After a 10 hour flight from Honolulu, I finally made it to the end of the yellow brick road! I met my Aunt Pina (who I haven’t seen in 20 years) and Papa Lou (for the first time). More importantly than the U2 concerts, I’m trying to get to know my Dad’s side of the family, who are a lot older than my Mom’s side. Sydney is a big city, and it reminds me a lot of London, England. The sites are impressive and the trains very extensive (though slow).
This is the first time I’ve spent the holidays away from my family and friends in Winnipeg. The feelings of homesickness is tempered by the fact that I have welcome relatives in Sydney with whom I’m celebrating Christmas. Still, it seems rather bizarre for me to be in hot weather during December. I spent Christmas day with my second nephew at Cronulla beach, which was fun. I also made a day trip to Kiama, close to the border of Victoria, and enjoyed the water and sights. Another trip to the Blue Mountains, surfing at Manly Beach, and a wine tour of famous Hunter Valley were highlights.