefono de amigos y familia. Tuve abracitos gatunos y un monton de amor....que lastima que los dias asi tienen que terminar.

Vestiges of sunshine

2011-06-19T23:01:00.002+10:00

Like an artist using his paintbrush to colour the top of the trees orange, the remaining Sunday sunshine bathed the top third of this street in light, leaving the rest in a cold penumbra. I was driving home after a nice cafe latte and jam scones when I saw this beautiful gift of nature. I pulled over the side of the road and snapped these images. Being a good observant of nature rewards me with some simple but beautiful moments that would go unnoticed if I was a simple passerby who is only wrapped around the mundane problems of a superficial life.
This weekend I had some well deserved rest, slept in and did not worry too much about things. It is difficult to unwind though, I am finding.

Como un artista usando su pincel para colorear de naranja la punta de los arboles, lo que quedaba del sol dominguero bano la tercera parte de arriba de esta calle, dejando el resto en penumbra fria. Yo manejaba para casa despues de un cafe con leche y escones con mermelada cuando vi este paisaje hermoso. Pare a un costado y saque estas imagenes. Ser un buen observador de la naturaleza me gratifica con simples pero hermosos momentos que no serian notados si fuera un pasante enroscado en los problemas mundanos de una vida superficial. Este fin de semana apreveche a descansar merecidamente, dormi bastante y no me preocupe demasiado por nada. Es dificil desenchufarse, estoy notando.

Back in Paradise

2011-06-13T01:39:00.002+10:00

We found ourselves in paradise once again today after one hell of a week. Listening to the Codes and Keys CD on the road was our chosen way to unwind and relax. We did a bit of shopping, bush-walking and enjoyed some coffee, beer and chips. It was cold but not colder than Melbourne in Lorne. Everyone was there, the shops were full of life, kids on scooters, skates and even people surfing. Shame that gets dark so early.

Home is a Fire (DCFC)

2011-06-05T22:57:00.002+10:00

Codes and Keys

2011-06-05T22:20:00.002+10:00

Finally new music from Death Cab for Cutie is out! Codes and Keys has 9 songs and at first glance seems just as beautiful as the others. I listened to it in the car on the way back from our Sunday outing. I love having new music and slowly get to know the lyrics and the melodies to discover the layers of composition. I enjoy it immensely. The only thing that would make it perfect would be to get to know this CD on the road, as so often has been for other Death Cab for Cutie's CDs. I am starting to itch for a road trip with the family to disconnect from the daily stress and to re-connect with Ric and Anton. It is being a difficult year, so busy that sometimes we don't have time to talk, but we all know that the end is near and that persistence is the key to achieve our goals. We must press on and we will soon savour the rewards, hopefully.

Finalmente salio musica nueva de Death Cab for Cutie! Codes and Keys (Codigos y Claves) es el nuevo CD, tiene 9 canciones y a primera vista (u oido) parece tan lindo como los otros. Lo puse en el auto en camino de vuelta de nuestra salida dominguera. Me encanta tener musica nueva y de a poco ir conociendo las letras y las melodias para descubrir las capas de composicion. Lo disfruto inmensamente. Lo unico que lo haria perfecto seria conocer este cd el la ruta, como tantas veces lo ha sido antes con otros cds de DCFC. Estoy empezando a sentir la picazon por un viajecito en familia para desconectarme del estress diario y para reconectar con Ric y Anton. Es un ano muy dificil este, tan enkilombado que a veces no tenemos ni tiempo de hablar, pero sabemos que la meta esta cerca y que pesistencia es la clave para alcanzar nuestros objetivos, asique hay que darle para adelante y pronto degustaremos la recompenza, esperemos.

Magical Sunday with Spanish finale

2011-05-30T21:35:00.005+10:00

I felt like a little girl again waiting in the queue to go up the Giant Sky Wheel at the banks of the Yarra River in Melbourne city last Sunday. It was cold and from the top the ground looked bare and whitish like snow. It was a fun experience and I found myself smiling a lot, channeling the child within.

Me senti como una nenita otra vez esperando en la cola de la vuelta al mundo a orillas del Yarra en la ciudad de Melbourne. Hacia frio y desde arriba todo se veia tan invernal y vacio, parecia nevado. Fue una experiencia magica y divertida y me encontre sonriendo a mi misma mucho durante la vuelta canalizando la nina en mi.

Despues de la vuelta nos pegamos una caminata por la city sacando fotos a edificios atipicos de esta ciudad. Cruzamos el parque Fitzroy y terminamos la noche en el restaurant De Los Santos cenando al sonido de flamenco en vivo. De entrada comimos empanadas de pollo y chorizo picantisimas y riquisimas y unos hongos salteados que estaban para chuparse los dedos, todo acompanado por una sangria. YUMMY!!!! De plato principal comimos paella de pescado...wow que rica especialmente con la musica de flamenco en vivo de fondo. Gritos, aplaudidos y rasguidos le dieron un toque de espaneidad alucinante. Que lindo domingo...me hizo sentir alegre, descansada y lista para emprender mi segunda semana de rondas docentes. Es tan relajante no tener que pensar en el estudio!! En un par de semanas volvemos a De Los Santos con Anton que ayer se fue para otro lado a long-board con sus primos. Se la perdio!

After the ride we walked around the city taking photos of unusual buildings. We crossed Fitroy Gardens and ended up having dinner at De Los Santos restaurant on Brunswick Street with live flamenco music. We had spicy chicken and chorizo empanadas, sauteed mushrooms to die for all washed down by a glass of sangria. YUMMY!

We had paella marinara as a main dish. Wow! It was fresh and delicious and it tasted better with the sounds of the Spanish guitars in the background and the despaired voices of the singers who moaned their sorrows in the strings and sounds of the cajon. What a nice Sunday! I felt happy, rested and ready to start another week of teaching rounds. It is so relaxing not thinking about studying. In a couple of weeks we will be returning to De Los Santos with Anton, who yesterday decided not to come with us and go long-boarding with his cousins. His loss!

Lemon Pie

2011-05-29T14:22:00.002+10:00

Finally had some time for cooking this weekend, since my assignments for the semester are over. It was so relaxing to stay in bed for a bit longer in the morning not worrying about how to break the day down into studying sections and fun sections. I am de-stressing slowly... Lemon Pie was a delight last night. Will post recipe later. Now I'm going to the city for a walk, photo shooting and a drink. I love weekends again.

Rust is all that remains

2011-05-22T22:22:00.002+10:00

Rusty scenes are all that remains of the fabulous Autumn that we had this year in Melbourne. As the road unfolded in front of the car all I could see was a never-ending sea of grey branches arching inwards. The few remaining leaves on the trees are stubbornly holding on, just like me trying to stay on this wonderful Season a few days longer.

I struggled to finish my uni assignments today for the semester just in time to start my next block of teaching rounds. I have to say this suffocating feeling of brain depletion is starting to weigh on me. I think I am going to need a holiday way before they are due.

The Robertson Youth Orchestra

2011-05-16T07:48:00.002+10:00

Mother's Day Swap: Sorrento for Port Melbourne

2011-05-08T17:58:00.003+10:00

Lucky we have some sense and swapped our outing for Mother's Day at the last minute! With shitty weather like today, we almost regretted going to Port Melbourne. Sorry Sorrento we'll visit another day.

Menos mal que tenemos algo de sentido comun y decidimos cambiar nuestra salida del Dia de la Madre a ultimo momento. Con el dia de mierda que hubo, hasta casi nos arrepentimos de ir a Port Melbourne a merendar. Perdon Sorrento, pero te visitaremos otro dia.

My son, as usual, made a beautiful breakfast with table decorations and lovely gifts and my cats also wanted some cuddles in the morning, after all I am their mummy too.

Mi hijo, como siempre, me hizo un desayuno riquisimo incluidas decoraciones y me hizo hermosos regalitos. Mis gatitos tambien quisieron mimitos, despues de todo tambien soy su mama.

The bay was freezing and so windy, it was almost painful to walk from the car to the arty cafe called (and I should have trade marked the name 2 years ago when I used it for my photo exhibition) i-frame. Some nice images to look around whilst we ate a foccacia, latte and ice chocolate.

La bahia estaba congelada y tan ventosa que era casi doloroso caminar desde el auto hasta el cafe artistico donde merandamos. Se llamaba i-frame (yo sabia que tendria que haber regristrado el nombre cuando lo use para la exhibicion de fotografia dos anos atras). Merendamos una foccacia de jamon, queso y tomate con lattes y chocolate helado (Anton esta loco con el frio que hacia).

Tonight Anton is cooking me a risotto! What a nice hiatus it was from the studies. I have two more assignments to write in 2 weeks, almost impossible, but I have to push through. Focusing on the end is what keeps me going.

Hoy a la noche me espera un risotto cocinado por mi hijo Anton. Que lindo hiatus que fue hoy de mis estudios. Ayer termine un reporte investigativo y me quedan dos mas para escribir en solo dos semanas. Tarea casi imposible, pero tengo que empujar....enfocando en el final es lo que me mantiene en pie...

Dolphins at Port Melbourne

2011-04-25T23:38:00.003+10:00

Believe it or not I saw a dolphin today and didn't have to go to Sea World for it. It happened here, at Port Melbourne. I was riding my bike and stopped here as my final destination before turning back. As I took this photo, a woman was telling her husband "there is a dolphin in the water". So I looked a little closer and soon enough I see it coming out and diving again. I couldn't believe it! I think it was nature's way to tell me that everything will be alright. That good things will continue to happen, despite having to go back to work. Only one more day of freedom.

Creanlo o no hoy vi un delfin y no tuve que irme a Sea World para ello. Paso aqui, en Port Melbourne. Fuimos en bici y paramos aca antes de pegar la vuelta. Mientras sacaba esta foto escucho que una mujer le dice a su pareja..."hay un delfin en el agua". Asique medio esceptica mire mas a fondo y pronto lo veo salir a tomar aire y zambullirse otra vez. Lo vi dos o tres veces (debo decir los vi eran dos). No lo podia creer! Pienso que fue la forma de la naturaleza de decirme que todo va a estar bien. Que cosas lindas pueden seguir pasando aunque tenga que volver al trabajo. Solo un dia mas de libertad.

Good Friday Walk

2011-04-24T22:36:00.003+10:00

On the cold Good Friday we struggled to find an open coffee shop, but we managed to get a cappuccino in on Bourke Road, Camberwell. It was quite deserted, but the coffee shop was quite full. After the coffee Anton came home skateboarding and Ric and I went for a walk along Riversdale Road. Half an hour into the walk I turned around and came back, he kept going all the way to the city. Back at home I went to my friend's gym to continue the workout. My hip is better and my legs are getting stronger, but I am still feeling discomfort particularly after sitting for a long time. I am, however, so happy that I am able to walk for 1 hour and to ride my bike.

En el frio viernes santo nos costo encontrar algo abierto, pero por suerte encontramos donde tomar un cappuccino en C amberwell. Esta todo desierto, pero el cafe esta lleno. Anton se volvio a casa en el skate y Ric y yo caminamos una hora por la calle Riversdale. A la media hora de caminar, yo pegue la vuelta y Ric siguio hasta la city. De ahi me fui al gym de mi amiga para seguir el workout. Mi cadera esta mejor y mis piernas se estan poniendo fuerte, pero todavia siento una molestia particularmente despues de estar sentada por un rato. Igual, estoy mas que contenta de poder caminar por una hora y de poder andar en bici.

Family Thursday

2011-04-24T22:23:00.002+10:00

Finally had some time to catch up with family. Andrea and Luca came over last Thursday after months of not seeing each other. We live so close and yet our lives are so entangled and busy that we hardly have time to meet. I know this is mostly my fault, because I am the busiest of them all, but I am hoping that this year will be the last like this. Between work, uni, practical experience and tutoring I barely have time to spend with my immediate family. I keep thinking that it is all for a good purpose and that it will be over soon.

Finalmente tuvimos tiempo para vernos con la familia. Andrea y Luca vinieron a visitarnos el Jueves pasado despues de meses de no vernos. Vivimos tan cerca y asi y todo nuestras vidas estan tan enredadas y llenas de cosas para hacer que raramente tenemos tiempo de vernos. Yo se que mayormente es mi culpa, porque yo soy la que menos tiempo tiene, pero tengo la esperanza de que este sera el ultimo ano asi. Entre el trabajo, la facultad, los practicos y las clases de particular apenas tengo tiempo para ver a mi familia inmediata. Me digo a mi misma que el sacrificio es por un buen proposito y que pronto se terminara.

Anyway, we had a good afternoon and night, doing a bit of both worlds: going out for a drink and a stroll and having a nice dinner together. Dr Zalewski made an appearance and attempted to vaccinate Luca against the cat flu. Jokes aside this was the first time I saw Anton dressed with his lab coat and goggles. It was quite funny. I insist that his lab coat must be washed but Anton disagrees as he says it is continuously getting stained with chemicals....what an excuse.

De todas maneras, la pasamos bien. A la tarde salimos un poco a tomar algo y a caminar y a la noche cenamos juntos. El Dr Zalewski hizo una visita e intento vacunar a Luca contra la gripe felina. Bromas de lado esta es la primera vez que vi a Anton con su guardapolvo de laboratorio y con los anteojos. Fue re gracioso. Insisti que ese guardapolvo necesita un lavado pero Anton no esta de acuerdo diciendo que para que si continuamente se mancha con productos quimicos...que escusa bol....

Tuesday in the city

2011-04-23T23:14:00.002+10:00

I love the city of Melbourne. It has everything and still remains clean, safe and livable. The most recent smartest addition is this new form of public transport: bicycles. You can pay $2.50 a day, or $50 a year and use it as much as you need it as long as the trip is not longer than 30 minutes. When you are done with it you return it to any station around the city. Isn't it amazing! I feel so proud of living here, every little thing like this that I find reassures me that this is a good place to be and to grow old.

Me encanta la ciudad de Melbourne. Tiene de todo y aun permanece limpia, segura y vivible. La mas reciente adicion que encontre son estas bicicletas como nueva forma de transporte publico para viajes cortos. Pagas $2.50 por dia o $50 al ano y podes usar una bici hasta que no la necesites mas siempre y cuando los viajes no duren mas de media hora. Cuando terminas de usarla la podes devolver en cualquiera de estas estaciones en cualquier parte de la ciudad. No es increible? Me siento tan orgullosa de vivir aca. Coda cosita asi que descubro me reafirma que este es un buen lugar para estar y para envejecer.

On Tuesday afternoon, Ric and I, went to the city and ended up seeing an Arts exhibition from VCE students (students in the last year of highschool). We went in because we couldn't find anything better but, were pleasantly surprised at the high standard of the work. We spend quite a bit of time enjoying most pieces. There were photographs, paintings, drawings and mixed media. It was truly amazing the quality of these works produced by such young minds. Indeed there is talent out there! The exhibition will be on for a while if you want to check it out at the Ian Potter Gallery in Ferderation Square, its free admission.

El martes por la tarde nos fuimos con Ricky a la city y terminamos metiendonos en una exhibicion de alumnos del VCE (ultimo ano de la secundaria). Pensamos que iba a ser una pavada pero termino sorprendiendonos la calidad y el estandard de los trabajos. Habia fotografia, pintura, dibujos y otro tipo de media plastica. Me sorprendio la calidad de los trabajos producidos por chicos tan jovenes. La verdad que hay mucho talento! La exhibicion todavia sigue abierta, en la galeria Ian Potter en Federation Square, y es gratis.

Bush walking it in Lorne

2011-04-17T22:45:00.004+10:00

Today we went to Lorne. It was of course a different type of trip, since the weather is not beach weather anymore. From the inside of the car it looked like Summer though. Everything outside looked so green and luscious, there was no sign anywhere that it was Autumn. The sun warmed my skin through the window as I drove on the Great Ocean Road and devoured the scenery with all my senses, enjoying every metre of traveled road.

In Lorne we did the typical walk, ate, drank but, we also added a bit of a bushwalk. Climbing the steep hill from the beach we reach Teddy's Lookout. I can't believe I managed to get up there, every inch of my body was aching and my legs begged me to stop. I had to stop 4 or 5 times to catch my breath and be careful not to fall backwards as sustaining the angle required to stay straight needed concentration, determination and strength.

Once up there the view was phenomenal and worth the patch of sweat on my back. The bush walk was fun and I took lots of photos of rusted coloured trees that had been back burnt, against fresh green foliage.

More coffee and chips signaled the end of the day (way too early now that day light savings is over).

Bike ride

2011-04-17T10:03:00.003+10:00

Yesterday we went on a bike ride to Melbourne city. The day was glorious and my legs felt amazingly fit. I enjoyed the ride immensely. It brought back lots of memories from when I used to do it every weekend. Who knows perhaps I can start the trend again.

Worst Day for a Stroll in the City

2011-04-13T22:38:00.002+10:00

I have to say that I give myself a pad on the back for venturing into the city by bus and talking a walk back to Fitzroy under the drizzle and patches of rain this afternoon. Let's say that it wasn't the best day for a long walk nor for photography, however a little rain makes the scenery different and I noticed things I would not have otherwise.

Ric and I took the 905 into the city. It is an awesome bus, stops right at the end of our street and 3 min later is in the freeway, it takes 15 min to get to the city and you are free of parking problems and traffic nerves. We got off at Swanston St and from there walked back to Brunswick St. in Fitzroy. I bought a pair of boots that I wanted and then we had a late lunch of pintxos and beer. Yummy! I really love the look of this pub. Every detail of the decor is taken care of to perfection. There is so much to look at and the ambience is great. The decor is copper/glass/old tanks look. Even the restrooms are a work of art.

Debo darme una palmadita en la espalda por aventurarme hacia la city en colectivo y caminar de vuelta hasta Fitzroy debajo de la llovizna y parches de lluvia esta tarde. Digamos que no fue el mejor dia para una caminata larga o para fotografia, sin embargo un poquito de lluvia tranforma la escena y uno termina notando cosas que no notaria de otra manera.

Ric y yo nos tomamos el 905 a la city. Es un colectivo fantastico, para en la esquina de casa y en 3 minutos esta en la autopista, tarde 15 min en total para llegar al centro y una vez ahi, te olvidas del trafico y de la preocupacion de estacionar. Nos bajamos en Swanston St. y caminamos hasta Brunswick St. in Fitroy. Me compre un par de borcegos que queria hace rato y despues nos metimos a Naked for Satan a comer un almuerzo tardio de pinxtos y cerveza. Delicioso! Me encanta este pub. Todos los detalles de la decoracion estan cuidados al detalle, tiene una onda cobre/vidrio/tanques viejos y hasta los banos tienen toda la onda.

Nice Bargain

2011-04-13T22:08:00.002+10:00

Last Sunday we went out with Anton. We haven't been able to do it for a while whilst he was working at the cafe, but now that he quit that job and got himself a better one, we can enjoy a little family out time together again. Even they are short and in lesser frequency they are very valuable.

We had a nice coffee and cake and I went to the bookstore in search of a children's book that I couldn't find. Instead I took advantage of the sale in Borders and got myself 3 picture story books for my shelves. Now that I am so close to being a teacher I feel I should start investing in some material.

I really love Colin's Thompson book. It has a nice message about the environment and it really made me think. The illustrations are amazing.

El domingo pasado fuimos a pasear con Anton. Hacia mucho que no podiamos los domingos, porque el trabajaba, pero ahora que dejo ese laburo del cafe y se consiguio otro mejor durante la semana, podemos disfrutar de una salidita juntos en familia otra vez. Aunque sean cortas y cada vez mas esporadicas son muy valiosas.

Tomamos una rica merienda y despues fui a la libreria a ver si conseguia un libro que necesito leer para la facultad, pero no lo encontre. Igual aproveche las ofertas de Borders y me compre 3 libros infantiles para mi estanteria. Ahora que estoy tan cerca de ser una maestra siento que tengo que empezar a invertir en material.

Me gusto mucho el de Colin Thompson. Tiene un mensaje sobre el medio ambiente y realmente me hizo pensar. Las ilustraciones son increibles.

Sunday in black and white

2011-04-03T23:35:00.002+10:00

A visit to Fitzroy this afternoon inspired me to take some black and white images. I realise that the occasion must present itself, since forcing artistic photography is only seldom productive. I enjoyed walking in the bookstore there and buying the collected fictions of Jorge Luis Borges in English. I hope that I can find some time to read these.

We also visited the Rose St. Market in Fitzroy and I bough a camera charm pendant, it fits like a glove.

Un paseo por Fitzroy esta tarde me inspiro a sacar algunas imagenes en blanco y negro. Me di cuenta que la ocasion debe presentarse por si misma, porque forzar la fotografia artistica raramente da resultados productivos. Disfrute entrar a la libreria y comprar las coleccion completa de ficciones de Jorge Luis Borges en ingles. Espero encontrar algo de tiempo para leerlas.

Tambien fuimos a la feria de Rose Street en Fitzroy y compre una cadenita con un pendiente de una camara que me encaja como un guante.

Thursday Night Escapee

2011-04-03T00:38:00.004+11:00

Just to break the monotony Thursday night Ric and I decided to take the bus and land in the city for our daily walk. We took the bus and got there at about 7.15 pm, it only took us 15 minutes from home. It was like landing on another world, full of people walking, eating and shopping. In the suburbs is like everyone is tucked in at 7 and the day is over.

We didn't walk long and found an amazing lane full of restaurants and cafes and there was a live jazz band playing, Harware Lane is the name. It was awesome! We chose a table, sat and had a cappuccino whilst we listen to the band.

The walk back towards home was done in amongst all the city lights until we caught the bus back, some 3/4 hr later.

Para romper la monotonia el jueves a la noche decidimos tomarnos el colectivo con Ricky y aterrizar en la city para hacer nuestra caminata diaria. Tomamos el bus y llegamos a la city a las 7.15, nos tomo solo 15minutos desde casa. Fue como bajar en otro mundo, lleno de gente caminando, comiendo y comprando. En los suburbios es como que todo el mundo se encierra a las 7 y el dia se acaba!

No caminamos mucho para encontrar una calle alucinante llena de restaurants y cafes. Habia una banda de jazz en el medio de la calle tocando. Harware Lane es el nombre de la callecita esta. Me encanto. Elegimos una mesa y nos sentamos a tomar un cappuccino mientras escuchamos a la banda.

La caminata hacia casa fue hecha entre las luces de los edificios hasta que tomamos el colectivo de vuelta 3/4 de hora mas tarde.

Un dibujo de Anton

2011-03-29T21:56:00.002+11:00

Great illustration from my son Anton. He hasn't been drawing much lately, but this pic proves that he hasn't lost the touch. Now I am going to have to analyse the symbolics of it all.

Fantastica ilustracion realizada por mi hijo Anton. Hace bastante que dibuja, pero esta imagen prueba que no ha perdido el don. Ahora me tengo que poner a analizar la simbologia.

Beautiful Autumn Weather

2011-03-27T22:48:00.003+11:00

After a well deserved Sunday sleep-in I got up and had brunch to feed the brain with some of the much needed chemicals to function academically, before sitting in front of the keyboard and continue with my Children's Literacy assignment. Didn't do a lot on it, but I think I achieved some quality writing. Quality not quantity right? I think I am on the right track, only too slow thinking that tomorrow is my last day to work on it. Friday due date is fast approaching and with weather like today all I want to do is go out into the sun and take photos of the Autumn colours popping out everywhere.

Today I got new runners. I hope that with these (worth more than my bank account) shoes, my feet will feel like stepping on clouds. Tomorrow I will take them for a test run.

After shopping we had a latte and muffin at Choclatte in Camberwell with Anton, who hasn't been coming with us since he works.

Despues de una merecida dormilona de domingo, me levante y desayualmorce para alimentar mi cerebro de los tan necesitados quimicos que necesita para funcionar academicamente. Me sente en frente del teclado para continuar con mi trabajo de Literatura Infantil. No hice mucho, pero creo que logre buena calidad. Calidad no cantidad, no? Me parece que estoy en el camino correcto pero un poco lenta ya que manana es el ultimo dia que me queda para terminarlo ya que la fecha de entrega se acerca a un paso acelerado. Con clima como el de hoy lo unico que quiero hacer es sentarme en el solcito otonal y sacar fotos de los colores que empiezan a asomarse por todos lados.

Hoy me compre zapatillas nuevas (regalo del vidi). Espero que con estas (que valen mas que lo que tengo en mi cuenta bancaria) mis pies se sientan como que caminan sobre las nubes. Manana las voy a probar con una corridita.

Despues de comprar nos tomamos un latte y comimos un muffin en Choclatte in Camberwell con Anton, quien no ha estado viniendo con nosotros desde que trabaja los domingos.

21 years!

2011-03-27T00:15:00.002+11:00

Today is our 21st wedding anniversary. I have been more years married than single now. It is amazing and it all happened in the blink of an eye. I cannot imagine my life any different and I love it for what it is. We had planned to go to Lorne this weekend, but Friday always catches up tired and unprepared. Besides I had a dental appointment today at 10 am and that sort of spoil it too. We ended up cooking paella at home and relaxing. Happy 21 years of love.

Hoy es nuestro aniversario de casados numero 21. Hace mas anos que estoy casada de los que estuve soltera. Es increible y todo paso en un pestanear de ojos. No puedo imaginarme mi vida de otra manera y la amo por lo que es. Habiamos planeado un viaje a Lorne hoy pero el viernes siempre nos encuentra cansados y sin ganas de preparar cosas. Ademas tenia un turno con la dentista a las 10 de la manana y eso como que arruino un poco el despegue. Terminamos cocinando paella en casa y relajandonos. Feliz 21 anos de amor.

Old Friends

2011-03-21T00:04:00.003+11:00

This weekend we had a visit from our old friend Luke. It was a short visit between shows, but it was really nice having him over nonetheless. It was just like old times, lots of conversation, laughs and a bit of music. Lots of things happening in his life and lots of things happening in ours, so there was lots to talk about and not enough time. Having him here made me realise how nice it would be if he lived closer and we could share this more often. Thanks for visiting Luke, hope to see you soon again! Visit onmusic.com for more info on Luke O'Neill.

Este fin de semana tuvimos una visita de nuestro viejo amigo Luke. Fue una visita corta, casi de medico, entre shows, pero fue lindo tenerlo de todas maneras. Fue igual que en los viejos tiempos, mucha conversasion, risas y un poco de musica. Muchas cosas estan pasando en su vida y muchas estan pasando en la nuestra, asique habia mucho para hablar y no suficiente tiempo. Tenerlo de visita en casa, me hizo darme cuenta que lindo seria si viviera mas cerca y pudieramos compartir noches asi mas seguido. Gracias por la visita Luke y esperamos se repita pronto.

What a nice surprise!

2011-03-13T15:53:00.003+11:00

Last Friday, after a hard week of work and studying I arrived home to find this lovely surprise in my letterbox.

El viernes pasado despues de una semana ardua de trabajo y estudio llegue a casa y me encontre con esta linda sorpresa en el buzon. La carte es de la Universidad de Tasmania y lee:

Querida Alejandra

Te escribo para felicitarte en tus excepcionales logros academicos en el 2010. Estudiar en la Universidad es generalmente un desafio que requiere dedicacion, compromiso, persistencia y tolerancia. Estas son tambien las cualidades que constituyen maestras excepcionales. Tu has demostrado estas cualidades a lo largo del ano, logrando resultados academicos de un standard muy alto.

El personal de la Escuela de Educacion reconoce la tremenda dedicacion que has demonstrado por tu aprendizaje, al mismo tiempo que has mantenido la misma dedicacion por tu familia, trabajo y otros intereses y quiere tomar esta oportunidad para felicitarte en tus logros academicos en el 2010.

MUCHAS GRACIAS UNIVERSITY OF TASMANIA ESTA CARTA ME HIZO SENTIR MUY BIEN.

THANKS UTAS, THIS LETTER MADE MY DAY!