Merry old land of Oz

Hello everyone! Just a few quick updates:

This weekend was pretty quiet. Most of my friends were at surf camp (which I will be attending the weekend of Feb 5th), so the rest of us here took it pretty slow. Saturday I went back to Manly beach, and it happened to be the day of the annual lifesaving competition! Basically lifeguards come from beaches all over Australia and compete in various lifesaving contests. It was pretty cool, but more importantly, it was HOT! It was a stifling 110 F (40C) and SUNNY. We only lasted a few hours at the beach and were later told by a local that all the Aussies could be found at air conditioned movie theaters on days like that! Next time it's that hot, I know where to go!

Sunday was equally calm, but a lot of fun. Mallory and I walked for a solid 4 hours around Market City and Chinatown. We picked up some awesome souvenirs and delicious food. We also met up with a couple backpackers she met through her uncle the day before, who were really nice and had very cool stories. For dinner, we met up with our friends who had just returned from surf camp and had some delicious Dim Sum (which is quickly becoming my new favorite!). We all have a ton of reading to do for our classes, so we attempted to study together last night but were distracted by a certain self-inflating whoopie cushion.....compliments of a special Kentuckian!

Today is going to be full of more studying and some postcard writing. I'm trying to get everyone at least one, so send me your address if you want one! Tomorrow is Australia Day, and we'll be hanging out at Manly Beach where there are supposedly tents set up all along the sand with food and drinks. Can't wait! I have to go pick up some obnoxious Australian pride attire. I'll be sure to take a lot of pictures! Hope everyone is doing well at home!